In my undergraduate journey at Salem College, I have begun pursuing a major in business administration with a minor in entrepreneurship. Through this journey, I have considered the fundamental question: why pursue higher education? It's not merely about academic learning but also about cultivating life skills crucial for one's future career and the post-university landscape. I discovered my passion for entrepreneurship at age five when I embarked on starting my own sticker business. It might sound a bit funny now, but it was a big deal for me at the time. Sure, my sticker business didn't become the next big thing, but that early venture taught me more than I realized. It wasn't just about stickers; it was about understanding what it takes to launch something, the joy of creating, and the thrill of seeing an idea come to life. Looking back, that little sticker business wasn't just a childhood project; it was my introduction to the world of possibilities in business. Today, as I venture into higher education, I can't help but trace my steps back to those sticker-filled days. It's funny how something so simple laid the groundwork for the more complex challenges I'm eager to take on now. That sticker chapter wasn't just a fleeting childhood interest; it was the first page of my journey toward understanding the entrepreneurial spirit that still drives me today. What captivates me about entrepreneurship is the prospect of giving back—a sentiment deeply rooted in my values, shaped by my low-income background. With dreams of making a meaningful impact, I aspire to uplift others while providing for those, like my mom who raised me as a single parent, who has supported me. The unconventional allure of being my boss and choosing my work hours appeals to me, offering flexibility to invest in my passions while maintaining a work-life balance often elusive in the corporate world. Success in the field of entrepreneurship is reliant on determination and dedicated effort to goals to meet them. How I envision my success in entrepreneurship is through both career satisfaction and financial fulfillment. However, I also understand the risks and challenges that many entrepreneurial ventures face that cause them to fail—often settling for "well enough" without exploring growth opportunities. What this reminds me of is a business term called the Cashflow Quadrant which includes the employee, the self-employed, the business owner, and the investor. The goal is to move from being employed to owning the business or investing capital. In essence, entrepreneurship is the side that I want to be on because it allows you to own the system and invest in your company. When you get into a mindset of not giving enough effort, there is a chance that you will fall behind on what is needed and your venture will fail. To me, entrepreneurship demands a growth mindset, a readiness for challenges, and an unwavering commitment to success. Beyond being a job, entrepreneurship is a stepping stone toward realizing my passion and gaining financial independence. I eagerly anticipate immersing myself in the business environment, using higher education as a foundation for personal and professional growth. My goal is not only to succeed academically but also to build a robust groundwork for a fulfilling future beyond my college years.

Six months ago, I found myself on Salem College’s historic grounds in Winston-Salem, NC, a bit in shock, I was surrounded by the aged main hall and the intriguing May Dell amphitheater, realizing my next steps were far from the comfort zone I once knew. When I first started my higher education journey, I was at Wake Technical Community College. I was told things such as “community college isn’t real college” and questioned daily on my rationale for choosing an alternative path to an education. However, my reasoning wasn’t my high school transcript, it was the expensive price tag attached to a traditional four-year college experience. I was a high-achieving student who had been accepted to over twenty universities, including my dream school but I simply did not have the means to pay for it. In my opinion, no one should be denied a good education, simply because they don’t have the financial means to support it. My background is that I was raised by a single mother who happens to be a teacher, so we typically lived paycheck to paycheck. I felt as if I was a victim of the circumstances, but then an opportunity presented itself unexpectedly. Salem College had been a school I got into but had not given much thought to because I was uneducated. However, an application I had submitted for the Salem Scholars program was already underway, which provided me the opportunity to meet an academic advisor, Dr. Vail. In my interview, she asked me what I would do if money and time were no object, which allowed me to reflect on my true values and goals. My answer was simple, I would help others. With this answer, Dr. Vail explained that she thought I would be a perfect fit for the health leadership program at Salem and offered me a prestigious spot in the Salem Scholars, which covered my tuition expenses. So, in the fall I joined Salem College and began to attend mentorship meetings with Dr. Vail. Being young is funny, you think you know a lot but in new situations, you realize how little you know. Dr. Vail helped me to realize that I did have a transformative period ahead of me in my education, and what it meant to lead as a woman. Salem is an all-girls college, so I was somewhat reluctant to attend out of fear of not being accepted by my peers. However, through my mentorship by Dr. Vail, I was able to realize what was holding me back and take steps to create the life I wanted. So, why does one go to college? The answer is to learn, not only academically but to also build life skills for the occupation and environment you will be in afterward. With the cohort, I was placed into Dr. Vail’s class the Meaning and Purpose of Life, which was not only extremely frustrating but pushed me to grow. Dr. Vail’s PhD is in literature, so she was harsh on papers which made me feel I was not good enough to be at Salem. The truth about life is it is full of stressors, but how you deal with your reaction is your responsibility. Through our many hours of meetings and draft edits, I was determined to try my best and eventually scored an A in the course. My connection with Dr. Vail, although challenging at times provided valuable insight into my future and realizing there is more beyond my low-income background. I am enthusiastic about continuing my education and growing through my mentorship by Dr. Vail and Salem College.

What influenced me to pursue a degree in business administration with a minor in marketing is my fondest memory as a child, which involved a plentiful collection of my design ideas covering every surface of my table. Although it was a simple folding table and appeared to be in disarray, I remained focused on my goal to create stickers, making do with whatever odds and ends I could find around the house. At the age of five, I planned that my creations were destined to be marketed to be sold. I even began crafting a rudimentary business plan, outlining my strategy for sticker domination. Although my stickers were just drawings, that didn't deter my spirit one bit. Through my experiences in business, one key takeaway I have learned is that you must not only market the offerings of your business, but you must also market yourself. This concept was explained through the variety of marketing classes I have taken, but it became fully solidified when I took part in a leadership role as a digital marketing content creator for the national nonprofit Family, Career, Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) last summer. This experience was life-changing, as it provided me with an idea of what I want to do in the future. However, my journey to becoming an FCCLA content creator was a challenge. My background is Native American and I was raised solely by a single mother. Growing up, I watched my mom struggle to make ends meet while sacrificing her time to work multiple jobs. This caused me to get a job when I was 16 to support our family, and I never stopped, despite being at university. Through this experience, I became more conscious of the financial burdens and promised myself that I would build a life beyond being low-income. My mom is an elementary school educator, so I had no familiarity with business until I chose to take steps to expose myself to the industry. The FCCLA experience required months of planning and interviews as well as fundraising to make the opportunity come to life. Despite the challenges, I was able to successfully attend and assist with the business side of marketing and advertising for the conference. This experience allowed me to network and gain mentors which I still ask for advice and have inspired me to grow to be my best self in the future. Through my experiences in the business world, I have had the opportunity to learn and look toward the future where my leadership and teamwork skills have grown and were fortified by the foundation provided by these opportunities. I envision myself immersed in an environment surrounded by towering skyscrapers and the hustle of professionals in their sharp, color-coordinated pantsuits. The allure of the workplace is the daily spark that ignites my pursuit of a career in marketing and advertising. To some, it may appear unconventional, but for me, it is the promise of a structured 9-5 job and the ambition to climb the corporate ladder that fuels my drive. As I look ahead to my career, I see it as a collaborative effort, with diverse minds coming together in a composition of success, making compelling campaigns. While my future may not involve selling stickers, I see myself crafting business plans and marketing strategies that not only influence the minds of industry leaders but also allow creativity within the creativity and purpose of the campaign. My vision for my future business career is fueled by an unyielding determination and I am ready to make a mark on the world.

