The Difference Between What Happens to Us and Who We Become “If thou art pained by any external thing, it is not this thing that disturbs thee, but thy own judgment about it. And it is in thy power to wipe out this judgment now.” Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 8, Section 47, translated by George Long. Sometimes, the hardest thing to get past is not what happened to us, but what we start believing about ourselves because of it. One mistake can make someone question their abilities, one bad experience can make someone afraid to try again, and one person’s opinion can stick with someone longer than it should. In this passage from Meditations, Marcus Aurelius explores the connection between our experiences and the way we interpret them. His underlying message is that although we cannot control everything that happens in life, we can question our judgments and decide whether we will let difficult experiences hold us back. The first sentence, “If thou art pained by any external thing, it is not this thing that disturbs thee, but thy own judgment about it,” challenges the way people usually understand disappointment. When something goes wrong, our first reaction is often to blame the situation itself. However, Aurelius suggests that our interpretation of an event also affects how much power it has over us. For example, two students could receive the same grade on an assignment. One might see it as proof that they are not smart enough, while the other might see it as a sign that they need to change how they study. The grade is the same, but the meaning each student gives it is different. The first student might become discouraged and stop trying, while the second has a reason to keep improving. I think this example shows why Aurelius focuses on judgment rather than the event itself. He is not saying that disappointment does not hurt or that people should ignore their feelings. Instead, he encourages readers to look more closely at the conclusions they draw from their experiences. There is a difference between saying, “I did not do well on this assignment,” and saying, “I am bad at everything.” The first statement describes something that happened, while the second turns one experience into a judgment about an entire person. When we do that, we can make a temporary problem feel permanent. The second part of the passage, “And it is in thy power to wipe out this judgment now,” adds another layer to his message. The word “now” is important because it suggests that we do not have to wait for everything around us to change before we change our perspective. We can start questioning our assumptions in the moment. Sometimes, people hold onto negative opinions about themselves because they have heard them from others or experienced something that made them feel like they were not good enough. Eventually, those opinions can begin to feel like facts. Aurelius challenges readers to recognize that just because they believe something about themselves does not automatically make it true. This idea is especially relevant to education. College can be overwhelming because students are learning new things, adjusting to unfamiliar environments, and figuring out what they want their futures to look like. It can be tempting to compare ourselves to people who seem more confident or who appear to have everything figured out. When we do not understand something right away, we might assume we are falling behind. However, learning is not about knowing everything before we begin. It involves making mistakes, asking questions, and figuring out what works for us. If we treat every challenge as proof that we cannot succeed, we limit ourselves before we have given ourselves a real chance. At the same time, I do not think Aurelius means that every problem can be solved by simply changing our mindset. Some situations are unfair, and other people’s actions can genuinely hurt us. We cannot always control our circumstances or how we feel about them. However, we can work toward deciding what we do next. We can recognize that something was difficult without letting it determine what we believe we are capable of doing in the future. To me, this makes his message more meaningful because it is not about pretending life is easy. It is about finding a way to keep moving forward even when it is not. Ultimately, I believe Aurelius wants readers to understand that the way we see ourselves can either limit us or give us room to grow. His passage encourages us to question our first reactions, recognize when our thoughts are holding us back, and remember that one experience does not tell the whole story of who we are. We cannot always choose what happens to us, but we can learn from it and decide how we want to respond. A bad moment does not have to become a bad opinion of ourselves, and a setback does not have to become the end of a goal. To me, that is the most important lesson in this passage: real growth begins when we stop letting our judgments define us and start giving ourselves the chance to become something more.

Making a Difference, One Animal at a Time Sometimes, making a difference in the world starts with something as simple as showing up. For me, that means spending time with animals who need care, attention, and a second chance at finding a home. Giving back has become an important part of my life, and through volunteering, fundraising, and raising awareness about animal welfare, I have learned that even small actions can have a lasting impact. I have been volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society (NMAWS) since July 2022, and I have dedicated over 620 hours to helping animals in need. Most of my time has been spent caring for cats, cleaning their spaces, and making sure they receive attention and care. Even though these tasks might seem small to someone else, they help create a better environment for animals who are waiting for their forever homes. Volunteering has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of being there for others, even when no one is watching or recognizing the work you do. My passion for helping animals also inspired my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. Through this project, I raised over $1,100 for animal welfare and used social media to educate people about animal-related issues and promote adoptable pets. I shared facts about animal care, highlighted animals looking for homes, and found creative ways to encourage people to support the shelter. This experience taught me that giving back does not always mean volunteering in person. It can also mean using your time, creativity, and resources to bring attention to a cause that matters. I learned that one person can reach a larger community and encourage others to get involved. In the future, I plan to continue giving back by building a career that combines my education in business with my love for animals. I hope to become a dog groomer and trainer, eventually participate in dog shows and agility, and own my own business. I want to use that business to provide quality care for animals while finding ways to support shelters and rescue organizations. Whether that means fundraising, donating supplies, helping animals become more adoptable through grooming and training, or encouraging others to adopt, I want giving back to remain a part of my life. I also hope to inspire other people to get involved in their communities. I know that not everyone has the time or resources to make a large donation, but helping does not have to be complicated or expensive. Volunteering a few hours, sharing an adoption post, or simply treating an animal with kindness can make a difference. I want others to understand that they do not have to wait until they are older or have a successful career to start helping. To me, honoring a legacy of service means continuing to look for ways to help others, even when there is no reward or recognition involved. My time at NMAWS has shown me how meaningful it can be to make a difference in the lives of animals who cannot speak for themselves. As I continue my education and work toward my future goals, I hope to expand that impact and encourage others to do the same. I may not be able to change the entire world on my own, but I can make a difference in my community, one animal at a time.

Building a Future Around My Passion I have always known that I wanted to build a future around something I genuinely care about, and for me, that has always been animals. What started as a passion has grown into a goal of turning that love into a career, earning a college degree, and eventually owning a business of my own. As a young woman, I want to prove that I can create my own path, be independent, and turn something I love into something I can be proud of. I am currently a Business Undecided major at the University of Connecticut, where I am working toward earning my undergraduate degree and figuring out which area of business best fits my future plans. I want to use my education to help me become a dog groomer and trainer, with the long-term goal of participating in dog shows and agility. Eventually, I would love to own my own business where I can combine my knowledge of business with my passion for working with animals. I know that making this dream a reality will take more than just loving what I do. I will need to understand how to manage money, work with customers, market my services, and keep a business running successfully. My education will help me develop those skills and give me a stronger foundation for my future. My experiences volunteering at an animal shelter have made me even more certain that I want animals to be part of my career. Through volunteering, I have learned the importance of patience, responsibility, and showing up even when the work is not easy. These experiences have also taught me that making a difference does not always require doing something huge. Sometimes, it starts with helping one animal at a time. I want to carry that mindset into my future career and create a business that provides quality care while making a positive difference for animals and their owners. Receiving this scholarship would help me cover the cost of my college education and take some of the financial pressure off while I work toward my degree. College is an important investment in my future, and financial support would allow me to focus more on my education, explore opportunities that help me grow, and continue working toward my goals. It would also bring me one step closer to building the independent future I have been working toward. I believe young women should feel encouraged to pursue careers they are passionate about, even if their paths look different from what others expect. I do not have every detail of my future figured out yet, but I know what matters to me and what I want to work toward. I want to build a life where I can support myself, do work that I love, and make a difference in the lives of animals. This scholarship would help me take another step toward making that future a reality.

I never expected softball to become one of the biggest influences on who I am. I started playing in eighth grade without knowing how much the sport would shape my confidence, friendships, and the way I handle challenges. Now, after almost five years of playing, softball has taught me that sometimes the hardest part is not learning how to hit or field. It is learning how to keep showing up when things get difficult. My family has always been a baseball family. We are huge Yankees fans, and growing up, my dad always hoped I would play baseball like the rest of my family. When I was younger, I did not want to play Little League, and I probably disappointed him at the time. He never pressured me, though. He supported whatever I chose and always showed up for me. I eventually found softball on my own, and I ended up loving it. By my freshman year, I had made varsity. I continued working my way into a bigger role on the team, eventually becoming a starter and captain. Being a captain was especially meaningful to me because I am naturally more quiet and introverted. Softball pushed me to communicate, encourage other players, and become more comfortable being someone others could rely on. Not every part of my softball experience was easy. There were years when I felt so much pressure that I started questioning whether I even wanted to continue playing. I became afraid of making mistakes, and something I once loved started to feel like something I was simply trying to get through. That experience taught me how much the environment around an athlete matters. This past season changed that for me. With a new coaching environment, I started enjoying softball again. I could breathe at practice, laugh with my teammates, and make mistakes without feeling like they defined me. For the first time in a while, I finished a season thinking, “I actually want to keep playing.” That realization meant a lot to me because I had been convinced I would stop after high school. Now, as an undergraduate at the University of Connecticut, I am interested in finding a way to continue playing softball through college, whether that is through a club, recreational team, or another opportunity. I also want to stay connected to the sport in the future, possibly by coaching or mentoring younger players. I want to help create the kind of environment that makes athletes excited to come to practice and gives them the confidence to keep learning. Softball has given me much more than a sport to play. It has taught me perseverance, leadership, adaptability, and how important it is to have people who believe in you. Most importantly, it taught me that even when you think you have lost something you love, sometimes the right environment can help you find it again. I hope to carry that lesson with me for the rest of my life

You can tell a lot about a person by the shoes they are wearing. Sneakers, boots, heels, or even a pair of beat-up shoes can say something about someone’s personality, interests, and confidence before they ever say a word. I have always found that interesting about fashion. To me, fashion is not just about following trends. It is about showing people a little bit of who you are without having to explain yourself. My interest in fashion has also connected with my interest in entrepreneurship. I am currently studying business, and although I am still undecided about my exact path, I know I want to eventually build something of my own. I am drawn to the business side of fashion because it combines creativity with skills I am learning in college. I could see myself creating my own fashion-related brand or business, working in marketing or merchandising, or finding another way to combine fashion, business, and self-expression. One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is figuring out how to turn my interests into an actual career. There can be a lot of pressure to choose the most traditional or “sensible” path, especially when you are young and expected to know exactly what you want to do. I have sometimes questioned whether my interests were specific enough to become a career. Being undecided has actually taught me that I do not need to have every part of my future figured out at eighteen. I can explore different interests, learn from my experiences, and discover what fits me instead of choosing something simply because it seems safe. My education will give me the foundation to turn my creativity into something real. Through business, I am developing skills in areas like marketing, communication, and entrepreneurship that can apply directly to the fashion industry. I want to use those skills to create something that feels authentic rather than simply copying whatever is popular. I hope my contribution to fashion will encourage people to embrace their individuality and feel confident expressing themselves in their own way. Receiving The Edgy Prepster Scholarship would mean more than financial help with college. It would be encouragement to keep exploring a creative career instead of feeling like I have to choose the most traditional path. The scholarship would help me continue my education, develop my business skills, and explore opportunities within the fashion industry while I work toward building something of my own. I may not know exactly what my future in fashion will look like yet, but I know I want it to be creative, independent, and uniquely mine. If something as simple as a pair of shoes can tell a story about who someone is, I want my future career to help people feel confident telling their own stories.

Sometimes, being an ally does not mean standing in front of a crowd or making a speech. Sometimes, it means being the person someone trusts enough to finally be themselves around. I learned that through my best friend. My best friend is pansexual, but throughout high school, she was closeted and only open about her identity with a few people, including me. Being one of the people she trusted with that part of herself made me realize how much courage it can take to be honest about who you are when you are not sure how others will react. For years, I knew there was a part of her life that she could not completely share with everyone. I never wanted her to feel like she had to explain herself or come out before she was ready. I tried to be someone she could talk to without worrying about being judged. I learned that supporting someone does not always mean having the perfect thing to say. Sometimes it means listening, respecting their choices, and making sure they know they have someone in their corner. Recently, she decided to tell her mom. Seeing her take that step made me think about how different everyone’s journey can be. Coming out should not happen because someone else decides that a person is ready. It should happen when that person feels comfortable and safe enough to make that choice for themselves. Watching my best friend reach that point made me even more aware of how important it is for people to have supportive spaces where they can be themselves. Before this experience, I thought of activism mostly as something big, like organizing events or participating in demonstrations. Now I understand that activism can also happen in everyday situations. It can mean speaking up when someone makes an inappropriate joke, making sure someone who feels left out knows they are welcome, or simply refusing to make someone feel like they have to hide who they are around me. In the future, I want my activism to focus on creating those kinds of spaces for other people. As I continue through college and eventually build my own career and business, I want to create environments where people feel respected and accepted regardless of who they are. I also want to become more confident about speaking up when I see someone being treated unfairly instead of assuming someone else will say something. My best friend taught me that acceptance is more than just saying you support people. Sometimes, it means being the person someone trusts when they are afraid to be completely themselves. Her experience showed me that even small acts of support can make a difference. I want to carry that lesson with me and use it to make sure other people know they never have to face those moments completely alone.

I refuse to accept that struggling to understand an animal should ever mean giving up on them. My love for animals started when I was six years old, when I visited the New Milford Animal Welfare Society with my dad. Years later, I began volunteering there, and I have now spent more than 620 hours caring for animals. Through that experience, I have learned that good care is not one-size-fits-all. Every animal has a different personality, history, comfort level, and way of communicating. Some animals immediately trust people, while others need weeks or months of patience before they feel safe. This made me think about how often animals are misunderstood. A dog that is anxious, reactive, or difficult to train is not necessarily a “bad” dog. Sometimes the owner simply does not understand what the dog is communicating or how to help it. I saw similar situations while volunteering at the shelter. Animals could easily be overlooked because they were shy or needed extra patience. I started wondering how better education, tools, and resources could make it easier for people to understand the animals in their care. I wanted to do more than just notice the problem. For my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause, I researched animal welfare fundraising and used social media to educate my community about animals, adoption, and pet safety. I created posts, tracked engagement, researched what content connected with people, and raised more than $1,100 for the shelter. That experience taught me that solving a problem starts with understanding the people and animals affected by it and then finding a way to make information accessible. In the future, I want to become a dog trainer, participate in dog shows and agility, and eventually own my own animal-related business. I want to create a business that combines animal care, training, and education rather than simply telling owners what they should do. Whether that eventually means developing a new product, creating better training resources, or designing a service around individual dogs, I want to make animal care easier to understand and more accessible. Being Business Undecided has actually made me more open to that future. I do not know exactly what my final career will look like yet, but I know I want to build something of my own. My experiences with animals have shown me that innovation does not always have to mean inventing something completely new. Sometimes it means looking at a problem everyone has accepted and asking, “Why does it have to be this way?” That is the future I want to help create: one where animals are better understood, owners have better tools to care for them, and a difficult behavior or circumstance does not decide an animal’s future.

Some people remember their first concert, their first vacation, or their first big accomplishment. I remember the first time I walked into an animal shelter and realized how much I wanted to help the animals inside. I was six years old when my elementary school held a donation drive for the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. My dad and I brought donations to the shelter, and even though I was young, the experience stayed with me. I was fascinated by the animals and wanted to do more than simply drop off a donation. I did not know it at the time, but that small experience would eventually become one of the most important parts of my life. Years later, that interest turned into action when I began volunteering at the shelter in July 2022. Since then, I have spent more than 600 hours volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. I have primarily worked with cats, helping care for them, clean their spaces, and make sure they have what they need. Volunteering has taught me that loving animals is only one part of caring for them. Animals depend on people for food, clean environments, attention, and medical care, but they also need people who will advocate for them. Working at the shelter has made my passion for animals stronger because I have been able to see both the challenges animals face and the difference that compassionate people can make. My own pets have also played a major role in my love for animals. Growing up with dogs and cats has shown me how much animals can become part of a family. I have always been interested in learning more about dogs, including their behavior, training, and the different activities they can participate in. My long-term goal is to own and operate my own dog-care business that combines professional grooming and dog training. I want to eventually expand my knowledge and experience into participating in dog shows and agility competitions. I would love to help dogs develop their confidence and skills while giving their owners the tools to better understand and care for them. My business education will help me develop the skills necessary to manage finances, marketing, employees, and day-to-day operations, while my experience with animals will help me understand the needs of the dogs and their owners. My senior project, Paws For-A-Cause, gave me the opportunity to start putting this goal into action. I raised more than $1,100 for the animal shelter and used social media to spread awareness about animal welfare, pet safety, and animals looking for homes. It showed me that I can use skills outside of direct animal care, such as communication, fundraising, marketing, and organization, to make a difference for animals. I know my future business will be more than a way to make a living. I want it to be a place where dogs receive compassionate care, learn new skills, and have opportunities to participate in activities like agility and shows. I also want my business to give back by supporting local shelters and helping animals in need. The little girl who walked into that shelter at six years old wanted to help animals. Today, I am turning that childhood feeling into a career goal that allows me to work with dogs every day while helping them become healthier, happier, and more confident.

Community has always been important to me because I have seen how much of a difference people can make when they are willing to give their time and support. I believe that a strong community is built by people who care about others and are willing to step up when help is needed. For me, one of the most meaningful ways I have contributed to my community is through my work with animals. My connection with the New Milford Animal Welfare Society began when I was six years old. My elementary school held a donation drive, and my dad and I brought donations to the shelter. That experience stayed with me, and years later, I began volunteering there in July 2022. Since then, I have spent more than 600 hours volunteering at the shelter. I have primarily worked with cats, helping care for them and keeping their spaces clean and organized. I have learned that volunteering is not always exciting or convenient. Sometimes it means doing small, repetitive tasks that no one notices, but those tasks still matter because they help create a safe and comfortable environment for animals in need. My commitment to the shelter continued through my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. Instead of treating my project as simply a school requirement, I wanted to use it as an opportunity to give back to an organization that had already become such an important part of my life. I organized fundraisers and raised more than $1,100 for the shelter. I also created a social media page where I shared animal welfare information, pet safety tips, and posts about animals looking for homes. Through this project, I was able to reach people beyond my immediate community and encourage others to become involved in animal welfare. I have also contributed to my community through my school and extracurricular activities. Through FFA, I participated in activities that encouraged service, responsibility, and involvement in my community. Sports have also taught me the importance of supporting the people around me. As a cheer and softball captain, I learned that being a leader means more than telling people what to do. It means encouraging teammates, helping someone who is struggling, and creating an environment where people feel supported. These experiences have taught me that contributing to a community does not have to mean doing something extraordinary. Sometimes it means giving your time, helping someone who needs support, or simply being dependable. I have learned that small actions can add up to something much bigger when people consistently choose to help. I hope to continue giving back throughout college and beyond. Whether I am volunteering with animals, supporting an organization, helping a teammate, or finding another way to serve my community, I want to continue being someone who contributes rather than simply benefits from the communities around me. To me, that is what makes a community strong: people who are willing to care, participate, and show up for one another.

I exemplify a spirit of excellence in my everyday life by trying to give my best effort to everything I take on, even when something is difficult or does not come naturally to me. To me, excellence does not mean being perfect. It means being willing to work hard, learn from mistakes, and continue improving. One of the biggest examples of this is my involvement in sports throughout high school. I played varsity field hockey, softball, and participated in cheerleading. I was also a captain in both softball and cheer. Being involved in sports taught me discipline and commitment because I had to balance practices, games, schoolwork, and other responsibilities. As a captain, I also learned that excellence is not only about my own performance. It means encouraging my teammates, being dependable, and helping create a positive environment for everyone. I tried to lead by example by showing up, putting in effort, and supporting my teammates even when things were not going the way we wanted. I also consistently give back to my community through my involvement with the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. I began volunteering there in July 2022 after having an interest in animal welfare from a young age. Since then, I have spent more than 600 hours volunteering at the shelter. I have cared for cats, cleaned and organized their spaces, and helped with whatever needed to be done. I continue to volunteer because I believe animals deserve people who are willing to advocate for them and give them the care they need. My commitment to giving back also became the focus of my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. I wanted to use my project as an opportunity to do more than simply complete a school requirement. I raised more than $1,100 for the animal shelter through fundraising and used social media to spread awareness about animal welfare and animals looking for homes. I spent time researching information, creating posts, organizing fundraising events, and figuring out which strategies were most effective. This allowed me to combine my creativity, problem-solving skills, and interest in animals to benefit an organization that is important to me. I have learned that giving back does not always require a large gesture. It can be as simple as giving your time, helping someone who needs support, encouraging a teammate, or caring for an animal that cannot care for itself. What matters is being willing to notice when help is needed and choosing to step up. I try to carry that mindset with me every day. Whether I am working on schoolwork, participating in a team, volunteering, or helping someone else, I want to be someone others can depend on. My experiences have taught me that excellence and service go hand in hand. When I put my best effort into something and use my time and abilities to help others, I am not only improving myself, but also making a positive difference in my community.

I believe curiosity is one of the most important qualities a person can have. It is what pushes us to ask questions, learn something new, and find solutions when we do not immediately know the answer. As a woman entering college, I want to continue developing that curiosity and use it to create a future where I can combine my interests in business, animals, and science. My interest in STEM has grown through my experiences working with animals. When I was six years old, I visited the New Milford Animal Welfare Society with my dad after my elementary school held a donation drive. Years later, I began volunteering there, and since July 2022, I have spent more than 600 hours caring for animals. This experience has shown me that animal welfare depends on science. Understanding an animal’s behavior, nutrition, health, and environment requires observation, research, and problem-solving. When an animal behaves differently or has specific needs, I have learned to pay attention to the details and think about what could be causing the change. My volunteer experience has made me especially interested in animal science and biology. I want to better understand how animals’ bodies work, how nutrition affects their health, how behavior can indicate stress or illness, and how science can be used to improve their quality of life. I am excited by the idea of taking what I have learned through hands-on experience and developing a deeper scientific understanding through college courses and future opportunities. My senior project, Paws For-A-Cause, also showed me how STEM and other fields can work together. I raised more than $1,100 for the animal shelter while using social media and research to educate people about animal welfare and pets in need of homes. I had to organize information, evaluate what approaches were effective, track my progress, and adjust my strategy when something was not working. This experience taught me that problem-solving is an important part of both science and everyday life. I am also interested in the intersection of STEM and business. In the future, I hope to build a career that allows me to combine my business education with my interest in animal science. Whether that means managing an animal-related organization, developing a business that serves pet owners, or finding new ways to improve animal care, I want my education to give me the knowledge to make informed decisions and solve real-world problems. As a woman entering a STEM-related field, I want to be part of a community that encourages curiosity rather than being afraid of not having all the answers. I know that STEM will challenge me, but that is one of the reasons I am drawn to it. I want to ask questions, conduct research, learn from mistakes, and use evidence to find better solutions. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue exploring the connection between science, animals, and business. Most importantly, it would allow me to keep turning my curiosity into knowledge and eventually use that knowledge to make a meaningful difference.

I embody selflessness by being willing to give my time, effort, and support to others without expecting anything in return. I believe that helping someone does not always have to be something huge. Sometimes, simply being there, giving your time, or doing something that makes someone else’s life a little easier can make a difference. One of the biggest ways I have shown selflessness is through my volunteer work at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. I first became interested in the shelter when I was six years old after my dad and I visited following an elementary school donation drive. Years later, I began volunteering there in July 2022, and I have now spent more than 600 hours helping the animals. I have cleaned cages, cared for cats, helped keep the shelter organized, and done whatever was needed that day. Volunteering can sometimes be tiring or take time away from other things I could be doing, but I continue because the animals depend on people to care for them. They cannot ask for help themselves, so I feel responsible for being someone who can give it. I also showed selflessness through my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. Instead of choosing a project that was only about myself, I wanted to use my time and skills to help an organization and animals that I cared about. I raised more than $1,100 for the shelter through different fundraising efforts and used social media to spread awareness about animal welfare and pets that needed homes. I spent my own time creating posts, researching information, organizing fundraisers, and finding ways to encourage other people to support the shelter. My goal was not just to complete a school assignment, but to create something that could have a positive impact beyond my classroom. I have also learned about selflessness through being part of sports teams. As a cheer captain and softball captain, I understood that being a leader was not just about being the person in charge. It meant encouraging teammates, helping people when they were struggling, and putting the team before myself. There were times when I had to step up even when I was tired or uncomfortable, because someone else needed support. To me, selflessness means recognizing that other people and animals need help and choosing to do something about it. I may not always be able to solve someone’s entire problem, but I can give my time, effort, and support. The experiences I have had through volunteering, fundraising, and leadership have shown me that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.

The Lessons Stories Have Taught Me Books have always been more than just stories to me. They have been opportunities to see the world through different perspectives, understand experiences different from my own, and learn lessons that have shaped the person I want to become. Every story I read has reminded me that people are complex, that challenges can be overcome, and that everyone has a journey worth understanding. One of the greatest lessons I have learned from reading is the importance of empathy. Through books, I have stepped into the lives of characters who faced challenges, made difficult decisions, and experienced emotions I may not have personally faced. These stories have taught me not to judge people based only on what I see on the outside because everyone has struggles, fears, and dreams that others may not know about. Reading has also taught me the importance of resilience. Many of the characters I connect with are not successful because everything goes perfectly for them. They succeed because they continue moving forward when things become difficult. This lesson has influenced how I handle challenges in my own life. Whether it is facing setbacks in sports, balancing responsibilities, or working toward my future goals, I have learned that growth often comes from difficult moments. Books have also shaped my career goals by inspiring my creativity and encouraging me to think about the impact I want to have on others. Stories have shown me the importance of helping people, building connections, and creating experiences that matter. This connects to my passion for animals and my goal of owning my own dog grooming business. I want to create a place where people and animals feel cared for, welcomed, and valued. Reading has also influenced the way I approach learning. Books have encouraged me to ask questions, explore new ideas, and continue growing beyond what I learn in a classroom. They have shown me that education is not limited to assignments or tests; it is something that continues throughout life. The stories I have read have shaped my understanding of the world by reminding me that everyone has a unique perspective and a story of their own. They have helped me become more compassionate, open-minded, and determined to make a positive difference. My goal is to carry the lessons I have learned from books into my future. I want to continue learning, supporting others, and creating something meaningful through my career and my actions. Just as books have given me new perspectives and inspired me, I hope to create experiences that inspire and help others as well.

