As a child, I loved long car rides because I could lose myself in a novel. Reading was the spark that lit the flame of my desire to write. Writing is therapy for me; specifically relieving stress and anxiety. There is something so beautiful and pure about losing yourself in a thrilling, heartwarming storyline. Writing a story that inspires others would be even more rewarding. Some of my favorite authors have inspired me to write a story that others would enjoy and identify with. To me, writing is also a form of art. Drafting a storyline, designing the characters, and painting a backdrop, theoretically of course, is an art form in my mind. In my writing, I hope my first novel communicates some of the personal struggles I have overcome and areas where I am still improving. Writing gives me a chance to share ideas and thoughts with others, through the medium of storytelling! Through my creativity and imagination, I can bring to life a blank page that is difficult to channel through other mediums. I’ve always been a daydreamer, but as an aspiring writer, that is a skill that is quite effective and useful. I’ve spun amazing storylines through chemistry classes, showers, and long car rides. Writing is a form of art that only takes an active imagination, creativity, and something to write with. My writing allows me to express thoughts that I cannot express in conversation or any of my other art forms. Through writing, I can share a side of myself that doesn’t come out in daily life. Different individuals in my books can represent different shades of myself. The misguided rebel is a part of me, just like the confused heroine. Channeling thoughts and ideas from the past day, week, or month can be fantastic fodder for my story. Through crafting a novel, I am transported to areas and places I probably will never visit in real life. Writing also allows me to step out of my comfort zone. As I write, I put my entire heart into my novel, and it is uncomfortable for me to share it even with the people closest to me. To grow personally, emotionally, and mentally, I must step outside of the circle of safety. Through my writing, I can be raw and authentic, but it teaches me to share all parts of myself with others: especially those who know me the best. Writing strengthens my skill set; I enhance my vocabulary, knowledge of different periods, and the complexity of different languages. My grammar and spelling have quite improved, but more than that, I am a better communicator and leader due to my writing. Thinking about how to write a heartbreaking or heartwarming scene makes me rethink real-life conversations and the best way to talk to another person effectively. I can lead others with the best skills possible. After all, I am always looking at different possibilities because my storylines often change and evolve. In conclusion, writing allows me to cultivate personal, academic, and social skills and feel inspired and fulfilled. I can take steps towards self-improvement through an outlet I truly enjoy, whether I ever get published or not. A good author is someone I connect with through their written work, and I hope one day my stories will do the same for someone else.

One of the most powerful words in the human language is hope. Through my career, I hope to bring hope to the hurting, lonely and discouraged. In my dream career, I would serve others as a psychiatrist in my local area, working in pediatric care. In serving others, you serve yourself and the fulfilled “glow” you experience is like none other. My most enjoyable times volunteering have always come when I can combine my passions and interests with a need in our community. I loved working with the children in my church’s WebKidz ministry during Sunday school and Wednesday night activities. Their bright smiles and laughter always serve to bring joy into my day. Whether getting my fingers messy with playdoh or singing and playing instruments, I love getting to spend time with them and tell them Bible stories! Children have a simpler view of looking at things which I find completely refreshing and inspiring. Our hope for the future rests in their hands, and anyway I can make a difference in their lives will be an investment in the world’s fate. Currently, in my hometown, it is hard and uncomfortable for people to ask others, whom they are not familiar with, for help, especially when it comes to mental health. There are also unnecessary roadblocks, such as complex paperwork and the needless jargon of the medical staff which may prevent people from getting the care their family needs and deserves. I can relate to part of their struggle, as I felt for the longest time it was a sign of weakness to ask for the aid of someone else, especially in personal matters. I was always the girl who did everything by herself and did it well. It was both a blessing and a curse because I became used to the frequent successes, I thought that being independent was the only road for me. It also made me afraid of failure and thus, held me back from experiences I should have participated in. I am grateful I no longer believe the lie that asking for help shows weakness, and I can try new things without expecting a 100% success rate. While providing my patients with excellent and personalized care, I always want them to feel welcome and feel like they can be themselves. One of the ways I can assist them in their treatment plan is by making them feel comfortable and showing trustworthiness as they discuss difficult topics. I understand what it is like to take a step back from something that appears and is difficult and give up the chance to succeed and conquer your fears. With my career, I want to give hope and spread restoration to bring a necessary change to our world. There is a real need for physicians who seek to understand their patients and are in the profession to minister to individuals. I wish to fill that gap with my career and serve those who are underrepresented and overlooked in my community. Those who may be afraid to seek help or prevented from receiving help by language or financial obstacles. To me, being a doctor goes beyond wearing a white coat and having the letter M.D. I believe I can bring hope to a broken and distressed world, even by just impacting one life for the better. This scholarship will further assist me along my academic path to restoring hope and joy in the lives of others and remind me that stepping out in faith is never in vain.