I have ten days until I step foot into the 250 year old dorms at Salem College. My bags are packed and I have said my farewell to my highschool job, friends and my pets. As I approach college, I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. For the first time, my education is truly in my hands and I can pick an educational path! The prospect of new opportunities, making lifelong friends, and delving into subjects that truly fascinate me is incredibly thrilling. I'm eager to explore a whole new world of knowledge and experiences. However, amidst all the excitement, there's a part of me that's a little apprehensive about how my body is changing. As a teen girl who has always had a fast metabolism and stayed active through sports, I've grown accustomed to a certain image of myself. In all honesty, my summer has been stressful figuring out ways to fund my education and working full time. I haven’t had much time to exercise like I used to. Now that my summer is coming to an end, I've noticed subtle shifts in my body due to a change in my lifestyle and routines. It's a bit unsettling to witness these changes, and there's a part of me that worries about not maintaining a healthy weight during college. I know that it's natural for bodies to change, especially as we transition into different phases of life. But it's still a new experience for me, and I want to make sure I'm taking care of myself in the best way possible. Despite the uncertainties, I've come to realize that embracing change is an essential part of personal growth. I'm determined to face these changes with a positive attitude and an open mind. I want to see this as an opportunity to learn more about myself, my body, and what it truly means to be healthy and happy. I'm excited to take charge of my well-being and make conscious choices that support my physical, mental, and emotional health. College offers a chance for me to explore various wellness practices, try new forms of exercise, and experiment with different nutritious foods that can nourish my body. Moreover, this fall I will be joining Salem College. When looking at the programs offered, the school is health focused but I saw an area for health improvement. They don’t have a health-centered club so that is why I have started taking steps to found a club. Sports used to be a huge part of my life but when I left highschool, I felt somewhat down about my lifestyle change. Now, being able to start a health-focused club has been a source of inspiration for me. It gives me a sense of purpose and a platform to not only help myself but also create a supportive community that embraces individuality and celebrates the journey towards a healthier lifestyle. With each passing minute in the next ten days, my excitement for new opportunities and growth outweighs any worries about my changing body. I am ready to face college with enthusiasm and determination, knowing that every experience, challenge, and change will shape me into a stronger, more resilient individual.

A few months ago, I began a project with an organization named Family, Career, Community Leaders of America. This organization is nationally recognized and I have served as chapter president. Every year, conferences take place and this year I decided to compete. Events range from presentations to business pitches but I decided to focus on my leadership development through a project titled “Leadership.” Somehow, I finished with gold placement and first place with over a thousand competitors. This was shocking because I never expected to qualify for a larger conference. Ultimately, FCCLA has allowed me to grow in my leadership through projects such as my STAR events competition. Growing up in an underprivileged area has provided me with the opportunity to see the need in my community. Last year, I realized the elementary schools in our county lack the books necessary for the amount of students. I felt this was wrong, and wanted to make a difference for the students. So, with my FCCLA chapter I created a book drive campaign. This book drive was successful and I was able to deliver over five hundred books to local elementary schools. Issues such as lack of resources are so common in underserved communities. I am appalled that more isn’t being done to help others. I feel that not enough is being done so I plan to dedicate my time and resources in the future to helping others. I am passionate about business and hope to one day create a non-profit organization with a degree from a university. My vision for this nonprofit is being able to provide resources and support to educate students and those in my community on how to help the less fortunate. Often, others are struggling and need our help but not much attention is given. Another example of how I make change is by creating a service project to help the elderly. Every year around the holidays, I visit nursing homes and volunteer my time to the residents. This is a tradition I value because it has taught the importance of interacting with older individuals. No matter the age or background of individuals, I feel resources can be give to help them advocate and to support them. At a time, I needed support and that has truly impacted my life. In the future, I want to create changes not only for the unprivileged but shift the mindsets of those who have resources to give.

Financial literacy is the knowledge and understanding of financial concepts and principles, as well as the ability to use this knowledge to make informed decisions about managing money and achieving financial goals. It is an essential skill for individuals, families, and communities, as it allows us to make informed decisions about how to budget, save, and invest our money, as well as how to protect ourselves from financial risks and fraud. There are many reasons why financial literacy is important. First and foremost, it helps individuals and families to achieve financial stability and security. This is especially important to myself who am in the low-income category. I have a strong goal of financial independence one day. By understanding how to manage their money and make informed financial decisions, individuals and families can better plan for the future, save for emergencies and unexpected expenses, and achieve their long-term financial goals. For example, if you have a good understanding of how to budget and save, you will be more likely to have the financial resources to pay for a child's education or to retire comfortably. Financial literacy is also important for communities and economies. When individuals and families are financially stable, they are more likely to participate in the economy and contribute to economic growth. This is especially important in low-income or underserved communities, where financial literacy can help to break the cycle of poverty and create economic opportunity. When I have extra money on hand, I often try to save and find ways to invest to move out of the poverty cycle. In addition to helping individuals and families achieve financial stability and security, financial literacy is also important for protecting against financial risks and fraud. By understanding financial concepts and principles, you can better protect yourself from financial scams and fraud, as well as make informed decisions about financial products and services. For example, if you understand how credit works and the different types of credit products available, you will be less likely to fall victim to predatory lending practices or credit card scams. Financial literacy is an essential skill that can help individuals, families, and communities achieve financial stability, security, and prosperity. By taking advantage of financial education resources, seeking out a mentor or advisor, and teaching others about financial literacy, you can build your own knowledge and understanding of financial concepts and principles and help to create a more financially literate society.

Art has the power to inspire, challenge, and transform individuals and communities. It can be a vehicle for self-expression and a means of communicating ideas and emotions that may be difficult to articulate in other ways. Through art, individuals can connect with others and build a sense of community, fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience. On a local level, art can bring people together and serve as a catalyst for positive change in the community. For example, the installation of free art museums and rock gardens in Apex, North Carolina, can provide a space for people to come together and engage with art, fostering a sense of community and connection. These types of public art projects can also serve as a source of pride for the community, inspiring a sense of ownership and investment in the surrounding area. Art can also have a wider impact on a national and global scale. For example, art can be used to raise awareness about social and political issues, serving as a platform for activism and social change. Through art, individuals can draw attention to important causes and inspire others to take action. Art can also be used to bring people together across cultural and geographic boundaries, fostering understanding and collaboration among diverse communities. Personally, I grew up attending an arts integrated elementary school. As someone who is neurodivergent, it was a unique opportunity to express myself. Now that I have evolved, I also have the choice to continue my educational journey and expression. Without art, I would not have been able to achieve as much as I have so far. In conclusion, art has the power to make a positive impact on communities, both locally and on a larger scale. It can bring people together, inspire self-expression and creativity, and serve as a catalyst for social change.