Creating a Future Built on Compassion The impact I want to make is creating a world where animals are treated with compassion and where people feel empowered to make a difference. My passion for helping animals began at a young age and has continued to shape the person I am today. Through my experiences volunteering, leading projects, and serving my community, I have learned that even small actions can create meaningful change. Since 2022, I have volunteered over 600 hours at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. What started as a way to give back became a place where I discovered my passion for animal care and community service. I have helped care for animals, supported the thrift store, assisted with fundraising efforts, and seen firsthand how much dedication goes into helping animals find safe and loving homes. The people and animals I have met there have inspired me to continue creating positive change. My senior project, “Paws For-A-Cause,” allowed me to take that passion even further. My goal was not only to raise funds for the New Milford Animal Welfare Society but also to increase awareness and bring the community closer to the organization. Through fundraising events, social media outreach, and community involvement, I learned how powerful it can be when people come together for a shared purpose. This experience showed me that leadership is not just about having a title; it is about finding a need and taking action. Education will help me continue this mission. I plan to study business management so I can combine my love for animals with the skills needed to create and operate a successful business. My long-term goal is to own a dog grooming business that provides excellent care while creating a welcoming environment for pets and their owners. I hope to eventually expand my services to include training, boarding, and additional ways to support animals and their families. The people who inspire me most are the volunteers, workers, and supporters who dedicate their time to helping animals. They have shown me that kindness, patience, and commitment can make a lasting difference. They have taught me that change does not always happen through one large action; it happens through consistent effort and people who care enough to help. In the future, I want to use my education and experiences to give back to my community by creating opportunities for others to get involved in animal welfare. I want my future business to be more than just a place for grooming. I want it to be a place that supports animals, educates owners, and encourages compassion. The change I am determined to create is a future where animals receive the care they deserve and where people recognize the impact they can have. My journey has shown me that one person with a passion and a plan can inspire others to make a difference. I hope to continue building on that belief throughout my education, career, and life.

Planning My Future: Turning My Passion for Animals Into a Career My biggest goal is to build a career where I can combine my passion for animals with my interest in business. I hope to one day own and operate my own dog grooming business that provides high-quality care while creating a welcoming environment for both pets and their owners. I want to eventually expand my business to include additional services such as training, boarding, and other forms of animal care. I know that reaching this goal will require dedication, education, financial planning, and the ability to adapt when challenges arise. The first step in my plan is continuing my education and building a strong foundation in business. I plan to study business management in college while continuing to learn about entrepreneurship, marketing, finances, and customer service. These skills will be essential when creating and managing a successful business. I also want to continue expanding my knowledge of animal care through classes, hands-on experiences, and future certifications related to grooming and animal behavior. One of the most important resources I have already gained is hands-on experience. Since 2022, I have volunteered over 600 hours at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, where I have worked with animals, helped in the thrift store, supported fundraising efforts, and learned how important compassion and organization are when caring for animals. My senior project, “Paws For-A-Cause,” also helped me develop leadership, communication, marketing, and fundraising skills. Through this experience, I learned how to create a plan, connect with a community, and turn an idea into action. After completing my education, my plan is to gain professional experience by working in a grooming facility or animal care business. This will allow me to learn from experienced professionals, improve my technical skills, and understand the daily operations of running a business. I believe it is important to learn every part of an industry before becoming an owner. Financial planning will also be a major part of my success. Starting a grooming business will require investments in equipment, supplies, training, insurance, marketing, and possibly a location. A realistic starting budget could include approximately $5,000 to $10,000 for professional grooming equipment, $1,000 to $3,000 for certifications and training, $1,000 to $2,000 for business registration and insurance, and additional funds for advertising and supplies. I plan to save money through employment, apply for scholarships, and research small business resources and possible funding opportunities. My timeline for reaching this goal will be gradual. During college, I will focus on gaining education and experience while building connections in the animal industry. After graduation, I plan to work in the field, continue developing my skills, and save money. Within several years, I hope to begin opening my own grooming business and grow it based on the needs of my community. I understand that not every part of a plan will happen exactly as expected. If owning a business immediately is not possible, I will continue gaining experience, adjusting my timeline, and finding different paths toward my goal. Success requires flexibility, patience, and the willingness to keep learning. The phrase “Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan” represents the mindset I want to carry throughout my future. My goals are not just dreams; they are goals I am actively preparing for through education, experience, financial planning, and hard work. By creating a thoughtful plan and staying committed to it, I believe I can build a career that allows me to help animals, serve my community, and create a successful future.

I Waited Years for My Moment For years, I tied my self-worth to a jersey, a starting position, and the belief that if I worked hard enough and waited my turn, I would eventually be rewarded. As a defender on my high school field hockey team, I spent seasons on the sidelines behind a deep lineup. I trained. I watched. I waited. I believed that one day my opportunity would come. Finally, I was told it was my time. A graduating senior, the best defender on the team, looked me in the eyes and said, “Next year, you’ll lead them.” I believed her. I carried those words through the off-season, pushed myself physically, and entered the season confident and ready. At first, everything went as I imagined. I made varsity, earned a starting position, and found my voice on the field. I felt like my hard work was finally paying off. However, as the season progressed, everything changed. Slowly, I was replaced by a freshman. There was no conversation and no explanation. One day I was playing, and the next I was watching from the sideline. Mentally, it was one of the hardest experiences I had faced. I felt invisible. Years of dedication suddenly felt meaningless, and I began questioning my abilities and my worth. At the same time, my best friend, who had always been one of my biggest supporters, stopped coming to practice and slowly drifted away. I tried reaching out, but I felt like I was losing both my place on the team and someone who had always been there for me. That season became one of my hardest mental battles. I was not only dealing with losing playing time; I was grieving the season and relationships I had imagined. I had to learn how to recognize my emotions instead of ignoring them. I realized that mental health is not about pretending something does not hurt. It is about acknowledging your feelings, allowing yourself to heal, and finding the strength to continue. Even when no one noticed, I kept showing up. I supported my team, continued practicing, and chose to lead quietly. Our team went on to win the Berkshire League, and for the first time in 22 years, our school won the CIAC Class S State Championship. I was proud of my teammates, but I also had to accept that my value was never determined by my playing time or position. This experience changed my understanding of mental health and the world around me. I learned that many people are carrying struggles that others may never see. Because I know what it feels like to struggle silently, I have become more compassionate and intentional about checking in on others. I want people to feel heard, supported, and understood. My experience has also shaped my future goals. I want to pursue a career where I can help others through challenges and be the kind of steady presence I needed during my own difficult moments. I hope to remind people that struggling does not make them weak and that difficult experiences do not define their entire story. Mental health is no longer something I ignore or push aside. It is something I prioritize and continue learning about. My journey has taught me that strength is not always being the person in the spotlight. Sometimes, strength is having the courage to keep standing tall, even when no one is watching.

Turning Online Learning Into Real-World Impact A search engine helped me find information. Social media helped me find a community. Online learning helped me find a way to turn my passion into action. What started as a desire to help animals became an opportunity to learn how technology can create meaningful change. Through online platforms, digital resources, and independent research, I have been able to expand my understanding, develop new skills, and apply my knowledge beyond the classroom. One of the most valuable tools I use is online research through platforms like Google. When studying subjects such as business, entrepreneurship, and animal science, I use online resources to explore topics further, find different perspectives, and learn from experts. These resources allow me to take what I learn in the classroom and connect it to real-world situations. This was especially important during my senior project, “Paws For-A-Cause,” which focused on raising awareness and funds for the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. Through online research, I learned about nonprofit organizations, fundraising strategies, marketing, and community outreach. I used this information to help plan events, create fundraising ideas, and develop ways to connect more people with an organization I care deeply about. Social media platforms have also been an important learning tool. By creating and managing an Instagram page for my project, I learned how digital platforms can be used to educate others and build a community. I researched ways to create engaging content, studied what types of posts reached the most people, and learned how communication online can inspire people to take action. What began as a way to share information became a tool that helped increase awareness and encourage community involvement. I also use online tutorials, educational videos, and articles when I need to learn a new skill or better understand a topic. These resources allow me to learn at my own pace and find explanations that make difficult concepts easier to understand. They have helped me become a more independent learner who is comfortable asking questions, searching for solutions, and continuing to improve. The greatest value of online learning is that it allows me to apply knowledge instead of simply memorizing information. Through digital tools, I have been able to combine creativity, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills to make a difference in my community. My experiences have shown me that technology is not just a resource for finding answers; it is a way to create opportunities, connect with others, and turn ideas into reality. Online platforms have changed the way I learn by showing me that education does not stop when a class ends. The ability to research, explore, and create has helped me become a more confident and adaptable student. As I continue my education and pursue my future career goals, I will continue using technology as a tool to learn, grow, and make a positive impact.

I Waited Years for My Moment For years, I tied my self-worth to a jersey, a starting position, and the belief that if I worked hard enough and waited my turn, I would eventually be rewarded. As a defender on my high school field hockey team, I spent seasons on the sidelines behind a deep lineup. I trained, watched, learned, and waited, believing that one day my opportunity would come. Finally, I was told it was my time. A graduating senior, the best defender on our team, looked me in the eyes and said, “Next year, you’ll lead them.” I carried those words with me through the off-season. I pushed myself physically, prepared mentally, and entered the season confident that I was ready. At first, everything went as I imagined. I made varsity, earned a starting position, and found my voice on the field. However, as the season progressed, things began to change. Slowly, I was replaced by a freshman. There was no conversation and no explanation. One day I was playing, and the next I was watching from the sideline. Mentally, it was one of the hardest experiences I had faced. I felt invisible. Years of dedication suddenly felt meaningless, and I began questioning my abilities and my worth. At the same time, I was also dealing with the loss of an important friendship. My best friend, who had always supported me, stopped coming to practice and slowly drifted away. I felt like I was losing both my place on the field and someone who had always been there for me. That season became a mental battle. I was grieving the season and relationships I had imagined. Instead of ignoring my emotions, I had to learn how to acknowledge them and take care of myself. I realized that mental strength is not about pretending something does not hurt. It is about accepting your feelings, allowing yourself to heal, and finding the courage to continue. I chose not to quit. I continued showing up, supporting my teammates, practicing, and leading in ways that did not involve being in the spotlight. Our team went on to win the Berkshire League, and for the first time in 22 years, our school won the CIAC Class S State Championship. I was proud of my teammates, but I also had to accept that my journey looked different than I expected. This experience changed my understanding of mental health. I learned that my value is not determined by recognition, achievements, or a position on a team. I learned that everyone is carrying struggles that others may never see. Because of my own experiences, I have become more compassionate and intentional about checking in on others. I want people around me to feel heard and supported because I know how difficult it can be to struggle silently. My experience with mental health has also shaped my future goals. I want to pursue a career where I can make a positive difference and support others through challenges. I hope to be the kind of person who reminds others that difficult moments do not define their entire story. Mental health is no longer something I ignore or push aside. It is something I prioritize and continue learning about. My journey has taught me that strength is not always being the person in the spotlight. Sometimes, strength is having the courage to keep standing tall, even when no one is watching.

I Waited Years for My Moment For years, I tied my self-worth to a jersey, a starting position, and the belief that if I worked hard enough and waited my turn, I would eventually be rewarded. As a defender on my high school field hockey team, I spent seasons on the sidelines behind a deep and talented lineup. I trained, watched, learned, and waited. I believed that one day my opportunity would come. Finally, I was told it was my time. A graduating senior, the best defender on our team, looked me in the eyes and said, “Next year, you’ll lead them.” I carried those words with me through the off-season. I pushed myself physically, prepared mentally, and entered the season confident that I was ready. At first, everything went as I imagined. I made varsity, earned a starting position, and found my voice on the field. I felt like I was finally becoming the player I had worked so hard to be. However, as the season progressed and the pressure increased, things began to change. Slowly, I was replaced by a freshman. There was no conversation and no explanation. One day I was playing, and the next I was watching from the sideline. It was one of the hardest moments I had experienced mentally. I felt invisible. Years of dedication and quiet commitment suddenly felt meaningless. I began questioning my abilities and wondering if all the effort I had put in mattered. During the same time, I also experienced the loss of an important friendship. My best friend, who had always been one of my biggest supporters, stopped coming to practice. I tried reaching out, but she pulled away and slowly drifted from my life. At the same time, teammates and coaches would ask where she was, as if I should have the answer or as if it was my responsibility to fix the situation. That season became a mental battle. I was not only dealing with losing playing time; I was grieving the season and relationships I had imagined. I had to learn how to handle disappointment, communicate my feelings, and understand that not every situation could be fixed by simply trying harder. Instead of giving up, I chose to keep showing up. I continued supporting my teammates, practicing, and leading in ways that did not involve being in the spotlight. Our team went on to win the Berkshire League, and for the first time in 22 years, our school won the Class S State Championship. I was proud of my teammates and grateful to be part of that accomplishment, but I also had to acknowledge my own emotions. I had to grieve the role I thought I would have and learn that my value was not determined by how much playing time I received. This experience completely changed my understanding of mental health. I learned that mental strength is not about ignoring disappointment, pretending something does not hurt, or forcing yourself to be okay. It is about recognizing your emotions, allowing yourself time to heal, and continuing forward even when life does not happen the way you expected. My relationships were also shaped by this experience. I became more aware that everyone carries struggles that others may never see. Because I know what it feels like to struggle silently, I have become someone who checks in on others, listens without judgment, and tries to create an environment where people feel supported. I learned that sometimes the greatest impact we can have is simply reminding someone that they are not alone. This experience has also influenced my future goals. I want to pursue a career where I can support others, encourage them through challenges, and create positive experiences for those around me. Whether through my future career or everyday interactions, I want to be the kind of steady and understanding person I needed during one of my own most difficult moments. Mental health is no longer something I push aside or ignore. It is something I prioritize and continue learning about. My journey has helped me grow into someone who understands that strength is not always being the person in the spotlight. Sometimes, strength is having the courage to keep standing tall, even when no one is watching.

At six years old, I carried boxes of donated pet supplies into the New Milford Animal Welfare Society (NMAWS) with my dad. My elementary school had organized a donation drive, and I watched as the staff gratefully accepted the supplies. Even then, I understood that something as simple as a bag of food or a blanket could make a difference in an animal’s life. As we left the shelter, I remember thinking, “I want to work here someday.” That moment stayed with me for years and sparked a dream of one day opening my own animal shelter where every animal could have the opportunity to find a loving home. Years later, I turned that childhood dream into reality when I began volunteering at NMAWS. Through my time there, I discovered that an animal shelter depends on more than compassion for animals. It relies on volunteers, donors, and a supportive community. I also realized that many people in my town were unaware of the incredible work NMAWS does to rescue, care for, and rehome animals. I wanted to help change that and show people how important their support could be. This goal became the foundation of my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. Instead of creating just one fundraiser, I developed a year-long fundraising and awareness campaign to support NMAWS and strengthen its connection with the community. I organized fundraising efforts including an Elephant’s Trunk Flea Market booth, online fundraising, donation drives, and merchandise sales. Each opportunity allowed me to raise money while also sharing the shelter’s story with people who may have never visited or even heard of it before. To reach even more people, I created an Instagram account called @paws_for_a_cause_26. Through weekly posts, I shared my fundraising journey, promoted adoptable animals, educated followers about animal welfare, and showed people how they could volunteer or donate. My goal was never just to raise money; it was to create a lasting relationship between NMAWS and the community. Social media allowed me to connect with people who may never have attended one of my events and showed me that a student can inspire change through creativity and determination. By the end of my project, I raised more than $1,100 for NMAWS and completed over 620 hours of volunteer service. However, my greatest accomplishment was seeing people become more connected to a cause they may not have known about before. Community members, friends, families, and local businesses learned about NMAWS and found ways to support its mission. Seeing others become passionate about animal welfare was the most rewarding part because I knew the impact would continue beyond my senior year. This project also helped me grow as a leader. As someone who is naturally quiet, I had to step outside my comfort zone by speaking with community members, reaching out to businesses, promoting events, and asking for support. I learned that leadership is not about everything going perfectly; it is about adapting to challenges, staying committed, and inspiring others to believe in your vision. Looking back, it is incredible that my journey began with one elementary school donation drive. What started as a six-year-old’s dream grew into years of service, over 620 volunteer hours, and a project that brought my community closer to a cause I deeply care about. As I pursue a degree in business, I hope to one day own my own dog grooming business while continuing to support animal rescues and advocate for animal welfare. I will always carry the lesson I learned at six years old: one simple act of kindness can inspire a lifetime of service.

The final whistle of my senior year marked more than the end of high school. It marked the beginning of a future I have worked hard to build. Looking back, I realize my journey has been shaped by family, faith, hard work, and competition, values that have guided me through both challenges and accomplishments. I recently graduated from Shepaug Valley School, where I worked hard to balance academics, athletics, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and my senior project. My family has played a major role in my life and has been my biggest support system. They have taught me the importance of responsibility, perseverance, and staying committed to my goals, even when things get difficult. Their encouragement has helped me stay focused on my education, sports, and future plans. Sports have been a huge part of my life and development. In high school, I played field hockey for seven years, softball for five years, and cheerleading for three years. Before high school, I participated in basketball and track and field during middle school, which introduced me to competition and teamwork at an early age. Being a student-athlete taught me discipline, leadership, resilience, and how to push through challenges while working toward a shared goal. One of my proudest accomplishments was winning the CIAC Class S State Championship with my field hockey team, which showed me the importance of dedication and trust in a team environment. Outside of athletics, I have been involved in Student Council, FFA, Link Crew, Mathletes, and Game Club. These activities helped me develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills while allowing me to be involved in different parts of my school community. I have also dedicated over 620 hours volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society since 2022. Through this experience, I have helped care for animals, organize donations, and support fundraising efforts. This work strengthened my passion for helping animals and taught me the importance of service and responsibility. One of my most meaningful experiences in high school was completing my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. Through this project, I raised money and awareness for animal welfare using fundraisers, social media, and community events. It helped me build leadership, organization, and communication skills while allowing me to make a real impact on a cause I care about deeply. As I begin the next chapter of my life, I plan to attend college and go into business undecided while exploring my interests and future career path. My long-term goal is to open my own dog grooming business and eventually expand into training and boarding. I hope to combine my passion for animals with my interest in business to create something meaningful. Stephan Laurence Wolley’s legacy reflects the values of family, faith, and competition. In honor of his life, I hope to carry those same values forward as I continue to work hard, grow, and make a positive impact in my community.

Some people see math as just numbers and equations, but to me, math is like solving a puzzle where every piece has a purpose. I love math because it has always been a subject that challenges me to think in new ways. Unlike other subjects where there can be many opinions or interpretations, math has clear steps and solutions. I like the feeling of solving a problem and knowing that if I work hard enough, I can find the right answer. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and pushes me to keep improving. Math has taught me important life skills beyond the classroom. It has helped me become more patient, focused, and determined. Sometimes problems can be difficult, and I do not always get the answer right the first time. But math has shown me that mistakes are part of learning. Each mistake helps me understand the process better and makes me stronger at solving future problems. I also love how math connects to real life. It is used in almost everything we do, from managing money to running businesses. Since I plan to major in business management and eventually own my own dog grooming business, I know math will play a big role in my future. I will need it for budgeting, pricing services, keeping track of profits, and making smart financial decisions. What makes math special to me is that it is not just about numbers. It is about problem-solving, critical thinking, and learning how to overcome challenges. These are skills I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Math has helped shape the way I think, and that is one of the reasons I love it so much.

Softball has been a huge part of my life and has shaped who I am beyond being an athlete. I’ve played softball, field hockey, cheerleading, and in middle school I also played basketball and track and field. Because of that, I’ve seen many different coaches, teams, and environments. That experience has taught me that sports are not just about skill, they are also about mentorship, mindset, and people. My family has always been a baseball family. We are huge Yankees fans, and growing up my dad always hoped I would get into baseball. When I was younger, I did not want to play Little League, and I know that probably disappointed him. But he never pushed me away or made me feel bad about it. He just supported me in what I chose and showed up for me. I picked up softball in 8th grade and caught on pretty quickly. By the next year, I made varsity, even though I did not play much at first. Over time, I kept working and stayed with it while still finding my place on the team. For the first four years of high school softball, I played under my coach Heidi. I have to be honest about this because it shaped my experience. Those years were not easy. I often felt pressure and like I had to be perfect instead of learning and growing. I was scared to try new things because I did not want to mess up or get called out. There were moments in practice that stuck with me, like being told my hitting was “lackluster” in front of everyone, which made me feel like I had to shrink myself. Over time, it started to affect how I felt about the sport. I have played enough years of sports to see the difference between environments, and how much coaching impacts confidence and enjoyment. I have also seen players step away from softball because they did not feel supported, which showed me how important the right environment is. There were also moments outside of practice that stayed with me. Riding the bus to practice when she was the coach I could not breathe. At the end of freshman year, even passing the field in the off-season I couldn’t look at it. I talked to people about my experience. I would bring up how in toxic relationships when you’re in them everything seems normal, it feels like it’s supposed to be. But when you’re out of them, you realize how wrong it felt. I know it is not a romantic relationship, but being on a team still creates a coach-player connection, and when that environment isn’t supportive, it can affect you in a similar way. This year everything changed. We got a new coaching environment, and it felt completely different. I could breathe at practice. I was smiling again, less stressed, and I started enjoying softball in a way I had not felt in a long time. It reminded me why I started playing. After this year, it made me want to keep playing, something I never thought I would say. I used to think club or recreational softball would feel the same, so I avoided it. But now I actually want to continue next year. Overall, softball has taught me perseverance, adaptability, and self-awareness. It has shown me how much mentorship and environment matter, and how the right support can change someone’s experience. In honor of Brett Brakel’s legacy, I hope to carry those lessons foward into college and my future career in business and opening my own dog grooming business.

Growing up, I have always had small things about me that made me feel a little different or awkward compared to other people. I would honestly say I am probably one of the most awkward people I know. Whether it is talking to new people, being around people I like, or even just interacting in social situations in general, I tend to overthink things and get in my own head. It is something I have struggled with for a long time, especially when it comes to confidence, since I also deal with low confidence issues that can make those moments even harder. Another thing that makes me stand out is that I am left-handed. It is a small thing, but it shows up in everyday life more than people think, like writing in school or using things that are designed for right-handed people. It is one of those differences that does not seem like a big deal, but it can make you feel slightly out of place in certain situations. I would also say I am extremely clumsy, which is honestly kind of embarrassing but also just part of who I am. Even in sports, where I try to stay focused and do things right, I still manage to have moments where I trip, bump into things, or lose coordination. My dad always jokes about it and says I am the only person he knows who can fall going both up and down the stairs. As embarrassing as it can be, I have learned to laugh at myself instead of letting it affect my confidence too much. Another thing that used to make me feel a little embarrassed when I was younger is my name. It is long, very uncommon, and people almost never see it or hear it. Even when people do recognize it, they often assume it starts with a “C” or spell it completely wrong because they are not familiar with it. I have seen it spelled in so many different ways that it is almost normal for me now. It does not matter if it is teachers, students, Starbucks, or restaurants, people usually pause or ask me to spell it. I am so used to it at this point that I just automatically start spelling it without thinking because I already know it is coming. When I think about all of these things together, I would say I am just naturally an awkward person in a lot of ways. I notice it in myself all the time, and I have learned that it shows up in different situations, whether I am talking to people, trying to make a good impression, or just going about my day. For a long time, I saw these things as flaws or things that made me stand out in a bad way, especially with my confidence being low at times. Over time, though, I have started to see them differently. They have shaped who I am and helped me become more understanding of other people who feel awkward or out of place too. I have learned that everyone has things they struggle with, even if they do not always show it. Now I try not to hide these parts of myself anymore. Being awkward, clumsy, left-handed, having a name people struggle with, and dealing with confidence issues is just part of who I am. Instead of seeing them as weaknesses, I see them as the things that make me unique and real.

1. When did you find TXT? I found TXT in 2022. At first, I didn’t really know much about them and just kept seeing clips and songs online, but eventually I decided to actually listen. Once I did, I started to really like their music. It felt different compared to other artists I had heard because it was emotional, comforting, and easy to connect with. 2. What do you think is one of the most important characteristics of a MOA? I think one of the most important characteristics of a MOA is loyalty and support. Being a MOA is not just about liking the music, it is about genuinely supporting TXT through every comeback and every stage of their journey. It also means respecting them as people and appreciating how much effort they put into their work. 3. Do you have a TXT bias, and if so, why did you choose them? My TXT bias is Yeonjun. I chose him because I really admire his confidence, performance skills, and how he stands out on stage. He seems very hardworking and versatile, and I respect how much effort he puts into everything he does. He is someone who naturally catches my attention when I watch performances. 4. Who is your ult bias, if any, of any group? My ult bias is Jungkook. I have looked up to him for a long time because of his dedication, talent, and growth as an artist. He inspires me to stay focused and keep working toward my own goals even when things get difficult or stressful. 5. What is your favorite TXT song, and why? My favorite TXT song is Blue Spring. I like it because it feels very emotional and calming at the same time. It is one of those songs that I can listen to when I am stressed or overwhelmed, and it helps me feel a little more understood and less alone. 6. Have you had a chance to see TXT live in concert before? No, I have not seen TXT live yet, but it is something I really hope to experience one day. I think seeing them perform in person would be really meaningful because their energy and performances are something I admire a lot. 7. What was your favorite album concept, and why? My favorite TXT album concept is The Name Chapter: Temptation. I really like the visuals and the overall theme of growing up, facing struggles, and figuring yourself out. It feels relatable in a way because everyone goes through moments where they are trying to understand themselves and their future. 8. How are you currently paying for school? Right now, I am paying for school through a combination of family support and scholarships. My family helps me as much as they can, and I also try to apply for different scholarships to help cover the costs of education. 9. How will the scholarship help you? What gaps can it fill? This scholarship would help me a lot by covering tuition and textbook costs. College expenses can add up quickly, so having extra support would take some pressure off my family. It would also allow me to focus more on my education instead of worrying as much about financial stress. 10. How has TXT influenced you for good? TXT has influenced me in a positive way by helping me through stressful times. Their music has been something I can turn to when I feel overwhelmed, and it helps me calm down and reset. Their songs often carry messages about growth and emotion, which remind me that it is okay to go through hard times and still keep moving forward. 11. How will you use your education to do good in the world? I plan to use my education to study business and eventually open my own dog grooming business. My goal is to build something successful that also helps animals and brings care and comfort to pet owners. I also want to give back to my community when I can, especially through supporting animal shelters and helping pets in need.

