Hello, my name is Stevie Elliot. I am a non-binary individual, a survivor of domestic violence, a single parent, and a full-time student. My life's journey has been marked by resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on others. These experiences have fueled my passion for social work, driving me to support and advocate for those who face similar challenges. In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I lead a very active and fulfilling life. I homeschool my son using a curriculum I designed myself, which is year-round and nature-based. Despite being in kindergarten, he is already learning 1st-grade math, reading, ASL, and we conduct numerous science experiments together. I am also the head coach for a local soccer team on a volunteer basis and sing in the church choir. I play the violin and the mountain dulcimer, and my son and I are learning piano together. My passion for cooking and baking complements my role as a full-time homemaker. Our family also practices martial arts, and I frequently engage in reading and writing. My career goal is to become a Master-level social worker specializing in supporting survivors of domestic violence and single parents. My journey to this decision has been deeply personal and driven by my own experiences of overcoming significant challenges. As a survivor of domestic violence and a single parent, I have firsthand knowledge of the emotional, legal, and social complexities that individuals in these situations face. I aim to leverage my education and experiences to offer comprehensive support to others, guiding them through their journeys toward healing and empowerment. Pursuing a degree in social work is the foundational step toward achieving my career goals. The curriculum will equip me with advanced techniques in counseling, case management, and policy advocacy. These skills are crucial for effectively supporting individuals and families navigating trauma and systemic barriers. The program's emphasis on understanding systemic issues and promoting social justice aligns perfectly with my aspirations. It will enable me to devise strategies that address the root causes of inequality and advocate for long-term solutions that foster resilience and empowerment. This scholarship will significantly ease the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and practical training. With this support, I can engage in more fieldwork and community service projects, gaining hands-on experience that is crucial for my development as a social worker. Attending conferences and workshops will further enhance my learning, providing opportunities to network with professionals in my field and stay updated on best practices and emerging trends. Additionally, as a full-time parent and student, the scholarship would provide much-needed financial relief, enabling me to balance my responsibilities more effectively. It would allow me to dedicate quality time to homeschooling my son and participating in activities that enrich both our lives, such as coaching soccer, playing musical instruments, and practicing martial arts. This support would ensure that I can pursue my academic and professional goals without compromising my ability to nurture and guide my son. The impact I hope to make in my community is multifaceted. I envision myself as an advocate, navigator, mediator, counselor, and researcher, working to alleviate the burdens that upheaval brings. My goal is to create a ripple effect of positive change by helping individuals and families transform their lives. By supporting survivors of domestic violence and single parents, I aim to provide the guidance and resources necessary for them to rebuild their lives and achieve their goals. Representation of non-binary individuals within the field of social work is critically important. Having diverse voices in social work ensures that the unique challenges faced by non-binary and LGBTQ+ individuals are understood and addressed with empathy and insight. My presence in this field can help create a more inclusive environment where clients feel seen and validated. This representation is not only empowering for clients but also essential for fostering social change and promoting equality. It underscores the importance of diversity in all aspects of society, including the vital work of supporting and advocating for marginalized communities. I also aspire to influence policies that support survivors and promote social justice, ensuring that the systems in place work for everyone. My ambition includes teaching at a university, sharing my experiences and knowledge to inspire and educate future social workers. Eventually, I hope to attend seminary and become an ordained pastor, integrating my faith with my practice to provide holistic support. In summary, my choice to pursue social work is driven by a commitment to make a meaningful impact, a personal connection to the cause, and a comprehensive plan to achieve my professional goals. With this scholarship, I will be well-positioned to excel academically and professionally, ensuring that I am equipped to make a lasting positive impact in my community. This support will empower me to balance my academic, professional, and personal responsibilities, allowing me to be both an effective social worker and a dedicated parent.

Mental health is vital to our overall well-being and quality of life, shaping how we think, feel, and act in everyday situations. It is the foundation upon which we build our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. When we prioritize our mental health, we equip ourselves to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength. For me, maintaining mental wellness is crucial, especially as someone who identifies as non-binary, has survived domestic violence, and juggles the demands of being a full-time parent and student. Living as a non-binary person often means navigating a world that may not fully understand or accept my identity. This can lead to feelings of isolation, stress, and anxiety. It’s essential to prioritize mental health to build resilience and foster self-acceptance. Practicing self-awareness allows me to understand my emotions and thoughts, helping me to address them constructively. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, help me stay grounded and reduce the impact of external pressures. Surviving domestic violence has also deeply affected my mental health. The trauma from such experiences can lead to long-lasting emotional scars, manifesting as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Prioritizing mental wellness has been pivotal in my healing journey. Engaging in therapy has provided a safe space to process my experiences, learn coping mechanisms, and rebuild my sense of self-worth. Balancing the responsibilities of being a full-time parent and student adds another layer of complexity. The demands of academia, coupled with the constant needs of my child, require effective time management and emotional resilience. Maintaining mental health helps me to stay focused, manage stress, and be present for both my studies and my child. Establishing routines and setting boundaries are essential strategies for managing these responsibilities effectively. Physical health and mental health are closely intertwined, so I make a conscious effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Whether it’s running, yoga, or dancing, physical activity helps improve my mental well-being. Alongside exercise, a balanced diet supports my brain health, contributing to a more stable mood and energy levels. Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment is another crucial aspect of my mental wellness. Hobbies and interests provide an outlet for creativity and relaxation, offering respite from daily stressors. Reading, painting, and spending time with loved ones recharge my spirit and help maintain a positive outlook. Building and maintaining a strong support system is fundamental. Surrounding myself with supportive friends, family, and professionals means I have a network to lean on during tough times. Open communication with loved ones fosters a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation. Professional support through therapy provides valuable insights and a path to healing. Prioritizing rest and sleep is another cornerstone of my mental health regimen. Adequate sleep is essential for cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall health. Creating a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation ensures I get enough rest, allowing me to wake up refreshed and ready to face the day. Practicing self-compassion is crucial. Being kind to myself, especially during difficult times, helps maintain a positive self-image. Accepting that it's okay to have bad days and seeking help when needed fosters resilience and encourages continuous growth.