One of the most powerful words in the human language is hope. Through my career, I hope to bring hope to the hurting, lonely and discouraged. In my dream career, I would serve others as a psychiatrist in my local area, working in pediatric care. In serving others, you serve yourself and the fulfilled “glow” you experience is like none other. My most enjoyable times volunteering have always come when I can combine my passions and interests with a need in our community. I loved working with the children in my church’s WebKidz ministry during Sunday school and Wednesday night activities. Their bright smiles and laughter always serve to bring joy into my day. Whether getting my fingers messy with playdoh or singing and playing instruments, I love getting to spend time with them and tell them Bible stories! Children have a simpler view of looking at things which I find completely refreshing and inspiring. Our hope for the future rests in their hands, and anyway I can make a difference in their lives, will be an investment in the world’s fate. Currently, in my hometown, it is hard and uncomfortable for people to ask others, whom they are not familiar with, for help, especially when it comes to mental health. There are also unnecessary roadblocks, such as complex paperwork and the needless jargon of the medical staff which may prevent people from getting the care their family needs and deserves. I can relate to part of their struggle, as I felt for the longest time it was a sign of weakness to ask for the aid of someone else, especially in personal matters. I was always the girl who did everything by herself and did it well. It was both a blessing and a curse because I became used to the frequent successes, I thought that being independent was the only road for me. It also made me afraid of failure and thus, held me back from experiences I should have participated in. I am grateful I no longer believe the lie that asking for help shows weakness, and I can try new things without expecting a 100% success rate. While providing my patients with excellent and personalized care, I always want them to feel welcome and feel like they can be themselves. One of the ways I can assist them in their treatment plan is by making them feel comfortable and showing trustworthiness as they discuss difficult topics. I understand what it is like to take a step back from something that appears and is difficult and give up the chance to succeed and conquer your fears. With my career, I want to give hope and spread restoration to bring a necessary change to our world. There is a real need for physicians who seek to understand their patients and are in the profession to minister to individuals. I wish to fill that gap with my career and serve those who are underrepresented and overlooked in my community. Those who may be afraid to seek help or prevented from receiving help by language or financial obstacles. To me, being a doctor goes beyond wearing a white coat and having the letter M.D. I believe I can bring hope to a broken and distressed world, even by just impacting one life for the better. This scholarship will further assist me along my academic path to restoring hope and joy in the lives of others and remind me that stepping out in faith is never in vain.

My name is Stella Walborn, and I want to provide critical care through medicine. My first introduction to health care was when my grandmother was placed in a nursing home. I was often in the nurses' and CNAs' way as I tried to observe everything they did. Tools of the trade, stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs and thermometers looked like fantastic toys to me, but even then I sensed a deeper underlying purpose to it all. Now, being a CNA, I know how to use the tools of the trade, but more importantly, how to make patients feel at ease in an unfamiliar setting. There is something so fulfilling about being able to assist others in such a crucial and needed way. One of the reasons I hope to continue my journey in healthcare and serve as a physician is my love of connecting with others. I have always been the social butterfly of my family simply because I enjoy meeting new people. Through medical care, I hope to meet people where they are and treat their needs with kindness and expertise. Another is the desire to ensure everyone can live life to their personal fullest. There is no reason someone should suffer from a disease or illness that is treatable because they cannot receive help due to cost, language barriers, or terrain. In my local area, it is hard and uncomfortable for people to ask others, who they are not familiar with, for help. Moreover, medical staff and doctors' needless jargon and overwhelming paperwork are even more challenging for them to comprehend. I can relate to their struggle, as I felt for the longest time it was a sign of weakness to ask questions or for the aid of someone else. I was always the girl who did everything by herself and did it well. It was both a blessing and a curse because I became used to the frequent successes, I thought that being independent was the only road for me. It also made me afraid of failure and thus, held me back from experiences I should have at least tried. I am grateful I no longer believe the lie that asking for help shows weakness, and I can try new things without expecting a 100% success rate. I realize that everyone has needed another's help and wisdom along their path to achieving success in life. While I still struggle with the fear of making mistakes, I know that not trying at all would be a greater loss. Numerous people have asked me why I am interested in the medical field, and to be honest, I've struggled to find my reason and put it into words. It comes from a belief that the only thing that lasts in this world is the work we do for others. Throughout my career, I want to give and spread a legacy of hope-filled lives to bring change to our world. There is a real call for physicians who seek to understand their patients and are in the profession to heal individuals. I wish to fill that gap with my career and serve those who are underrepresented and overlooked in my community. The cost may be great, but the idea that I missed my chance to make a difference in someone's life is a sobering thought. In summary, being a doctor is more than wearing a white coat and having M.D. next to your name; it is a responsibility to ensure everyone receives the care they need and deserve no matter what.

