Success, to me, isn’t defined by a single moment or achievement. It’s a collection of experiences that build upon one another, a journey of personal growth and learning that allows me to make a positive impact in my community and beyond. At the heart of my definition of success is the ability to be true to myself, to live in alignment with my values, and to use my skills and passions to help others. One of the most significant experiences that shaped my view of success was the loss of my grandmother, Linda Kitchen. Her zest for life and her adventurous spirit, as a storm chaser, has always been an inspiration to me. She taught me that the pursuit of something bigger than myself could bring immense joy and fulfillment. In the wake of her passing, I was forced to confront some of my own emotional challenges, including a period of deep depression. But I came to realize that success isn’t about avoiding hardships—it’s about learning from them, growing stronger, and using those lessons to better navigate the future. My grandmother’s influence, her ability to live fully despite difficulties, is a guiding force in my life, one that drives me to approach each new day with a sense of possibility and purpose. In recent years, my idea of success has evolved to include not just personal growth but also the impact I can have on others. I’m passionate about travel and cultural exchange, and I believe that the world can be a better place when people connect across borders and experiences. This belief has fueled my career aspirations to eventually open a hostel in Scottsdale, Arizona—a place that embodies the sense of community, exploration, and hospitality that I experienced in my own travels. I envision a space where people from all over the world can come together, share stories, and leave with a greater appreciation for each other’s cultures. I see this project not just as a business venture, but as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by fostering connection and promoting understanding. This vision of success is rooted in my education and my commitment to personal and professional growth. I am currently working toward a degree in marketing with a minor in entrepreneurship at Grand Canyon University. This opportunity to pursue my education has already been transformative, not only equipping me with practical skills but also shaping my understanding of what it takes to build something meaningful from the ground up. As I learn more about branding, strategy, and business management, I am gaining the tools I need to turn my dream of opening a hostel into a reality. The chance to continue my education through this scholarship would allow me to focus more deeply on my studies, reducing the financial strain and enabling me to dedicate myself fully to achieving my goals. Success, to me, also includes the ability to help others along the way. One of the most rewarding things I’ve done is volunteer with teens in my community. I host a monthly game night for a group of homeschooled teens, and through this, I’ve learned so much about the power of connection and mentorship. I see how valuable these interactions are for young people who may feel isolated or disconnected, and it reinforces my belief in the importance of creating spaces where individuals can feel heard, valued, and supported. As I look toward my future, I want to build more opportunities for connection, whether it’s through my hostel project, volunteering, or simply being there for others when they need it. This scholarship represents a significant opportunity for me to continue working toward the life I envision for myself. It would ease the financial burden of my education and provide me with the time and resources to focus on my goals. The chance to pursue my degree without the constant stress of balancing work and school would allow me to dive deeper into my studies and extracurricular activities, ensuring I am as prepared as possible for the entrepreneurial path I want to take. Ultimately, success for me isn’t about wealth or status—it’s about the ability to live a fulfilling, meaningful life while helping others do the same. The opportunity to continue my education with the support of this scholarship will bring me one step closer to realizing my dreams, and I am determined to use that opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact in my community and beyond.

Persistence and a love of adventure have been essential in shaping my life and aspirations. Whether I was folding an endless pile of laundry in a London hostel, navigating new cultures across 17 countries, or balancing the challenges of earning a degree in business and marketing at Grand Canyon University, I’ve learned that determination and adaptability open doors to growth. Through these experiences, I have also discovered a deep appreciation for connecting with people from all walks of life. These qualities have shaped my vision of owning a travel agency that inspires and empowers others to explore the world. Working at a London hostel was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences I’ve had. Every day brought new tasks, from managing linens to preparing meals for large groups and coordinating with guests from diverse backgrounds. While the tasks themselves were practical, they required more than logistical skills. Listening to guests’ stories, solving their problems, and creating a welcoming environment taught me the importance of communication. I learned how to connect with others through shared experiences, understanding their needs and finding ways to exceed their expectations. These lessons in building relationships will be invaluable when I create personalized, meaningful travel experiences for future clients. My passion for travel has always gone hand in hand with my love for people. Visiting 17 countries and immersing myself in different cultures has been as much about learning as it has been about building connections. I’ve shared meals with strangers who became lifelong friends, relied on locals for guidance, and learned to communicate despite language barriers. These moments taught me that travel is about relationships—bridging differences, fostering understanding, and creating memories with others. They also deepened my desire to craft opportunities for others to form these connections through travel. Earning my business and marketing degree is helping me turn this vision into a reality. Through my studies, I’m gaining the skills to build a company that combines the practical aspects of travel planning with a focus on human connection. I want my agency to offer more than just itineraries; I want it to offer experiences that bring people together, celebrate diversity, and leave travelers with a sense of fulfillment and joy. Every experience—whether handling daily hostel operations, hosting game nights for teens, or engaging with people from different backgrounds—has prepared me for this path. With tenacity as my foundation, a love of adventure as my compass, and a genuine passion for people as my guide, I’m determined to create a travel agency that inspires others to see the world and connect with it in meaningful ways.