Preparing for the SAT has pushed me to become more disciplined, focused, and intentional about how I study and improve. I know that the SAT is not just a test, but also an important step in my college preparation that can help show my academic readiness and open up opportunities for my future. Because of that, I have been taking my preparation seriously and trying to build habits that will help me not only on test day, but also in college. One of the main ways I am preparing is by practicing different sections of the test, especially math and reading comprehension, since those areas require both skill and time management. I have been reviewing concepts that I learned in class, going back over topics I struggled with in the past, and using practice questions to get more comfortable with the format of the exam. When I get questions wrong, I take time to understand why I missed them so I can actually improve instead of repeating the same mistakes. This has helped me learn that progress comes from correcting weaknesses, not just repeating what I already know. In addition to practicing content, I have been working on improving my test-taking strategies. Time management is one of the biggest challenges for me, so I have been practicing pacing myself so I do not spend too long on one question. I am also learning how to stay calm under pressure, because I know that stress can affect performance if I let it take over. The more I practice, the more confident I feel about managing my time and staying focused throughout the entire test. Another important part of my preparation is staying consistent. Instead of trying to cram everything at once, I have been spacing out my studying and building steady routines. Even small study sessions help me stay familiar with the material and keep improving over time. I have learned that consistency matters more than last-minute studying, especially for a test like the SAT. My goal for the SAT is to achieve a score that reflects my true abilities and helps me get into a strong college business program. I plan to major in business administration with a focus on entrepreneurship because I want to own and run my own dog grooming business in the future. A strong SAT score will help me qualify for more college opportunities and scholarships, which is important to me and my family as I prepare for the next step in my education. Beyond just the score, I see the SAT as a way to challenge myself and prove that I can stay disciplined and committed to a long-term goal. I am not expecting perfection, but I am aiming for steady improvement and a result that shows my effort and dedication. I want to walk into the test feeling prepared, confident, and focused, knowing that I put in the work to succeed. Overall, I am preparing for the SAT by practicing regularly, improving my weaknesses, and building better test-taking habits. My goal is to perform at my best level and use my score to help me move forward toward my future in business and entrepreneurship.

Faith has never been just something I talk about, it has been something I rely on when life feels uncertain, overwhelming, or out of my control. It has played an important role in my life by helping me stay grounded, focused, and hopeful during both good and difficult times. I have not always had an easy or perfectly organized path through school, activities, and personal responsibilities, but my faith has helped me stay steady when things felt overwhelming. It has reminded me to be patient, work hard, and trust that challenges can help me grow instead of stop me. One of the biggest ways my faith shows up in my life is through how I treat people and how I approach responsibilities. Being involved in school activities, sports, and volunteering has taught me that everything I do affects others in some way. My faith encourages me to be kind, honest, and dependable even when it is not the easiest option. For example, when I volunteer and work with animals in my community, I try to be patient and caring because I believe that everything deserves respect and compassion. That mindset has helped me become more responsible and more aware of how my actions matter. My faith has also helped me handle stress and setbacks. In high school, there have been times when I felt overwhelmed with balancing schoolwork, sports, and other commitments. Instead of giving up or shutting down, my faith has helped me keep going and remind myself that I can get through difficult moments. It has given me a sense of purpose beyond just grades or achievements. Even when something does not go the way I planned, I try to see it as part of a bigger path that I can learn from. I believe my faith will continue to guide me in my future career, especially as I work toward owning my own dog grooming business and studying business administration. Running a business is not just about making money, it is about building trust with people and caring for the work you do every day. My faith will help me stay honest in my work, treat customers and employees with respect, and take responsibility for my decisions. I want my business to be a place where people feel comfortable and confident leaving their pets, and I believe values like integrity, patience, and compassion will be important in making that happen. My faith will also help me stay motivated when things get difficult in my career. There will likely be challenges like financial stress, long hours, or unexpected problems, but my faith reminds me not to give up when things get hard. Instead, I can stay focused, keep working, and trust that effort and persistence matter. I also think it will help me stay humble and remember why I started in the first place. Overall, my faith has shaped how I see myself, how I treat others, and how I approach my goals. It has helped me become more responsible, more caring, and more determined. As I move forward into college and my future career, I believe my faith will continue to guide my decisions and help me build a life and career based on purpose, hard work, and integrity.

When I think about why I should be considered for this scholarship, I think about the values that have shaped me throughout high school: hard work, dedication, compassion, faith, and perseverance. These values have guided me in my academics, extracurricular activities, community service, and future goals. I have always believed that success is not just measured by achievements, but by the impact you make on others and the consistency of your character when no one is watching. Throughout my high school years, I have worked hard to grow into someone who leads by example, gives back to the community, and stays committed to my goals even when challenges get in the way. Academically, I have pushed myself to stay focused while balancing many responsibilities. I have learned how important time management and consistency are, especially while balancing schoolwork, sports, and extracurricular activities. There have been times when my schedule felt overwhelming, but I learned how to stay organized, prioritize what matters most, and keep pushing forward. School has taught me discipline, responsibility, and the importance of preparing myself for my future rather than just focusing on the present moment. In college, I plan to major in Business Administration because my long-term goal is to own my own dog grooming business. I have always loved animals, and I want to combine that passion with entrepreneurship. My dream is not only to open a successful grooming business, but to expand it into training and boarding as well. I know that earning a college degree will provide me with the knowledge, structure, and skills needed to turn that dream into reality. Outside of academics, I have dedicated much of my time to extracurricular activities that have shaped me as both a student and a person. I have played field hockey for seven years, softball for five years, and cheerleading for three years. Being a student-athlete has taught me some of the most important lessons of my life, including teamwork, commitment, leadership, discipline, and resilience. Sports have also shown me the importance of taking care of my physical and mental health, staying active, and maintaining a strong work ethic. There are moments when practices are exhausting or games do not go as planned, but I have learned how to stay focused and push through challenges instead of giving up. These experiences have shaped my mindset and helped me understand the value of consistency, fitness, and self-improvement, which are qualities I know will benefit me throughout my life. In addition to sports, I have been actively involved in Student Council, FFA, and Link Crew. Through these organizations, I have strengthened my leadership and communication skills while learning how to connect with and support others in my school community. Whether it was helping younger students feel welcome, contributing to school events, or working as part of a team to organize activities, these experiences taught me the importance of service and responsibility. They also helped me grow more confident in speaking up, taking initiative, and being someone others can rely on. One of the most meaningful parts of my high school journey has been volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society since the summer of 2022. Working at the shelter has given me hands-on experience caring for animals and has taught me patience, compassion, and responsibility. It has also shown me how much shelters rely on community support to continue their work. Seeing that need firsthand inspired me to take action and create my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. For my senior project, I independently organized fundraisers and created social media campaigns to raise money and spread awareness for the shelter. Through flea market sales, donation drives, GoFundMe campaigns, and my Instagram page, I worked to support the shelter and educate others about animal welfare. This project challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, communicate with others, and stay committed even when things did not always go as planned. It taught me real-world skills like leadership, problem-solving, marketing, and perseverance. Most importantly, it showed me that even as a high school student, I can make a meaningful difference in my community when I stay dedicated and put in consistent effort. My faith as a Christian has also played a major role in shaping who I am. My faith has taught me the importance of kindness, humility, serving others, and staying strong through challenges. It reminds me that my abilities and opportunities are gifts that should be used to help others and make a positive impact in the world. My faith also encourages me to treat people with respect, show compassion to animals, and stay grounded even during stressful times. It has helped me develop a strong moral foundation that guides my decisions both inside and outside of school. In addition, I believe that physical wellness and discipline are important parts of who I am. Being involved in sports has shown me the value of staying active, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and building strength both physically and mentally. I have learned that taking care of my health directly impacts my performance in school, sports, and everyday life. I also understand that discipline is not just about athletics, but about showing up consistently in every area of life, even when it is difficult. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education and move one step closer to my goals. More than that, it would allow me to continue building a future centered around service, faith, compassion, and hard work. I am determined to use my education to create a successful career, but also to give back to my community and make a positive impact wherever I go. I believe my dedication, leadership, athletic experience, and strong values make me a strong candidate for this scholarship, and I would be honored to receive this opportunity.

What if one fundraiser could do more than raise money? What if it could inspire awareness, build community connections, and create real change for animals in need? That idea became the foundation of my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. My essential question was: How can I, as a high school student, independently raise funds for the New Milford Animal Welfare Society while also spreading awareness about animal welfare as a whole, and developing skills in leadership, communication, and creativity? This question guided my project and pushed me to create solutions for a problem I saw firsthand. Animals have always been a huge part of my life. Growing up with pets taught me how much love and comfort they bring, but also how much responsibility they require. Through volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society since 2022, I saw that many shelters struggle with funding and public awareness. Shelters depend on donations to provide food, medical care, and safe housing for animals, but many people do not realize how much support they need. I wanted to solve that problem by finding effective ways to raise money and bring attention to animal welfare. To answer my research question, What is the most effective way to fundraise for a local nonprofit organization like the New Milford Animal Welfare Society? I created and tested multiple fundraising strategies throughout the school year. I launched a GoFundMe, set up donation jars, sold AWS merchandise at Elephant’s Trunk Flea Market, organized donation drives, and created an Instagram page to promote my efforts. My goal was not only to raise money but to compare which methods were most effective and which connected with the community the most. One of the most important things I created was my Instagram account, Paws For-A-Cause. Through weekly posts, I shared adoptable animals, animal welfare facts, fundraising updates, and educational content. Social media became one of my strongest tools because it allowed me to reach beyond in-person events and connect with younger audiences. It showed me how powerful creativity and visuals can be when it comes to building awareness and encouraging action. If I had unlimited money and resources, I would expand this idea into a mobile pet care and grooming service for low-income families and shelters. Many pet owners cannot afford regular grooming or care, which can lead to neglect or animals being surrendered. My plan would be to create fully equipped vans with grooming stations, bathing systems, and pet supplies. I would partner with shelters, veterinarians, and local businesses to create affordable care options and educational resources for pet owners. This would help reduce animal neglect and lower shelter overcrowding. Through Paws For-A-Cause, I learned that solving problems takes leadership, communication, creativity, and adaptability. Not every fundraiser went as planned, but each challenge taught me something valuable. Most importantly, I learned that even as a high school student, I can create something meaningful that makes a difference. This project proved that small actions, when combined with passion and purpose, can lead to real change.

“I’m so sick of 17, where’s my teenage dream?” That lyric from brutal is one of the most relatable lines I have ever heard. Senior year is supposed to feel exciting. People always talk about it like it is the best time of your life, full of freedom, fun, and memories. But for me, and probably for a lot of others, it feels more complicated than that. It feels stressful, overwhelming, and honestly brutal at times. That lyric perfectly describes the pressure of being seventeen and trying to figure out what comes next. This year has been full of big decisions. College applications, scholarships, choosing a major, and trying to picture my future have all felt like a lot to handle. Everyone around me seems to expect that I should have it all figured out already, but the truth is, I am still learning. Olivia Rodrigo’s lyric stands out to me because it reminds me that it is okay to feel lost sometimes. Growing up is not always exciting. Sometimes it feels messy and uncertain. At the same time, being seventeen has also taught me a lot about myself. I have balanced sports like field hockey, cheerleading, and softball while staying involved in student council and volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. On top of that, I created my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause, where I organized fundraisers and spread awareness for animal welfare. Managing all of that was not easy, and there were moments where I felt completely overwhelmed. But looking back, those challenges helped me grow stronger and more independent. The line from brutal connects to my personal journey because it reflects the reality that life does not always match the picture we imagine. My “teenage dream” was not perfect, and it was not supposed to be. Instead, it was filled with challenges that taught me resilience, responsibility, and determination. Through volunteering and my senior project, I discovered my passion for helping animals and my goal of one day owning my own dog grooming business. That gave me direction, even when everything else felt uncertain. What I have learned is that life does not have to look perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes the hardest moments teach you the most. Olivia Rodrigo’s music reminds me that it is normal to feel frustrated, confused, and overwhelmed while growing up. Those feelings do not mean I am failing. They mean I am human. Being seventeen may feel brutal sometimes, but it is also shaping me into the person I am becoming. I may not have my whole future planned out yet, but I know I am moving toward something important. And maybe that is what the teenage dream really is: not perfection, but growth.

Ever since I was little, I have always been the person who stopped to pet every dog, help stray animals, or ask questions about how businesses worked. At first, those two interests seemed completely separate. I loved animals because they brought comfort and joy into my life, and I admired business owners because they built something for themselves. As I got older, I realized those two passions could come together. That realization shaped my future and is the reason I am pursuing a degree in Business Administration. For me, business is more than just learning how to make money. It is about building something meaningful, creating opportunities, and turning passion into purpose. My long-term goal is to own my own dog grooming business, and eventually expand it into training and boarding. Animals have always been a huge part of my life, and I want my future career to allow me to work with them every day while also being my own boss. Pursuing a business degree will give me the foundation I need to make that dream possible. What excites me most about studying business is how much there is to learn. Running a successful business takes more than just having a good idea. It takes leadership, financial planning, marketing, communication, and problem-solving. These are all skills I want to strengthen because I know they are essential for creating a business that can grow and succeed. I want to understand how to manage money wisely, connect with customers, advertise effectively, and make important decisions. Learning these skills will help me not only in my future career but in life overall. My passion for this degree has grown through my personal experiences. Since the summer of 2022, I have volunteered at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, where I help care for cats, organize thrift store items, and support fundraising efforts. Spending time there has taught me responsibility, patience, and dedication. It has also shown me the importance of community support when it comes to animal welfare. Seeing animals find homes and receive the care they deserve has strengthened my love for working with them and reminded me why I want to build a career around helping animals. This year, I took my passion even further through my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause. My project focused on independently raising money for the New Milford Animal Welfare Society while spreading awareness about animal welfare. I organized fundraisers, ran social media campaigns, sold merchandise at flea markets, and created donation drives. Through this experience, I learned firsthand what it takes to plan events, manage funds, advertise, and engage with the community. It was not always easy. There were setbacks, like canceled events and challenges with balancing sports and school, but those obstacles taught me resilience and adaptability. More importantly, they showed me that I am capable of handling the responsibilities that come with business ownership. As a woman pursuing a future in entrepreneurship, I want to prove that hard work, determination, and passion can create success. While business may not be the first field people think of when they hear STEM, modern business depends heavily on technology, data analysis, and innovation. From social media marketing to digital financial systems, technology is a huge part of building and maintaining a successful company. Understanding these systems will help me stay competitive and prepared for the future. Pursuing this degree means investing in myself and in the future I have worked hard to build. It is the first step toward combining my love for animals with my dream of entrepreneurship. I am passionate about Business Administration because it gives me the tools to turn my vision into reality. One day, I hope to create a business that not only provides quality care for pets but also gives back to the community and helps animals in need. To me, this degree is more than just education. It is the foundation of the life I want to create.

Every future is built on a single decision: where and how it begins. Before success, before failure, and before recognition, there is always a starting point. Thousands of years ago, Plato wrote in The Republic, “The beginning is the most important part of the work.” At first glance, this statement seems simple, almost obvious. Everything has to start somewhere. But Plato’s words carry a much deeper meaning. They reveal that the earliest choices we make create the foundation for everything that follows. My thesis is that Plato’s quote shows how the beginnings of our actions, values, and ambitions shape not only our success, but also our character and identity. Plato believed that education and discipline were essential in building a just person. In this quote, he suggests that beginnings are not just the first step in a process, but the most critical part because they establish the structure for what comes next. Just as a building relies on a strong foundation to remain standing, a person relies on their early experiences, habits, and values to guide them through life. If that foundation is weak, everything built on top of it becomes unstable. This idea can be applied to nearly every part of life, from education and relationships to careers and personal growth. What makes this quote so powerful is its universal truth. Society often focuses only on the final product: the trophy, the diploma, the promotion, or the success story. People admire the end result but rarely stop to consider the beginning that made it possible. Plato challenges this way of thinking by reminding us that success does not happen by accident. It is built through effort, preparation, and consistency from the very start. A strong beginning creates momentum, while a careless beginning can lead to struggles that are much harder to overcome later. This idea connects deeply to my own life. My passion for animals began when I was young, growing up surrounded by pets and learning the responsibility that comes with caring for them. At the time, I did not realize how important those moments were. Looking back, I can see they were the beginning of the path I am on today. Those early experiences taught me compassion, patience, and commitment. They shaped the person I would become. That beginning eventually led me to volunteer at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, where I have spent years helping care for cats and supporting shelter operations. What started as a simple love for animals grew into something much greater: a purpose. Through my volunteer work, I learned that caring for animals is about more than meeting their physical needs. It is about giving them comfort, safety, and a chance at a better life. Those experiences strengthened my leadership skills and showed me how meaningful service can be. This foundation inspired my senior project, Paws For-A-Cause, where I independently raised money and awareness for animal welfare. Through fundraisers, social media campaigns, and community outreach, I worked to support the shelter while spreading awareness about animal welfare issues. The process was not always easy. There were setbacks, canceled events, and moments where things did not go as planned. But those challenges taught me resilience. They showed me that the strength of my work came from the foundation of passion and dedication that began years ago. As I prepare for college and plan to study business with the goal of one day owning my own dog grooming business, Plato’s words feel more relevant than ever. The foundation I build now through education, hard work, and experience will determine the opportunities I have in the future. My dreams will not be built overnight. They will be built from the beginnings I create today. Plato’s insight remains timeless because it reminds us that greatness is never accidental. It starts in the smallest moments, the earliest decisions, and the courage to take the first step. In the end, the beginning is not just where the work starts. It is where the future is shaped.

Animals cannot speak for themselves, but they are some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and I have learned that advocacy often means becoming their voice. I have advocated for those most at risk in my community through volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, where I help care for animals who rely completely on people for safety, comfort, and care. Much of my time is spent working with cats who come in scared, stressed, or unsure of human interaction. I help by feeding them, cleaning their spaces, and spending time with them in calm and patient ways so they can slowly learn to trust people again. Over time, I have seen how these consistent small actions can make a real difference in an animal’s behavior and overall well-being, helping them become more comfortable and adoptable. My senior project, Paws For-A-Cause, is closely connected to this work because it focuses on animal welfare and raising awareness about the importance of adoption and responsible pet ownership. Through this project, I wanted to show that shelters are not just places where animals wait, but places that give them a second chance at life. I also wanted to encourage more people in my community to get involved, whether through volunteering, adopting, or simply learning more about the realities of animal care. This project helped me understand that advocacy is not only about direct care, but also about education and spreading awareness to create long-term change. In the future, I plan to continue advocating for animals through my career path in business and dog grooming, with the goal of eventually owning my own dog grooming business. I hope to create a space that not only provides care for animals but also promotes their health and well-being. Beyond that, I would like to expand my impact through community outreach or by working with larger organizations or corporations to improve animal welfare programs, increase adoption awareness, and support shelters that are often overcapacity and under-resourced. I want to use my career to connect people, businesses, and communities in ways that directly benefit animals in need. Overall, my experiences have shown me that advocacy can take many forms, but at its core it is about compassion, consistency, and action. I plan to carry those values with me into my education, my future career, and my continued work supporting animals who depend on people to be their voice.

“Some people rescue pets; I rescue hope.” That’s how I see the work I do at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, where I spend hours caring for cats, cleaning cages, and gently helping shy animals feel safe. To some, it’s just volunteer work, but to me, it’s a lesson in compassion, patience, and service. Every purr, every wag, and every tiny step toward trust reminds me that serving others, human or animal, starts with small acts of kindness. I embody a life of service by putting the needs of others before my own, whether that’s leading by example in FFA, helping teammates in cheer and field hockey, or mentoring younger students in Link Crew. In every activity, I’ve learned that service is not about recognition, it’s about impact. Even the smallest gestures, like teaching a shelter cat to feel safe or helping a teammate push through a tough practice, can change a life. These experiences have shaped me into someone who actively looks for ways to contribute, uplift, and support those around me. Education is my next step in this journey of service. By pursuing a business degree, I aim to turn my passion for animals and community care into tangible solutions. My ultimate goal is to open a dog grooming business that goes beyond styling and bathing. It will provide boarding, training, and wellness programs while giving back to the community. A portion of the business profits will support local shelters, and I plan to create volunteer programs that train young people to care for animals responsibly. By combining entrepreneurship with service, I can create opportunities for both animals and people, showing that success and compassion can go hand in hand. Beyond my future business, education will equip me to lead and innovate in ways I could never achieve on my own. I want to study ethical business practices, nonprofit management, and community outreach strategies, so I can make informed decisions that positively affect both animals and people. With knowledge and skill, service becomes more than good intentions, it becomes a sustainable, meaningful impact. Service has taught me empathy, leadership, and resilience, but education will teach me how to expand that impact. I want to inspire others to see that serving isn’t limited to grand gestures, it’s in the everyday actions, the patient moments, and the creative ways we solve problems for our communities. By combining my love for animals with the skills I gain from my education, I can build a life of service that leaves a lasting mark, proving that one person’s dedication can ripple far beyond themselves.

Animal care and welfare are essential parts of conservation because protecting animals begins within our own communities. Conservation is not only about endangered wildlife in distant habitats. It also involves responsible ownership, population control, and humane treatment of domestic animals. When animals receive proper care, medical attention, and socialization, it reduces neglect, abandonment, and overpopulation, which directly affects both communities and local ecosystems. Through my volunteer work at my local animal shelter, I have seen how animal welfare changes lives. Many animals arrive frightened, under-socialized, or neglected. With patience, proper nutrition, enrichment, and medical support, they gain confidence and become adoptable companions. Efforts such as spaying and neutering, educating adopters, and promoting responsible pet ownership reduce stray populations and prevent suffering. These actions strengthen conservation efforts by creating healthier animal populations and more informed communities. My passion for animal welfare has also shaped my senior project. For my project, I focused on animal care and advocacy, allowing me to research responsible pet ownership, hands-on animal work, and the importance of community education. This experience strengthened my understanding of the business and leadership skills required to make a long-term impact in the animal care field. It showed me that combining compassion with organization and strategy is essential for creating sustainable change. In the future, I plan to major in business because I want to turn my passion into a career where I can make a difference while leading my own organization. My goal is to become a professional dog groomer and eventually own my own grooming business. As a business owner, I will be able to create a safe, respectful, and professional environment where animals are treated with patience and care. I also want my business to educate clients about coat health, preventative care, and overall wellness. Owning my own business will allow me to give back to my community by partnering with local shelters, supporting adoption events, and offering services to help rescue animals find permanent homes. I hope to eventually expand into boarding and training services, creating a comprehensive space centered on animal well-being. By building a responsible and ethical business, I can advocate for better animal care practices while contributing to stronger conservation efforts at the community level. I believe conservation starts with responsibility and leadership. Through my education, senior project, volunteer work, and future business goals, I am committed to improving the lives of animals and making a lasting impact in the field of animal welfare.

The softest purr or the wag of a tail can teach lessons no classroom ever could. From the moment I could remember, I have felt a deep connection to animals, and volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society has shown me the power of compassion, patience, and advocacy for those who cannot speak for themselves. Whether feeding the cats, cleaning enclosures, or helping with adoption events, I have learned that small acts of care can make a big difference. This experience has shaped my ambition to create a career that combines my love for animals with meaningful service to the community. My goal is to become a professional dog groomer and eventually own a dog grooming business that also offers boarding and training services. But my vision goes beyond providing a service; I want my business to be a safe haven for animals and their owners, where education and care go hand in hand. I plan to implement programs that help pet owners understand their animals’ needs, recognize signs of stress or illness, and learn responsible pet ownership. By promoting awareness and empathy, I hope to prevent neglect and improve the quality of life for countless animals. Education will be central to my impact. By majoring in business, I will gain the knowledge to run a successful, sustainable enterprise while maintaining high standards of care. Beyond business, I plan to partner with local shelters, schools, and community organizations to provide outreach programs, such as grooming workshops, pet care seminars, and volunteer opportunities for youth. These initiatives will teach compassion, responsibility, and the value of service, spreading a culture of care throughout my community. Volunteering has also taught me that positive impact often begins with small, consistent efforts. Taking the time to socialize a timid cat or assist a dog in learning to trust humans may seem minor, but these moments can completely change an animal’s life. Similarly, I believe that by combining professional expertise with community engagement, I can create ripple effects that improve both human and animal welfare. My ambition is to lead by example, showing that empathy, education, and service can transform lives in ways that extend far beyond one individual or one shelter. Ultimately, I want to make the world a better place by building connections between people and animals, between education and action, and between compassion and practical service. Every animal cared for, every owner educated, and every volunteer inspired is a step toward a more compassionate society. My vision is one where animals thrive, people learn to value and protect them, and communities come together to support both. I am committed to using my skills, passion, and education to create a positive, lasting impact, reflecting my belief that every life, no matter how small or voiceless, deserves care, respect, and love.

“Kindness in Action” The first time a frightened shelter cat chose to trust me, it felt like I had earned something far more meaningful than a simple moment. At the animal shelter where I volunteer, I spend much of my time working with cats that are shy, scared, or unsure of their surroundings. Many of them come from situations where they have not experienced consistent care or human connection, which makes trust difficult for them. One cat in particular stood out to me because of how withdrawn she was. She stayed tucked away in her bed, avoided eye contact, and never approached anyone. Most people would walk past her, unsure of how to interact with a cat that did not seem to want attention. Instead of moving on, I made it a goal to help her feel safe. Each day, I sat quietly near her space, speaking in a soft voice and allowing her to adjust to my presence without pressure. At first, it felt like nothing was changing. She continued to hide, and I wondered if my efforts were making any difference. However, I reminded myself that trust is not something that can be rushed. Slowly, small changes began to happen. She started watching me instead of turning away. Her body language softened, and she seemed less tense when I was nearby. Eventually, she took a few cautious steps toward me. The day she finally allowed me to gently pet her was a moment I will never forget. It may have seemed small to others, but to me, it represented patience, consistency, and the power of kindness. This experience changed the way I understand what it truly means to be kind. Kindness is not always immediate or visible. It is not always recognized or rewarded. Sometimes, it is quiet and requires persistence, even when progress feels slow or uncertain. It is about showing up again and again, offering comfort without expecting anything in return. That moment was important to me because it showed that even the smallest acts of care can make a lasting impact. It taught me that building trust, whether with animals or people, takes time and understanding. More importantly, it reminded me that everyone deserves to feel safe and valued, even if they cannot express it. Kindness, to me, is about creating a sense of safety in a world that can often feel overwhelming. It is about being patient when it would be easier to walk away. Through my experiences, I have learned that real kindness is not measured by how big the action is, but by the difference it makes.

Most people see a scared, quiet animal and walk past. I see a chance to build trust. I have always felt a deep connection to animals. Whether I am helping care for cats at my local animal shelter or simply spending time understanding their behavior, I have learned that patience, compassion, and consistency can make a meaningful difference. These experiences have shaped my goal of becoming a professional dog groomer and eventually owning my own animal care business that offers grooming, boarding, and training services. My involvement in activities like FFA, student council, and multiple sports has helped me grow into a hardworking and responsible individual. Through these experiences, I have learned how to manage my time, communicate with others, and stay committed even when things become challenging. FFA, in particular, has strengthened my passion for animal care and shown me how important it is to advocate for animals who cannot speak for themselves. One challenge I have faced is stepping out of my comfort zone. I am naturally more reserved, and putting myself into leadership roles or new situations has not always been easy. Volunteering at the animal shelter pushed me to overcome this. At first, I was hesitant and unsure, especially when working with shy or frightened animals. However, I quickly realized that the animals needed someone calm and patient, someone willing to take the time to build trust. As I continued volunteering, I became more confident not only in handling animals but also in myself. This experience taught me that growth often comes from discomfort, and that perseverance leads to confidence. In my future career, I plan to make a positive impact by providing high quality, compassionate care to animals and building trusting relationships with both pets and their owners. Grooming is more than just appearance. It is about health, comfort, and well being. I want to create a safe and welcoming environment where animals are treated with kindness and respect. As I grow my business, I also hope to give back to my community by supporting local shelters, offering services for rescue animals, and educating pet owners on proper care. I believe that small acts of care can create a big impact. Every animal that feels safe, every owner who feels reassured, and every moment of patience contributes to a better world. Through my dedication, work ethic, and passion for animals, I am committed to making that difference in my career and beyond.