I hated change! Transferring colleges at the beginning of my junior year, seemed like a trial I wasn't ready or excited for. I was afraid everyone would have their friends already. I couldn't have been more wrong about my fears about transferring to Western Carolina University from Southwestern Community College. On the first Saturday of the semester, the college-sponsored an event that would help connect us with clubs and organizations on campus. I signed up for numerous clubs to make friends and connections on my new campus. Since then, about 4 months ago, I have served on the leadership team for FEM in STEM promoting diversity in STEM fields, worked with the biology club to brainstorm events for our club, helped direct a goods drive for a local nonprofit, and am currently a member of our start-up honors college book club. One of my favorite extracurriculars has been Campus Outreach! At our orientation, the Dean of Students urged us to be ourselves and not to neglect our beliefs and values just to "fit in" at college. I have truly found a group where I can be myself and find people who are walking alongside me in my personal faith journey. Not only do they sponsor events during school hours, but they also just want to "do life with us" as our leaders often say, so we have evening events and Sunday worship services along with some retreats and conferences! I am also involved with the UP program, a University Participant program that provides the college experience for individuals with intellectual disabilities. It is a wonderful, flexible program where all the volunteers take shifts across the week to spend some quality one-on-one time with the participants doing homework, taking lunch shifts, or dorm chores. My school also encourages us to learn more than just academic important subjects but also cultural key points. I am so grateful to be a part of the Degree Plus Cultural Responsiveness program. In the program, we tackle mental health, oppression, and poverty looking at it through the lenses of different cultures and traditions. Undoubtedly, culture plays a decisive role in understanding life events; a fact that many people may not realize. Now that I am almost at the end of my first semester, I realize that through embracing change and taking brave first steps I found my place. I can not believe how many wonderful, eye-opening opportunities that I am blessed to be a part of. My relatives often ask me, "How do you have time to do your school work and handle home chores?" My answer is the same every time: "I have excellent time management skills". Planners have definitely been my best friend this semester. I find that planning out my week, in the beginning, with all the important class deadlines and assignments helps a lot. Then, I can plug in my social friend dates, club meetings, leadership meetings, advising appointments, and relaxing time. Half of the battle is knowing what I need to do and then making a plan to do it! In conclusion, I have loved every second of my college experience so far. I can almost not believe I was afraid and nervous to start college, that I was afraid of change! Not now; no way! Now I love trying new things, putting myself in new situations, and making new friends! If I could sum up this semester so far, I would say don't be afraid of change because change makes you stronger, and it has inspired me to continue being a leader in my school community.

Imagine living in a world where excessive CO2 is no longer a concern. Doctors can prevent cancer and genetic disorders. There is highly purified air and water available for everyone. Sound like a dream? Thanks to the work of Dr. James Tour, that soon might be our reality. Graphene is making a startling reappearance, and it could change the way we live life. It is composed of a single layer of carbon atoms bonded together in a hexagonal honeycomb. It holds some impressive records: the most robust material ever discovered, best-known conductor of electricity, lightest material, and elastic. Its possibilities are endless, and there are so many uses for graphene in technology and engineering, from purifying air from bacteria and viruses, proving itself as 99.85% against COVID and producing the world's first successful lithium-sulfur battery having 3x the energy storage of lithium-ion batteries and recharging it in minutes. Using graphene, fully scaled biosensors were placed on standard semiconductor chips to predict, prevent, and cure diseases in the biology field. Graphene has also helped create a new generation of light-activated unidirectional molecular nanomachines that can perforate cellular membranes, introducing cell-killing chemicals that the target cell can not resist, perhaps leading to a breakthrough in cancer treatments. Welcome to the age of Carbon and Nanocosm! May it be a wonderful new world with new and exciting possibilities.

Entering high school, I was optimistic. I was going to have not the average high school experience but the best one ever, I decided. I imagined myself hanging out with my friends, going to sleepovers, and being a social butterfly. Yet, I didn't realize one important thing: I had to step out of my comfort zone to have the dream high school experience I wanted. Luckily, I learned it right before high school started, which has made all the difference. On a bright sunny day, I eagerly looked forward to meeting my freshman class at our Summer Bridge. Many of my friends from middle school would be there, and I was excited to get reacquainted with them. My high school future looked bright. Arriving, I immediately rushed to a familiar face and started talking. But the guiding teacher was smart. She knew people would stick to those they already knew, and she wanted them to mesh. For our first activity, we drew slips of paper from a hat, and then we were supposed to match up with the person who had the corresponding paper. My partner was a girl I had never met before, and naturally, I was nervous. But I swallowed my fear, put on someone else's confidence, and introduced myself. We ended up having a good conversation. For the rest of the day, I found myself paired up with people I had never met before, but I enjoyed getting to know them and stepping outside my comfort zone. I sometimes still find it hard to start a conversation with a perfect stranger. Still, I almost always find it worthwhile, and I am glad I have the skills to walk out of my comfort zone.