My grandfather was a larger-than-life figure—a cowboy, a doctor, and a descendant of Arizona’s earliest settlers, whose incredible journey still inspires me today. His life seemed larger than life—a blend of rugged frontier spirit and a deep sense of duty to others. But to pay for medical school, he enlisted in the United States Navy. It wasn’t until his funeral ten years ago, when he received a three-gun salute and my uncle was presented with the folded American flag, that I truly understood how profoundly his service shaped his life and legacy. He joined the Navy right after World War II and was sent to Pacific post-war islands, a place and time that profoundly influenced his worldview. When I was little, he would tell me stories about his time there—stories that, as a child, seemed almost mythical. He spoke of dismantling and sinking equipment left by the troops after the war. He explained that it was cheaper to destroy these supplies than to ship them back to the United States. Having grown up during the Great Depression on an isolated ranch in Arizona, he was deeply troubled by the waste. His tales of resourcefulness and resilience shaped my own understanding of appreciating what we have. One of my favorite stories was about trading leftover silk parachutes to island locals in exchange for food and drink. I remember imagining the scene: a young sailor bartering silk for bananas or fish, forming a bridge between two cultures through necessity and ingenuity. Those parachutes, symbols of survival during the war, became symbols of human connection in a time of rebuilding. When he returned home, his journey was far from over. Thanks to the GI Bill, he was able to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor—a path that, without his military service, might have been out of reach. He often said that it was the discipline he learned in the Navy that kept him focused during the long, grueling years of medical school. That discipline, coupled with the work ethic he had forged on the ranch, made him the steadfast and compassionate man I admired so much. As a doctor, he carried the lessons of his service with him—an unshakable calm under pressure, a dedication to service, and a keen understanding of humanity in all its forms. To this day, his stories and legacy remind me that resilience, hard work, and a sense of purpose can carry us through even the most challenging circumstances. His life, though rooted in Arizona’s frontier, stretched far beyond it, leaving an impact that continues to inspire me.

My father, an avid cyclist, finds joy in embarking on epic cross-city bike rides. One time my mom dropped him off in Cave Creek at the very beginning of Scottsdale Road, which was unpaved. He followed it south over thirty-five miles all the way to Tempe where it eventually petered out into a suburban neighborhood. I have accompanied him on some of his shorter adventures, and they have become cherished moments of connection between us. However, these experiences have also heightened my awareness of the challenges cyclists face on our roadways, particularly when it comes to safety. Cycling with my father has given me a unique perspective on the risks associated with road biking. Although he tries to use sidewalks when available and often explores canal routes, I still find myself worrying about his safety, especially in areas where infrastructure for cyclists is lacking. Narrow lanes, poorly maintained bike paths, and inattentive drivers create hazardous conditions for cyclists. I’ve witnessed firsthand the need for more dedicated bike lanes, better signage, and public awareness campaigns to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. This shared passion for cycling and my concern for my father’s well-being have inspired me to think about ways to improve our roadways and support the cycling community. My long-term goal is to advocate for safer infrastructure and policies that prioritize cyclists. I envision working with local governments and organizations to develop more bike-friendly cities, where cyclists of all ages and skill levels can ride without fear. Additionally, I hope to use my marketing background to create campaigns that educate drivers and cyclists alike about sharing the road responsibly. One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned from accompanying my father is the importance of community. The cycling community is a vibrant network of people who support one another, share tips, and rally for positive change. This sense of camaraderie inspires me to contribute to initiatives that bring cyclists together while promoting their safety and rights. For example, I hope to collaborate with local cycling clubs to organize events that not only celebrate the joy of biking but also advocate for improved road conditions and infrastructure. Another priority for me is addressing accessibility. Cycling should be an option for everyone, regardless of their background or location. By working to ensure that bike lanes and shared paths are integrated into urban planning, especially as Arizona continues expanding in population, I hope to make cycling a safer, more practical choice for transportation and recreation. Ultimately, my goal is to honor the adventurous spirit that my father embodies while ensuring that future generations of cyclists can enjoy the roads with confidence and security. I love our weekend rides along Scottsdale’s green belt that end in a well earned breakfast, and I hope to have many more years to share these with him by keeping the roads safe for cyclists.