Losing a loved one is never easy, and for me, losing my aunt was particularly difficult because she had always been like a second mother to me. She was always there for me, offering support and guidance whenever I needed it, and her loss has left a big hole in my life. I remember the day I received the news that my aunt had been diagnosed with cancer. It was a shock, to say the least, and I couldn't believe that someone who was always so full of life and energy could be struck down by such a cruel disease. Despite this, my aunt remained optimistic and determined to fight the cancer with everything she had. As the months went by, my aunt's health began to deteriorate and it became clear that the cancer was winning the battle. It was a difficult time for all of us, and I struggled to come to terms with the fact that I was going to lose someone who meant so much to me. Despite the challenges I was facing, I knew that I had to stay strong and continue with my studies. My aunt had always been a big believer in education and had always encouraged me to work hard and achieve my goals. So, I tried my best to focus on my academics and do my best, even though it was hard to concentrate at times. In the end, my aunt lost her battle with cancer and passed away, leaving a huge hole in my life. It was a difficult time, and I struggled to come to terms with the fact that I would never see her again. Despite the sadness and grief I felt, I knew that I had to move forward and find a way to honor my aunt's memory. I decided to dedicate myself to my studies and work even harder to achieve my goals, knowing that my aunt would be proud of me no matter what. Losing my aunt has had a big impact on my outlook on life. It has reminded me of the importance of cherishing every moment and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way. It has also taught me the value of perseverance and determination, and to never give up, no matter how difficult things may seem. In the end, losing my aunt has been one of the most difficult experiences I have ever faced, but it has also been one of the most transformative. It has helped me to grow as a person and has given me the strength and resilience to face whatever challenges come my way in the future.

According to the nonprofit unesco, in the current year of 2022 only 5% of the ocean has been discovered. Even after decades of exploration, the ocean is still one mystery to scientists and researchers alike. To know absolutely everything about the universe is impossible. Even my mysteries such as the ocean, right here on earth are undiscovered. The ultimate goal of science is to comprehend reality as deeply and extensively as possible, but it is also an understanding of how every particle in the universe has behaved from the time of the universe's creation to the present. The universe has been said to be a product of the Big Bang, which was the concept of one point of energy creating a force and ultimately the universe as a result. This theory has been long debated but ultimately has been proven by Hubble’s discovery in the 1920s of the relationship between earth’s distance from galaxies in relation to speed. Before there was much information about the universe, it was much based on speculation. From biblical beliefs of Adam and Eve to the Greek mythology of the stars. History has been a mixture of ideas and concepts. Ultimately, without the correct information and interpretation of the universe, there is a large amount of space for uncertainty and speculation. The universe is a concept which is truly larger than the human mind can grasp. Scientists have traveled to the moon but really there is so much undiscovered. It is important to better understand the nature of the universe because most of the universe is assumptions. There have been discoveries in history that have led to speculation about what is out there. From the concept of “alien life forms'' to another planet with the resources for survival. Studying the universe is important because it allows for the ability to understand. Recently, a new branch of the military has become available to aspiring students and professionals. The Marine Corps Forces Space Command is responsible for training future space explorers and scientists. The knowledge about space is somewhat limited so it is needed for future students to have an interest in the universe. The total amount of knowledge about the universe is still limited but there is potential for growth. There is a large amount left to learn and scientists are nowhere near done to understanding. There is a limit to the amount of observations and research that can be done. In time, I hope to see more innovations in technology to explore more of the universe. By employing resources such as the Space Force and strategies backed by science, the information about the universe should be more accessible. It is vital to understand the universe because it is the foundation of our world and scientific knowledge.

We have all been taught to write from primary school through a college education. As a result, I, along with thousands of others, began to pursue this notion. Writing is meaningful to me because I would love to write a novel one day and journaling provides me with an opportunity. For much of my life, I have not felt comfortable in my skin, seeking validation from others and feeling pressured by what I lacked. I tried to change myself to fit in. Now, through the implementation of writing reflections in my journal, I have become better able to recognize my self-worth. The funny thing about me is that I love writing but hate reading. It’s ironic because the two go hand-in-hand it seems. I even have dyslexia as icing on the cake. I’ve never been a huge reader but something about a new way of expressing my ideas enticed me to start writing. Currently, I am in yearbook club and love to take creative writing classes in my free time. Writing has me in a bit of a chokehold because it has such a connection with my free time. I never really felt connected to my peers or education until I started perusing writing. Society craves what is lacking, always chasing more, and unable to realize the blessings already present in their life. All the pressures, objectification, and imperfections seemed to bleed into the insecurity. I was trapped within this illusion until I concluded you must create your joy, as others providing you with a sense of happiness feels wonderful, but true happiness comes from within. Through reflection I have realized how much writing is important. It can not only make a point but distort views and opinion. My life is overwhelmingly involved with writing, from what I read on social media to the novels and book I plan to write. One day, I can see myself writing a novel and it is already in the works. In this novel, I would love to bring my gratification and journey to becoming a more avid writer to others who aspire to write. I lived my entire life not knowing what true impression writing has left on me. I find the field of writing a personal interest and could see myself having that as a minor or major of interest in college. Writing is universal and unique and has helped me connect to myself.

One day, I envision myself providing for my family without food insecurity about where our next meal will come from. Not only this, but one day I hope to have the finances to give back to those who have given so much to help me. Generational wealth is built over time. From investment returns to the luck of an inheritance, generational wealth is something later generations often don’t have to work for. I am from a low-income family with both a Native American bloodline and a first generation single-mother. I have been given the opportunity to see the wealth gap and my family growing up has been challenged to provide for even our basic needs. An example of this is when I was in middle school, we didn’t have the money to attend the doctor, so I couldn’t get glasses to see my schoolwork. Basic resources we take for granted are what I would hope to provide with generational wealth to my loved ones. One day, I hope to have the financial advantage to help my children achieve without financial burdens. Growing up, I have seen the difference between those of low income and higher earnings. I have a unique perspective on expenses of the future so by investing now and setting aside money, I can one day afford to provide for those I care about. I have noticed that peers my age often splurge on unnecessary items because they have no true concept of money. With this consumer pattern, the students of this generation are fully reliant on their parents, while I don’t have that similar luxury. With research, I have found that retirement accounts when started at a young age can grow and provide for the future. When I turn eighteen, I hope to start a retirement account and plan to save according to my college financial situation. One way I plan to also save is by making an effort to alleviate my student debt. My mother is still in debt from her education over thirty years ago, so I see the burden of the bill on her. As interest and other inflation causes it to increase, so does the longevity and struggle to pay for it. By investing in generational wealth and being smart with money now, I hope to one day be debt-free and provide for my family. With creating strategies and starting early, I feel I can one day accomplish this.