My dream is to be a doctor, perhaps in China or a third-world country. This may seem similar to others' aspirations. However, I believe my ethnicity and the reason behind my dream make me stand out from others with the same vision. I am Chinese, and I was adopted from China at a young age. This ties into the reason I want to become a doctor. When I was an infant, my sister and I were left on a step of an orphanage. Thankfully, the orphanage director brought us into the orphanage and took care of us. When I was four months old, I was adopted and brought to America. Later, my parents told me that my sister died, probably because the health care wasn't adequate. Since she couldn't receive the medical care she needed, I will never be able to meet her here on earth. However, now that I am in high school, I wonder how many others faced the same situation. Numerous people have lost loved ones simply because they could not get the medical care they needed to live. Some people cannot receive the healthcare desperately needed to survive and thrive in their region. The language barriers, inadequate training, or poverty stand between them and a chance at a healthier life. When I earn my M.D., I will strive to meet the needs of the poor, elderly, and forgotten. I want to work in an impoverished area to minister to the people who are so often overlooked. Location and poverty severely limit access to health care, an unfortunate truth. With my success, I want to change the lives of others by fighting for their right to life and allowing them to change lives in their own life. Through the prestige of being a doctor, I will advocate for the voiceless or the people who are ignored because of their perceived lower status. When I interviewed a doctor, one of the things that stood out to me most was her saying, "I love being able to advocate for my patients." She was a geriatrician, and what struck me about her comment was how true it was. Older patients are often not treated as respectfully as they deserve. I believe everyone should have access to fundamental rights, especially the right to life. Their voices should be heard no matter their age, skin color, or beliefs. Everyone deserves respect. I want to use my knowledge and career to benefit others as much as possible. I dream of making this world a better place for everyone by helping to eradicate disease and heal physical and psychological wounds. I hope to keep families together by curing their illnesses and preventing infections from shortening their lives prematurely. Doctors are more heroic than many individuals believe. They work tirelessly to aid others and fight for life every day. I want to join their noble cause because I believe my calling is to dispel hurt and heal individuals. I can learn from my patient's determination and perseverance through the pain they feel. Doctors are often viewed as people who "know everything." However, it is essential to continue your education even past medical school. Not all learning can come from books, but other doctors' wisdom and experience. In my opinion, doctors have the most fulfilling careers as they leave a lasting legacy behind them.

I am a daughter, friend, and student currently attending Jackson County Early College. I often enjoy reading a good historical fiction or suspense novel with a mug of hot chocolate. One of my favorite places to be is in the kitchen. I enjoy whipping up some fantastic desserts and pastries! I also give back by serving my community at food banks and nonprofit thrift stores. I have even had the privilege to spend some time in a free health clinic and interview a doctor on her daily schedule and duties. This summer, I will gain my C.N.A. license to work with patients, gaining patient care experience. I plan on attending Western Carolina University in the fall of 2022, majoring in psychology. W.C.U. has invited me to participate in their honors program. I am looking forward to conducting research with either the psychology or biology department and exploring in correlation with honors projects. I also want to get involved with student clubs and activities that align with my values: compassion, humility, and integrity. After completing my Bachelor’s degree at Western, I will apply to medical schools, seeking acceptance to Hershey Medical School. Graduating from medical school and completing my residency, I will work in an economically distressed area. I am looking to provide a haven of care for individuals who struggle with mental health issues. I want to provide lasting treatment that will allow them to feel “normal” and functional with personalized plans, giving them my undivided attention. The daily interaction I would have with various people of all age groups, ethnicities, and backgrounds stimulates me and would educate me on the diversity of life—an aspect that can only be appreciated through experience. My dream of becoming a doctor comes with a long road. Yet, I will be equipped to handle the journey because my purpose is to serve others as a physiatrist. With that belief, I can overcome any obstacle. I am applying for scholarships because I cannot solely rely on my parents or family to pay for my college expenses. To show that I am committed to my dream of becoming a physician, I feel that it is essential to raise the money necessary on my own. It would be a sign of my intent and a way to prove my motivation and independence. As I have gotten older, there should be a subtle shift where I take on expenses and contribute financially to personal fees and even household costs. Winning scholarships would take the financial worry away from my education. It would allow me to focus entirely on my studies and activities to prepare me for medical school. I have been applying for scholarships since the Fall of 2021. I am incredibly grateful that there are so many scholarship opportunities available. I am confident that I can pay for my education through the funds they so generously provide.

On July 4th, we celebrate the birth of our nation's independence from Britain's tyranny. To be independent means to be free from external control. It gives us the ability to focus on bettering ourselves, no matter what other opinions. It means realizing that we must be independent of the doubters and critics to achieve our goals. Independence gives me the freedom to boldly and confidently be committed to myself and my dreams. It allows me to be my own person, not weighed down by the pressures from others around me. Being independent gives me wings to soar above those who seek to bring me down intentionally or unintentionally. Letting others control your mood and emotions is never smart; independence allows you to take back control of yourself. There are times when being independent is challenging. Yet, there is an inner resilience in independent people that allows them to stand behind their belief even when it is not popular, something I have encountered numerous times. Independent people are leaders; they do not have to have the majority's favor. They stick to their own opinions confidently. I dreaded group projects in middle school because I wanted to do it by myself due to my independent spirit. While independence is clearly a strength, it could become a hindrance. Being too independent means that you might isolate yourself unnecessarily. It could also mean that you push people away from you because you are used to being a loner. Thankfully, I have overcome my distaste for group assignments and recognize that everyone has strengths to bring to the table. Nevertheless, I would say that my independence is definitely a strength that I could not cope with. It allows me to rise above my circumstances and others' opinions to press on to my dreams and aspirations.