What if one student could turn a passion into real impact for an entire community? That question has shaped not only my high school experience, but also my future goals. My name is Sheyenne Schultz, and I am a senior who believes leadership is measured by action. Throughout high school, I have been actively involved in field hockey, cheerleading, softball, FFA, student council, and Link Crew. Being a three-sport athlete has taught me discipline, resilience, and how to push through challenges even when things get difficult. Field hockey, especially, has strengthened my competitive mindset and teamwork skills, and I hope to continue playing club field hockey in college to stay involved in a sport that has shaped so much of my character. Beyond athletics, my leadership roles in FFA and student council have allowed me to organize events, represent my peers, and communicate effectively with both students and adults. As a Link Crew leader, I mentor incoming freshmen and help them transition into high school with confidence. These experiences have helped me understand that leadership requires responsibility, organization, and empathy. This year, I took my passion for animals and leadership a step further through my senior project, titled Paws For-A-Cause. The purpose of my project is to independently raise funds and spread awareness for the New Milford Animal Welfare Society while developing real-world skills in fundraising, communication, and creativity. I designed and implemented multiple fundraising strategies, including hosting a table at the Elephant’s Trunk Flea Market, organizing donation drives, planning seasonal fundraisers, and launching an online campaign. I also created and manage an Instagram account called Paws for a Cause, where I post weekly animal spotlights, educational content, and updates about fundraising efforts. Through this project, I am not only raising money for shelter animals, but also analyzing which fundraising methods are most effective in a small-town community. I track results, compare strategies, and evaluate how social media engagement influences donations and awareness. My research incorporates professional nonprofit strategies and national animal welfare statistics to strengthen both my fundraising approach and educational outreach. This experience has given me hands-on practice in marketing, budgeting, leadership, public speaking, and data analysis. After high school, I plan to major in business because I want to combine entrepreneurship with my love for animals. My long-term goal is to become a professional dog groomer and eventually open my own grooming business, with hopes of expanding into boarding and training services. I want to build a business that prioritizes compassion, professionalism, and community impact. If I could start my own charity, my mission would be to support overlooked and long-term shelter animals, especially seniors and those with medical or behavioral challenges. My organization would serve local shelters and families needing financial assistance for veterinary care or training. Volunteers could foster pets, assist with adoption events, manage social media outreach, and help coordinate fundraising events. To me, success is not simply about achievement, it is about impact. Through leadership, service, and entrepreneurship, I am determined to build a future that makes a meaningful difference for both animals and the community around me.

I’ve always believed that passion alone isn’t enough; you need vision, drive, and the courage to build something from the ground up. That’s why I’m turning my love for animals into a career and a business that makes a real difference. I plan to study business in college because I want the knowledge and skills to transform my passion for animals into a thriving enterprise. Volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society has shown me the dedication required to care for animals and manage the needs of a busy environment. These experiences inspired me to pursue a career as a dog groomer, where I can provide hands-on care and ensure pets look and feel their best. Beyond grooming, my ultimate goal is to own my own business, offering grooming, boarding, and training services that prioritize the health, safety, and happiness of every pet. Studying business will give me the tools to manage finances, operations, and customer relationships effectively, ensuring that my company can grow sustainably while staying true to its mission. I have chosen an entrepreneurial career because it allows me to combine creativity, leadership, and problem-solving in ways that traditional jobs cannot. Entrepreneurship gives me the freedom to create a business that reflects my values and my passion for animals. Owning my own dog grooming business means I can implement innovative services, build meaningful relationships with clients, and maintain high standards for pet care. My senior project has already provided me with hands-on experience in managing operations, marketing, and customer engagement, preparing me to face the challenges of running a business while learning to adapt to unexpected obstacles. I believe I will succeed where many struggle because I bring dedication, resilience, and a strong work ethic to every challenge. I am proactive in finding solutions, attentive to detail, and committed to continuous learning. I understand that success is not immediate and that setbacks are opportunities to improve. To me, a successful life means making a positive impact through meaningful work, supporting my community, and building something I can be proud of. By pursuing my entrepreneurial goals with focus and passion, I aim to create a dog grooming business that not only thrives financially but also enriches the lives of the animals and people it serves. Through education, experience, and hard work, I am determined to turn my dream of becoming a skilled dog groomer and business owner into reality. I know that with vision, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, I can succeed in ways that make a lasting difference.

Faith is not just something I believe in; it is the foundation I stand on when life feels uncertain, when doors close, and when I question my own worth. My relationship with Jesus has shaped the way I approach every part of my life, from my daily choices to my long-term goals. He has taught me patience, compassion, and perseverance, and given me the confidence to keep moving forward even when circumstances are difficult. One example of this guidance came during my junior year on my high school field hockey team. After years of working hard and waiting for my opportunity to start, I was replaced by a freshman without explanation. At the same time, my closest friend on the team stopped showing up, leaving me feeling isolated. In those moments of disappointment and self-doubt, I leaned on my faith. Prayer reminded me that my worth does not depend on a position, a title, or the opinions of others. Jesus taught me to continue showing up, to lead quietly, and to support others even when I felt unseen. That experience strengthened my character and deepened my reliance on Him. My faith also guides my goals and dreams. I have always had a passion for working with animals and helping those in need. Volunteering at my local animal shelter has shown me that service is a form of worship, and that using my talents to care for others is a way to reflect God’s love. I plan to continue this mindset throughout my educational journey, seeking opportunities to serve my community while pursuing my goal of opening my own dog grooming and boarding facility. I want my business to reflect integrity, compassion, and responsibility, values that my faith has instilled in me. In addition to my career aspirations, my relationship with Jesus affects how I approach my education. I strive to use the gifts He has given me wisely, working diligently, being a positive influence on those around me, and maintaining honesty and humility in all I do. I plan to implement my faith through service projects, leadership opportunities, and supporting peers who may be struggling. I want to be a reflection of Christ’s love in my interactions, demonstrating patience, encouragement, and empathy in every classroom and community I am part of. Faith reminds me that success is more than achievements or accolades; it is the impact we have on others and the integrity with which we live. I hope to carry this perspective into college and beyond, trusting that my relationship with Jesus will continue to guide my decisions, inspire my actions, and shape me into a leader who serves others with compassion and purpose. Through challenges, growth, and the pursuit of my goals, my relationship with Jesus remains my foundation. His guidance provides clarity in uncertainty, strength in difficulty, and motivation to use my education and talents for a greater purpose. I am committed to implementing my faith throughout my educational journey by serving others, acting with integrity, and continually seeking to reflect God’s love in all that I do.

Education has not just prepared me for a career; it has given me direction when I felt uncertain about my place and my potential. From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with animals. Watching them live, grow, and trust humans despite past hardship inspired me to want to make a difference. However, I also learned early that passion alone is not enough. Education gave me the skills, confidence, and structure to transform that passion into a meaningful and sustainable path. For a long time, I believed success was something you waited for. I worked hard in athletics, especially field hockey, believing that if I put in enough effort, my moment would come. During my junior year, after years of training, dedication, and waiting on the sidelines, I finally earned a starting position on varsity. I felt seen for the first time and ready to lead. But as the season progressed, I was replaced by a freshman without any explanation. I watched someone with far less experience take the position I had dreamed about for years. Simultaneously, my closest friend on the team began to distance herself and eventually stopped coming to practices. I felt isolated, anxious, and defeated. I questioned my abilities, my value, and my place on the team. That experience challenged my confidence in ways I had never faced. I had tied my self-worth to achievement, and when that achievement was taken away, it felt like the foundation beneath me had disappeared. I realized that resilience and emotional strength were not innate—they were skills I would need to cultivate. This lesson became clearer as I leaned on my education to help rebuild my confidence. In the classroom, effort still mattered. Growth was measurable, feedback was clear, and persistence was rewarded. Teachers and mentors provided guidance, encouragement, and structure that reminded me that I was capable of achieving goals beyond the field. Through business courses, leadership activities, and volunteering experiences, I began to see a new path for myself. Education showed me that I did not have to wait for opportunity; I could create it. Learning about entrepreneurship, marketing, financial planning, and customer service shifted my mindset from hoping for success to building it intentionally. I began connecting the skills I learned in school with my passion for animals, realizing that I could combine the two to create a sustainable and impactful future. Volunteering at my local animal shelter has been a central part of this journey. Caring for cats waiting for adoption, some of whom arrived frightened or abandoned, reinforced the lesson that meaningful work requires patience, consistency, and compassion. Every animal I help represents a life that can be transformed with proper care and attention. This work has also taught me leadership and responsibility. I have learned how to collaborate with staff, support new volunteers, and manage tasks that directly affect the wellbeing of the animals. These experiences have given me the confidence to envision my future business, not just as a grooming or boarding facility, but as a safe and organized haven for animals who need love and attention. My goal is to major in business and eventually open my own dog grooming and boarding facility. I want this business to reflect both compassion and responsibility, combining quality care with sustainability. Beyond that, I hope to partner with local rescues, offering temporary housing for animals in need and providing educational opportunities for the community. I want my work to create not only a safe space for animals but also a positive example of leadership, care, and entrepreneurship for others. The challenges I faced in athletics taught me emotional resilience. They forced me to redefine success and understand that leadership is not dependent on recognition or status. Education reinforced these lessons by showing me that growth is a process. Failure, disappointment, and redirection are not endings; they are opportunities to adapt, learn, and emerge stronger. Each class, project, and interaction became another step toward building the skills and mindset I needed to succeed. Beyond building a career for myself, I hope to use my education to create opportunities for others. Owning a business means creating jobs, supporting local organizations, and giving back to the community. I want to lead in a way that makes people feel seen and supported, just as my mentors did for me during challenging times. I also want to inspire young people who may feel overlooked or undervalued to understand that their effort, persistence, and resilience can lead to success on their own terms. Education has shaped my life in a way that goes far beyond grades or assignments. It has taught me discipline, leadership, critical thinking, and empathy. It has given me the tools to transform passion into purpose, challenges into lessons, and vision into reality. Dreaming big requires courage. Rising higher requires perseverance, focus, and action. Education has given me both. The season I waited years for in field hockey did not unfold the way I imagined, but it gave me something more important than playing time or recognition: it gave me resilience, self-awareness, and the determination to pursue my goals. I now have a clear direction and the skills to make a meaningful impact in my life, the lives of others, and the animals I hope to serve. Education has shaped not just what I will do, but who I am becoming, and it will continue to guide me as I work to build a better future.

The movie that has had the greatest impact on my life is Hotel for Dogs. While many people see it as a lighthearted family movie, I saw something more. I saw possibility. I saw compassion. And I saw a future I wanted for myself. I first watched Hotel for Dogs when I was young, but it stayed with me in a way I did not fully understand at the time. The story follows two siblings who secretly transform an abandoned hotel into a safe haven for stray dogs. What stood out to me was not just the creativity of turning a space into something meaningful, but the heart behind it. They did not ignore the stray dogs they found. They did not assume someone else would step in. They took responsibility. From that moment on, I became deeply drawn to the idea of helping animals who did not have anyone else. I loved the thought of finding strays and giving them safety, food, and love. As I grew older, that childhood admiration turned into action. I began volunteering at my local animal shelter, where I help care for cats who are waiting for homes. Working there has shown me that the need is real. Many animals arrive scared, abandoned, or overlooked. Seeing them slowly trust again has reinforced something that movie first sparked in me: every animal deserves a safe place. Hotel for Dogs also planted another important idea in my mind. It showed me that you do not have to wait for someone else to create change. You can build it yourself. Watching the characters design their own space for animals made me realize that one day, I could run my own animal-focused business. What began as a childhood dream has grown into a concrete goal. I plan to major in business so I can open my own dog grooming and boarding facility. Eventually, I would love to expand it to include rescue partnerships or temporary housing for animals in need. The movie impacted me because it combined compassion with independence. It was not just about loving animals; it was about taking initiative and creating opportunity. That message shaped the way I think about my future. I do not just want to work with animals. I want to build something meaningful that reflects my values of care, responsibility, and leadership. Beyond career inspiration, the movie also taught me empathy. Stray animals are often overlooked, much like people can be in difficult seasons of life. Being involved in athletics and leadership roles has taught me how important it is to make others feel seen and valued. Volunteering at the shelter continues to remind me that patience and consistency can change lives, even in small ways. Hotel for Dogs may seem like a simple family film, but for me, it was the beginning of a calling. It gave me a vision of what was possible and encouraged me to dream bigger than my circumstances. It transformed a childhood love for animals into a lifelong goal of serving them. Because of that movie, I do not just imagine helping stray animals. I am actively preparing to build a future where I can.

I waited years for my moment. For a long time, I tied my self worth to a jersey, a starting position, and the belief that if I worked hard and waited my turn, I would be rewarded. As a defender on my high school field hockey team, I spent seasons on the sidelines behind a deep lineup. I trained. I watched. I waited. Eventually, I was told it was my time. A graduating senior, the strongest defender on the team, looked at me and said, “Next year, you will lead them.” I believed her. I carried those words with me through the offseason, pushed myself physically, and showed up confident and ready to step into that role. At first, everything unfolded the way I imagined. I made varsity and started strong. I found my voice on the field and felt proud of how far I had come. But as the season progressed, I was slowly replaced by a freshman. There was no real explanation. One day I was starting, and the next I was watching from the sideline. It crushed me mentally. Years of quiet dedication felt like they had disappeared overnight. I felt invisible. What made it more painful was losing my closest support system at the same time. My best friend, who had always been beside me, stopped coming to practice. I tried to help her and encourage her to return, but she distanced herself from both the team and from me. Teammates and coaches asked me where she was, as if I should have answers. I felt isolated and overwhelmed, carrying disappointment while trying to appear strong. That season became one of the most difficult periods for my mental health. I was not only dealing with reduced playing time, but also with rejection, comparison, and loneliness. I had built my confidence around earning that position, and when it was taken away, I questioned my worth. I grieved the version of the season and the friendships I thought I would have. Despite that, I did not quit. I continued to show up every day. I practiced hard, supported my teammates, and chose to lead quietly. By the end of the season, we won the Berkshire League championship and then the Class S State Title for the first time in twenty two years. I was proud of my team, but I also had to process the fact that I barely played in those final games. That duality was hard, but it was also transformative. Through that experience, I learned that resilience is not about always being recognized. It is about showing up when it hurts. I learned that my value is not defined by a position or by someone else’s decision. I began to understand the importance of protecting and prioritizing my mental health instead of ignoring it. Since then, I have made mental wellness a priority in my life. I check in with myself emotionally and allow myself to acknowledge disappointment instead of suppressing it. I maintain structure through school, athletics, and volunteering at my local animal shelter, where working with animals brings peace and perspective. I lean on trusted mentors and family members when I need guidance. I recognize early signs of stress and address them through healthy routines, reflection, and balance. These lessons have shaped my educational goals. I plan to major in business with the intention of opening my own dog grooming and boarding facility. I want to create a stable, welcoming environment built on empathy and consistency. Experiencing self doubt and instability in my confidence has motivated me to build something lasting and dependable. I want to lead with compassion because I understand how much support and encouragement matter. My plan for continuing to manage my mental health includes maintaining positive routines, surrounding myself with supportive individuals, and seeking help when needed. I understand that growth is ongoing and that resilience requires self awareness. I am committed to prioritizing my emotional well being as I pursue higher education and future career goals. The season I waited years for did not unfold the way I expected, but it gave me something more important than playing time. It gave me strength, emotional maturity, and the confidence to define success on my own terms.

This one needs to feel personal and reflective. I wrote this to show growth, responsibility, and your long-term goals while keeping it under 600 words. I want to make a change in my life by turning my passion for animals into a career that creates stability, purpose, and opportunity. I have always felt a deep connection to animals, but as I have grown older, I realized that passion alone is not enough. I want to build a future where I can combine compassion with leadership by owning my own dog grooming business and eventually expanding into boarding and training services. This change means stepping into adulthood with clear goals, financial responsibility, and a commitment to making a difference in my community. To move closer to this goal, I have taken meaningful steps throughout high school. I volunteer at my local animal shelter, where I work hands-on with cats, helping socialize them, maintain clean environments, and prepare them for adoption. This experience has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of proper animal care. Watching frightened animals grow more confident and find permanent homes has confirmed that working in animal care is where I belong. I have also challenged myself academically and through extracurricular activities. Being involved in FFA, student council, athletics, and leadership programs has strengthened my work ethic, communication skills, and ability to work as part of a team. For my senior project, I focused on animal care and advocacy, researching responsible pet ownership and exploring the professional side of the animal industry. This project helped me better understand the business knowledge required to turn my passion into a sustainable career. I plan to major in business so I can learn about management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Owning a business requires more than loving animals. It requires discipline, planning, and strong leadership. This scholarship would help ease the financial burden of college and allow me to focus on building the skills I need to succeed. It would give me the opportunity to fully invest in my education and future without the constant stress of financial limitations. If I receive this scholarship, I will pay it forward by using my future business as a platform for giving back. I hope to partner with local shelters to provide discounted grooming for adopted animals and support adoption events in my community. I also want to mentor other students who are interested in entrepreneurship or animal care, showing them that it is possible to turn a passion into a career with hard work and dedication. A second chance is not just about financial support. It is about being trusted with an opportunity to grow and create something meaningful. With this scholarship, I will continue working toward a future where I can build a successful business, support animal welfare, and give others the same encouragement and opportunities that helped me along the way. If you want this to sound more emotional and powerful, we can add a stronger opening story to really stand out to judges.

Entrepreneurship gives individuals the opportunity to create change within their own communities. I plan to give back by building a business centered on compassion, education, and responsible animal care. My goal is to become a professional dog groomer and eventually open my own grooming business that prioritizes both high-quality service and community involvement. I plan to major in business so I can gain the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to successfully run and grow my own company. Understanding marketing, finance, management, and customer relations will allow me to create a sustainable business that serves both pets and their owners. My long-term goal is to expand beyond grooming into boarding and training services, creating a trusted space focused on the physical and emotional well-being of animals. Through entrepreneurship, I will give back by partnering with local shelters and rescue organizations. I hope to offer discounted grooming services for adopted animals to help them transition into their new homes and feel comfortable and cared for. I also want to host adoption events, support spay and neuter awareness efforts, and educate clients about responsible pet ownership. By using my business as a platform for advocacy, I can make a lasting impact beyond daily services. I have already begun giving back to my community through volunteer work at my local animal shelter. Working hands-on with cats has taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of proper animal care. I help socialize animals, maintain clean environments, and support the staff in preparing animals for adoption. Seeing shy or frightened animals grow more confident and find permanent homes has reinforced my desire to dedicate my career to animal welfare. In addition to volunteering, I have been actively involved in school organizations such as FFA, student council, athletics, and leadership programs. These activities have helped me develop teamwork, communication skills, and a strong work ethic. My senior project also focused on animal care and advocacy, allowing me to research responsible pet ownership and explore the professional side of the animal care industry. This experience confirmed that combining business and animal welfare is the path I want to pursue. Entrepreneurship is more than starting a business. It is about identifying a need and creating solutions that strengthen a community. By building a responsible and community-focused grooming business, I will not only provide a valuable service but also promote education, advocacy, and compassion for animals. Through leadership, dedication, and continued service, I plan to spark meaningful change in the lives of animals and the people who care for them.

I became a fan of Sabrina Carpenter because of her authenticity and the way she blends talent with relatability. At first, I knew her from Disney Channel, where she played Maya on Girl Meets World. Even then, she stood out—her character was witty, bold, and real, and I admired how Sabrina brought those traits to life. As her career transitioned into music, I saw a different side of her. She wasn’t just acting anymore; she was sharing her own voice, stories, and emotions through her songs. That shift is what really made me a fan, because it showed her growth and willingness to take risks. Sabrina Carpenter’s music has been especially impactful for me. Her lyrics often carry a mix of humor, honesty, and vulnerability. Songs like “Nonsense” or “Feather” highlight her playful personality, while others reveal deeper emotions about heartbreak, self-confidence, or finding your identity. What makes her unique is that she doesn’t try to be perfect—she lets her flaws, awkward moments, and sense of humor shine through. That’s inspiring, especially as someone figuring out my own path. She shows that being yourself, even when it feels imperfect, is what connects you to others. Her career also reminds me that success isn’t instant or easy. Sabrina started performing when she was young, but she had to work hard to transition into being taken seriously as a musician. She didn’t give up when people underestimated her as “just another Disney star.” Instead, she kept writing, performing, and pushing until her music reached a global stage. Watching her rise to playing huge festivals and having hit songs motivates me to keep going with my own goals, even when the progress feels slow. What I also admire is how she handles challenges with humor and grace. For example, when internet memes or rumors come up, she doesn’t get defensive—she often leans into the jokes and makes them her own. That kind of confidence is something I want to carry in my own life: being able to laugh at myself, not take criticism too personally, and focus on what I love doing. Sabrina Carpenter has impacted me by showing that ambition and authenticity can go hand in hand. She reminds me that being passionate about something—whether it’s music, sports, school, or a future career—is worth the effort, even if people doubt you along the way. She’s proof that hard work, creativity, and staying true to yourself can take you far. Ultimately, I’m a fan of Sabrina Carpenter because she’s more than just a celebrity to me—she’s an example of resilience, creativity, and joy. Her career has encouraged me to chase my own dreams without being afraid of failure or judgment. Whether I’m listening to her music to lift my mood, or watching her career unfold as motivation, she continues to have a positive impact on my life.

Taylor’s Unspoken Legacy Taylor Swift’s twelfth studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, is a reflection of her journey in the spotlight, but for me, one of the most moving performances of her career came years earlier, during the Fearless era. While Taylor has filled stadiums and dazzled with breathtaking production, the performance that has always stayed with me was when she sang her song Mean with just a stool, her guitar, and her voice. It wasn’t flashy, it wasn’t surrounded by fireworks or elaborate sets—it was stripped down to its essence. That moment proved that you don’t need glitter or spectacle to be heard. All you need is honesty, vulnerability, and a song that tells the truth. Mean came from her 2008 album Fearless, and it was born out of pain—critics telling her she wasn’t good enough, voices trying to dim her shine before she had even fully stepped into it. Singing that song on stage, alone, Taylor transformed those words of doubt into power. The rawness of the performance made it more than just music; it was a statement. And when Mean went on to win her a Grammy, it cemented what that performance already proved: resilience and authenticity can outshine any spotlight. That moment matters because it showed something universal. Everyone, at some point, is made to feel small—like their dreams don’t matter, like they aren’t talented enough, or strong enough, or worthy enough. Watching Taylor stand there, without theatrics, and sing back against the voices that tried to silence her was inspiring. She wasn’t just defending her own artistry; she was proving to anyone watching that being genuine, even in your simplest form, can still win. From the beginning of her career, Taylor has built her legacy on storytelling. Every song, whether it’s about heartbreak, growth, or self-discovery, has been proof that you don’t need to scream the loudest or dress up the most to leave an impact. That stool performance of Mean was a reminder of where it all started: a girl with a guitar, her words, and the courage to let them be heard. Even now, as she celebrates her twelfth album and her evolution as a performer, I look back on Mean and realize it represents everything her career has stood for. You can build stadium tours and world records, but at the core, what makes Taylor unforgettable is her ability to sit down, sing her truth, and remind us that being yourself is more than enough.

Cupid’s Obstacle Course: More Than Just a Game On the surface, Love Island is a reality show filled with laughs, kisses, and playful drama. But what if one of its challenges wasn’t just for entertainment? What if it actually revealed something raw and real about love, trust, and human connection? That’s exactly why I created Cupid’s Obstacle Course. Yes, it’s funny and lighthearted, but underneath the inflatable hearts and silly costumes, it’s a test of what really makes a relationship work when life isn’t easy. The course starts with the Trust Fall Tunnel. One partner is blindfolded while the other directs them through a winding path filled with distractions—rose petals falling, balloons popping, obstacles meant to throw you off balance. It’s chaotic, confusing, and frustrating, just like the real-world challenges that blindside couples outside of the villa. This stage asks the most important question: can you still trust someone’s voice when you can’t see the way forward? From there comes the Communication Relay. One Islander has to cross unsteady stepping stones floating across the pool while their partner guides them from the sidelines. If they slip, they have to start over. It’s silly on the surface, but it’s also honest. Relationships are built on communication, and this part of the course forces couples to practice listening when the pressure is on. Will you shout over each other in panic, or will you figure out how to move as one? The final stage is the Chemistry Puzzle, where both Islanders must build a giant heart piece by piece. Only when the heart is complete does the message inside reveal itself: Kiss Me Quick, Power Couple, or sometimes just a reminder that love is work. It’s symbolic of what every couple must do—assemble something whole from scattered parts, knowing that it takes patience, teamwork, and a willingness to keep trying even when the pieces don’t fit right away. But what makes this challenge different are the Temptation Detours. A couple can shave time off their score by taking risks, like stepping into the Secret Kiss Booth or answering a brutally honest question at Confession Corner. These are uncomfortable moments, but isn’t love full of them? Sometimes you have to choose vulnerability even when it feels risky. Sometimes you have to prove your commitment in front of others. Sometimes you have to tell the truth even when it’s messy. In the end, Cupid’s Obstacle Course isn’t just about who runs the fastest or who wins the reward. It’s about showing the villa—and yourself—that love is not polished or easy. It’s falling, failing, laughing, yelling, and then trying again. The winning couple isn’t just crowned because they completed an obstacle course; they’re celebrated because they showed resilience, because they chose each other every step of the way. For the audience, it’s entertaining. For the Islanders, it’s emotional. But for me, this challenge means more than just another game on TV. It’s a reminder that love, real love, is built in the chaos—the blindfolds, the wobbly stepping stones, the puzzles that don’t make sense. It’s about two people who, in the middle of all that, still find a way to reach the finish line together.