Although it may seem ironic, my most favorite genre of literature is gothic horror. In all honesty, I’m dyslexic so usually I despise reading. When I was younger I remember avoiding reading at all costs and really did not enjoy it. This didn’t really make sense to my mom until my dyslexic diagnosis. My mom is an English teacher, so of course she was a bit concerned when I didn’t progress in reading like my peers. Now that I have this diagnosis, I have found ways to better my experience with reading and no longer avoid it. I’ve really only loved one genre of media. From the true crime lense to horror, I truly love gothic horror. The book that has transformed my life is the book that ultimately made me enjoy reading. The book is “The House of Leaves” by Mark Z. Danielewski and takes place through multiple plots that all come together.What intrigued me so much about this novel was the parallels made between life as well as the motives of the characters. I could relate to certain aspects of the novel but at the same time it made me feel emotions. I had never had a novel create such fear but commonality within myself. From that novel on, I became almost obsessed with reading. Although it was a bit difficult to read with my disability, I have found ways to make it easier. I used to struggle with small font, so I find it especially helpful to use the larger font selection. My favorite bookmark also has a plastic section that allows me to focus more on words than the entire page itself. How this novel changed my life was it gave me an opportunity to realize I did have opportunities to enjoy reading. Currently, I am in a newspaper club at my school called the Patriot Press. I find it interesting to write articles based on the same genre of the novels. It fascinates me that life can be intertwined and connected if you really look into it. In my future, I hope to pursue something with business and journalism. Also, law fascinates me so if I study that, I will have the reading strategies to study cases and become more informed. Without reading The House Of Leaves I would have not discovered what brings passion to reading and the genre I actually enjoy. Through forming strategies to read and understand, I have had my life changed because now I am able to achieve more in life.

When I was at my lowest point, I found a song to change my mindset. The song is Better Days by Hedley which strongly resonated with me. The song starts off sad but as it progresses, so does the character and their happiness. The quote “better days are not so far away” really impacted me and gave me the hope I needed. At the time I first listened, I was going through the loss of my cousin who was very young. I was driving to volunteer work with a charity called Pawfect so I could see the puppies and cheer up while helping them get adopted. My cousin also struggled with his mental health but decided to take his own life at only the age of 13. I never got quite there, but I definitely have experienced my fair share of mental health issues. The most important message from the song is to not give up and to continue because life eventually gets better.

Dear mathematics, I wanted to write you this personal note to acknowledge my interest in you. You interest me so much in fact I have decided to devote my life to you through a major that uses you so often. I enjoy your company and insight into the conceptual understanding and power it seems to take to know you. I am officially divorcing subjects such as history because they are simply too difficult to memorize. You on the other hand have straight forward answers and ensure I don’t overthink. You provide me with ease, as I am normally very anxious with variety of methods with academics. Yet you have a set path and provide simple concrete solutions which ease my angst. Not only this math, but you have shaped the world around me. From the architecture perspective to even inventions within my household such as technology, you really have done so much for me. So how may I show you I care for you? Maybe by studying you and memorizing you so you may be my partner for life and assist me in any adventure I may partake. I love you math not only for what you have done for me, but the beauty of your complexity within the simplistic. Love, Sydney Halsey

So how does one define forever? Forever applies to one who is still alive If I died today would my forever stop? Yet what is forever if not within death? Forever would no longer apply once someone dies Then forever resets and evolves to eternal But yet is it the fundamental of mortal and immortal or the morale within? By choice or consequence. By hope or by lust? Forever is subjective to one For oneself it’s a consequence, but it must be embraced to make the most out of it Today is the day Not the future

When my grandfather who was like a father to me passed away, I felt lost and out of touch with the familiarity of my life. I felt very overwhelmed and alone. However, the night of his funeral I started seeing different signs around me that reminded me of him. From his favorite color to a car with a bumper sticker with his favorite quote I felt a sense of peace. Along with the signs, I felt a greater power. In this moment, I knew that it wasn’t my grandfather himself sending messages, but god. It is hard to comprehend how I felt when God's presence suddenly supported me through my loss. Growing up, religion practicing was regular. The church visits and Sunday school was something I resented. In all honesty, as a child I was stubborn and didn’t enjoy the ideas of church being forced on me. However, we stopped attending church after a while through my mom’s cancer treatment because she lost touch with our church and god himself. Until the night of my grandpa’s funeral, I was not bothered but not attending. But something happened and I was suddenly very spiritually hungry. In all honesty, my life was a mix of chaos and overworking myself as a distraction before I reconnected with god. As a result, I was often stressed and felt something was missing. A few days go by and I realize that god is the answer. Using the internet, I Google churches who match my beliefs and discover something called a youth group. I had never really thought about it so I decided to join as well as started attending church every Sunday. My first time re-entering church I was treated with kindness and welcomed with hugs and smiles. How could I have missed out on such a welcoming community? I immediately felt my connection to god grow after that service but it didn’t stop there. A few months later during a youth group event I was baptized a second time and supported. God has not only helped me realize that he is there for me through prayer but also that through his lessons in the Bible I am more within the church community. In the future, I could see myself taking my future children and spouse to church and volunteering to lead a youth group. My youth group leader helped me through a lot and I wouldn’t be the same without her. Although it was difficult to lose my grandfather, I was in return connected with god and know one day I will get to see him in heaven.

I invest in myself through self-care techniques to preserve my general well-being. Prioritizing myself and maintaining a balance between my academic and wellness goals were things I struggled with in the past. Prior to beginning my holistic journey, I had to overcome the challenge of chronic anemia. When I was first diagnosed, I had uncomfortable pain and my quality of life was worsened. No, it is not life-threatening. However, it changed my life. I was no longer able to participate in the same activities I used to due to newfound difficulty. I experienced persistent exhaustion, migraines, and frequent nausea. I felt almost helpless because I could not do the same tasks as my peers. I would go to the doctor frequently in the hopes of getting improved health. Sadly, no treatment improved my anemic tendencies. Eventually, I was able to recover from the anemia by putting more of an emphasis on a holistic way of life. This solution took shape by improving my diet and enhancing my dietary habits. I accomplished this by supplying my body with superfoods. Superfoods are packed with vitamins and nutrients that are crucial to my health. Currently, fresh fruits and veggies are my favorite healthy foods. Not only are they delicious but they also are great for my mental and physical health. I feel that there is a lack of information out in the world about holistic eating related towards superfoods. So my goal in the future is to advocate towards helping others achieve healthy lifestyles. I am now about to educate my family and myself and I can prepare healthy foods. I didn't always have a healthy lifestyle when I was a child. My mother had a demanding schedule and didn't always prepare meals that were healthy when I was younger. I've started to be able to help out with my personal food decisions and family shopping now that I'm older. My family members also benefited from this modification in my diet, in addition to myself. These foods have enhanced both mine and my family members' quality of life. In conclusion, I would not have been able to recover from my anemia without a holistic approach to my lifestyle. My quality of life has significantly increased, and I've been able to instill long-lasting habits in my family. I can honestly say that by making myself a priority through nutritional improvements, I have improved my overall wellness.