Online math classes, communication issues, and jarred daily schedules. These were challenges that numerous students around the globe faced when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As a student, I spent long hours in front of a computer, jarred from the normalcy of school and everyday activities. My school went remote during the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing me to learn with minimal in-person teaching and peer interaction. It was hard to communicate with all my teachers because there were different platforms. Isolation only added to everyone's stress, and we all tried to find ways to connect online to stay in touch with loved ones. In the beginning, it was difficult for me to keep all my assignments organized and try and turn them in electronically. One of the most challenging courses to work with online was high school chemistry. My teacher was careful to record the lessons; however, I couldn't always see the equations on the board clearly due to poor-quality cameras. Communication was slow at best as I understood all the teachers were busy planning individual lessons for their classes. Socially, I missed being in the classroom collaborating with others. I felt lonely as I had this barrier in front of my friends and me; a computer screen. Understandable fear swept across the nation. We watched in horror as the news reported the staggering death toll this disease was causing. Our world was reeling under the blows COVID was causing: job losses, sickness, and death, not to mention the rise of mental health cases were off the chart. Excess stress and isolation had set everyone's nerves on edge. We all needed to find ways to cope with the challenges that restricted us. The first challenge was developing a different learning strategy. I had to figure out a way to understand the material without physically being in the classroom. I made flashcards, took notes, and recited the information aloud. I developed time management and organizational skills so I could stay on track. I utilized a planner to outline the assignments I needed to accomplish. I needed a way to cope with the stress of being isolated indoors. I turned to art as an outlet, sketching and painting in my free time. My pressure decreased, but I also found that my artistic skills increased. As a student, I learned crucial skills needed in this stressful time. These skills included time management, organization, and self-motivation. A saying goes, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." While it is cliché, in this case, it proves true. Coming back to in-person learning, I have excelled in my classes because of the vital study habits I acquired doing social isolation. I improved my artistic skills, boosted my creativity both academically and artistically, and strengthened my study habits, which resulted in higher grades. I know that COVID was highly stressful for many people. Yet, I believe that the challenges we faced have only made us stronger and more equipped to overcome more significant and more formidable obstacles. I think the key to success for me was perseverance in the face of adversity. Long hours on screens, little in-person contact, and fear. All formidable obstacles, but our combined strength as people united rallied together was enough to drive the desperation and anxiety away. Times of difficulties always come, but how we handle the problematic obstacles defines us, making us stronger and teaching important life lessons.I've strengthened my academic and artistic skills I never thought possible. Our economy may have suffered setbacks, but we have grown stronger in our respective communities.

Swirls of paint decorate the page leaving my hands dotted with different color splatters of paint as I dip my brush into a beautiful shade of yellow. A smile lights up my face as I skillfully pull up the clay layer while smoothly pumping the pottery wheel. Subconsciously twirling my drawing pencil, I lean back and look at my sketch, assessing the strong and weak points. One of my favorite hobbies is to create art in any media, whether that be sculpture, painting, or drawing. Creating art, in any form, makes the world burst with color, creating masterpieces of all shapes and forms, inspiring others, and impacting us profoundly. Art encourages us to explore different techniques and styles, such as modernism, abstract, cubism, or contemporary. Sitting in a studio or in your home is calming; listening to music while using your creativity to create a masterpiece or perhaps even your own art style. Artists have always been depicted as moody, standoffish, and critical. However, they are so much more than a stereotype; you cannot categorize them as a whole from a couple of members. They are creative and enthusiastic people who can see hidden images and pictures and create a work of art off of their vast imagination. I would consider myself an artist, but I have very few of the “defining” artist traits. I am relaxed, calm, and mainly collected but occasionally have times of inspiration and vision. To me, being labeled as an artist is a distinction of joy because it puts me in the same category as some of the famous artists, such as Liu Xiaodong and Artemisia Gentileschi. Personally, I love to draw or paint nature still lives and use vibrant colors to draw eyes towards the piece. I use various tools with any medium, paintbrushes, colored pencils, colored pens, graphite pencils, and kneaded erasers. It serves to inspire, calm, and rejuvenate me. Of course, there are times when I get artist block, but I always find my creativity returning, proving to me that I am an artist at heart.

“You can’t do it.” I grit my teeth, and I can feel my body tensing up in response to the remark. Taking a deep breath, I exhale slowly and reply with a smile, “Just watch me .”I daily have to remind myself that my greatest enemy is myself. My determined nature lets me defeat all opponents with one hitch: I have to stubbornly believe in myself in all circumstances. A stubborn, determined streak runs through me as indeed as there is blood in my veins. My resolution is my most valuable asset because it allows me to push through adverse circumstances. In contrast, individuals with a weaker constitution may falter or give up. My career goal is to become a physician and serve individuals living in impoverished areas with the necessary medical care. Many people die every day because they do not have the needed treatment to survive. I want to change that if I can. I will fight for life in my future career, traveling to the unreached areas of the world, providing medical care, and sharing the gospel. An inner resolution set on determination is necessary for my chosen career path because it is a lengthy and potentially tedious journey. It takes eleven years to become a pediatrician; not a practical goal for someone who does not have the tenacity to stick through the challenges one will enviable face. Yet, I will be prepared to endure the journey because I am committed that my purpose is to aid others as a physician. With that stubborn belief, I can crush any obstacle. My inner fortitude will be helpful throughout life because difficulties do not stop after you graduate. On the contrary, the natural world can throw consequential ordeals at you. Whether it is a death of a loved one, job loss, or a heart-shattering diagnosis, a beneficial dose of determination will keep you on your feet, not succumbing to despair or apprehension. Perseverance is critical to a fighter’s disposition, willpower, and resolve to keep going no matter what kind of punches are thrown at you. Determination is the best friend that you want with you at all moments. It is the defense you do not ever want to let down, exposing you to self-criticism, self-doubt, and fear. Indeed it is one of the most essential attitudes to have because it authorizes you to execute your full potential, driving past all deterrents.