One issue that matters deeply to me—both locally and globally—is animal welfare. I’ve always felt a natural connection to animals, and over time, I’ve come to understand how many suffer from neglect, homelessness, and mistreatment. This isn’t just a global problem—it’s a real and ongoing issue in my own community. Seeing animals in shelters waiting for love, attention, and a second chance motivates me to take action and work toward lasting change. For the past few years, I’ve volunteered at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, helping care for cats and supporting shelter efforts. Whether it’s feeding, cleaning, socializing, or comforting scared animals, I’ve seen firsthand how small actions can make a big difference. Many of these cats came in scared, sick, or abandoned. But with patience and love, they transformed into affectionate companions ready for adoption. Being part of their healing process has only deepened my commitment to animal advocacy. In addition to my work at the shelter, I’m actively involved in school and community programs like FFA (Future Farmers of America), where I’ve had opportunities to learn more about animal care, ethics, and responsibility. These experiences helped me realize that real change often starts small—with consistent effort and compassion. Looking ahead, I plan to turn my love for animals into a lifelong career. I intend to major in business so I can open and run my own dog grooming business. But it won’t stop there—my dream is to expand it into a full-service facility that includes dog boarding, training, and possibly even rescue and rehabilitation services. I want to create a safe, welcoming place where pets are treated with care and respect, and where community members feel empowered to provide better lives for their animals. By building a successful animal care business, I’ll be able to offer employment opportunities, promote responsible pet ownership, and give back through free grooming days for local shelters or low-income pet owners. I also hope to use my platform to educate people on adoption, spaying and neutering, and humane treatment. My business won’t just be about profit—it will be rooted in purpose. Ultimately, I believe change doesn’t have to be huge or dramatic to be meaningful. Sometimes it looks like comforting a scared cat or helping someone take better care of their pet. Through a combination of my education, passion, and hard work, I’m committed to being a voice for animals and a leader in my community. I want to make their lives better—one small step at a time.

Choosing Growth: Prioritizing My Mental and Emotional Health Through Sport I used to think prioritizing mental health meant something dramatic—like stepping away from school or asking for a therapist. But for me, it looked like getting out of bed when I didn’t want to. Showing up to practice when I felt invisible. Choosing to be kind when I was hurting. My biggest moment of prioritizing my mental and emotional health didn’t happen all at once—it happened slowly, day by day, over the course of the hardest sports season of my life. I had been waiting for my moment in field hockey since freshman year. As a defender, I spent seasons sitting behind upperclassmen, quietly doing the work, believing my time would come. Before my senior year, the team’s top senior defender told me, “You’re going to lead them next year.” I carried that sentence like a promise. And for a while, it felt like it was coming true—I made varsity, I was starting, and I felt proud of how far I had come. But then, slowly, things shifted. I started getting pulled from the field without explanation. A freshman took my position. Game after game, my confidence slipped further away. At the same time, my best friend on the team stopped coming to practice. I tried to get her to come back, checked in constantly, but nothing changed. People began asking me where she was, as if I was responsible for her absence. The weight of everything—losing my spot, losing my friend, pretending I was fine—pushed me into one of the most emotionally draining experiences of my life. Still, I chose to show up. I prioritized my mental and emotional well-being through small, quiet forms of self-care. I stayed off social media to protect my peace. I journaled. I reached out to my parents and a trusted friend outside the team because I realized I needed support too. I reminded myself daily that my worth wasn’t tied to my playing time. I found ways to lead from the bench—by encouraging my teammates, staying positive, and keeping the team energy alive. And most importantly, I learned how to sit with hard feelings instead of burying them. By the end of the season, we had won both the Berkshire League and, for the first time in over 20 years, the Class S State Title. I barely played in the final games. And yet, I was proud—not just of my team, but of myself. Because I didn’t give up. I protected my peace. I kept my dignity. I chose growth over resentment. That experience changed how I prepare for everything—school, work, and life. I now understand that emotional health is not a luxury; it’s a foundation. I know how to check in with myself, how to set boundaries, and how to stay grounded when things don’t go as planned. I’ve learned that resilience isn’t about winning or being seen—it’s about how you treat yourself when no one else is watching. No matter where life takes me, I plan to carry these lessons with me. Because whatever I choose to do, I want to do it as someone who knows how to care for herself—and how to show up for others, even in the hard moments.

Reaching Higher: My SAT Preparation Journey and Goals Preparing for the SAT has been one of the biggest academic challenges I’ve taken on so far, but it’s also one of the most important. Since I plan to major in business and one day run my own dog grooming company, getting into a good college is a top priority. A strong SAT score can help me stand out on applications and qualify for scholarships that will ease the financial burden on my family. My preparation started during junior year, when I attended weekly SAT math sessions with my teachers and peers. These meetings helped me get comfortable with the structure of the math section and taught me helpful strategies to solve problems more efficiently. At the same time, we also practiced SAT reading and grammar skills during class. These regular practices gave me a solid foundation to build on. I didn’t realize how much they helped until I took a full-length practice test on my own and saw real progress. Now, I’m taking my studying a step further. My goal is to score between 1200 and 1300, which would make me competitive for the schools I’m applying to. I study for the SAT at least five days a week, using a combination of free resources like Khan Academy, YouTube explanations, and a prep book that walks me through each section of the test. I focus a lot on reading comprehension, grammar rules, algebra, and word problems. Math used to be the hardest part for me, but with all the weekly practice I did in school, it’s become something I feel more confident in. One of the hardest things has been time management during the test. In the beginning, I would run out of time during the reading section. To fix that, I started using a timer during my practice sessions to help me move quicker without rushing. I also use strategies like process of elimination and plugging in answer choices for math questions to save time and avoid careless mistakes. I’ve taken several practice tests, and after each one, I go back and review the questions I got wrong to learn from them. What’s helped me the most is staying consistent—not cramming, but reviewing a little every day. I also ask my teachers questions when I need help and sometimes study with friends who are working toward the same goal. My goal with the SAT is not just to earn a strong score, but to prove to myself that I’m capable of pushing through challenges. I want to walk into college knowing I earned my spot and that I’m ready for what’s ahead. A good SAT score will help open doors for my future, bring me closer to running my own business, and allow me to keep making a positive difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them.

Know Thyself”: A Lesson That Shapes My Life Selected Passage: “Know thyself.” – Inscription at the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, as quoted in Plato’s Apology. Essay: The ancient phrase “Know thyself,” written on the Temple of Apollo in Delphi and later made famous by the Greek philosopher Socrates, has always stood out to me. At first, it seems like simple advice—to look inward and learn who you are. But the more I’ve thought about it, the more I believe it means something much deeper. To “know thyself” is not just about thinking or reflecting. It’s about being honest with yourself, asking hard questions, and trying to live a meaningful and moral life. I believe that living by this quote helps me grow into the person—and the leader—I want to be. Socrates, through Plato’s writings, used this quote to teach others about wisdom. In Apology, Socrates says that true wisdom comes from knowing that you don’t know everything (Plato 21d). In other words, being smart doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means knowing that there’s always more to learn. This kind of thinking really connects with me. It reminds me not to get caught up in pride or pretend to know things I don’t. Instead, it pushes me to stay curious and open-minded. “Know thyself” is also a challenge to look closely at your own choices. It’s easy to say you know who you are, but it’s harder to ask yourself why you make certain decisions. I’ve learned that real self-knowledge isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being honest. For example, I’ve always loved animals and wanted to work with them. I volunteer at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, where I help take care of cats and support adoptions. That work has inspired me to start a career in dog grooming and eventually open my own grooming and boarding business. But when I think about this goal through the lens of “know thyself,” I ask myself tough questions: Do I want to start this business because it’s what I truly care about, or because it sounds impressive? Am I doing this to help animals, or just because it’s familiar and comfortable? These questions help me stay true to my purpose. I know that if I want to build something meaningful, it has to be based on real values—not just my ego. The quote also pushes me to be a better leader. I’ve been involved in several school activities like field hockey, cheerleading, softball, FFA, Link Crew, and student council. These roles have helped me develop confidence and leadership skills. But I’ve also learned that leadership is more than being in charge—it’s about knowing your strengths and weaknesses and being able to take feedback. If I don’t know myself, I can’t lead others with fairness or understanding. Socrates taught that self-knowledge is connected to how we treat others (Plato, Charmides 164d–165a), and I’ve seen that in my own experiences working with teams and helping others at the animal shelter. Socrates also believed that the “unexamined life is not worth living” (Plato 38a). That’s a strong statement, but I think he meant that we should always be thinking about how we’re living. It’s easy to just go with the flow, but I don’t want to do that. I want to make choices that match my values and goals. I want to learn from my mistakes, think about how I can grow, and never stop trying to be better. This quote has also changed the way I view learning. In today’s world, we can search for answers online in seconds. But that doesn’t mean we truly understand the world or ourselves. School has taught me a lot, but the most important lessons come when I stop and reflect—when I think about who I am and what I want to do. When I get to college and study business, I want to keep that mindset. I don’t just want to memorize facts—I want to ask deeper questions, challenge myself, and use what I learn to make a real impact. Receiving this scholarship would help me take the next step in my journey. I plan to major in business so I can learn how to run an ethical and successful grooming and boarding business. My goal is to improve the way animals are cared for—not just by doing a good job, but by creating a place where pets are safe, clean, happy, and respected. I also want to treat my future employees well and make sure my business gives back to the community. But I know that to do all this, I need to stay grounded in who I am. I need to keep asking myself: Am I being honest with my goals? Am I making decisions based on values or pressure? Am I being the kind of person and leader I would want to work with? In the end, “Know thyself” isn’t just an old quote. It’s something I try to live by every day. It helps me stay focused, grow as a person, and build a future that’s both successful and meaningful. I may not have all the answers yet, but I’m committed to learning—about business, about animals, and about myself. That, to me, is the most powerful kind of wisdom.

The Role of Calculus in Driving STEM Forward Calculus is often seen as one of the most challenging branches of mathematics, but it’s also one of the most important—especially in the STEM field. Whether you’re studying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, calculus forms the foundation for understanding change, motion, and systems that are constantly evolving. It’s not just about solving equations; it’s about solving real-world problems and pushing innovation forward. One of the main reasons calculus is so important in STEM is because it helps explain how and why things move or change over time. In physics, for example, calculus is used to understand speed, acceleration, and forces acting on objects. Engineers rely on it to design safe bridges, airplanes, and machines, calculating everything from stress on materials to airflow. Even in biology, calculus is used to model population growth, track the spread of diseases, and understand the rates at which chemical reactions occur inside the body. Without calculus, many of these processes would remain a mystery, and modern technology wouldn’t be where it is today. Calculus also plays a major role in computer science and data analysis. It’s used in algorithms, artificial intelligence, and machine learning—tools that are becoming more and more important in our daily lives. Whether it’s facial recognition, search engine results, or mapping software, calculus helps power the math behind those systems. As technology advances, having a strong grasp of calculus allows professionals to build smarter, more efficient solutions to complex problems. What makes calculus especially valuable is its ability to deal with continuous change. While algebra and geometry deal with static problems, calculus allows us to analyze dynamic situations—like the rate of a rocket launch, the slope of a curved road, or how the temperature of an object changes over time. This ability to calculate and predict change is what sets calculus apart and makes it an essential part of almost every STEM field. On a deeper level, calculus teaches critical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail. It trains your brain to think logically and step-by-step, even when the problem feels impossible at first. These are skills that transfer to any career in STEM—and even outside of it. Learning calculus builds perseverance and patience, which are just as important as the math itself. Even though my own career goals are focused on animal care and business, I still see how calculus can play a role in helping me understand the data behind how a business grows, how to optimize services, or even how to create a better workflow. For those going into fields like medicine, environmental science, robotics, or engineering, calculus isn’t just important—it’s necessary. In the end, calculus is more than a subject—it’s a tool for understanding the world and improving it. It helps STEM professionals not only ask big questions but find the answers that lead to discovery, progress, and innovation. That’s why calculus matters—and why it will always be a driving force behind the future of STEM.

Why I Love Math I love math because it’s one of the few places in life where everything has a solution. No matter how complex a problem seems, there’s always a method, a process, or a formula that can lead you to the answer. That kind of clarity brings me a sense of peace and confidence. It’s like solving a puzzle—challenging at times, but incredibly rewarding when everything finally clicks into place. What I also love about math is how it shows up everywhere, even in places you wouldn’t expect. Whether it’s managing money, measuring ingredients for a recipe, tracking stats in sports, or planning a business budget, math plays a role in everyday life. As someone who plans to run my own dog grooming business one day, math gives me the tools I’ll need to handle pricing, scheduling, payroll, and finances with accuracy and confidence. Math has also helped me develop stronger problem-solving skills and patience. Sometimes I have to try a few different approaches before getting the right answer, but that’s taught me not to give up—because success often comes through persistence. To me, math isn’t just about numbers—it’s about learning how to think critically, stay focused, and trust the process. It’s a skill I’ll carry with me in school, my future career, and everyday life.

Building a Future of Care: My Career Path in Animal Services My dream career is to become a professional dog groomer and eventually own a full-service pet care business that offers grooming, boarding, and training. This isn’t just a job to me—it’s a passion rooted in years of hands-on experience, compassion for animals, and a desire to create a safe and loving environment for pets and their owners. I want to build a business that stands out not just for the quality of service, but for the heart behind it. To turn this dream into reality, I’ve already begun taking key steps. I volunteer at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, where I work directly with animals that have been neglected, abandoned, or are just waiting for a second chance. I help clean, feed, walk, and care for the cats and dogs at the shelter. Through this experience, I’ve developed practical skills, like safely handling nervous or aggressive animals, and I’ve deepened my understanding of animal behavior and care. Most importantly, it’s taught me patience, empathy, and responsibility—traits that are essential in my future career. Academically, I plan to pursue a business degree in college. Running a successful grooming and boarding facility isn’t just about loving animals; it also requires a strong understanding of management, marketing, and finance. My goal is to use my education to develop a solid business plan, manage employees effectively, and build lasting relationships with clients in the community. I want to create a space that reflects both professionalism and compassion—where animals are treated with respect and love, and where their owners feel completely confident and welcomed. Outside the classroom, I’ve developed leadership and teamwork skills through sports and school organizations. I participate in field hockey, cheerleading, and softball, all while staying involved in FFA, student council, and Link Crew. These activities have taught me how to work hard, communicate clearly, and show up for others—skills I know will serve me well in running a business and building a loyal team. What sets me apart is my drive to make a meaningful impact. I want to use my business not just as a career, but as a platform for good—offering job opportunities to others with a passion for animals, hosting adoption events, and maybe even starting a nonprofit branch for rescue and rehabilitation. My vision goes beyond grooming—it’s about creating a community centered around kindness, connection, and care. I know the road ahead will take hard work, but I’m ready for it. Every class I take, every animal I help, and every step I take brings me closer to a future I believe in—one where my love for animals becomes a lifelong career that helps others, both furry and human.

The Power of Pages: How Books Have Shaped My Dreams Books have always been more than just stories to me—they’ve been lessons, mentors, and sparks of inspiration. From early childhood picture books to novels I’ve read in high school, literature has quietly shaped who I am and the goals I’m determined to achieve. Each book I’ve read has left behind a piece of wisdom, helping me become more compassionate, confident, and committed to building a life that makes a difference. One of the first books that made a deep impact on me was Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. I read it when I was young, but even now I carry its message with me. The story showed me how powerful love and kindness can be, especially when directed toward animals and people who’ve been forgotten or left behind. As someone who volunteers at an animal shelter and dreams of opening a dog grooming business that also offers training and boarding, this book planted one of the first seeds in me—showing that animals can be healers, teachers, and lifelong friends. In middle school, I read The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. That book didn’t just change the way I see the world; it changed how I wanted to live in it. It opened my eyes to injustice, taught me the value of speaking up, and made me want to create safe and welcoming spaces for others—whether that’s for people or pets. I realized that success isn’t just about what you do, but how you treat others along the way. That idea is now part of the foundation for the kind of business I want to build one day—one that’s compassionate, inclusive, and rooted in care. Reading Atomic Habits by James Clear gave me the tools to turn my dreams into real, achievable steps. I learned how small actions repeated over time can create real change. That lesson has helped me stay disciplined in school, manage my time between sports and extracurriculars, and stay focused on my long-term goals. I’ve learned that success doesn’t happen overnight—it’s built every day, little by little. As I pursue a business degree in college, I’ll carry this mindset with me to help turn my goals into reality. Books have also helped me learn more about myself. Stories like Educated by Tara Westover and Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens showed me the strength of women who carve their own paths, even when the world doubts them. As a young woman entering a business world that’s still often male-dominated, I’ve taken courage from those characters and authors. They remind me that even when things get tough, I can stay true to myself and keep going. Every book I’ve read has taught me something—how to care, how to grow, how to lead, and how to dream. Because of them, I see the future not just as a challenge, but as something I can shape with hard work and heart. And that’s exactly what I plan to do.

Leading with Love: Making the World Better for Animals and Their People My name is Sheyenne Schultz, and I’ve always felt a deep connection with animals. From a young age, I knew I wanted to build a life centered around caring for them. Whether I was playing with my own pets, helping cats at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, or watching grooming videos online just for fun, I knew this wasn’t just a hobby—it was my calling. Today, I’m working toward becoming a professional dog groomer, with dreams of opening my own grooming business and eventually expanding into boarding and training services. I plan to make a lasting, positive impact on the world by helping animals live happier lives and giving pet owners a place they can trust. Growing up, I balanced a busy schedule filled with school, sports, volunteering, and leadership. I’ve played field hockey, softball, and cheered, all while staying active in FFA, student council, and Link Crew. These experiences taught me time management, communication, and confidence—skills I’ll carry into my career. Volunteering at the animal shelter has also given me hands-on experience and shown me the real-life needs of animals who deserve better. It’s not just about giving a dog a cute haircut—it’s about helping them feel safe, healthy, and loved. My goal is to open a grooming business that is not only focused on high-quality care, but also on education and compassion. I want to work closely with local shelters and rescue groups to offer free or discounted grooming for adoptable animals, giving them a better chance at finding homes. I also want to create a calm, welcoming space for nervous or elderly pets who often get overlooked in typical grooming settings. In the future, I see my business growing into a full-service facility where people can bring their pets for grooming, boarding, and training—all under one roof and with people they trust. But my impact won’t stop at animals. I want to be a role model for young women, especially those interested in careers that combine hands-on work with business ownership. As someone who has always juggled multiple commitments and pushed through challenges, I know how important it is to show other girls that they can build something meaningful out of their passion. I hope to one day offer internships and mentorships to high school students who dream of working in animal care but don’t know where to start. Everything I do is driven by love—love for animals, love for helping people, and love for the idea that small acts of kindness can change lives. My career might start with grooming one dog at a time, but I believe the positive impact can ripple far beyond that. Through dedication, compassion, and hard work, I plan to make a real difference in my community—and in the lives of the animals and families I serve.

Power in Balance: How Sports and Life Made Me a Stronger Young Woman Throughout my life, sports have played a huge role in shaping who I am—not just as an athlete, but as a young woman learning to navigate a world where female strength is often overlooked. In middle school, I played field hockey, softball, basketball, and even ran track and field. Each sport taught me something different, but the real growth began when I got to high school and committed myself to field hockey, cheerleading, and softball. Balancing these sports along with school and life responsibilities has helped me become more confident, focused, and resilient—and has shown me how powerful it is to be a strong female in a male-dominated world. Being a multi-sport athlete while keeping up with schoolwork, volunteering at the animal shelter, and participating in student leadership activities like student council and Link Crew takes real discipline. I’ve had to learn how to manage my time, stay organized, and push through even when I’m tired or overwhelmed. I’ve shown up to early morning practices, late-night games, and still found the strength to complete my assignments and be a team player. That kind of commitment has taught me that success doesn’t come easy—but it’s worth it when you know what you’re fighting for. In each sport I play now, I’ve faced challenges that have made me tougher. In field hockey and softball, I’ve had to push past doubts, compete hard, and prove that I belong on the field. In cheerleading, I’ve learned what it means to lift others up while still standing strong myself. All three sports have helped me find my voice—not just on the field or mat, but in everyday life. What makes me proud is knowing that I don’t have to act like anyone else to be strong. Being a female athlete means I get to break stereotypes every day just by showing up and doing what I love. I’ve seen how girls’ sports don’t always get the same recognition as boys’, but instead of letting that discourage me, it’s fueled me. I cheer louder. I play harder. I lead with confidence. And I know that every time I show up with strength and pride, I’m helping create space for other girls to do the same. Balancing sports, school, and life hasn’t just made me stronger—it’s made me fearless. And I’ll carry that strength with me wherever I go.

Strength in Uncertain Times: How Education Helps Me Rise Although I live far from the frontlines, Russia’s war in Ukraine has still affected me and my community in powerful ways. When the war began, I started noticing everyday things getting harder—gas prices soared, groceries cost more, and my family had to stretch our budget tighter than ever. We aren’t wealthy, and every dollar counts. The ripple effects of a war happening thousands of miles away made life here more stressful, especially as my parents struggled to keep up with rising costs. We had to make sacrifices—cutting back on small things like trips, events, and even thinking twice before spending money on school activities or supplies. Watching my family work so hard to provide for me and still feel pressure from something we couldn’t control inspired me to push even harder toward my goals. I’ve always had a deep love for animals and a passion for helping them. That love, combined with my interest in business, has led me to pursue a degree in business so I can one day open my own dog grooming salon. I plan to build it into something even bigger—offering training and boarding services too. I want to create a space that feels like home for pets and their owners, no matter what challenges the world is facing. But my dreams go beyond just starting a business. I want to use my education to give back. Whether it’s creating jobs for people in my town, offering discounts for families struggling financially, or hosting adoption and care events with local shelters, I want my business to bring support, love, and opportunity to others. I’m already laying the foundation for this future. I’m active in FFA, student council, Link Crew, cheerleading, field hockey, and softball. I also volunteer at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, caring for cats and learning how important compassion and patience are when helping those who can’t speak for themselves. Every activity I take part in is helping me grow as a leader, a team player, and a future business owner. The war in Ukraine has taught me how global events can affect even small communities like mine. It showed me how connected we all are, and how important it is to build something that lasts—something that can stand strong even during hard times. My education is that foundation. It’s how I will create a future that lifts my family, helps my community, and makes a difference. No matter what the world throws my way—whether it’s a war on the other side of the planet or rising prices at home—I am committed to building something better. And with the help of this scholarship, I know I can.

The Power of Connection: How Smartphones Inspire a Better World One technology that inspires me is the smartphone. While it may seem like a basic everyday item, its influence on the world has been incredibly powerful. Smartphones are more than tools for texting and social media—they’re life-changing devices that can improve communication, increase access to education and healthcare, and help build safer, more connected communities. What inspires me most is the smartphone’s ability to create opportunity, especially for people in underserved areas. A student who doesn’t have a computer at home can still complete their homework, attend online classes, or access free learning apps with just a phone. Someone experiencing a mental health crisis can find resources, connect with a therapist, or text a support line anonymously. A person lost in an unfamiliar place can instantly access maps and emergency help. In so many ways, smartphones have made the world smaller, faster, and more supportive. In the animal care field, where my future lies, smartphones have transformed the way people interact with animals and professionals. Pet owners can track veterinary records, book grooming appointments, and even adopt animals from shelters through apps. As someone planning to own a dog grooming business, I see how important smartphones are for scheduling, marketing, customer communication, and growing a loyal client base. I can reach new customers through social media, send appointment reminders, and manage everything from my phone. This kind of technology gives small business owners the tools they need to succeed. Of course, smartphones have their challenges, like screen time and privacy concerns. But their potential to improve lives and create more equal access to information is what inspires me. When used with purpose and responsibility, smartphones are more than just a convenience—they’re a symbol of how technology can empower people, connect communities, and make the world a better place.

Fueled by Passion, Focused on Purpose My name is Sheyenne Schultz, and I’ve always known I was meant to work with animals. From the time I was little, I’ve felt a special connection to them—one that’s only grown stronger as I’ve gotten older. Whether I was feeding strays, caring for my own pets, or volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, animals have always brought out the best in me. That love for them has inspired my dream career: becoming a professional dog groomer and, eventually, opening my own grooming, boarding, and training business. I’ve worked hard throughout high school to build a strong foundation for that dream. I’ve taken on leadership roles in student council and Link Crew, stayed active in FFA, and participated in sports like field hockey, cheerleading, and softball. These activities have taught me how to manage my time, communicate effectively, and work hard toward my goals. I’ve also continued volunteering at the animal shelter, where I help care for the cats and assist however I can. These experiences have taught me that caring for animals isn’t just about love—it’s also about responsibility, patience, and consistency. To turn my passion into a career, I plan to major in business. I want to learn everything I can about how to run and grow a successful company. I believe this knowledge will be just as important as hands-on grooming skills when it comes to owning a business. I want to create a space where animals feel safe and loved, and where their owners feel confident trusting me with their pets. I hope to build a business that not only supports me financially but also gives back to the community—maybe by offering free grooming days for local shelters or low-income pet owners. This scholarship would help me tremendously. Like many students, I worry about how I’ll afford tuition, transportation, and other costs that come with college and career training. I’m willing to work hard, but having financial support would mean I could focus more on my studies, internships, and certifications, and less on how I’m going to make ends meet. It would also help me invest in the tools and resources I’ll need to start my business after graduation. I’m not just chasing a dream—I’m building a future. I see myself creating a life where I wake up excited to go to work, knowing I’m doing something I love and making a difference. Animals deserve care, attention, and kindness, and I want to be someone who provides that every day. With this scholarship, I can take the next step toward that goal. Your support would not only help fund my education—it would help turn my passion into a lifelong purpose.

Led by Love: How Animals Became My Greatest Driving Force The greatest driving force in my life has always been my connection to animals. Ever since I was young, animals have brought me comfort, purpose, and a deep sense of responsibility. Whether I’m caring for my own pets or volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, I’ve always felt drawn to helping animals feel safe, seen, and loved. That connection has shaped who I am and continues to guide my goals and the way I want to make a difference in the world. One of the most meaningful parts of my life has been helping the cats at the animal shelter. Many of them arrive afraid, shut down, or unsure of people. I spend time sitting with them, gently talking, brushing them, or just keeping them company while they adjust to the shelter environment. These small actions—things most people might overlook—can mean everything to an animal who’s been abandoned or neglected. I’ve learned that building trust isn’t fast or easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. These moments have taught me how powerful patience, kindness, and consistency can be. One experience that especially impacted me involved a shy cat who hid every time someone entered the room. I decided to spend extra time with her, letting her get used to my presence without pressure. Slowly, over the course of several days, she began to approach me, eventually curling up beside me while I sat quietly. Not long after that, she was adopted into a loving home. That transformation reminded me that compassion doesn’t always come with a loud voice or big gesture—sometimes, the quietest efforts are the most powerful. Those experiences have not only deepened my love for animals but also shaped my career path. I’m pursuing a future as a professional dog groomer and plan to open a full-service pet care business that includes grooming, boarding, and education. My goal is to create a space that offers affordable services, supports local shelters, and welcomes pets with all backgrounds and behaviors. I want to groom rescue animals for free to help them feel and look their best for adoption. I also hope to offer discounted services to families in need so no pet goes without care simply because of cost. Animals have taught me to be resilient, compassionate, and grounded in service. In a world that can often feel rushed or unkind, they remind me to slow down and connect. They’ve helped me grow into a person who leads with heart, listens without judgment, and shows up fully for those who need support—whether they walk on two legs or four. I may not be following the most traditional path, but I know I’m following the right one. My work with shelter cats, and my dream of helping animals through grooming, is about more than a career—it’s about giving back to the creatures who’ve given so much to me. They are, and always will be, the force that drives me forward.