When I first learned about the entire treatment of animals in my freshman year of high school, I became vegan. I could not face the fact that animals faced the treatment of death. From my freshman year on, I began to advocate for animal rights. From protests to my internship I have a strong passion for animal welfare. The animal rights I mostly advocate for are mostly non-domestic animals because they do not receive a large amount of care. Although dogs and cats experience better treatment, through my involvement at animal shelters I have also seen the two side to animal neglect. There is over population of dogs and cats due to improper care yet also with non-dementia animals there is an unethical killing and treatment process. I do realize that dogs and cats experience a better treatment but animals such as cattle, pigs, goats and sheep lack the same respect. In reality, society needs to shift towards a new age of progressive thinking in the point of complete animal welfare. I do understand that some practices require meat but I do think it would be ok in ethical practices. In slaughter houses, animals are fed toxic chemical mixtures and the quality of life is worsened by lack of space. No human would want to live like this so why make animals? I am beyond disappointed in society but also see hope for the future within animal rights. My most favorite memory of my advocacy practices is when I became an intern at PETA an animal rights organization through my involvement in an advanced studies course at my school. The program I participated in focused on vegan alternatives in the fashion industry and I loved learning about more ethical practices. I created products that were fully sustainable using vegan materials such as burlap sacks that would often end in landfills. Through my internship, I also began attending animal welfare protests and creating propaganda to better educate my peers and teachers. I feel there is a lack of educational resources out there so I find it in my best interest to advocate. Animal welfare is important because animals are intelligent and do not deserve harm. The use of animals needs to shift to more ethical practices in the future. There are a large amount of animals who are hurt based on the needs of the human population. This is beyond wrong to me and my philosophy is to not justify this animal harm. I am passionate about advocating for animal rights because there needs to be a change.

My best back to school tip is to be prepared! This is often overlooked but having the right resources and study space set up will better the school year and ease stress. Often, I found myself burnt out academically in the past and working ahead really does improve the overall back-to-school experience.

At first, I wanted to be a veterinarian until the irony of my allergies caught up to me. I was in fact very allergic to the chemicals they clean with so that was no longer an option. Then, I wanted to be a teacher just like my mom. But after observing what the impacts of a teacher’s salary does to a single parent I decided else wise. Now, I have a set plan for what I plan to do in my college experience. I plan to go into a four-year university to go into business and marketing. Finances are a huge burden to my college achievement so in my free time I work a semi-full time job at Starbucks. Not only am I starting to save for college, but I can help my mom by buying groceries and school supplies for my siblings. Another way I am preparing for my future is by applying for scholarships. I have a love of writing and have truly grown in my writing skills. Not only that, but I also tutor my peers who hope to also achieve scholarship success. At first I wanted to apply to a small private college that would provide ease with the transition from high school to college. However, I realized the true cost of education when I looked up costs. Then, I considered community college but my mom would not be able to sustain my home living situation. So, I plan to apply to an in state public university. I’m excited in all honesty but also nervous for the journey ahead. In my freshman year, I joined fifteen clubs. Those clubs were what I thought I need to succeed. But as time continued, my mind shifted. Through a pandemic, move, death of a pet and even the loss of my uncle, I learned to chose value in life. So, I changed my focus to only participate in a few clubs. Now that I focused towards the value, I am president of FCCLA as well as am a proud leader in two honors societies. My goals for my personal life are to continue with my leadership skills and grow as a person through creating a better financial freedom for myself and to be able to give back and better support my family members. Although my path has changed, I still remain motivated to continue to grow and sustain myself.

My dream is to make an impact and to help those in my community. Financial independence has always been a long-term goal of mine, and I am confident that I can achieve it. One day, I want to be able to provide for myself and others while also making a difference.

Living life to the fullest through bravery and living boldly is a habit. Recently I made the realization that I was holding back through a fixed-mindset and not speaking fully to my truth. Often, I was limited by my mindset so, I was rigid and emotionally unavailable to change. Once I found awareness through acknowledging my weakness, I knew that I needed a change. In a way, practicing bravery and self confidence is a spectrum. How I started to better embrace this spectrum is by saying “yes” more. Opportunities presented themselves and I started taking the chance. In return, I started asking questions and not making assumptions that the answer would only be no. Without limiting myself, I accomplished a new job opportunity as well as a dream internship in a field I wouldn’t have accomplished without practicing boldness. Practicing bravery to me means letting go of exceptions. Life is unpredictable but living bold doesn’t have to be. Living this way is a habit which forms over time and can be truly rewarding.

Joy is when my feet touch the ground and I am running. For more than five years now, I have been running. Never that fast, but for very long distances. I think it is very true that running has gotten me through the hardest things in my life and is one source of joy I have. I didn’t start running for love of running. I started running because my volleyball coach made us run a half mile every day before practice. I wasn’t passionate about running, but I was passionate about volleyball. I was never the fastest kid, but I was the most consistent and maybe the most determined. I don’t know how it happened, but every single day through the whole season I maintained my half mile pace from the day before, or got faster. I learned that habit and discipline take you further than passion. When I first truly experienced the meaning of joy was when I had a victory in a race despite not placing as high as I had expected. Another runner had fallen so I was left to assist her as others passed. She and I finished together but I was somewhat upset about my race time. In my hardest moments, the moments where I’ve felt like I can’t take the stress anymore, I think back to my hardest races, to the runs and races I’ve been in through the blistering heat, on snowy mountains, or worse, and I think: If I could do those, then I can do this. And I was right. Joy isn’t what you have it’s what your impact and talent is on your community and through self-growth despite challenge.