Our society’s tendency to waste is an issue that profoundly alarms me. Humans are experts in wasting resources and time, which has led to numerous problems and will continue to cause them. I live in a very frugal family. We shop thrift items, utilize coupons, and donate our gently used items instead of throwing them out. We believe that you do not have something new when something old reworked does just fine. Thus, we try not to waste in our daily lives. I see waste every day, and it shocks me when people feel that they must have the latest and greatest, but what is even more concerning is when they throw away the old for the new. As if throwing out anything makes it disappear or vanish. Matter is neither created nor destroyed, so our “junk” does not disappear. It can be recycled and reused by never unmade. China has a population of 1.4 billion, even though they have less space than the United States. With that many citizens, they likely generate significant waste. However, they produce three times less waste than Americans. As a Chinese-American, while China has room for improvement, Americans need to take this issue seriously and become aware of their wasteful habits. Friends of the Earth are working to ensure that the generations after us have a safe, clean place to live. I respect their goal; we have a responsibility to our children and grandchildren to ensure that they have the same opportunities and resources we did. This issue interests me because everyone leaves behind a legacy. Does our generation want to leave behind a reputation of being wasteful and careless or one of frugalness and responsibility?

Misfortune, discrimination, and severe poverty were Ben Carson's challenges. However, although he faced a turbulent childhood and challenges that barred his path, he overcame every difficulty. He demonstrated the power of hard work, determination, and a mother's love. He is considered the pioneer of neurosurgery. Although focused heavily on medicine, his talent extended to politics and education, was used and continues to be used to create a just world for all. His strength, bravery, and enthusiasm for medicine stimulate me to work hard towards my own goal of connecting with patients as a physician. His success in the operation granted him world-renowned fame, yet he refused to let the fame corrupt him. Several of Carson's surgery techniques were revolutionary in neurosurgery and plastic surgery. Unfortunately, Carson had to verify his value and talent to the public simply because of his race. Yet, he overcame the difficulties, which encouraged me to push forward despite challenges due to my heritage. His biography gives me insight and motivation on working in the medical field as a minority. He also achieved political fame, emerging in conservative circles due to increased media attention. Ben Carson was indeed a man who sought to do the most good in this world, whether as a surgeon, politician, or conservative influencer. From his example, I've learned it is essential to continue assisting others and stay true to your values throughout life. Ben Carson's story has taught me to persevere in all pursuits, hope extravagantly, and work tirelessly for the good of all. He was no stranger to difficulties and achieved tasks not many would have had the stamina and ability to accomplish. Ben Carson is an inspiration because he was determined to never give up despite his dire beginnings.

Ernest Hemingway once said, "There is no friend as loyal as a book." My favorite novel is The Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Sarah, the main character, is put in a girls' boarding school by her kindly, rich Papa. The school's matron treats Sarah kindly but professionally and introduces her to the other girls who take to her immediately. Known for weaving creative, inspirational stories, the other girls gather daily to listen to her newest tale. Once, when Sarah recounts one of her latest stories, she discovers the servant girl Betty listening to them. While the other girls want to report her to the headmistress, Sarah responds in kindness, telling her to stay. Word reaches the school that Sarah's Papa has died and Sarah is left destitute; the headmistress reacts harshly, exiling Sarah to the servant's quarter, taking her fine clothes and possessions. The once rich girl is demoted to servant alongside Betty. Yet, she possesses an inner strength that overcomes any challenge the headmistress can throw at her. This is my favorite novel because it tells of the immense value of internal fortitude and kindness. Earthly treasures pass away, but what is done in turn endures and impacts others significantly. In the end, it is discovered that Papa has countless diamond mines as his lawyer tracks down Sarah at the boarding school; she is not penniless after all. I admire Sarah greatly because of her strength in dealing with difficulties that befall her. The Little Princess is a story about treating others with kindness, not out of preconceived notions, and overcoming problems through determination and grit. It tells a story of perseverance with compassion, a genuinely heartwarming tale.

Ernest Hemingway once said, "There is no friend as loyal as a book." My favorite novel is The Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Sarah, the main character, is put in a girls' boarding school by her kindly, rich Papa. The school's matron treats Sarah kindly but professionally and introduces her to the other girls who take to her immediately. Known for weaving creative, inspirational stories, the other girls gather daily to listen to her newest tale. Once, when Sarah recounts one of her latest stories, she discovers the servant girl Betty listening to them. While the other girls want to report her to the headmistress, Sarah responds in kindness, telling her to stay. Word reaches the school that Sarah's Papa has died and Sarah is left destitute; the headmistress reacts harshly, exiling Sarah to the servant's quarter, taking her fine clothes and possessions. The once rich girl is demoted to servant alongside Betty. Yet, she possesses an inner strength that overcomes any challenge the headmistress can throw at her. This is my favorite novel because it tells of the immense value of internal fortitude and kindness. Earthly treasures pass away, but what is done in turn endures and impacts others significantly. In the end, it is discovered that Papa has countless diamond mines as his lawyer tracks down Sarah at the boarding school; she is not penniless after all. I admire Sarah greatly because of her strength in dealing with difficulties that befall her. The Little Princess is a story about treating others with kindness, not out of preconceived notions, and overcoming problems through determination and grit. It tells a story of perseverance with compassion, a genuinely heartwarming tale.