Dancing Through Life: How Wicked Sparked My Love For Theater The night I saw Wicked with my mom was pure magic—a whirlwind of powerful songs, unforgettable characters, and a story that left me dreaming long after the curtain fell. From the moment the curtain rose, I was transported to the magical world of Oz, captivated by the powerful performances, elaborate costumes, and enchanting storyline. The songs, like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good,” left a lasting impact, with lyrics that resonated deeply with me. Watching Elphaba defy expectations and rise above her challenges inspired me in ways I hadn't expected. It was more than just a night at the theater—it was the beginning of a lifelong love for the performing arts. That night sparked a passion for theater that quickly grew into something much more. Inspired by the emotions and storytelling on stage, I began seeking opportunities to become involved in theater myself. At first, I helped backstage, learning the ropes from behind the scenes. Before long, I was on stage as well, relishing the chance to step into different roles and bring stories to life. Each show, every role, felt like another chance to experience the magic I’d first felt watching Wicked with my mom. The thrill of performing and the camaraderie of theater filled me with a sense of purpose and joy. Wicked holds a unique place in my heart, not only because it inspired my involvement in theater but also because it represents a special bond with my mother. We still catch shows several times a year together. Sometimes it's a big production, like Wicked, but more often we support our community theater. However, the magic of that first night remains with me, reminding me that sometimes, we can defy gravity and reach new heights when we’re passionate about what we do.

Paying Kindness Forward: A Grandmother's Wisdom Creating a safe, fun space for teens has become one of my greatest passions. Through organizing a monthly game night for homeschooled teens, I’m able to give them a welcoming environment where they can unwind, connect, and simply have a good time. In today’s fast-paced world, where social media and school pressures often dominate their lives, I wanted to provide an escape—a place where real connections can happen, where they feel seen, valued, and respected. Game nights have become a powerful way for me to support and uplift young people. Watching them bond over friendly competition, celebrate small wins, and even navigate the occasional loss reminds me how these experiences shape character and build resilience. Some teens walk in shy or reserved, but as the evening progresses, their confidence starts to shine. Creating this space where they can open up, be themselves, and form new friendships is incredibly rewarding. It shows me, time and again, that sometimes, just having a space to feel included and supported makes all the difference. My drive to help others, especially teens, comes largely from my grandmother, who has been one of the biggest influences in my life. She always taught me to look beyond first impressions and try to see the good in everyone. Growing up, she’d often remind me that every person has a story and that a little kindness can go a long way. Her wisdom has been my guiding light, especially in my work with teens. Each young person I meet brings a unique story, perspective, and personality, and my grandmother’s advice has shaped how I approach every interaction—with patience, empathy, and understanding. By looking for the good in each person, I can better connect with and support them, no matter their background or challenges. As I move forward in life, I hold onto the values my grandmother instilled in me. Seeing the best in others, even when it’s not obvious, has allowed me to create lasting, supportive connections with the teens I work with. Through game nights, I hope to keep inspiring them to see the best in themselves and each other. Helping these teens discover joy, confidence, and connection is incredibly fulfilling, and I’m grateful for the chance to be a part of their lives. It’s my way of honoring my grandmother’s legacy, paying her kindness forward, one game night at a time.