How I keep a growth mindset is finding compromise through disagreement. A prime example of when my growth mindset was challenged was during a leadership struggle I faced with a team member in my club named FCCLA. For 2021-22 I was the VP of Community Service. Through my role, I collected donations, recognized my committee members with certificates, and planned community service events. One community service project I accomplished was a book drive for three local elementary schools. Through this drive, I collected donations of supplies, food, and other necessities for the drive’s success. This information was clearly explained on an extensive planning sheet and I had gotten the approval of the club admin every step of the way. Near the end of my project, I had some disagreement on project dates from team members. Feedback is something I value because as much as I was the committee leader, the opinions and goals of my team are equally important as my own vision. I genuinely care about each and every one of my committee members and they are equals with their influence on projects. The other committee member proposed that they drive the books and for the change of the drive date completely. Although I initially disagreed with her, I listened to her points and found compromise within disagreement. I allowed her to drive the books (with approval from the club administrator) and we moved the date to best accommodate the availability of the schools and them. Through this leadership struggle, I learned that adapting and compromising can help create a more ethical solution to the conflict. How I can apply this conflict towards my growth mindset is by adjusting my ability to learn from others and have an increased understanding of teammates and show empathy.

“No matter where you're from, your dreams are valid.” – Lupita Nyong'o Every day, I utilize my free time once I finish my obligations to reflect on my dreams along with all my goals. My ambition for the future is to become a successful entrepreneur. I've always been fascinated by the world of business. Because my grandfather’s role in his business and building it up from the ground after immigration, I've always wanted to be a member of or lead a company since I was a child. Before my grandfather passed away, he told me to “never stop dreaming and reach for beyond the stars”. Having a dream isn't enough; I need to put in the effort to make it a reality. Dreams first begin as abstract but with the right actions they can become reality. One day, establishing a business will not be as simple as it appears, I must first grasp the fundamentals of my values. This will be the first step toward realizing my ambition. So, in order to also achieve my dream I will enroll in a 4-year university and have the goal to learn all I can. By the end of my studies in university, I will have obtained a thorough understanding of business and how it operates, which will aid me in achieving my goal. Apart from the theoretical aspects, I can always count on the hope my grandfather had for me. He is my main inspiration so one day I hope to dedicate my motivation towards him. Subconsciously through my youth, he brought me one step closer to realizing my dream of being a successful businesswomen. My ambition and dream for the future is possible if effort is done.

Something that I love about myself is my strawberry freckles. Really, they aren’t strawberry freckles but acne spots I developed overtime from going through puberty. Through my early teenage years, I struggled to accept myself and my appearance as I changed and developed into a young woman. I wasn’t comfortable in my skin until I fully recognized my flaws and began to love them. Through my feelings of discomfort, I began to turn towards others for validation yet this quickly became backlash. That is why I took a step back to discover myself and search for happiness within. I stopped setting my expectations of myself so high and came back to my roots. I went back to my tribe and connected with my close family. They told me that I they too felt the imbalance I was facing and encouraged self discovery. By concentrating on the things I lacked, I was able to achieve comfort within my own skin again. I started focusing on self-care and finding ways to love myself as well as cherish my values. I question the ideal individual in society’s eyes. I question why we try to control the uncontrollable. I question why we search for what we lack. Over time I became so much happier with myself through working through my deep-rooted insecurities. Overall, I realized I am perfect despite my strawberry freckles and they are a part of my identity which I pride myself within.

In the world of inflation and an increased cost of living, finding financial balance is the most important financial advice I have received. The concept of "expense tracking" is a lesson I've taken to heart. In simplified terms, a spending plan is a breakdown of all income and expenses applied towards what will be saved and spent. One would think that financial planning is a common practice, but in most cases, it is overlooked and viewed as just another tedious chore. In my opinion, creating a financial plan (budget) is a key success factor and an easy way to "keep your head in the game." In essence, a budget ensures that you do not make any purchases that you are unable to pay for, and allows for the deposition of additional funds into an emergency fund. By creating a budget, the burdens of lifestyle creep and weak spending habits will be better fixed which will better alleviate the burdens of stress or worry due to unstable spending habits. The only potential drawback of creating a financial budget is the lack of time that a working individual has. would be something along the lines of "It takes too long!" or "It's so much work!" While it is valued to relax instead of making a plan, the long-term benefit of a financial plan will provide a greater commodity. Taking into consideration the benefits of financial planning and management,  I will undoubtedly include this within my future spending and saving habits. 

Math transverses the world and provides a more in-depth explanation of the "why" factor. From the vastest skyscrapers to the smallest granule, math is essential. Without math, the world wouldn't make sense because individuals would simply lack understanding. Math is taught as a foundational skill from elementary to college and beyond. Participation and learning in math class are the backbones of furthering educational goals. Throughout education, math is required and is essential because it provides students with a firm basis and foundation for learning other subjects that stem from the general umbrella of math. I was first drawn to math when I realized how it really is applied to the career and future I see myself in. I see myself in business or marketing! Not only can math be applied to the world, but it can also be applied to personal finance, refines problem-solving, and also is impactful towards the development and improvement of life skills. Math is often overlooked but I absolutely love learning it! Math covers a wide variety of different concepts- from triangles to the probability of an event. Through enhancing my mathematical skills, I have been able to better calculate my finances and answer the "why" factors of the things I questioned in my younger years. Life is full of unpredictive patterns which at any given moment shift. However, I find comfort in math because it remains constant and has one correct answer, unlike life which has a variety of diverse paths and answers. Why I originally decided to foster my love of math was through adversity I had to work to overcome. I have a strong connection to math because it is something I can rely on to give a correct answer as well as I enjoy doing it. Through my involvement in a CTSO (career and technical student organization) based class, which was an independent studies course I developed a new understanding of the paramount importance of math. Through this course, I was responsible for creating products and engineering garments, and other products which reflected my project goal of sustainability. I had an increased appreciation of math because if I didn't do my calculations correctly, my products became unable to be used and a waste of resources. Despite a few mathematical errors, I felt prideful when I did the calculations correctly and my product reflected that. Without math, my vision would not have been possible. My life skills of adaptation and change grew as well as my hunger for learning and success. In conclusion, math is all-encompassing and it has strongly shaped the person that I am today. It has not only helped increase my appreciation for life and my academics but also provided me with a clearer vision and path to achieve it. Though taught as a rudimentary skill to begin with, math is so expansive and helped me grow as an individual.

One thing I do to improve the lives of the elderly in my community is my participation in an outreach program with my family every major holiday. Over the years I've participated, I have helped to donate over $500 in equipment and other supplies to help out the residents. Leading up to the season I pack hygiene items and necessary items and delivered them on the holidays. Elderly people often don't get visited so I try to make regular visits and interact with residents. While at the visits, I make an effort to actively listen and remember things about residents to ask them when I return. Recently, a new transfer resident asked if he could speak with a volunteer. He was an older gentleman in his eighties who was bed-ridden. He was very sick yet still had a story to tell. I recall sitting in a chair next to him for a few hours as he talked about everything from his childhood to the war to the beautiful children he and his wife had together. That day, I was originally reluctant to have a conversation with him but I really did learn a lot. At the end of the conversation, he thanked me and started to cry. This was the first time in a while that he truly felt valued. Through this project, I have created opportunities for students to collaborate with elderly people of all abilities during the holiday season to create a positive environment. Through my involvement and passion for helping the elderly, an annual visit has been implemented to deliver and purchase gift bags and decorate for the holiday season. Oftentimes, elderly people don't receive a lot of attention so one thing I do to improve their lives makes an effort to see them and value them.