I am a daughter, friend, and student. I currently attend Jackson County Early College as a senior. I can often be found reading a good historical fiction or suspense novel with a mug of hot chocolate. One of my favorite places to be is in the kitchen. I enjoy whipping up some fantastic desserts and pastries! I also spend time giving back by serving my community at food banks and nonprofit thrift stores. I have even had the privilege to spend some time in a free health clinic and interview a doctor on her daily schedule and duties. This summer, I will gain my C.N.A license to work with patients, gaining patient care experience. My career goal is to become a physician to provide crucial healthcare to individuals living in impoverished areas or who do not have access to proper healthcare. Many people die every day because they do not have the medical care to survive. I want to change that. I dream of fighting for the right to live in my career, traveling to unreached areas of the world, providing medical care, and sharing the gospel. The daily interaction I would have with various people of all age groups, ethnicities, and backgrounds excites me and would educate me on the different walks of life, something a textbook fails to do. My dream of becoming a doctor comes with a long road, yet I feel that I will be equipped to handle the journey because this is what I am meant to do, and with that belief, I can overcome any obstacle. I hope to specialize in pediatrics, as I have always felt I connect better with children than adults. I will be successful in becoming a doctor because it is my calling. Science encourages us to explore; never satisfied with unanswered questions. Technology calls us to invent and perfect, creating beautiful things that make life easier for others. Engineering is for the builders, the dreamers, always looking into the future and crafting the essentials and the ideas. Art makes the world burst with color, creating masterpieces of all shapes and forms, inspiring others, and impacting us profoundly. Mathematics is an unending puzzle that connects to all other aspects: art, science, technology, and engineering. STEAM holds something for everyone; we all have a role in this acronym. Through STEAM, we create a beautiful, diverse picture of how everyone contributes their knowledge; we make a wonderfully distinct and varied world, holding hope for everyone. We are united in our pursuit of STEAM fields, each lending to the other, building blocks of knowledge. Through the outreach of STEAM, individuals have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the world.

My dream is to be a doctor. This may seem similar to others' aspirations. However, I believe my ethnicity and the reason behind my goal make me stand out from others with the same vision. I am Chinese, and I was adopted at a young age. When I was an infant, my sister and I were left on a step of an orphanage. Thankfully, the orphanage director brought us into the orphanage and took care of us. When I was four months old, I was adopted and brought to America. Later, my parents told me that my sister died, probably because the health care wasn't adequate. Since she couldn't receive the medical care she needed, I will never be able to meet her here on earth. Now that I am in high school, I wonder how many others faced the same situation. Numerous people have lost loved ones simply because they could not get the medical care they needed to live. Some people cannot receive the healthcare desperately needed to survive and thrive in their region. The language barriers, inadequate training, or poverty stand between them and a chance at a healthier life. When I earn my M.D., I will strive to meet the needs of the poor, elderly, and forgotten. After I graduate from medical school, I want to work in an impoverished area to minister to the people who are so often overlooked. Location and poverty severely limit access to health care, an unfortunate truth. With my success, I want to change the lives of others by fighting for their right to life and allowing them to change lives in their own life. Through the prestige of being a doctor, I will advocate for the voiceless, the people who are ignored because of their perceived lower status. When I interviewed a doctor, one of the things that stood out to me most was her saying, "I love being able to advocate for my patients." She was a geriatrician, and what struck me about her comment was how true it was. Older patients are often not treated as respectfully as they deserve. Their voices are lost in the crowd simply due to their age. I believe everyone should have access to fundamental rights, especially the right to life. Their voices should be heard no matter their age, skin color, or beliefs. Everyone deserves respect. I want to use my knowledge and career to benefit others as much as possible. I do not wish to only heal afflictions but to teach others to treat minor health problems. I have been taught to dream, a blessing America bestows on its people from a young age. I dream of making this world a better place for everyone by helping to eradicate disease and heal physical and psychological wounds. I hope to keep families together by curing their illnesses and preventing infections from shortening their lives prematurely. Doctors are more heroic than many belief; they work tirelessly to aid others and fight for life every day. I want to join their noble cause because my calling is to dispel hurt and heal individuals. I can learn from my patient's determination and perseverance through the pain they feel. Doctors are often viewed as people who "know everything." However, it is essential to continue your education even past medical school. Not all learning can come from books, but other doctors' wisdom and experience. Patients can also teach doctors important lessons about purpose and passion. I believe doctors have the most fulfilling careers as they leave a lasting legacy behind them.