Simone Biles demonstrates resilience and talent in gymnastics that exemplifies nothing short of inspiring. Every time she competes, she raises the bar and demonstrates what dedication and hard work can achieve. Her advocacy for mental health adds an additional layer to her impact. She is a force in sports and culture. Erin Jackson is a speedskater and didn't start in her respective field of practice until 5 years prior to competing in the Olympics. Despite her late start, she made history by becoming the first Black woman to win a gold medal in the Winter Olympics in Beijing 2022. Her journey is a testament to perseverance and chasing dreams. Obstacles are nothing but an opportunity to work harder and achieve more! Both of these incredible athletes demonstrate my personal values and consistently inspire me to persevere and to never give up. Watching them compete has been inspiring and motivational. I feel that there is no obstacle worth obviating dreams and these women demonstrate such exceptional efforts. Their accomplishments in their respective fields and in their communities is not only inspiring, but emotional. The dedication they embody to the betterment of the world around them is something that I feel we should all pursue. Their discipline, resilience, dedication, and poise make these two athletes my favorite on Team USA.

As a survivor of domestic violence, a single mom, and a full-time student, my journey has shaped my unwavering commitment to the field of social work. My personal experiences have instilled in me a deep empathy and a fierce determination to support other survivors and single parents. Navigating the complexities of the legal system and the nuances of trauma firsthand, I understand the profound challenges these individuals face. My ambition is to become a Master-level social worker, leveraging my personal history to make a significant impact in people's lives. My education in social work will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation needed to address these challenges effectively. Through my studies, I will gain advanced techniques in counseling, case management, and policy advocacy, enabling me to support individuals and families navigating complex situations. One of the core aspects of my education is understanding the systemic issues that contribute to inequality and devising strategies to address these. This holistic approach ensures that I can not only provide immediate assistance but also work towards long-term solutions that foster resilience and empowerment. This scholarship will significantly ease the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and practical training. With this support, I can engage in more fieldwork and community service projects, gaining hands-on experience that is crucial for my development as a social worker. It will also enable me to attend conferences and workshops that provide additional learning opportunities and networking with professionals in my field. By staying updated on best practices and emerging trends, I will be prepared to offer innovative and effective interventions. Ultimately, my goal is to create a ripple effect of positive change. By helping individuals and families, I believe we can transform communities. My professional passion is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves to live free from fear and harm. I want to provide the support and resources necessary for survivors of domestic violence to rebuild their lives. Additionally, I seek to address the systemic issues that perpetuate inequality and injustice. Through continuous learning and professional development, I will equip myself with the skills and knowledge needed to advocate effectively and provide comprehensive care. My ultimate goal is to influence policies that support survivors and promote social justice, ensuring that the systems in place work for everyone. My ambition also includes teaching at a university, sharing my experiences and knowledge to inspire and educate future social workers. Eventually, I hope to attend seminary and become an ordained pastor, integrating my faith with my practice to provide holistic support. In summary, my choice of social work is driven by a commitment to make a meaningful impact, a personal connection to the cause, and a comprehensive plan to achieve my professional goals. This scholarship will provide the resources necessary for me to excel academically and professionally, ensuring that I am well-equipped to make a meaningful and lasting positive impact in my community.

As a survivor of domestic violence, a single mom, and a full-time student, I am deeply committed to utilizing my experiences, perspective, and knowledge to support other survivors of domestic violence and single parents. Navigating the complexities of the legal system and the nuances of trauma firsthand, I understand the profound challenges these individuals face. My ambition is to become a Master-level social worker, with the goal of making a meaningful difference in people's lives. My journey of survival has been fraught with great difficulty, but it has also instilled in me an unwavering resolve to ease the suffering of others. I aim to provide guidance and support to families in need of compassion and strength, leveraging my experiences to foster resilience and hope. As a social worker, I will embody the roles of advocate, navigator, mediator, counselor, and researcher. Engaging in social justice, policy change, advocacy, and case management, I strive to alleviate the burdens of upheaval as individuals embark on their journeys to better their lives. My passion lies in using my story—with all its trials and triumphs—to inspire others to set and achieve their goals. Through empathy and advocacy, I am determined to create a lasting impact on the lives of those I serve. My personal experiences have shaped my professional aspirations, driving me to pursue this path with unwavering dedication. I am committed to continuous learning and professional development, ensuring I am equipped to provide the best possible support to my clients. My ultimate goal is to influence policies that address systemic inequalities and promote social justice, creating a ripple effect of positive change. In summary, my choice to pursue social work is fueled by a deep-seated commitment to make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence and other adversities. With a Master of Social Work degree, I will be well-positioned to advocate for change, support those in need, and inspire others through my journey.