Listening means seeing the world from a different perspective. This was very true for me when I was volunteering at a medical rehab center a few years ago. Active listening encompasses the five senses- not just listening. When I was at the rehab center, a man, who was about in his eighties asked if he could speak with a student volunteer. He was very sick yet still had a story to tell. To listen is to actively take in the information and truly comprehend it. I probably sat in a chair next to him for a few hours as he talked about everything from his childhood to the war to the beautiful children he and his wife had together. Listening actively is not based on planning a response, it is fully paying attention. That day, I was originally reluctant to have a conversation with him but I really did learn a lot. In over ten years, he had not once had his children visit so when I listened to him he felt valued and appreciated. Oftentimes, others have individual experiences that the listener has not endured. Overall, the most important lesson I learned from him is to listen to others and value the little moments in life. Through my conversation with him, I saw the world from a different perspective.

Not falling under the influence of lifestyle creep is one personal finance lesson I had to learn. I grew up in a high-income area and had a single parent (who is a teacher) so I didn't have the resources to live that luxury. For a while, I felt excluded and isolated from my peers because I couldn't afford certain things. I felt it was important to provide myself with items that weren't necessary to feel I belonged. How I began to achieve the same lifestyle was by getting a minimum wage job and working up to 40 hours a week. Over time, I began to fall ill because I was overworking. When I was working, I felt in control of my finances but wasn't investing where needed. Clothes and tangible items are temporary but investing in my future is of so much more importance. How I corrected my imbalance between spending and saving was by keeping track of my spending, bills, and savings.

A picture is worth a thousand words- or so they say. My favorite piece of art is the Balloon Girl mural by Bansky. This mural depicts a girl who lets go of a red balloon. The rest of the picture is black and white which really illuminated to me the idea of only seeing in black and white until you recognize yourself. The balloon represents more than just a balloon, it’s light and colorful and free once she releases it. What this painting means to me is a loss of innocence which allows the girl to let go of the feelings of entrapment. How this inspired me in my personal life was during my parent’s divorce. Before the divorce, I lived in black and white with my “nuclear family”. Then, my family was torn apart and I really felt my own balloon slip away as I had to face a circumstance of choice. My choice was between my mother and father yet I still had my innocence. When the unjust truths of the divorce revealed themself my balloon somewhat went into the clouds and I saw the true colors of life for the first time. A picture is worth a thousand words yet it’s the viewers job to see them.

The best way to live a healthy life is to not live by societal expectations. Societal exceptions place such a burden to a point where it doesn’t seem like you are actually thriving. Stigma is at the route of cultural anesthesia in diet culture to the false promises of a healthier life from the media. Life itself is expected to be cookie-cutter styled with perfection. This expectation often causes more harm than good. Through these patterns, healthy habits begin to shift towards an unhealthier pattern of habits. Through the judgments of society, stress and strain are placed on the individual genuinely causing them to not be as healthy. Living without influence and focusing inwards towards improving one's health is essential. How I personally live healthily is I focus on my mental health first. The mental state you are in is the main driving factor. Without being in a good mental state, grades and self-care decline. How I first began to improve my mental health was by deleting (or strongly limiting) my screen time specifically on social media. Now that there was less of an external influence on me, I began to focus on myself and balance my attention, turning inward. Once I became happy within myself, I succeeded within my goal mindset, began to take care of myself in other ways, and found a healthy work-school-life balance. Living a healthy life is determined by fostering the idea within yourself towards a healthier balance. Although cultural anesthesia and influence from the media are negative influences, finding understanding and stepping away from societal expectations can help reduce burdens.

The song that most inspires me most is I Want Something That I Want which I first heard through my favorite childhood movie which is Tangled. This song goes through a girl meeting someone who doesn’t share her same perspective. He has been “living in his own illusion” and she has come to her “own conclusion”. Although she has a conflicting viewpoint with him, they find compromise and understanding within one another. They both understand how easy it is to “make believe” and see the world as perfect when it really isn’t. She was already determined prior to meeting him but still wants more and “wants what she wants” while he is more go with the flow. This song inspired me to work through my own issues of being unable to compromise in my childhood and to move forward. I absolutely love this song because it helps me to understand just like the girl to “find my own way” and to not give up despite adversity and disagreement. This song really inspired me through a leadership struggle I faced in FCCLA last semester. FCCLA is a collective effort so it isn’t the sole responsibility of one committee for projects. One of the committee leaders at an FCCLA club meeting brought up some ideas about the book drive that differed from my project plan. I had previously set up the drive information with the elementary schools, so I wasn’t sure how to accommodate their ideas. Although I initially disagreed with them, I listened to her points and found compromise within disagreement. The song inspired me to act towards compromise and practice a willingness to accept change.

Math transverses the world and provides a more in-depth explanation of the "why" factor. From the vastest skyscrapers to the smallest granule, math is essential. Without math, the world wouldn't make sense because individuals would simply lack understanding. Algebra in particular is at the foundation of math for learners. This rudimentary class is the backbone of furthering educational goals. Throughout education, math is required and is essential because it provides students with a firm basis and foundation for learning other subjects that stem from the general umbrella of math. The ever-expanding S.T.E.A.M (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics) industry is a prime example of why knowledge and appreciation of math are even more valuable, as math skills are required for a vast variety of occupations. Not only can math be applied to the world, but it can also be applied towards personal finance, refines problem-solving, and also is impactful towards the development and improvement of life skills. Math is often overlooked but I absolutely love learning it! Math covers a wide variety of different concepts- from triangles to the probability of an event. Through enhancing my mathematical skills, I have been able to better calculate my finances and answer the "why" factors of the things I questioned in my younger years. Life is full of unpredictive patterns which at any given moment shift. However, I find comfort through math because it remains constant and has one correct answer, unlike life which has a variety of diverse paths and answers. Why I originally decided to foster my love of math was through adversity I had to work to overcome. I have a strong connection to math because it is something I can rely on to give a correct answer as well as I enjoy doing it. Through my involvement in a CTSO (career and technical student organization) based class, which was an independent studies course I developed a new understanding of the paramount importance of math. Through this course, I was responsible for creating products and engineering garments, and other products which reflected my project goal of sustainability. I had an increased appreciation of math because if I didn't do my calculations correctly, my products became unable to be used and a waste of resources. Despite a few mathematical errors, I felt prideful when I did the calculations correctly and my product reflected that. Without math, my vision would not have been possible. My life skills of adaptation and change grew as well as my hunger for learning and success. In conclusion, math is all-encompassing and it has strongly shaped the person that I am today. It has not only helped increase my appreciation for life and my academics, but also provided me with a clearer vision and path to achieve it. Though taught as a rudimentary skill to begin, math is so expansive and helped me grow as an individual.