2 tests, 2 papers, 3 significant projects all in 3 weeks? My brain races to figure it all out, so I pull out my best friend: my planner. The first step to achieving academic success is prioritizing assignments. The best way to do that is to use a planner. I block out time to complete each project, then time to chip away at my papers, and finally study for tests. The second rule of success is to set up a positive learning environment with limited distractions. Stocked with pens, pencils, paper, and a charged computer. I also like to put snacks and my water bottle, so I don't have to leave, get up, and then risk getting distracted. Place phone and any other distractions in a separate room. It's also good to write my academic goals and why I want to accomplish them for motivation. When those 5 hours of study sessions get too much, and the test results aren't the mark you were hoping for, you need to remind yourself of your present and future goals. Make it pretty; start a bullet journal. Write down dreams, goals, and thought. Get creative. I like the glitter gel pens, stickers, and colored pencils. To memorize information, I utilize Quizlet. I love flashcards, learning, and matching games. It helps me learn while keeping me engaged. I also write down important information, formula, and facts in red ink to remember them. I also follow some basic study rules: take good notes in class, get seven to eight hours of sleep, and review notes daily. I believe anyone can succeed in school if they find their personal study habits that work effectively for them.

My dream is to be a doctor, perhaps in China or a third-world country. My ethnicity and the reason behind my dream make me stand out from others with the same plan. When I was an infant, my sister and I were left on a step of an orphanage. Thankfully, the orphanage director brought us into the orphanage and took care of us. When I was four months old, I was adopted and brought to America. Later, my parents told me that my sister died, probably because the health care wasn't adequate. Since she couldn't receive the medical care she needed, I will never be able to meet her here on earth. Now that I am in high school, I wonder how many others faced the same situation. Numerous people have lost loved ones simply because they could not get the medical care they needed to live. Some people cannot receive the healthcare desperately needed to survive and thrive in their region. The barriers stand between them and a chance at a healthier life. When I earn my M.D., I will strive to meet the needs of the poor, elderly, and forgotten. I want to work in an impoverished area to minister to the people who are so often overlooked.With my success, I want to change the lives of others by fighting for their right to life and allowing them to change lives in their own life. I believe everyone should have access to fundamental rights, especially the right to life. Their voices should be heard no matter their age, skin color, or beliefs.Everyone deserves respect. I want to use my knowledge and career to benefit others as much as possible. Doctors have the most fulfilling careers as they leave a lasting legacy behind them.

The wind blows softly through my hair, brushing it against my face. I close my eyes and breath deeply, inhaling the sweet, clean oxygen. I stand at the pinnacle of a beautiful mountain, and the view is breathtaking. I love spending time in nature because of the calming properties it has. Taking a walk through a forest can be the perfect antidote for a stressful day. Nature is all around us, beckoning us to come to explore and leave behind the drudgery of the daily bustle. In nature, time stands almost still compared to our busy world. The sounds are different too; birds call, squirrels chatter, and even leaves make their music. One of my escapes is creating all forms of art, whether pottery, painting, sketching, paper mache, or 3D models. I love drawing nature scenes because of the tranquility I find in them. Capturing the beautiful fluidity of motion is a challenge I enjoy. It is my dream to one day put my artwork on the market for others to enjoy and purchase. I appreciate nature by capturing it first in my mind, then my sketchbook seeking to share the beauty with others.

My fingers flew over the keyboard as I rapidly took notes as my teammates and I discussed our presentation. For a senior project, we created a presentation and gave a speech to the rest of the school. We were illustrating how to do a student-led presentation. Since there were different topics to cover, we divided into a group. I had three other peers in my group, and I took charge from the start by choice. My nature is bold, assertive, and maybe a tad bossy. I like to follow an outline to stay on schedule and topic. I successfully kept us on schedule working together, even when some had to go remote for meetings. Periodically I would check in with group members to see if everyone was keeping up with their part of the project. I effectively kept a record of our ideas and thoughts to go back and revise or review. Before show day, I arranged times when we could rehearse and practice to evaluate ourselves beforehand. While we were successful and presented flawlessly, I could have strengthened my leadership skills by slowing down the pace. There were times when I wanted to keep to the schedule so much that we had limited discussion and went to work immediately. I could also have more time to see if everyone felt comfortable with the assigned part. We divided up tasks, but I could have checked to see if anyone would prefer a particular topic or task. In my enthusiasm and determination to make our presentation perfect, I might have steamrolled others’ ideas, suggestions, or questions. As a Chinese student, I have found that many of my peers automatically believe that I am intelligent. I also wear glasses, contributing to the “smart” look. My cultural identity causes others to believe in my capabilities, and at times, overestimate my abilities. My leadership style comes from my personality and cultural heritage. My character is self-confident, optimistic, and determined, but I am also very thoughtful. I take time to weigh various options in my head, carefully assessing the pros and cons of each. While I am not very patient, I am careful before making up my mind. I enjoy figuring out things for myself and always look for the proof behind the words. To be a great leader, you must seek to connect and interact with all group members and not just take handing out orders. Being a leader means keeping everyone on track and understanding if someone has a difficult situation. It includes dealing with conflict relaxed and collected, arranging meetings times with flexibility, and being appreciative of helpful criticisms. The world will always need leaders, and I strive to strengthen my leadership skills and continue through my life. I also learned that not everyone matches your enthusiasm or energy. You need to be willing and able to work with those people gently. It is our differences that will make us stronger. Together we can do more than any of us can do alone. As a leader, I will always seek to understand others better and work together to produce the best possible outcome.