Brandon Repola Memorial Scholarship Sophia Kitchen Grand Canyon University Marketing Major From Wanderlust to Wisdom I am a fourth generation Arizonan. I come from a family of cattle ranchers and entrepreneurs that helped to lay the foundation for this beautiful state. The second of five children, I learned responsibility early on. But, it wasn’t until graduating that I found my true passion: travel. In the past three years, I embarked on a solo journey across seventeen countries, recording my adventures along the way. Although often portrayed as glamorous by social media, travel can be dangerous. With a degree in marketing my goal is to highlight exotic locations and to bring safety awareness to fellow travelers. I like to feel that I am carrying on a family tradition of pioneering and adventure. With my collected experiences, both marvelous and miserable, I’ve developed a personal mission to shed light on the unrealistic standards shown by social media. As an avid solo traveler, I've fallen victim to the dangers of unrealistic expectations pushed by other travel influencers. I've dedicated myself to creating my own online presence in order to advocate for responsible travel. With hundreds of hours, my content is entertaining and informative. Check it out! My handle is @Podper. Self-funded, each step has been a testament to resilience and growth. I am currently working on a novelization of my trip to London. At one point I was stranded and had to become extremely resourceful to get by. This experience was an inspiration for a cautionary tale to other dreamy-eyed travelers. With an entertaining story line, I want to encourage people to explore the world, but with eyes wide open. I'm close to the editing phase of my book, and I hope to self publish my work within the year, and of course use my online presence to market it. Recognizing the power of the media to shape thought, I've embarked on a marketing degree. I am an innovative thinker and am drawn to the ever-evolving nature of advertising. It’s exciting to keep up with current trends, especially in the sphere of social media and digital marketing. It's the perfect medium for me to make a living while doing something I am passionate about. I’m excited to continue my education and apply what I’ve learned to make real change. Arizona will always be my home, but traveling has afforded me a widening perspective and a greater empathy for others. My journey from wanderlust to wisdom is proof of the transformative power that comes from seeking independence in a part of the world that is unfamiliar. As I continue to collect experiences and contacts abroad, I will eventually plan, market, and lead unforgettable trips. I'm committed to empowering fellow travelers to navigate the globe with awareness, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for differing cultures and landscapes.

Since the age of eighteen, I have embarked on an extraordinary journey to travel the world with nothing but determination and resourcefulness. Self-funded, each step has been a testament to resilience and growth. Traveling has afforded me a widening perspective and a greater empathy. It has shifted my worldview making me appreciate my own culture while enjoying the uniqueness of others. Unfortunately, travel is not always as glamorous as it is portrayed in the media. I am currently working on a novelization of one of my experiences. London, a city I thought would be safe, is where I experienced the worst of solo travel. In exchange for bed and dinner, I volunteered for a month in a youth hostel. We volunteers worked through illness and lack of food and rest. Our schedule would consist of overnight duties immediately followed by a late morning shift. We were too exhausted to explore London, part of the purpose for volunteering there. Eventually, I advocated for better working conditions, and as a result, was immediately asked to leave with no notice and little money. In a city of strangers, I had to become extremely resourceful to get by. A few months later I learned that the hostel had closed. This experience was an inspiration for a cautionary tale to other dreamy-eyed girls. I'm close to the editing phase of my book, and I hope to self publish my work within the year. With my collected experiences, both marvelous and miserable, I’ve developed a personal mission to shed light on the unrealistic standards shown by social media. As an avid solo traveler, I've fallen victim to the dangers of unrealistic expectations pushed by other travel influencers. I've dedicated myself to creating my own online presence in order to advocate for responsible travel. With hundreds of hours, my content is entertaining and informative. Recognizing the power of the media to shape thought, I've embarked on a marketing degree. My ultimate goal is to educate regarding safe travel. I am an innovative thinker and am drawn to the ever-evolving nature of advertising. It’s exciting to keep up with current marketing trends, especially in the sphere of social media. It's the perfect medium for me to make a living while doing something I am passionate about. My journey from wanderlust to wisdom is proof of the transformative power that comes from seeking independence in a part of the world that is unfamiliar. I'm committed to empowering fellow travelers, especially young women, to navigate the globe with awareness, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for differing cultures and landscapes.