Where Compassion Meets Science: My STEAM Journey Through Animal Care I chose to further my education in STEAM because it’s where my passion for animals and my drive to help others come together. While some people picture STEAM as only robotics, labs, or engineering, I see it through a different lens—one shaped by grooming tables, veterinary safety, sustainable business models, and the biology of animal health. My goal is to become a certified dog groomer and eventually open a full-service, eco-conscious pet care business. To do that successfully—and responsibly—I need to understand not just how to care for animals, but why certain methods work better for their health and well-being. That’s where STEAM becomes essential. Science plays a role in nearly every part of grooming: understanding skin conditions, how certain shampoos interact with a dog’s pH balance, the proper angles for safe trimming, and how stress affects an animal’s nervous system. Technology is used through scheduling systems, water-efficient bathing stations, and even digital health records for pets. Engineering is involved in the tools I’ll use every day—clippers, dryers, hydraulic tables—and math comes into play with everything from pricing to inventory management. STEAM is what will allow me to be not just a groomer, but a skilled, innovative, and informed professional. I was first drawn to this field while volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. Many of the dogs there come in matted, anxious, or afraid. After a good grooming session—something as simple as a bath and gentle brushing—their entire personality changes. They stand taller. They wag their tails. And they have a better chance at being adopted. That transformation inspired me. I realized I could build a future around using science, skill, and heart to change lives—not just for animals, but for the families who love them. This scholarship would be a critical step in helping me reach that goal. It would allow me to pursue grooming school without the added financial stress that too often holds students like me back. It would help me afford quality training, access the right tools, and begin building a business that prioritizes not just pet care, but community care. My dream is to offer affordable grooming for low-income families, free services for shelter pets, and to hire and mentor students—especially young women—who are interested in animal-based careers but don’t know where to start. I want to break the stigma that trade careers aren’t “real” STEAM paths, because I know just how much science and strategy are behind every decision I’ll make. Choosing this path hasn’t always been easy or traditional, but it’s the one that feels right. It’s the path that connects my love for animals, my curiosity for how things work, and my desire to create something that truly gives back. With support from this scholarship, I can take the next step toward that dream and show others that compassion, education, and innovation can—and should—go hand in hand.

Purpose in Progress: Making a Difference as a Woman in STEM I’ve always believed that STEM is about more than science, technology, engineering, or math—it’s about solving problems, creating change, and making life better for others. While my career goals may not involve working in a lab or building robots, I’ve chosen to pursue a path in animal care and grooming that intersects with STEM in real and impactful ways. From understanding the biology of skin and coat care, to applying chemistry in the safe use of grooming products, and learning the technical business skills needed to run a successful pet care facility, STEM is at the core of everything I plan to do. As a woman entering a trade rooted in both science and service, I want to challenge the idea that STEM careers only exist in certain spaces. Grooming may not be the first field that comes to mind when people think of STEM, but it requires knowledge in animal anatomy, dermatology, safety protocols, product formulation, and environmental science. It also calls for innovation—how can I reduce waste in my grooming salon? How can I develop healthier, eco-friendly treatments for dogs with sensitive skin? How do I use math and data to track the health of my business and improve my services? These are all STEM questions, and I’m excited to pursue them as I grow in my trade. Being a woman in STEM means bringing new perspectives and showing others—especially younger girls—that there’s no one right way to make a difference in science or tech. I hope to inspire other women to follow paths that may not look “traditional” but are just as valuable. Whether it’s by leading in a business that supports ethical and sustainable animal care, or by creating educational programs for students interested in animal-related STEM careers, I want to use my platform to break down barriers and build others up. I’ve already started doing this in my own way. As an active volunteer at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, I’ve learned how scientific knowledge can improve animals’ lives—from using the right products to treat skin conditions, to understanding behavior rooted in biology. I’m also involved in FFA and school leadership, and I plan to use these platforms to start conversations about how animal care is a part of STEM, too. In the future, I want to open my own grooming and boarding business with a focus on sustainability and science-backed care. I’ll use eco-friendly products, reduce waste through smart water and energy use, and train employees with up-to-date knowledge on animal health and hygiene. I’ll also offer affordable services to underserved families and help make quality care more accessible for every pet owner. Through this, I won’t just be working in STEM—I’ll be building a business that uses STEM to improve lives. As a woman in this field, I want to lead with purpose, curiosity, and compassion. I want to be a reminder that science and kindness can—and should—go hand in hand. And I want to prove that no matter where you start, you can use STEM to make the world a better, smarter, and more caring place.

Finding My Purpose in a Shelter Kennel One of the most important experiences in my life has been volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. What started as a simple way to get involved in my community turned into something that reshaped how I see myself, the world around me, and what it truly means to give back. The first time I walked into the shelter, I was nervous. I didn’t know what to expect. But what I found were animals who needed more than just food and shelter—they needed love, patience, and someone to believe in them. Many were scared, dirty, or anxious after being abandoned or neglected. I remember one dog in particular—terrified, curled in the corner of her kennel, shaking at every sound. She wouldn’t let anyone near her. So I sat on the floor, day after day, just talking to her softly and letting her know I wasn’t going anywhere. Eventually, she came closer. One day, she let me pet her. And not long after, she was adopted. That moment changed me forever. I realized that helping doesn’t always mean fixing everything. Sometimes, it means simply being there, showing up with compassion, and making someone—or something—feel safe. That experience taught me the value of patience, empathy, and quiet strength. It also made me understand how many people and animals in our world go unseen, unheard, and unsupported. I knew then that I wanted to build a life around changing that. Volunteering at the shelter helped me discover my dream of becoming a dog groomer and eventually opening my own pet care business. But more than that, it shaped how I view my role in my community. I don’t just want to offer services—I want to provide support. I want to groom rescue dogs so they have a better chance at adoption. I want to offer low-cost services for families who love their pets but are struggling financially. I want to educate owners on proper pet care and be a safe space for people and animals alike. This experience also helped me understand myself better. I’ve learned that I’m stronger than I thought, and more capable of making a difference than I ever realized. I’ve learned that kindness is a powerful force, and that it often matters more than recognition or reward. And I’ve learned that when you combine passion with service, you can change not just one life—but an entire community. The world can be overwhelming and unfair, but this experience reminded me that we all have the power to make it softer and more compassionate, even in small ways. Sitting on the floor of that kennel, I found my purpose—and now, every step I take is built on that foundation of empathy and hope.

More Than a Game: How Softball Shaped My Strength Softball has always been more than just a sport to me—it’s been a classroom, a support system, and one of the most powerful teachers I’ve ever had. What started as something fun and competitive quickly became a place where I discovered my voice, my resilience, and my ability to lead. Through wins, losses, and long practices, I’ve grown not just as an athlete, but as a person with a stronger sense of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. One of the biggest lessons softball has taught me is how to handle failure with grace. Not every swing connects. Not every game ends in celebration. But every mistake is a chance to improve. I’ve learned to pick myself up after striking out, to shake off a bad inning, and to support my teammates even when things don’t go as planned. That mindset has carried over into every part of my life. When school or life feels overwhelming, I remind myself to breathe, reset, and try again. Just like in softball, every new day is a new at-bat. Softball also gave me a true understanding of what it means to be part of a team. Some of my proudest moments on the field haven’t been personal victories, but the ones where I lifted up a teammate, celebrated someone else’s success, or pushed us all through a tough inning with encouragement. That spirit of support and community is something I carry off the field, too—in school clubs, in my volunteer work, and in the career I’m planning for myself. I want to become a professional dog groomer and eventually own a full-service pet care business. It may sound far from the softball field, but the lessons I’ve learned through sports—discipline, focus, handling pressure, and putting others first—are the foundation of the business I want to build. I want to create a space where animals feel safe, where their families feel supported, and where people can work together in a positive, team-driven environment. One of the most inspiring parts of playing softball has been the coaches and teammates who believed in me even when I doubted myself. Those mentors shaped how I lead today. I try to be that same kind of support system for others, whether I’m helping a teammate after a tough game or mentoring younger students through programs like Link Crew. I’ve seen the difference it makes when someone tells you they believe in you, and I want to carry that forward in everything I do—on the field, in my future business, and in my community. Softball taught me how to persevere, how to lead with heart, and how to stay grounded in the things that matter most—teamwork, humility, and grit. I know those values will guide me through life far beyond the diamond. And though I may eventually trade in my cleats for grooming tools, the spirit of the game will always stay with me.

Passion with Purpose: Grooming for Good My name is Sheyenne, and from the time I was little, I’ve felt most at home when I’m around animals. Whether I was helping strays find shelter, volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, or simply caring for pets in my neighborhood, I’ve always known that my future would involve giving animals the care and compassion they deserve. That’s why I’ve chosen to pursue a career in dog grooming—a trade that allows me to work directly with animals, improve their health and comfort, and create a more loving, educated community for pets and their owners. Dog grooming is more than just a haircut—it’s a service that improves a pet’s quality of life. Clean, well-groomed animals are not only physically healthier, but also feel more confident, calm, and connected with their owners. I’ve seen how a simple grooming session can transform a scared rescue dog into a happy, adoptable companion. That experience is what sparked my desire to learn the trade professionally and make it a lifelong career. To master my trade, I plan to complete a certified dog grooming program where I’ll gain the technical skills needed to groom dogs of all breeds and sizes safely and professionally. I’ll also continue volunteering and gaining hands-on experience with animals that have a variety of needs and temperaments. In addition to grooming, I plan to study business so that I can eventually open my own pet care facility. My goal is to offer more than just grooming—I want to create a one-stop location for grooming, boarding, training, and even educational services for pet owners and students interested in animal care careers. What makes my dream different is the heart behind it. I don’t just want to run a successful business—I want to build something that truly serves the community. I plan to partner with local shelters to provide free or low-cost grooming to rescue animals, which will increase their chances of adoption. I also want to offer discounted services for families in financial need, so no animal has to go without care due to money. Pets are part of our families, and I believe every one of them deserves to be treated with love, no matter their circumstances. As someone who’s involved in school sports across different seasons and who is starting Link Crew this year, I’ve learned how important leadership, time management, and service are. These lessons will follow me into my career, especially when I mentor young people—particularly girls—who want to work in animal care or start their own businesses. I know how powerful it is to have someone believe in you, and I want to be that person for others. This trade isn’t just a job to me—it’s a mission. I want to use my skills, my education, and my heart to make life better for animals and the people who love them. I want to create a business where kindness comes first, and where everyone—two-legged or four—feels seen, supported, and cared for.

Leading with Heart: Living a Life of Selflessness Selflessness, to me, means showing up for others without expecting anything in return. It’s about giving your time, energy, and compassion simply because it’s the right thing to do. I strive to embody selflessness in both big and small ways—whether I’m helping someone through a hard day or stepping up when no one else will. I believe that even the smallest act of kindness can change someone’s life, and I carry that belief into everything I do. One of the most meaningful examples of selflessness in my life has been volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. There, I work with animals who have been neglected, abandoned, or surrendered. Many come in scared, dirty, and unsure of who to trust. I spend time walking them, cleaning up after them, grooming them gently, and most importantly, just sitting with them to let them know they’re not alone. I don’t get paid, and it’s not always easy work, but seeing an anxious dog wag its tail for the first time or watching an animal find their forever home makes every second worth it. I’m not helping just for the sake of volunteering—I’m helping because I believe every creature deserves to be loved and cared for. Another moment that showed me the power of selflessness happened during school. A student in one of my classes was visibly struggling—falling behind, quiet, and often alone. Many people overlooked her, but I couldn’t. I started by simply offering to work with her on class projects and talk with her during lunch. Over time, she began to open up. I learned that she was dealing with things no one should face alone, and even though I couldn’t fix it all, I did what I could—I listened. I supported her. I reminded her of her strength. She eventually found her voice again and became more engaged, and I like to believe my presence helped her feel seen. I also embody selflessness through leadership. As someone involved in multiple sports throughout the school year and beginning my role in Link Crew this upcoming year, I’ve often had to put others before myself to lift up the team or support younger students. Whether it’s cheering someone on after a bad game or helping freshmen feel confident in a new environment, I know that leadership is about service—not control. It’s about showing up, helping others succeed, and building a sense of unity and belonging. Even in daily life, I try to live with selflessness as a core value. Whether it’s helping a teammate pick up their equipment after practice, staying late to clean up after an event, or making time to support a friend, I always look for ways to ease someone else’s burden. I don’t believe you have to do something huge to make an impact—you just have to care enough to act. Living selflessly has taught me patience, humility, and strength. It has made me a better friend, leader, and person. As I pursue my career in dog grooming and eventually open my own animal care business, I plan to carry this value with me. I want to build a business that gives back to the community, offers support to families in need, and creates a space of kindness for both animals and people. Because to me, selflessness isn’t just something you do—it’s who you are.

Leading with Faith, Guided by Purpose Faith has always been the quiet strength behind everything I do. It’s not loud or showy—it’s steady, compassionate, and rooted in love. My faith teaches me to lead by example, to treat others with kindness no matter the situation, and to find purpose even in small acts of service. It reminds me that leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room—it’s about lifting others up, even when no one is watching. My leadership style is shaped by the belief that every person has worth and potential. Whether I’m volunteering at the animal shelter, supporting a teammate in cheerleading or field hockey, or preparing to welcome freshmen through Link Crew, I lead with empathy and encouragement. I believe faith-based leadership is about showing grace, offering second chances, and standing firm in your values while still making room for others to grow. One moment that truly shaped my vision for the future happened during a school club meeting. A younger student was overwhelmed and considering quitting a project she had started. Others in the room seemed to ignore her distress, but I felt called to step in—not with pressure, but with patience. I sat with her, listened to what she was going through, and reminded her that even when we feel weak, we’re still worthy. I shared how I’d struggled with motivation in the past but leaned on my faith to keep going. I told her that in every setback, there’s a lesson—and sometimes, a calling. A few days later, she returned with a smile and a new sense of confidence. That moment reminded me of the power of gentle leadership, the kind that reflects Christ’s example of humility, encouragement, and compassion. I didn’t need to fix everything—I just needed to show up, listen, and lead with love. That experience helped me realize that I want to carry that same approach into my future business and life. As I work toward becoming a professional dog groomer and opening my own pet care business, I know faith will continue to guide how I lead. I want to create a business that values people just as much as it values animals—a place where clients feel cared for and employees feel respected. I plan to incorporate faith-driven values like integrity, honesty, and service into everything I do. I want my business to be more than just a place where pets get groomed—I want it to be a space that reflects light, hope, and second chances. Faith teaches me that no act of kindness is ever wasted, and I carry that belief into every leadership role I take on. Whether I’m helping a friend through a rough day or mentoring someone with big dreams of their own, I lead with love because I know it’s the most powerful thing we can give. My vision for the future is grounded in faith and built on service, and I will continue to lead in ways that honor both.

Rooted in Compassion, Driven by Purpose My name is Sheyenne, and I’m someone who’s always believed that even small acts of kindness can create big change. I come from a community that has shaped me through opportunity, support, and the unconditional love of animals. From a young age, I found my purpose in caring for others—especially the ones who can’t speak for themselves. That’s why I’m pursuing a career in dog grooming, with plans to build a full-service pet care business. But my goals go far beyond washing and brushing coats—I want to create a space that uplifts animals, people, and my community as a whole. I’ve been volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, and through that experience, I’ve learned how many animals are surrendered simply because their owners can’t afford proper care. I’ve seen scared dogs come to life with a little grooming and a lot of love. That’s where my dream began—to use grooming not just as a service, but as a way to give back. I want to create a grooming facility that partners with local shelters to offer free services to rescue animals and discounted care to low-income families. I want no pet to suffer due to financial hardship and no owner to feel alone in caring for their animal. My impact on the community won’t stop at the grooming table. I plan to educate pet owners on proper animal care, nutrition, and safety, creating a more informed and compassionate community. I also want to develop mentorship programs for high school students who are interested in animal care, especially young women like me who want to turn their love for animals into a profession. I know firsthand what it’s like to dream big and not know where to start—I want to be the person who helps others take that first step. Outside of animal care, I’m a dedicated student and an active participant in school activities. I’ve played sports across multiple seasons, including field hockey, cheerleading, and softball. This year, I’ll also be joining Link Crew to help mentor and support incoming freshmen. Through leadership roles in student council and FFA, I’ve learned the value of responsibility, communication, and teamwork—all skills I plan to bring into my career and my community service. My goal is to build a business that stands for more than just profit. I want it to be a place where people feel welcome, pets feel safe, and kindness drives everything we do. Whether it’s through accessible grooming services, community education, or mentorship opportunities, I plan to pour my energy into creating a space that makes life better for everyone it touches. At the end of the day, my dream is simple: to make the world softer, safer, and more loving—one paw at a time. And I plan to start right here, in the community that made me who I am.

Sustainability in Animal Care: Grooming with a Greener Purpose Sustainability should absolutely be a priority in the animal care industry, especially in fields like dog grooming. While grooming may not seem like a profession that heavily impacts the environment, the truth is, it can involve significant water usage, energy consumption, and plastic waste from packaging, tools, and cleaning products. As someone who is passionate about animals and dedicated to starting my own grooming business one day, I believe it’s my responsibility to care not just for the animals, but for the world they live in. That’s why I want to be part of a new wave of groomers who choose sustainability as a core value—reducing environmental harm while still providing high-quality care to our furry companions. In the future, I plan to build an eco-conscious grooming business that uses sustainable products, tools, and practices. One of my first goals is to switch from single-use plastics to reusable materials wherever possible. That includes replacing disposable shampoo bottles and packaging with refillable bulk containers and working with brands that prioritize biodegradable, cruelty-free, and organic ingredients. By choosing eco-friendly shampoos, conditioners, and cleaning products, I’ll help reduce toxic runoff that can harm local water systems and ecosystems. Water usage is also a huge concern in the grooming world. Traditional dog baths can use many gallons of water per pet, and over time that adds up to a lot of waste. I plan to invest in water-efficient bathing systems that reduce usage while still giving each animal a thorough, gentle clean. I’ll also be mindful of using towels, dryers, and electricity efficiently—making choices that lower energy consumption and reduce the carbon footprint of my business overall. Another way I plan to reduce my environmental impact is by creating a recycling and waste reduction program in my shop. Hair clippings, for example, can actually be repurposed! Some organizations use pet hair to clean up oil spills or for composting. I’d love to explore partnerships with programs like these to turn waste into something useful. I also plan to encourage customers to join in by offering discounts for bringing in reusable grooming kits or shampoo bottles. But most importantly, I see my role as an educator and leader in my community. Many pet owners don’t think about sustainability when it comes to their pets, but I want to change that. I’ll use my platform to teach customers about eco-friendly pet care, such as choosing toys made from recycled materials or using compostable waste bags. Through small actions and simple education, I believe I can inspire others to make more sustainable choices, too. The heart of my dream has always been about care—caring for animals, caring for people, and now, caring for the planet. Sustainability aligns perfectly with everything I stand for: compassion, responsibility, and long-term thinking. By making eco-conscious choices in my grooming business, I’ll be helping both animals and the environment live healthier, safer lives. I don’t want to just run a grooming shop—I want to run a business that makes a difference. And sustainability is a big part of how I plan to do that.

1. What trade are you pursuing and why are you passionate about it? I am pursuing a career in dog grooming because working with animals has always been my passion. Since I was young, animals have brought me peace, joy, and a sense of purpose. Volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society showed me how much of a difference proper grooming and care can make, especially for rescue animals. Grooming helps dogs feel healthy, comfortable, and loved. It’s not just about appearance—it’s about building trust, reducing stress, and giving animals the chance to thrive. I want to dedicate my life to making animals feel safe and cared for while supporting their owners in providing the best possible lives for their pets. 2. What are your future plans after your trade education? After completing my trade education, I plan to open my own dog grooming business and grow it into a full-service pet care facility that includes grooming, boarding, and training. I want to create a warm, welcoming space where animals are treated like family and where their owners feel supported. I also plan to work closely with local shelters, offering free or discounted grooming to help dogs and cats get adopted more easily. For pet owners in low-income households, I want to provide affordable services to ensure every pet gets the care they deserve. One of my long-term goals is to mentor high school students, especially young women, who are interested in animal care careers. I want to show them that it’s possible to turn passion into a profession and give them the tools to do it. 3. Describe a time in your life when you overcame adversity. How did you work through it? During my junior year of high school, I went through a very difficult time. I was managing school, playing multiple sports in different seasons, volunteering at the local animal shelter, and preparing to join Link Crew in my senior year. On top of that, I was facing personal struggles that made it hard to stay motivated and confident. Even though I kept pushing through, I felt overwhelmed and exhausted, like I was stretching myself too thin. Instead of giving up, I decided to start making my mental and emotional well-being a priority. I learned how to manage my time better, stay organized, and lean on the people I trust—my family, teachers, and close friends. I reminded myself of my long-term goals and the animals I want to help. Every time I volunteered at the shelter, I felt grounded again. The dogs reminded me why I’m working so hard: because I want to make a difference in their lives. That experience taught me the importance of balance and resilience. I realized that it’s okay to slow down and care for myself, especially when I want to be strong for others. I came out of that tough period more focused, more mature, and even more committed to my dream.

Making the World Brighter—One Paw at a Time I plan to make a positive impact on the world through my career by combining my love for animals with my passion for helping people. My ultimate goal is to open a full-service dog grooming and animal care facility that provides more than just grooming—it will be a space for compassion, community education, and second chances. Through this business, I want to not only improve the lives of pets but also uplift the people who love them. From a young age, I’ve been drawn to animals in a way that goes beyond affection. I see them as companions, as family members, and as beings who deserve respect and care. Volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society has shown me just how deeply animals rely on us, especially those that come from neglectful or abusive situations. Something as simple as a bath and brush can transform a dog’s entire mood—and make them more adoptable. That transformation is powerful, and it’s what first inspired me to pursue grooming as a career. But I don’t want to stop at just giving haircuts. I want to create a business that brings resources to the community—especially for pet owners who might not have access to affordable services. I’ve seen families surrender beloved pets because they couldn’t afford basic care. That’s a gap I want to help close. My future business will offer discounted services for low-income families and partner with local shelters to provide grooming for adoptable animals. I believe that when animals look and feel their best, they have a better chance at being welcomed into loving homes. In addition to grooming and boarding, I plan to offer training services and educational workshops to teach people about proper pet care, behavior, and nutrition. Many people love their animals but don’t have access to the knowledge or support they need to be great pet parents. I want my business to be that support system—to educate, encourage, and empower. I also plan to use my business as a platform for mentorship. As a young woman interested in animal care and entrepreneurship, I know how important it is to see someone who looks like you doing what you dream of. I want to mentor high school students—especially girls—who are interested in careers in grooming, veterinary care, or business. I want to give them hands-on experience, guidance, and the confidence to pursue their own paths in the animal care world. I plan to major in business in college so I can gain the knowledge and tools to make this dream a reality. This foundation will help me build a sustainable business that’s rooted in heart but supported by strong management and strategy. I want my business to be long-lasting, impactful, and able to grow into something bigger than just a job—it will be a mission. Through every groomed dog, every rescued animal, every young person I mentor, and every family I support, I will be working toward a future where kindness leads the way. I believe animals bring out the best in people, and through my career, I hope to return that gift by making the world a softer, more caring place—one paw at a time.

Why I Am Worth the Dreams I Aspire to Achieve I believe I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because they are rooted in compassion, fueled by hard work, and aimed at making a lasting impact on both animals and people. My goal of becoming a professional dog groomer and building a full-service animal care business isn’t just a career plan—it’s the reflection of who I am at my core: someone who has always loved, protected, and fought for animals, and who now wants to create a future where that love becomes a lifelong mission. From a young age, animals have been my comfort, my joy, and my responsibility. I didn’t grow out of that phase. I grew into it. Volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society has shown me both the heartbreak and the hope that come with animal care. I’ve seen neglected animals blossom with proper grooming, love, and medical care. I’ve seen how education and kindness can turn someone into a better pet owner. These moments inspired me to dream bigger—not just to help animals one-on-one, but to build a business that serves entire communities. But passion alone isn’t enough. I’ve worked hard in school and in life to prepare myself for this dream. I’m active in my school’s FFA chapter, where I’ve gained leadership skills and agricultural knowledge that tie directly into animal care. I’ve balanced demanding schedules through sports like field hockey, cheerleading, and softball, while also participating in student council and Link Crew. These roles have taught me time management, teamwork, and responsibility—skills I will carry with me into my future career. I plan to study business in college because I know that a successful grooming facility doesn’t just need someone who loves animals—it needs someone who understands budgeting, marketing, operations, and leadership. I am preparing myself not only to work in the animal care world, but to lead within it. I want to create a grooming and boarding business that does more than just offer services. I want to offer opportunities: job training for aspiring groomers, discounted services for families in need, and educational programs for pet owners. I want my future business to be a place where animals thrive, people feel welcome, and young students—especially girls—see what’s possible when you turn passion into purpose. I am worth my dreams because I don’t dream selfishly. I want my success to open doors for others. I want to give back to the shelters that sparked my love for animal care. I want to give hope to families who can’t afford basic grooming or boarding services. I want to build something that makes lives better—fur-covered or not. What sets me apart is my drive to serve. I’ve already proven that I’m willing to show up, put in the work, and lead with kindness. I don’t expect my dreams to come easy, and I don’t want shortcuts. I want to earn every step. Receiving support—like this scholarship—would help me continue that journey with more focus and less financial stress, but the fire behind my goals will always come from within. I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because I’m not chasing them just for me—I’m building them for everyone I hope to help. And I won’t stop until they’re real.