My favorite scientific breakthrough saved a life. My mother was diagnosed with severe Papillary Thyroid Cancer in 2018. This type of cancer is especially aggressive and often kills the patient. In 2018, the same year she was diagnosed, studies began being done to better understand how to treat this type of cancer. Medications that reduced the risk of chemo, which is particularly harmful to cells, were discovered as a result of these studies. My mother had witnessed her best friend Laura go through chemo and die two years before, and she was terrified that we would also lose her. Fortunately, my mother did not have to undergo chemotherapy because doctors had discovered new treatments and a surgery that could save her life. She was highly interested in natural healing at the time, so she decided to go the surgical way rather than the medicated route. Her first operation failed, and she became sicker as a result. I vividly recall crying at her bedside table while she was in the hospital. My father was confused about how to deal with this at the moment. The hospital began administering Nexavar, a new drug discovery, to her. She successfully regained her health, allowing her to have a final surgery to remove the remaining malignancies. Now, my mother has fully recovered and is an elementary school teacher. Without the medical discovery, she would have passed away similarly to her friend Laura.

Not falling under the influence of lifestyle creep is one personal finance lesson I find uncompromisingly important. It's simple to assume that you're living within your financial means. You keep track of your spending, your bills, and your savings. The imbalance between spend and save is something that without restrain, quickly escalates. In an essence, this is lifestyle creep. While living within your financial means, you may earn a raise at work or your side job may have a good month. So you tell yourself that rewarding yourself is fine. Until that indulgence becomes a permanent part of your routine. You enter a cycle of wanting more and overspending to compensate with what finances you believe you have. This lifestyle is at first seen as lavish and new, until it becomes regular and you again crave more. This habit in routine begins to slowly impact your wallet and take away from fundamentals needed in other areas. If you were able to survive satisfactorily previously to this new change, then my belief is you will be able to continue to do so until you make a conscious decision to enhance your financial situation permanently.

Generosity is someone who is good to you, provides without expecting, and serves you in a way without judgment or reward. Depending on the situation, generosity may be interpreted in a variety of ways. So, what does it mean to be generous? Generosity stems from a person's character and kindness. Although often overlooked, generosity may be one of the most vital parts of a healthy relationship since without it, you would be focused solely on yourself and not on the needs of others. Taking the time to do small things for your spouse or friend will not only earn them respect, but it may also inspire them to do something kind or caring for you in the future. Generosity in a stable and healthy relationship entails more than just doing a few modest nice things here and there; it also entails putting others first. only earn respect, but may also inspire them to do something kind or caring for you in the future. Generosity in a stable and healthy relationship entails more than just doing a few modest nice things here and there; it also entails putting others first. Being charitable has numerous advantages, including making you happier, healthier, and improving your relationships. As a result, being kind and demonstrating generosity offers numerous opportunities to nurture relationships and those around you.

My educational mission is to attend a four year university and possibly go all the way to a doctorate degree. As a mostly high A student, I feel I am prepared for what college has to offer. Next year, I plan to have dual enrollment with a local college and become the FCCLA club president. My vision for the future extends beyond the classroom. I envision the future to be where everyone feels welcomed and appreciated. I feel creating community is an aspect of unsurpassed importance. Fostering and providing support for members of my community would be my main goal through leadership. It is a leader’s job to envision and create opportunities. I feel my purpose is to lead change with my future. Through my path of advocacy, I hope to one day create a non profit to assist others and new progressive thinking.

Dancing has always taken up a large part of my heart. I've liked dancing since I was a little girl because it brings joy to my heart. I began in an arts integrated school for elementary school called Studio School then participated at Denver School of the Arts. Dancing is a one-of-a-kind art form that has helped me find community with others. I hope to pursue dance and to fuel my hunger for theater in college. There's something about swaying to the music that instantly makes my mood better and concerns fade away. What I love about dancing is that it transports me to another realm, and it is when I feel fully comfortable in my skin. The rhythm, the beat, the diversity of dance styles, all contribute towards my love of dance. On beat or off beat I feel dance is fun no matter the occasion. Without dance, I wouldn’t be who I am today.

Connecting with the world is what I do in my free time. I do not mean using filters and posting every second of my life on social media; I mean pen paling and connecting through my writing. Penpal was a hobby I began to explore during my adventures in quarantine. Writing letters to strangers seems odd at first but it helped to grow my small-knit community through a global pandemic. I'm a very introverted person so I prefer to write my thoughts and look into the deeper meaning. Why I love writing is it helps me get out of my head and transfer a part of myself onto the paper. Through pen palling, I was now able to now write all over the world and receive a new appreciation of my culture and identity. From receiving unique souvenirs to personal anecdotes I learned more about myself. I laughed and cried at experiences that I shared with my penpals. I became close with one named Chloe. Chloe is a seventeen-year-old girl from Kansas who currently struggles with seizures. She is one of my closest friends and has illuminated her disability and although she feels it is a sensitive topic, we bonded and built trust to where she was able to be vulnerable with me. I similarly struggle with severe anxiety which I have been able to open up to her about. Although I have not met Chloe face-to-face, she is one of my best friends who I know I can count on. I enjoy pen paling because it provided a new opportunity to experience the world through the lens of another person's eyes. Through my pen paling, I have not only been able to become passionate about my writing but also been able to be more vulnerable with others and honest with myself.

With one thousand dollars, I would invest in the future. Not necessarily financial investments, such as stocks, more along the lines of investing in those around me. I strongly value community and would invest in a better tomorrow. It is easier said than done, but I strongly believe in advocacy and supporting future generations. Society suppresses those they see who differ from their belief of the "ideal" individual. BIPOC students, lower-income students, those with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ members, and even those who are minorities and female are those who have had to overcome great adversity. From small insults to physical violence, I feel that discrimination is so prominent in today's culture. So how would I use the one thousand dollars to benefit others? I would connect with others and create a nonprofit to promote a better tomorrow and community. This nonprofit would provide resources for those who are victimized or simply lack the ability to advocate for themselves. Building a better tomorrow starts today by investing in those surrounding me and advocating for them.

I’m a wallflower. I blend in yet still find ways to grow. I thrive among weeds disguised as flowers and those who are flowers yet don’t appear that way. I’m always willing to accept a flower rejected by others. Some stunning flowers in my life were those who no one else desired. Sometimes I realize I’ve lost the stars while glancing at the moon. I lose my motivation. The anxiety and overthinking consume me. So I take my telescope and adjust the lens to better see. Stars are all around us yet sometimes we are blindsided.