Since the age of eighteen, I have embarked on an extraordinary journey to travel the world with nothing but my determination and resourcefulness. Self-funded and devoid of parental guidance, each step of my journey has been a testament to resilience and survival. But past the exotic locales and cultural immersion, I've encountered the harsh realities of life and what it means to become an adult. I have experienced homelessness, work exploitation, and life-threatening illnesses in foreign countries, and survived harsh living conditions. However, each challenge became a moment for personal growth, fortifying my resolve and opening my worldview. Central to my travels has been a mission to shed light on the unrealistic standards shown by social media. As an avid solo traveler, I've witnessed firsthand the dangers of unrealistic expectations pushed by influencers. I've dedicated myself to creating an online presence of my own in order to advocate responsible travel. I am currently working on a novelization of one of my experiences. In London, a city I thought would be safe, is where I experienced the worst of solo travel. In a hostel, I volunteered for a month to the point of exhaustion. I often worked through illnesses (scarlett fever at one point) and lack of food and rest. Volunteers would work for eighteen hours straight, several days in a row. It wasn’t until I advocated for better working conditions that I was kicked out and left homeless with little money. In a city of strangers, I had to find courage and resolve. I'm close to the editing phase, and I hope to self publish my work within the year. Recognizing the power of education, I've embarked on a marketing degree. My goal is to amplify my advocacy efforts, reaching a broader audience and effecting real change into the realm of safe travel awareness. I am an innovative thinker and am drawn to the ever-evolving nature of marketing. It’s exciting to keep up with current marketing trends, especially through social media. It's the perfect medium for me to make a living while doing something I'm passionate about. My journey from wanderlust to wisdom is proof of the transformative power that comes from seeking independence in a part of the world that is unfamiliar. I'm committed to empowering fellow travelers, especially young women, to navigate the world with honest awareness, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity it holds. I know I can make a difference. I get limited parental support and this scholarship would help me get one step closer to realizing my dream.

Since the age of eighteen, I have embarked on an extraordinary journey to travel the world with nothing but my determination and resourcefulness. Self-funded and devoid of parental guidance, each step of my journey has been a testament to resilience and survival. But past the exotic locales and cultural immersion, I've encountered the harsh realities of life and what it means to become an adult. I have experienced homelessness, work exploitation, and life-threatening illnesses in foreign countries, and survived harsh living conditions. However, each challenge became a moment for personal growth, fortifying my resolve and opening my worldview. Central to my travels has been a mission to shed light on the unrealistic standards shown by social media. As an avid solo traveler, I've witnessed firsthand the dangers of unrealistic expectations pushed by influencers. I've dedicated myself to creating an online presence of my own in order to advocate responsible travel. I am currently working on a novelization of one of my experiences. In London, a city I thought would be safe, is where I experienced the worst of solo travel. In a hostel, I volunteered for a month to the point of exhaustion. I often worked through illnesses (scarlett fever at one point) and lack of food and rest. Volunteers would work for eighteen hours straight, several days in a row. It wasn’t until I advocated for better working conditions that I was kicked out and left homeless with little money. In a city of strangers, I had to find courage and resolve. I'm close to the editing phase, and I hope to self publish my work within the year. Recognizing the power of education, I've embarked on a marketing degree. My goal is to amplify my advocacy efforts, reaching a broader audience and effecting real change into the realm of safe travel awareness. I am an innovative thinker and am drawn to the ever-evolving nature of marketing. It’s exciting to keep up with current marketing trends, especially through social media. It's the perfect medium for me to make a living while doing something I'm passionate about. My journey from wanderlust to wisdom is proof of the transformative power that comes from seeking independence in a part of the world that is unfamiliar. I'm committed to empowering fellow travelers, especially young women, to navigate the world with honest awareness, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity it holds. I know I can make a difference. I get limited parental support and this scholarship would help me get one step closer to realizing my dream.