A Future Fueled by Fur, Love, and Purpose Animals have always been at the center of who I am. Whether I was bottle-feeding kittens or gently brushing out a nervous rescue dog at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, I’ve always felt a deep connection to animals—a bond built on trust, care, and love. As I’ve grown older, this love has matured into a calling: to build a career where I can dedicate my life to the health, comfort, and happiness of animals. My dream is to become a professional dog groomer and ultimately open a full-service pet care facility that includes grooming, boarding, and training. Through this path, I hope to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the world—one wagging tail at a time. I plan to major in business, because I believe that a strong foundation in entrepreneurship will give me the tools I need to start and grow my own business. This isn’t just about profit—it’s about purpose. My future facility won’t just provide quality services; it will also partner with shelters, offer services to low-income families, and serve as a welcoming space where pet owners and animal lovers can learn and connect. I want to create a business model rooted in compassion and accessibility, one that supports both pets and the people who love them. As someone who is actively involved in extracurriculars like FFA, cheerleading, field hockey, softball, and student council, I’ve learned how to balance hard work with heart. Volunteering at the animal shelter has shown me the realities of animal neglect and the power of rehabilitation. These experiences have shaped my vision—not just to help animals directly, but to educate communities and advocate for better treatment and understanding of all animals. I want to build a facility where education and outreach are just as important as grooming and boarding. Receiving this scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving that goal. College can be financially overwhelming, especially when you are working toward starting your own business. This support would help me focus more on my education and less on the financial stress that often comes with it. More importantly, it would allow me to begin building the foundation of my dream earlier and with more confidence. Long term, I want to expand my impact beyond business. I envision creating mentorship programs for students—especially young women—interested in animal care, veterinary fields, or entrepreneurship. I know what it feels like to have a dream and wonder if it’s too big. I want to show others that it’s not. With dedication, education, and community support, anything is possible. Through my future in animal care, I hope to do more than just groom dogs—I want to change lives. Whether it’s the life of a rescued dog who finds a second chance, a family who gains education and support, or a young student who discovers her own calling, I believe my career can have a ripple effect. And with the help of this scholarship, I’ll be one step closer to turning that vision into reality.

From Shelter Volunteer to Entrepreneur – My Dream to Make a Difference Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve had an almost magical connection with animals. Some people grow up with pets; I grew up with companions, protectors, and silent best friends. My first dog, Sambo, was a black Lab-border collie mix who gave me my very first kiss as a newborn, gently placing it on my forehead when my parents brought me home from the hospital. My cat Taz, who came later, would sit by my side when I was sick and follow me from room to room like a loyal shadow. These weren’t just pets—they were family. They offered comfort, friendship, and a feeling of safety in a world that often felt overwhelming. That feeling, that love, is what I want to give back. It’s why I’ve committed my future to caring for animals and why I plan to turn that passion into a career through a college degree in business. My dream is to own a full-service dog grooming business—one that is warm, welcoming, and built on compassion. I don’t just want to work with animals; I want to create a space where they feel safe and understood. My business will go beyond basic grooming to eventually include boarding and training services, forming a one-stop haven where pets receive not just care, but love. I also hope to offer jobs to young people in my community, giving them a safe, positive environment to learn responsibility, build skills, and explore a love for animals, just like I did. To turn that vision into reality, I plan to major in business. While my heart lies in animal care, I know that my success depends on being able to manage staff, handle finances, market services, and grow sustainably. A business degree will give me the foundation I need to run my own company with confidence. I want to graduate from college not just knowing how to care for animals, but how to build something that lasts—a business that supports me and also gives back. This is where this scholarship could make an incredible difference. My family works hard to support me, but college is expensive—tuition, housing, books, and other living costs add up quickly. We are not in a financial position to comfortably afford college without outside help. I’ve worked hard to position myself as a strong student and community leader, but scholarships like this one are what will allow me to truly reach my potential. With your support, I could focus on learning and growing rather than constantly worrying about how to make ends meet. The work I do now reflects the kind of future I want to build. Since the summer of 2022, I’ve been a volunteer at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. I’ve helped walk, clean, feed, and care for dozens of animals, working with shelter staff to prepare them for adoption and new lives. Some of these animals come in scared or neglected, and it takes time and patience to help them open up. I’ve learned how to read their body language, build trust, and give them the care they need—not just physically, but emotionally. This experience changed me. It showed me how powerful it is to make an animal feel safe, and it reinforced that this is the work I want to do for the rest of my life. But I haven’t just poured my energy into animal care—I’ve also worked hard to be a leader and a positive presence in my school. I’ve been a member of student council for three years, where I’ve helped plan school events, organize spirit days, and encourage student involvement. I’ve also played three sports: field hockey, softball, and cheerleading. These experiences taught me discipline, time management, and teamwork. I’ve learned how to push through challenges, lift up my teammates, and stay committed even when things get tough. This year, I’ll also be a Link Crew Leader, helping incoming freshmen adjust to high school. I remember how overwhelming it felt to start high school, and I want to be the person they can count on to guide them and remind them that they belong. I’m also an active member of FFA, an organization that has allowed me to dive deeper into leadership and agricultural education. Through FFA, I’ve participated in community service, team projects, and hands-on learning opportunities that tie into my passion for animals. It’s given me a wider understanding of how animals, people, and agriculture are all connected—and it’s inspired me to keep advocating for humane care, ethical practices, and education in everything I do. Looking ahead, I hope to start small with my grooming business—maybe renting a modest space, working with a few loyal clients, and expanding through word of mouth. But my long-term vision is big. I want to open a full-service facility that includes grooming, boarding, and training. I also want to offer internships to high school students interested in animal care or business, especially those who, like me, want to work hard but might not have the resources or opportunities handed to them. I want to give others the kind of experience I had while volunteering—one that teaches compassion, responsibility, and leadership. My dream isn’t just about owning a business. It’s about creating a space that brings good into the world. A place where animals are treated like family, where young people learn valuable skills, and where community members know they can trust the care their pets are receiving. I want my business to be a reflection of everything I’ve learned growing up: that love, service, and leadership matter. That hard work pays off. That it’s possible to build something meaningful when you stay true to what you believe in. This scholarship would not just help pay for school—it would bring me one step closer to turning my passion into action. It would allow me to focus on my education, take part in internships or leadership programs, and graduate without the weight of overwhelming debt. Most of all, it would give me the opportunity to create a future I believe in—one where animals are safe, young people are empowered, and dreams built on love become reality. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to do the work. I just need the opportunity to begin.

From Shelter Volunteer to Entrepreneur – My Dream to Make a Difference Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve had an almost magical connection with animals. Some people grow up with pets; I grew up with companions, protectors, and silent best friends. My first dog, Sambo, was a black Lab-border collie mix who gave me my very first kiss as a newborn, gently placing it on my forehead when my parents brought me home from the hospital. My cat Taz, who came later, would sit by my side when I was sick and follow me from room to room like a loyal shadow. These weren’t just pets—they were family. They offered comfort, friendship, and a feeling of safety in a world that often felt overwhelming. That feeling, that love, is what I want to give back. It’s why I’ve committed my future to caring for animals and why I plan to turn that passion into a career through a college degree in business. My dream is to own a full-service dog grooming business—one that is warm, welcoming, and built on compassion. I don’t just want to work with animals; I want to create a space where they feel safe and understood. My business will go beyond basic grooming to eventually include boarding and training services, forming a one-stop haven where pets receive not just care, but love. I also hope to offer jobs to young people in my community, giving them a safe, positive environment to learn responsibility, build skills, and explore a love for animals, just like I did. To turn that vision into reality, I plan to major in business. While my heart lies in animal care, I know that my success depends on being able to manage staff, handle finances, market services, and grow sustainably. A business degree will give me the foundation I need to run my own company with confidence. I want to graduate from college not just knowing how to care for animals, but how to build something that lasts—a business that supports me and also gives back. This is where this scholarship could make an incredible difference. My family works hard to support me, but college is expensive—tuition, housing, books, and other living costs add up quickly. We are not in a financial position to comfortably afford college without outside help. I’ve worked hard to position myself as a strong student and community leader, but scholarships like this one are what will allow me to truly reach my potential. With your support, I could focus on learning and growing rather than constantly worrying about how to make ends meet. The work I do now reflects the kind of future I want to build. Since the summer of 2022, I’ve been a volunteer at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. I’ve helped walk, clean, feed, and care for dozens of animals, working with shelter staff to prepare them for adoption and new lives. Some of these animals come in scared or neglected, and it takes time and patience to help them open up. I’ve learned how to read their body language, build trust, and give them the care they need—not just physically, but emotionally. This experience changed me. It showed me how powerful it is to make an animal feel safe, and it reinforced that this is the work I want to do for the rest of my life. But I haven’t just poured my energy into animal care—I’ve also worked hard to be a leader and a positive presence in my school. I’ve been a member of student council for three years, where I’ve helped plan school events, organize spirit days, and encourage student involvement. I’ve also played three sports: field hockey, softball, and cheerleading. These experiences taught me discipline, time management, and teamwork. I’ve learned how to push through challenges, lift up my teammates, and stay committed even when things get tough. This year, I’ll also be a Link Crew Leader, helping incoming freshmen adjust to high school. I remember how overwhelming it felt to start high school, and I want to be the person they can count on to guide them and remind them that they belong. I’m also an active member of FFA, an organization that has allowed me to dive deeper into leadership and agricultural education. Through FFA, I’ve participated in community service, team projects, and hands-on learning opportunities that tie into my passion for animals. It’s given me a wider understanding of how animals, people, and agriculture are all connected—and it’s inspired me to keep advocating for humane care, ethical practices, and education in everything I do. Looking ahead, I hope to start small with my grooming business—maybe renting a modest space, working with a few loyal clients, and expanding through word of mouth. But my long-term vision is big. I want to open a full-service facility that includes grooming, boarding, and training. I also want to offer internships to high school students interested in animal care or business, especially those who, like me, want to work hard but might not have the resources or opportunities handed to them. I want to give others the kind of experience I had while volunteering—one that teaches compassion, responsibility, and leadership. My dream isn’t just about owning a business. It’s about creating a space that brings good into the world. A place where animals are treated like family, where young people learn valuable skills, and where community members know they can trust the care their pets are receiving. I want my business to be a reflection of everything I’ve learned growing up: that love, service, and leadership matter. That hard work pays off. That it’s possible to build something meaningful when you stay true to what you believe in. This scholarship would not just help pay for school—it would bring me one step closer to turning my passion into action. It would allow me to focus on my education, take part in internships or leadership programs, and graduate without the weight of overwhelming debt. Most of all, it would give me the opportunity to create a future I believe in—one where animals are safe, young people are empowered, and dreams built on love become reality. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to do the work. I just need the opportunity to begin.

Chappell Roan’s Music: A Beacon of Truth and Empowerment Chappell Roan’s music has had a profound impact on me because of her raw honesty and fearless approach to expressing emotions that many people often hide or feel ashamed of. Her songs are not just melodies; they’re stories of vulnerability, struggle, and self-acceptance that resonate deeply with me. Listening to her music feels like being understood in moments when words fail — she gives voice to feelings that are hard to put into everyday conversation. I support her career because she represents authenticity and bravery in an industry that sometimes values image over truth. Chappell Roan doesn’t shy away from exploring complex themes like mental health, identity, and empowerment, which inspires me to be more open about my own experiences and to encourage others to do the same. Her music pushes boundaries and challenges norms, and that kind of courage is exactly what the world needs more of. Through her artistry, she has created a space where people like me can feel seen and validated. Supporting her is about more than just enjoying her songs — it’s about standing behind someone who uses her platform to challenge stigma, spark important conversations, and empower listeners to embrace their whole selves.

My name is Sheyenne, and I dream of becoming a professional dog groomer. To some, that might sound like a simple or easy job — but to me, it’s a career full of purpose, creativity, and joy. I’ve always had a deep love for animals, especially dogs. There’s something special about the bond between humans and their pets. Dogs offer us loyalty, comfort, and companionship without asking for much in return. That’s why I feel so passionate about giving back to them through grooming — by keeping them clean, comfortable, and confident in a way that respects their needs and personalities. Dog grooming isn’t just about appearances. It’s about health and hygiene, safety, and emotional care. A well-groomed dog often behaves better, feels more relaxed, and has a stronger bond with its owner. I want to be part of that transformation — helping anxious or matted dogs feel renewed, and giving pet parents peace of mind knowing their dog is being treated with patience and kindness. What excites me most is how grooming blends my strengths: I’m gentle, detail-oriented, and creative. I love the idea of shaping each groom to fit a dog’s unique personality — whether it’s a playful trim for a spunky terrier or a calming spa-like experience for an older golden retriever. In the future, I hope to open my own dog grooming salon. I want it to be more than just a business — I want it to be a safe, inclusive, and uplifting space where dogs are cared for with love and where employees feel valued and supported. As a young woman stepping into this industry, I’m especially passionate about creating opportunities for other women. I believe in women supporting women — in business, in leadership, and in trades that are often overlooked. I want to mentor young girls who dream of doing hands-on work, encourage confidence in women learning new skills, and advocate for workplaces where we lift each other up. Supporting women’s empowerment isn’t something I plan to wait on — I’m already practicing it by speaking up, leading by example, and staying true to my vision even when others might not understand it. I believe empowerment starts with believing in yourself and encouraging others to do the same. Right now, I’m preparing for my future by learning more about dog behavior, grooming techniques, and small business management. I plan to pursue certification after high school and gain real experience by working with professionals in the field. I know this path will take time, patience, and hard work — but I’m ready. Because to me, being a dog groomer isn’t just a job. It’s a calling, a passion, and a chance to make a difference — one paw at a time.

“Truth Trip: Heart or Hype?” — A Brand New Love Island Challenge If there’s one thing Love Island does best, it’s stirring the pot — and nothing stirs it like a challenge that mixes romance, mind games, and a little healthy chaos. That’s why I’ve created a brand-new challenge called “Truth Trip: Heart or Hype?” It’s designed to test couples emotionally, stir up drama, and spark real conversations — all while keeping that signature Love Island flair of fun, flirty unpredictability. In this challenge, islanders are paired up and placed into brightly decorated, two-person pedal carts — think a tropical version of a couple’s go-kart. Their mission? Navigate a winding obstacle course around the villa, complete with checkpoints where secrets come to light. The twist: each stop includes a “Truth Stop,” where the couple must complete a prompt together — either a spicy dare, a revealing question, or an anonymous confession sent in by another islander. For example, they might be asked to whisper a secret they’ve never told their partner or react to a hidden message like, “Someone said your feelings aren’t genuine.” After each Truth Stop, both islanders must secretly choose between two buttons: one labeled 💖 “Heart” if they think their connection is real, and another labeled 🔥 “Hype” if they’re just having fun or unsure about the relationship. These choices remain hidden until the very end of the challenge, when they’re revealed in front of the entire group. It’s a moment that could solidify a strong couple — or completely unravel a fragile one. To raise the stakes even further, the couple with the most matching “Heart” responses is rewarded with a private romantic date. Meanwhile, any mismatched answers (especially if someone votes “Hype” while their partner picks “Heart”) are sure to lead to some honest conversations — and maybe even a recoupling shake-up. “Truth Trip: Heart or Hype?” brings together everything Love Island fans love: romance, drama, vulnerability, and unexpected twists. It’s lighthearted on the surface, but underneath, it asks the real questions — are your feelings true, or are you just here for the game? It invites laughter, confrontation, and, most importantly, clarity. In a show that thrives on testing relationships, this challenge offers the perfect blend of emotional exposure and villa chaos. Whether it ends in tears, kisses, or storm-offs, one thing is guaranteed: the truth always comes out.

“And I Know We’re Done, I Know We’re Through”: Navigating Teenage Heartbreak and Confusion A lyric from Olivia Rodrigo’s bad idea right? that perfectly captures the chaos of teenage emotions is: “And I know we’re done, I know we’re through / But, God, when I look at you / My brain goes, ‘Ah’ / Can’t hear my thoughts (I cannot hear my thoughts) / Like blah-blah-blah (blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah).” This lyric sums up the overwhelming feelings that come with adolescent heartbreak. As a teenager, managing strong emotions—especially around relationships—can feel like a rollercoaster. One moment you’re certain something is over, but the next, your mind refuses to listen, spinning with thoughts and feelings you can’t control. Olivia’s words express that tension between knowing what you should feel and what you actually feel, a struggle many teens, including me, experience. Breaking up or going through a rough patch during adolescence is intense. It’s often the first time many of us confront the complexity of love and loss. When Olivia sings “I know we’re done, I know we’re through,” she acknowledges the rational side—the part that accepts reality and tries to move on. But then she reveals the other side: emotions refusing to follow logic, with your thoughts becoming a jumble, like “blah-blah-blah.” That chaotic mental state is something I’ve felt personally during difficult moments with friends or crushes. The line “My brain goes, ‘Ah’” captures how overwhelming these feelings can be. It’s not just sadness; it’s confusion, frustration, and helplessness all at once. Sometimes, your mind races, making it impossible to focus or find peace. This lyric reminds me of nights spent replaying conversations or wondering what I could have done differently, even though I know the relationship is over. It shows that healing is rarely straightforward. Olivia Rodrigo’s honesty helps me feel seen and understood. Teens often struggle to express how complicated their feelings are, especially with relationships. The mix of acceptance and emotional turmoil she describes is something many keep inside because it feels messy or embarrassing. By putting these feelings into words, Olivia gives permission to feel confused, vulnerable, and imperfect during heartbreak. More broadly, this lyric speaks to adolescence: a time when emotions are intense, and the mind is still learning to cope. The uncertainty Olivia captures isn’t just about relationships; it symbolizes the challenges teens face in understanding themselves and the world. It’s grappling with conflicting thoughts and emotions while trying to find clarity. What makes this lyric so impactful is its relatability. Whether experiencing a breakup, a friendship falling apart, or a personal struggle, everyone has moments when their brain feels overwhelmed by “blah-blah-blah.” Olivia’s words remind me it’s okay not to have everything figured out and that feeling lost or confused is a natural part of growing up. In conclusion, the lyric “And I know we’re done, I know we’re through / But, God, when I look at you / My brain goes, ‘Ah’ / Can’t hear my thoughts / Like blah-blah-blah” captures the messy, contradictory feelings of teenage heartbreak and emotional confusion. It shows the struggle between knowing what should be and feeling what is, a tension every teenager experiences. Olivia Rodrigo’s ability to express these raw emotions helps me understand that adolescence is about embracing complexity, feeling deeply, and eventually finding a way through the noise.

My Favorite Team USA Athlete: Simone Biles When it comes to Team USA, no athlete inspires me more than Simone Biles. She’s not just my favorite to cheer for — she’s a symbol of strength, grace, and resilience. Watching her compete feels like witnessing history, not just because of what she accomplishes in gymnastics, but because of how she represents something greater than medals: the power of owning your truth. Simone Biles is widely considered the greatest gymnast of all time. Her skill level is so far above the competition that judges have struggled to score her fairly. She’s performed moves no other woman has dared to attempt, and she’s even had several named after her. What I love most is that she doesn’t just perform routines — she redefines the limits of the sport. Every time she steps onto the mat or vaults into the air, she carries not just Team USA’s hopes, but the pressure of being a once-in-a-generation athlete. And she does it with humility. But what makes me truly admire Simone goes beyond the flips and gold medals. During the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, she made the courageous decision to withdraw from several events to protect her mental health. At the time, many people didn’t understand why. But instead of hiding or giving in to pressure, Simone explained that she was experiencing the “twisties” — a mental block that could have led to serious injury. She reminded the world that athletes are human, too. That act of vulnerability, especially on such a global stage, meant more than any gold medal ever could. It made her a role model not just for gymnasts, but for anyone learning to put their well-being first. Simone’s return to competition in 2023 and her continued dominance shows what true resilience looks like. She didn’t come back to prove anything to the world — she came back for herself. That’s the kind of mindset I admire. She’s not just chasing perfection anymore; she’s living her truth and setting an example for how strength can also mean stepping back, healing, and returning on your own terms. When I cheer for Simone Biles, I’m not just cheering for her routines or scores — I’m cheering for her courage, her honesty, and her leadership. She represents the best of Team USA not just because she wins, but because she inspires. Whether she’s on the podium or cheering from the sidelines, Simone brings something powerful to every team she’s a part of. That’s why Simone Biles is my favorite athlete to cheer for on Team USA — because she reminds us that greatness isn’t just about how high you fly, but how boldly you stand.

Why I’m a Fan of LeBron James — and Whether He’s the GOAT I’ve been a fan of LeBron James for as long as I’ve followed basketball. While his stats and highlight-reel plays are easy to admire, what truly sets LeBron apart for me is the way he’s carried himself over the course of a long, high-pressure career. He’s not just a phenomenal athlete — he’s a leader, a role model, and someone who has used his platform to make a lasting impact far beyond the game. On the court, LeBron James is one of the most complete players the NBA has ever seen. He can score from anywhere, create plays for teammates, rebound, and defend multiple positions. His basketball IQ is legendary, and his ability to read the game and make the right play — whether it’s a buzzer-beating shot or a perfect assist — sets him apart. He’s led teams to championships in three different cities, a testament to his adaptability and leadership. Even after more than 20 seasons, he continues to play at a high level, competing against younger stars and still being the difference-maker on the court. But what makes me admire LeBron even more is his off-court presence. He’s been in the public eye since he was a teenager, and through all the attention, he’s avoided scandal and stayed focused on his goals. He founded the I PROMISE School in his hometown of Akron, Ohio — a public school aimed at supporting at-risk youth — and has invested millions into education and community programs. He’s spoken out on social justice issues, started a media company to tell underrepresented stories, and made space for other athletes to speak up. He’s redefined what it means to be an athlete in today’s world. As for whether LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time — the GOAT — I believe he has a strong case. While the conversation often boils down to LeBron vs. Michael Jordan, I think greatness can look different depending on what you value. Jordan had a perfect Finals record (6–0), unmatched dominance in his prime, and helped globalize the NBA. But LeBron’s legacy is built on longevity, versatility, and lifting teams that might not have won otherwise. He’s the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, ranks among the all-time leaders in assists and rebounds, and has played more playoff games than anyone in history. He’s taken teams to the Finals ten times, often carrying them there. What stands out to me most is how LeBron has evolved over time — from a high school phenom to a seasoned veteran who still plays like an MVP. He’s managed expectations, criticism, and pressure with a level of grace that’s rare. While I understand why some say Jordan is the GOAT, for me, LeBron’s complete body of work — on and off the court — earns him that title. In the end, greatness isn’t just about stats or rings. It’s also about character, impact, and consistency. That’s why I’m a fan of LeBron James. Whether or not he’s your pick for the greatest of all time, there’s no denying that his influence — on the game and the world — is something truly special.

The Perfect Ending to “The Bear” The perfect ending to “The Bear” wouldn’t be neat or cinematic — it would be honest. This series isn’t about perfect food or flawless service. It’s about messy people trying to do something beautiful in a world that rarely gives second chances. For me, the best possible ending wouldn’t tie everything up, but it would give each character what they’ve been starving for: peace, purpose, and permission to be themselves. For Carmy, the ending means letting go. After a lifetime of chasing perfection and burying his pain in the kitchen, he finally learns that control isn’t the same as care. He steps back from The Bear — not in failure, but in growth — and starts a mentorship program for young chefs who don’t fit the mold. He still cooks, but now it’s on his own terms. More importantly, he starts showing up for the people who’ve always been there for him — especially Sugar and Richie. Sydney gets her own restaurant. Not some glitzy fine-dining spot, but a vibrant space on the South Side that blends technique with heart. Her vision, voice, and leadership shine. She becomes everything she hoped to be — not by competing with Carmy, but by trusting herself. The kitchen is hers now, and she fills it with young cooks who remind her of who she once was. Richie becomes the soul of The Bear. His journey from loud, chaotic cousin to a refined, empathetic leader is one of the most rewarding arcs in the show. He stays at the restaurant, running the front-of-house with love and precision. He finds purpose, makes peace with his past, and builds a stable, loving relationship with his daughter. He’s proof that people can change if someone believes in them — even if that someone is just themselves. Sugar finds balance. She becomes the true backbone of the business — managing operations while raising a family. Her voice is finally heard, and she earns the respect she’s always deserved. She and Carmy rebuild their sibling bond not out of shared grief, but shared hope. Marcus, returning from Copenhagen, pours his love and loss into pastry. He honors his late mother not with sadness, but with quiet excellence. He becomes a rising star — not loud or flashy, but deeply respected. His desserts tell stories, and he starts mentoring others the way Luca mentored him. Tina becomes a sous-chef and leader, mentoring young Latina cooks and proving that kitchens need strength and heart. Ebraheim, too, finds peace — opening a small, beloved café where he cooks traditional dishes and shares stories that remind him, and others, where they came from. The final scene wouldn’t be a standing ovation or a Michelin star. It would be dinner service going right — just once. The staff communicating, the guests smiling, the music playing softly in the background. They’re not trying to be perfect anymore. They’re just trying to be present. That’s the ending The Bear deserves — not a bow, but a breath. A story about chaos ending not with noise, but with peace.

Making the Toughest Connections: A Puzzle of Color, Chess, Fame, and Gold One of my favorite games lately is Connections by The New York Times. It’s clever, chaotic, and completely addicting. The idea is simple: group 16 words into four related categories. But it’s never that easy. Inspired by the game’s layered meanings and hidden tricks, I decided to create my own—and made it difficult enough to make even the most confident puzzlers pause. Here’s my puzzle grid: Word List: Swift, Mercury, Checkmate, Bishop, Gold, Silver, Platinum, Diamond, Green, Red, Blue, Yellow, Taylor, Rook, Queen, Reputation At first glance, it looks like chaos. But within it are four connections—ranked from easiest to hardest. 🟨 Yellow (Easiest): Colors • Red, Blue, Yellow, Green This is the most obvious category: the primary colors (plus green). It’s usually the first group people spot, and intentionally so. Starting with an “aha” moment builds confidence. I wanted to hook the solver quickly—because everything after that gets a lot trickier. 🟩 Green (Medium): Chess Terms • Queen, Rook, Bishop, Checkmate Three of these are chess pieces. The fourth, “checkmate,” is the word every chess player wants to hear—when the king is trapped and the game ends. I chose these words to challenge solvers who might confuse “Queen” as a reference to royalty or music, or miss “Checkmate” entirely because it isn’t a piece. 🟦 Blue (Hard): Precious Tiers of Status • Gold, Silver, Platinum, Diamond This group represents more than just shiny objects—they’re the levels we all know from awards, streaming subscriptions, loyalty points, and even anniversaries. What makes this group tricky is its double meaning: are they just elements, or are they symbols of status? In this case, they’re both. 🟪 Purple (Trickiest): Taylor Swift References • Swift, Taylor, Reputation, Mercury Yes, the hardest group is built around none other than Taylor Swift. “Swift” and “Taylor” are obvious hints, but “Reputation” (one of her album titles) and “Mercury” (a music award and a deeper nod to retrograde communication, something she often references in her writing) throw even seasoned Swifties for a loop. It’s subtle, clever, and rooted in both pop culture and language play. What I love about this Connections puzzle is that it mirrors how we think: some patterns we see instantly, others take time and thought. The categories range from concrete (colors, chess) to cultural (music references, status levels), which challenges solvers to use both logic and intuition. It also proves that learning happens in unexpected places—whether you’re solving for fun or just trying to remember what colors make purple. More than just a puzzle, this experience taught me how connections form everywhere: in art, music, competition, and even color theory. The most rewarding part isn’t just finding the answer—it’s realizing the answer was there all along, just waiting for you to see it. Would I say this is a hard puzzle? Definitely. But then again, the best connections in life are the ones that take a little extra time to figure out.

Why I’m the Most Gen Z Person Alive It’s 2:52 a.m. and I’m writing this on my iPhone, laying in bed with one hand scrolling Instagram Reels and the other making sure I don’t forget to send my Snap streaks. I’ve already lost an hour to videos of strangers organizing mini fridges, restocking skincare, and doing dances I’ll never learn. Before I can sleep, I make sure I collect all my daily claims in my games — because missing free spins or gems? Not an option. Pinterest is open too, obviously, where I’m curating dream vacations, future apartment goals, and outfits I’ll manifest someday. I still play Roblox (yes, I said it), and I grew up on Wizards of Waverly Place, iCarly, and Phineas and Ferb, so naturally, my personality is 50% sarcasm and 50% chaotic nostalgia. I communicate through blurry Snapchats, shared playlists, and TikToks that somehow explain exactly how I feel better than I can. My screen time is concerning. My Notes app is full of half-baked ideas and dramatic one-liners. My attention span? Gone. But my ability to multitask in digital chaos? Unmatched. I don’t just live the Gen Z experience — I am the Gen Z experience.

From Shelter Volunteer to Future Business Owner: Building Safe Spaces for Animals and People The first time I walked a rescue dog at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, I didn’t expect it to change my life. But that moment—just me and a nervous pup learning to trust again—sparked something in me. Since 2022, I’ve been volunteering there, feeding, walking, and caring for animals while helping them find safe and loving homes. That experience helped me realize that I want to dedicate my future to helping animals—and to creating safe spaces for people, too. At school, I’ve been part of student council for three years, helping organize spirit weeks, events, and supporting the student body in any way I can. This year, I’m excited to serve as a Link Crew Leader, mentoring incoming freshmen to help them feel welcome and supported. It means a lot to me to be someone they can turn to, especially because I know how overwhelming high school can be when you’re just starting out. I’m also a proud member of FFA, where I’ve learned leadership and responsibility through hands-on agricultural education and teamwork. And as a multi-sport athlete in cheerleading, softball, and field hockey, I’ve learned how to lead, stay dedicated, and uplift my teammates through challenges. Outside of school, I stay involved in my community. I grew up around animals—my first best friend was our dog Sambo, a black lab/border collie mix who gave me my very first kiss as a newborn. Since then, animals have always been a huge part of my life and my healing. We’ve adopted pets, cared for them, and said goodbye to many of my childhood companions over the years—experiences that shaped who I am. I want to major in business so I can open my own dog grooming and boarding business, and eventually expand to include training services. I want to create a safe, welcoming place for animals—and give young people in my community job opportunities and mentorship as well. College is a dream I’ve worked hard for, but financially, it’s not easy. My family supports me as much as they can, but we’ll need help covering tuition, books, and other costs. This scholarship would take pressure off my family and allow me to focus fully on my goals. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for where I’m headed. With your support, I can turn my love for animals and community into something real—a career, a business, and a lasting impact.

Shaped by Loss, Driven by Purpose When people talk about their great grandparents or great aunts — baking cookies together, telling stories, sharing holidays — I usually stay quiet. I never had the chance to create those memories. In my family, many of those loved ones were gone before I was old enough to know them, taken too soon by cancer. I don’t even know exactly who had what — some were great-grandparents, some were my relatives’ aunts or sisters — but I know that breast cancer, lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer have all left their mark on our family. My dad’s side of the family, in particular, was impacted by lung cancer, and I’ve been told it was likely from smoking. Hearing those stories growing up made me more aware of how serious cancer is — not just as a disease, but as something that breaks families apart. Even though I didn’t know all of the people who were lost, their absence was always felt. The quiet moments when someone says, “She would’ve loved you,” or “He would’ve been so proud” are reminders of what cancer took from us. There’s also the possibility that I may be at higher risk for breast cancer, or even skin cancer one day. It’s a difficult thought to sit with, but it motivates me to live fully, take care of myself, and pursue a life that means something. Instead of letting fear or grief hold me back, I’ve chosen to use it as fuel to move forward with purpose. That purpose is animals. I’ve always had a deep, natural bond with them. My dog Sambo was my first protector, and my cat Taz was my first best friend. Animals have always brought me peace when life felt uncertain or overwhelming. Volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society since 2022 has only deepened that connection. I’ve seen firsthand how animals can bring people healing, joy, and comfort — the same things I’ve often needed myself. That’s why I want to major in business. My dream is to open a dog grooming business, and possibly expand into boarding and training. I want to create a safe, loving space where pets are treated like family and where people can trust that their animals are cared for with kindness and respect. To some, that might sound simple. But to me, it’s everything. It’s a way to bring love and life into a world that’s too often touched by loss. It’s a way to take everything I’ve experienced — the grief, the fear, the uncertainty — and turn it into something good. Something healing. Something hopeful. I may not have stories of long afternoons with my grandmother or big family reunions, but I have a clear vision of who I want to be and the impact I want to make. I want to live a life full of purpose, compassion, and resilience — and I want to do it surrounded by animals, helping others care for theirs, and honoring the people I never got the chance to know.

Why I’m a Fan of Wicked: A Magical Experience That Changed Everything Before the Wicked film was announced, I had already fallen completely in love with the story — and it all started with a trip to Broadway with my family. We went to see the Wicked musical live, and honestly, it was one of the best experiences of my life. The show blew me away in every possible way: the music, the acting, the costumes, and the powerful story all combined to create something unforgettable. That day didn’t just entertain me; it changed the way I saw the entire world of The Wizard of Oz. The Wizard of Oz was one of my dad’s favorite movies, so I watched it a lot growing up. I have so many memories of him singing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” softly to me as he put me to sleep. Those moments made the movie feel even more special — it wasn’t just a story, it was a bond between us. Because of him, The Wizard of Oz was a huge part of my childhood, and I thought I knew everything about it. Growing up, I was familiar with the classic story of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion. I loved the colorful characters and the magical journey, but I never thought deeply about the Wicked Witch of the West beyond her being the villain. Then Wicked came along and flipped everything I thought I knew on its head. It showed me that there’s always more to the story — that even characters who seem “wicked” might have reasons for their actions and feelings that deserve understanding. Seeing Wicked live on Broadway was a full sensory experience. From the moment the lights dimmed and the orchestra started playing, I was hooked. The songs — like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good” — aren’t just catchy; they are emotional anthems about friendship, identity, and standing up for what you believe in. The actors brought such depth and heart to their roles that I found myself rooting for Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch,” in a way I never expected. She wasn’t just a villain; she was a complex, misunderstood character who struggled to be accepted and loved. My family and I talked about the show for weeks afterward. It sparked conversations about how people are judged by appearances or rumors, and how important it is to look beyond the surface. It also made me think about my own life — about times I felt different or unfairly judged, and how that shaped who I am. Wicked gave me hope that being “different” can be a strength, not a weakness. When the film adaptation was announced, I was beyond excited because it meant more people would get to experience the story that meant so much to me. Wicked isn’t just a retelling of The Wizard of Oz; it’s a story about friendship, courage, and the power of choosing your own path. That’s why I’m such a fan — because it taught me to question the usual narratives, to see the good in others, and to believe that anyone can rise above their challenges. In short, Wicked changed everything I thought I knew about a classic story and gave me a new perspective on what it means to be “wicked.” It’s a story that stays with me, inspiring me to be brave and true to myself every day.

The Girl With All The “Nonsense”! Charli XCX is known for her fearless, bold, and innovative approach to pop music, and her song “Nonsense” from the CRASH album perfectly captures that energy. Out of all the tracks on the album, “Nonsense” stands out as my favorite because it’s playful, catchy, and full of confidence — qualities that really resonate with me. From the first beat, “Nonsense” grabs your attention with its upbeat tempo and sparkling production. The song feels like a breath of fresh air — it’s fun without being superficial, and rebellious without being aggressive. Charli’s voice is both sweet and strong, and the lyrics are filled with witty, flirtatious lines that make you smile. It’s the kind of song that puts you in a good mood instantly, and I find myself playing it on repeat whenever I need a boost of energy or confidence. What really makes “Nonsense” special to me is the way it celebrates joy and self-expression. The song isn’t about overthinking or being perfect — it’s about embracing the silly, spontaneous moments in life. Charli sings about wanting a partner who can match her vibe, keep up with her energy, and share in those carefree, fun experiences. That message hits home because it’s a reminder to not take everything too seriously and to enjoy life’s little pleasures. Beyond just being a great pop song, “Nonsense” feels like a statement of empowerment. Charli XCX has always been a trailblazer who pushes boundaries, and this track shows how you can be confident and unapologetically yourself. Listening to “Nonsense” encourages me to embrace my own quirks and not worry about fitting into anyone else’s expectations. In a world where music can sometimes feel formulaic or heavy, “Nonsense” is a bright, playful escape that still carries a deeper message about self-love and living authentically. It’s a perfect example of how Charli XCX blends catchy pop with personality and meaning. For these reasons, “Nonsense” isn’t just my favorite song on CRASH — it’s a personal anthem that lifts me up and reminds me to be bold, have fun, and never be afraid to be myself.

Why I’m a Fan of Sabrina Carpenter — and How She’s Shaped Me I’ve been a fan of Sabrina Carpenter since I was a kid, long before she became the pop sensation she is today. For me, it all started with Girl Meets World. I looked up to her character, Maya Hart — a girl who was strong, bold, sarcastic, and carried a lot more than she let on. Even at a young age, I could tell there was depth behind her confidence, and I connected with that. Maya made me feel like it was okay not to have everything together — that it was okay to be a little messy, emotional, and still be powerful. Watching Sabrina play her so honestly gave me someone to relate to when I didn’t feel like I fit into the typical mold. As I grew up, so did Sabrina. Her music career took off, and it’s been inspiring to see how she’s grown into her voice — not just vocally, but personally and artistically. What makes her stand out to me is how fearless she is in owning who she is. She sings about heartbreak, confusion, confidence, jealousy, and growth in ways that feel authentic and unfiltered. Whether it’s the empowering sass of “Feather” or the raw vulnerability in “Because I Liked a Boy,” Sabrina’s music has helped me process my own emotions — especially during the times I’ve struggled with self-worth or change. Sabrina also shows that you don’t have to choose between being sweet and strong — you can be both. Her confidence and determination have pushed me to believe in myself more, even when things feel uncertain. She’s taught me the power of expressing yourself without apologizing for it, and that message has stuck with me through high school and into planning my future. From a Disney Channel star to a chart-topping artist, Sabrina Carpenter’s journey reminds me that you can grow, evolve, and still stay true to your heart — and that’s exactly what I want to do in my own life.

The Billie Eilish Songs That Speak to My Soul Music has always been something I turn to for comfort, clarity, and understanding — especially during hard times. Billie Eilish is one of the few artists who puts feelings into words in a way that makes you stop, think, and feel everything at once. Her music is honest, emotional, and raw — just like life. Out of all her songs, three resonate with me the most: “Everything I Wanted,” “My Future,” and “TV.” “Everything I Wanted” is a song that completely wraps around you. It talks about what it’s like to chase dreams but still feel lost or unseen — something a lot of people, especially young people, experience but don’t talk about. The lyrics, “I had a dream / I got everything I wanted / not what you’d think,” hit hard because sometimes success or reaching a goal doesn’t fix the sadness underneath. It reminds me to stay grounded and surround myself with people who care, like how Billie sings about her brother always being there for her. That unconditional support is something I value deeply. “My Future” is another song that I hold close. It’s so rare to hear a song about loving who you’re becoming and looking forward to what’s ahead. This song came to me at a time when I was trying to figure out what I wanted — in life, in college, in my career — and it made me feel like it’s okay not to have it all figured out. “I’m in love with my future / Can’t wait to meet her” gave me a sense of peace and excitement about the unknown, instead of fear. That mindset has helped me keep moving forward. Lastly, “TV” is one of her more stripped-down songs, but emotionally it’s one of the heaviest. It talks about numbness, growing up, and feeling like the world is falling apart around you while you’re trying to stay normal. “The internet’s gone wild watching movie stars on trial / While they’re overturning Roe v. Wade,” really made me stop. Billie captures that helpless feeling — like you care so much about what’s happening in the world, but you also feel powerless. That line reminded me why I want to make a positive impact, no matter how small. These three songs aren’t just music to me — they’re lifelines. They remind me I’m not alone in how I feel and encourage me to keep becoming the best version of myself. Billie Eilish has helped me sit with my emotions and turn them into motivation — and that’s something I’ll always be grateful for.

Paws with Purpose: Making a Difference, One Pet at a Time Animals have always been a part of who I am. I don’t just love them — I feel deeply connected to them. From the time I was a baby, I was surrounded by pets who weren’t just animals, but family. One of my earliest and most cherished memories involves my black lab-border collie mix, Sambo. When my parents brought me home from the hospital, they nervously placed my carrier on the living room floor, unsure how he’d react. He slowly approached me, sniffed, and then gently placed a kiss on my forehead. That single moment shaped how I view animals: as protectors, companions, and healers. Sadly, Sambo passed away in 2014, and over the years, more of my childhood pets followed. Each loss was painful — it felt like saying goodbye to a part of myself. The most difficult goodbye came in 2023 when my grandmother’s Boxer, Brock, passed away. She adored Boxers, and Brock was part of the family. With his passing, it felt like all my childhood animal friends were gone. But instead of letting that pain turn into hopelessness, it turned into purpose. I realized that animals had spent my entire life giving me unconditional love and joy — and I wanted to dedicate my life to giving that back. Since 2022, I’ve volunteered at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, helping care for dogs and cats waiting for their forever homes. It’s one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. We even adopted our current cat from that shelter, making the connection even more meaningful. Being part of a team that gives animals a second chance at life made me realize how powerful small actions can be. Just walking a nervous dog, brushing a matted coat, or sitting quietly with a shy cat can mean everything to an animal who’s been through hardship. Outside of volunteering, I’ve been heavily involved in school and community activities. I’m an FFA member, where I’ve learned about responsibility, animal care, and the connection between agriculture and ethical treatment of animals. I’m also a three-sport athlete — involved in field hockey, cheerleading, and softball — and have served three years on student council and even joined mathletes for a year. These experiences have helped me grow into a hardworking, reliable, and team-oriented person, all traits that I know will serve me well in my future. To turn my passion into a lifelong career, I plan to major in business. My dream is to open my own dog grooming salon and eventually expand into training and boarding services. I want to create a space where animals are treated with love and dignity, and where their owners feel confident and supported. My long-term goal is to partner with shelters and local rescues so I can use my business to give back to the animal community that shaped me. This isn’t just about a career — it’s about honoring the animals who helped raise me and giving future generations of pets and people a safe, welcoming space. I believe even small acts of compassion can ripple into something greater. That’s the kind of impact I want to make — one paw at a time.

Learning to Lead Myself First I used to think prioritizing mental health meant something dramatic—like stepping away from school or asking for a therapist. But for me, it looked like getting out of bed when I didn’t want to. Showing up to practice when I felt invisible. Choosing to be kind when I was hurting. My biggest moment of prioritizing my mental and emotional health didn’t happen all at once—it happened slowly, day by day, over the course of the hardest sports season of my life. I had been waiting for my moment in field hockey since freshman year. As a defender, I had spent seasons sitting behind upperclassmen, quietly doing the work, believing my time would come. Before my senior year, the team’s top senior defender told me, “You’re going to lead them next year.” I carried that sentence like a promise. And for a while, it felt like it was coming true—I made varsity, I was starting, I felt proud of who I was and how far I’d come. But then, slowly, things began to shift. I started getting pulled from the field without explanation. A freshman took my position. Game after game, my confidence slipped further away. At the same time, my best friend on the team stopped coming to practice altogether. I tried to get her to come back, checked in constantly, but nothing changed. People began asking me where she was, as if I was responsible for her absence. The weight of everything—losing my spot, losing my friend, trying to pretend I was fine—pushed me into one of the most emotionally draining experiences I’ve ever had. Still, I chose to show up. I prioritized my mental and emotional well-being by leaning into small, quiet forms of self-care. I stayed off social media to protect my peace. I journaled. I reached out to my parents and one trusted friend outside the team, because I realized I needed support too. I reminded myself daily that my worth wasn’t tied to my playing time. I found ways to be a leader even from the bench. And most importantly, I learned how to sit with hard feelings instead of burying them. By the end of the season, we had won both the Berkshire League and, for the first time in over 22 years, the Class S State Title. I barely played in the final games. And yet, I was proud—not just of my team, but of myself. Because I didn’t give up. I protected my peace. I kept my dignity. I chose growth over resentment. That experience changed the way I prepare for everything—school, work, and life. I now know that emotional health is not a luxury; it’s a foundation. I know how to check in with myself, how to set boundaries, and how to stay grounded when things don’t go as planned. I plan to carry those lessons forward into college and beyond. Because no matter what I choose to do, I want to do it as someone who knows how to care for herself—and how to show up for others, even in the hard moments.

My Passion for Animals and Plans to Make a Difference Animals have always been my closest friends and biggest comfort. Growing up, my family always had at least one dog, and they were more than pets — they were part of my heart. One of the most important bonds I had was with my dog, Sambo, a black lab-border collie mix. When I was born, my parents were worried about how he’d react to having a baby in the house. But the moment they brought me home, they placed me on the floor in my baby carrier, and Sambo carefully approached, gently placing a kiss on my forehead. That moment showed me what unconditional love really means. Losing Sambo in 2014 was heartbreaking. He wasn’t just a dog — he was my protector, my playmate, and my constant companion. Growing up without him left a hole in my heart, but it also deepened my commitment to animals and their wellbeing. Over the years, one by one, my beloved animal friends passed away. The hardest loss came in 2023, when my grandmother’s Boxer, Brock, who had been like family to me, passed away. With Brock gone, it felt like all my childhood animal friends were lost. It was incredibly painful, but it made me realize even more how precious and fragile the lives of animals are — and how important it is to care for them deeply. Since 2022, I have volunteered at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society, giving time and love to shelter animals who need a second chance. It’s been humbling and rewarding to support animals in need, knowing how much they rely on kindness and care. As a member of FFA, I’ve learned the responsibilities involved in animal care and agriculture. I now understand that loving animals means more than just affection — it requires leadership, knowledge, and dedication. I plan to major in business to open my own dog grooming salon, with hopes to expand into training and boarding. My dream is to create a place where every animal feels safe, loved, and respected, and where owners can trust that their pets are in the best hands. Animals have shaped who I am. Their love and loyalty have carried me through tough times, and now I want to dedicate my life to giving back to them — to making a difference in their lives the way they’ve made in mine.

Why Animal Care Is My Purpose My name is Sheyenne Schultz, and for as long as I can remember, animals have played an important role in my life. From growing up with pets to volunteering at an animal shelter, I’ve always felt a deep connection to animals — one that has shaped who I am and who I want to become. Caring for animals isn’t just something I enjoy; it’s something that grounds me, inspires me, and gives me purpose. Since the summer of 2022, I’ve been volunteering at the New Milford Animal Welfare Society. There, I care for dogs and cats in need of comfort, structure, and a second chance. It was through that experience that my family adopted our cat — one of the animals I’d helped care for. That moment made everything feel full circle. We also have a dog named Lily, who has been part of our family for nine years. These animals are more than pets to me — they’re the reason I’ve found my passion. I’m also a proud member of FFA. Through FFA, I’ve learned that agriculture isn’t just about farming — it’s about responsibility, leadership, and understanding the systems that support both animals and communities. The organization has helped me connect my love for animals with bigger ideas like sustainability, business planning, and education. It has given me the foundation to pursue animal care in a meaningful and informed way. My ultimate goal is to own my own dog grooming and pet care business, with hopes of expanding into boarding and training services. I plan to major in business in college to build the skills I need to turn this dream into reality. I want to create a space where animals feel safe and loved and where pet owners can trust their companions are in good hands. Outside of my work with animals, I stay active in school and extracurriculars. I play field hockey, cheerlead, and play softball. I’ve served three years on student council and spent a year with Mathletes. These activities have helped me develop discipline, confidence, and the ability to juggle responsibilities — all traits that will serve me well as I move forward in school and business. Animal care has never been just a hobby for me — it’s a calling. Whether I’m brushing a nervous shelter cat, helping an FFA teammate, or walking Lily around the neighborhood, I feel at peace and on purpose. Animals have always been there for me, and now I want to spend my life being there for them. That’s why I care so deeply about agriculture and animal care — because they reflect everything I believe in: hard work, compassion, and creating something that matters.

Some of the hardest moments I’ve faced in high school never showed up on a scoreboard or a transcript. They didn’t come from failing a test or losing a game. They came from smiling through quiet disappointment, pretending I was okay when I wasn’t, and carrying emotional weight I didn’t know how to share. It wasn’t just about stress—it was about self-worth, identity, and feeling like I had to hold it all together while everything was unraveling. Mental health matters to me because I’ve lived through the kind of struggle that no one talks about—the kind where you feel alone in a room full of people. In field hockey, I spent years waiting my turn. I trained hard, supported my teammates, and stayed patient as I stood behind older, more experienced defenders. I believed my time would come. And eventually, it did. A senior told me, “Next year, you’ll lead them.” That moment fueled me. I trained all summer, ready to lead, ready to finally have the role I had worked so long to earn. At first, it was everything I imagined. I made varsity and earned a starting spot. But slowly, as the season progressed, I was pulled from the field. Without warning or explanation, a freshman took my place. Every game I watched from the sidelines, my confidence slipped further away. At the same time, my best friend—one of the people I leaned on most—suddenly stopped showing up to practice. I tried to help her, asked her to come back, but she kept making excuses. Meanwhile, teammates and coaches started asking me where she was, like it was my fault. I felt stuck—managing my own mental spiral while being silently blamed for someone else’s absence. I didn’t quit. I kept showing up. And by the end of the season, we had won both the Berkshire League and, for the first time in 22 years, the Class S State Title. But I barely played. I watched from the sideline as the team succeeded in my position. It was both beautiful and heartbreaking. What I learned from that experience has shaped me forever. I learned that mental health is not optional. It’s not a side note to school or sports—it’s central to how we function, how we grow, and how we support others. Now, I advocate for mental health in small but intentional ways. I’m the friend who checks in, even when nothing seems wrong. I normalize talking about stress, burnout, and disappointment. I lead with empathy, especially when someone seems distant or off. I’ve learned that being there for someone doesn’t always mean solving their problems—it often means just listening and letting them know they aren’t alone. As a student, I know how much pressure we’re under. That’s why I speak up about my own experience—because if one person hears it and realizes they’re not the only one struggling, then I’ve already made a difference.

I waited years for my moment! For years, I tied my self-worth to a jersey, a starting position, and the belief that if I just worked hard and waited my turn, I’d be rewarded. As a defender on my high school field hockey team, I spent seasons on the sidelines behind a deep lineup. I trained. I watched. I waited. And finally, I was told it was my time. A graduating senior—the best defender on the team—looked me in the eyes and said, “Next year, you’ll lead them.” I believed her. I carried those words with me through the off-season, pushed myself physically, and showed up confident and ready. At first, things went as I imagined: I made varsity, started strong, and found my voice on the field. But as the season progressed and the pressure increased, I was slowly replaced—by a freshman. No conversation. No explanation. One day I was in, the next day I was watching from the sideline. It crushed me mentally. I felt invisible. Years of quiet dedication felt like they had vanished overnight. To make it worse, my best friend—who had always been one of my biggest supporters—stopped coming to practice entirely. I tried everything to get her back. She avoided me, made excuses, and slowly drifted away. Meanwhile, teammates and coaches asked me where she was, like I should have the answer, like it was somehow my responsibility. That season became one of the hardest mental battles I’ve ever faced. I wasn’t just dealing with lost playing time—I was grieving the version of the season, and the relationships, I had imagined. But I didn’t quit. I kept showing up, even when no one noticed. I supported the team. I kept practicing. I chose to lead quietly. We ended up winning the Berkshire League. Then, for the first time in 22 years, our school won the Class S State Title. And I barely played in those final games. In my position stood a freshman who had only played once before this year. It would be easy to say I was just proud of the team—and I was—but the truth is, I also had to grieve. That experience forced me to rethink what leadership, self-worth, and mental strength really mean. I realized that showing up when it hurts takes more courage than playing when things go your way. Now, my understanding of mental health is more personal and more important than ever. I believe in checking in with myself emotionally, not just pushing through pain. I value resilience, quiet strength, and empathy. I’ve also become someone others feel safe confiding in—and that’s shaped my career aspirations. I want to work in a field where I can support others through challenges, where I can be the kind of steady presence I wish I had when I was struggling. Mental health is no longer something I ignore or push aside—it’s something I prioritize. It’s helped me grow into someone who knows how to stand tall, even when I’m not in the spotlight.

Past, Present, and Stinson! It only took one class with Mr. Stinson to realize I had never actually seen the world before. I had only just been looking at it. Junior year, I walked into Social Studies expecting the usual: lectures, textbook chapters, quizzes. But Mr. Stinson had a completely different approach. He didn’t teach like he was delivering a lesson—he taught like he was starting a conversation. The first time he threw out the day’s plan to talk about something happening in the news, I thought he was getting off track. But then, like magic, he would connect it back to history—clearly, powerfully, effortlessly. Suddenly, what felt like a casual discussion transformed into something much deeper. And the best part? It all made sense. He had this way of pulling the curtain back on the world. He would start by asking what we thought about a current event—something happening that week, something real. Then he’d guide us through the bigger picture, helping us see how it tied back to events, systems, or movements from the past. Whether we were talking about foreign policy, voting laws, or protests, Mr. Stinson made us see how history wasn’t separate from our lives. It was our lives. That class changed how I see the world. Before, I took things at face value. I didn’t question headlines or wonder why things were the way they were. I thought history was just about dates and battles. Mr. Stinson showed me it’s about patterns, people, and power—how decisions ripple through time, how nothing happens in isolation, and how everything connects. Because of him, I stopped being a passive observer. I started asking better questions. I started thinking critically, not just in class, but everywhere—when reading the news, having conversations, or even scrolling online. He gave me tools I didn’t even know I needed: perspective, skepticism, empathy, curiosity. He didn’t just open my eyes—he gave me a new lens. What sticks with me most is how Mr. Stinson made everything feel relevant. He made education feel alive. There were no “units” or “sections”—there were just ideas, movements, and truths that we explored together. He treated us like thinkers, not just students. He didn’t ask us to memorize—he asked us to understand. And that changed everything for me. Thanks to him, I now care more deeply about the world around me. I want to know not just what’s happening, but why it’s happening and what came before. I don’t feel disconnected from history anymore. I feel grounded in it. And more importantly, I feel responsible—to stay informed, to stay curious, and to use what I learn to think and act more wisely. Mr. Stinson didn’t just teach me Social Studies. He taught me how to see clearly—and that has shaped who I am and who I’m becoming.