One of the biggest issues I’m passionate about is ensuring that athletes are not only able to perform their best but also stay healthy and safe, especially in contact sports. Injuries like concussions and joint issues have become all too common as athletes push their limits. As someone pursuing athletic training, I see this as an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of athletes. I want to help prevent injuries before they happen, provide the right treatment when they do, and support athletes through their recovery, ensuring they can return to the game without risking their long-term health. Every athlete deserves to perform at their highest level without putting their future on the line, and I want to be part of that protective shield. On a local level, I’m deeply passionate about breaking down barriers to healthcare and sports medicine, especially for underrepresented and underprivileged communities. Too often, athletes in these communities don’t have access to the top-level care that could help them recover properly or prevent injuries from occurring in the first place. I want to change that. My goal is to use my skills and education to ensure that all athletes—regardless of where they come from—have the resources, education, and care they need to perform safely and recover fully. Every athlete deserves the opportunity to stay healthy and pursue their dreams. Through my education and experience in athletic training, I hope to inspire athletes to focus on prevention just as much as performance. I want to teach young athletes the importance of injury prevention, proper training, and taking care of their bodies. I also want to bring awareness to mental health, because an athlete’s mind is just as important as their body. Too often, the mental strain that comes with sports is overlooked, but I believe helping athletes build mental resilience is key to their overall success and well-being. Looking to the future, I aspire to improve concussion protocols and ensure better standards for identifying, treating, and recovering from concussions. I want to be part of the change that creates safer environments for athletes, where health and safety are prioritized above all else. Ultimately, I want to inspire athletes to believe that they can achieve greatness without sacrificing their future. Through athletic training, I will do everything I can to help athletes reach their fullest potential—physically, mentally, and emotionally—and inspire them to always put their health first.

Starting college has been a wild ride—exciting, a little nerve-wracking, but mostly a huge adventure. My parents didn’t have the chance to go to college, so they didn’t really have a roadmap for navigating the U.S. education system. This meant I had to figure things out on my own, which taught me how to be resourceful and independent. While I’m really proud of how far I’ve come, there’s always that little voice in my head wondering if I’m on the right track, especially when I’m often one of the few who looks like me in my classes. Being a mixed Arab/Latina Muslim woman has meant that I’ve never quite felt like I fully belong anywhere. It’s like being a part of different worlds, but never feeling completely at home in any of them. I’ve often felt like an outsider—whether at school, in social situations, or in spaces where people don’t quite get my background. But here’s the thing: It’s also made me see the world in a unique way. Instead of feeling lost, it’s pushed me to be stronger, more determined, and more confident in who I am. It’s like a superpower, really! My parents, who didn’t go to college, have always been supportive, but I’ve had to rely a lot on mentors, advisors, and friends to help me navigate my education. I’m so grateful for everyone who’s been a guiding light along the way, but it’s also made me realize how important it is to have people who represent you in education. I want to be the person others look at and think, “If she can do it, I can too!” It’s all about showing that you don’t need all the answers to succeed—you just need heart, grit, and a little bit of hustle. Looking ahead, my experiences have inspired me to set goals that are bigger than just me. I want to create inclusive spaces in my field, give underrepresented voices a platform, and be a mentor for the next generation of students who might feel a little out of place, just like I did. Being different isn’t something that holds you back—it’s what makes you stand out. I’ve learned to embrace it, and I’m excited to use my story to make some real change. I want to inspire others to embrace what makes them unique and show them that their journey matters, no matter how different it may seem.

My life has been a series of challenges and growth, each one shaping my path and guiding me toward a career in medicine. Much like rowing, where every stroke demands resilience and teamwork, my journey has taught me the importance of perseverance and pushing forward, even when the waters feel turbulent. One of the defining experiences of my life was during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when my family was faced with unexpected challenges. With both of my parents overwhelmed by the demands of the pandemic, I took on the responsibility of supporting my younger siblings’ education while balancing my own academic responsibilities. This period was both demanding and rewarding, teaching me invaluable lessons in adaptability, sacrifice, and empathy. I quickly realized that just as I had stepped in to care for my family, I wanted to devote my life to helping others in a more profound way. Growing up, I noticed a lack of representation in many fields, including in sports. As I watched the NFL with my family, I saw few role models who looked like me. The need for representation, particularly in roles like athletic training, became apparent. This realization inspired me to pursue a career where I could fill this gap, offering representation for the Muslim and Latina communities in the athletic world. My work with the USFL, where I had the privilege of representing both communities, solidified my desire to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically in sports medicine. The ability to bridge my cultural background with my professional aspirations gave me a unique perspective on the importance of diversity and inclusivity in healthcare. While working as an athletic trainer, I recognized the parallels between healthcare and the teamwork and resilience that I learned in rowing. Rowing taught me that success is not achieved alone—it requires collaboration, discipline, and the willingness to support others. These values are critical in healthcare, where working with patients and multidisciplinary teams is essential to providing the best care possible. As a result, my experiences with teamwork in both athletics and academics have cemented my decision to pursue a career in medicine. I’m particularly drawn to sports medicine because it combines my love for athletics with my desire to help others recover and thrive. It’s an area that allows me to use my skills to make a direct impact on people’s health, helping them push through physical and emotional challenges—much like I’ve done in my own life. As I continue my journey in medicine, I look forward to working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them overcome obstacles, and offering care that addresses their unique needs. Medicine, like rowing, is about resilience, growth, and community. My personal experiences have prepared me to tackle the challenges ahead and inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles. Just as each stroke in rowing tells its own story, every step in my journey has shaped my commitment to pursuing a career where I can make a meaningful impact on others' lives, offering care and representation where it’s needed most.

Certainly! Here's an updated response to your first question, incorporating the challenge of being the only hijab-wearing athlete at your university: 1. Tell us about a problem you have overcome in your life? One significant challenge I faced was during the COVID-19 pandemic when my family encountered unexpected difficulties. With both of my parents managing the intense demands of the pandemic, I took on the responsibility of supporting my younger siblings with their schooling. Balancing academic life with family duties was sometimes overwhelming, but it taught me valuable lessons in adaptability, responsibility, and sacrifice. Another challenge I’ve faced is the lack of diversity in athletics, particularly being the only hijab-wearing athlete at my university. This experience highlighted the absence of representation in sports and made me realize how much it is needed. As the only one wearing a hijab on my team, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to break barriers and serve as an example for other young Muslim women who might not feel welcome or supported in the athletic world. While this situation sometimes felt isolated, it also fueled my determination to pave the way for greater inclusivity in sports, making me more resilient and committed to becoming a role model for others. These experiences have helped shape me into someone who actively pushes for change and inclusion in all areas of life. 2) How will this scholarship help you give back to the community? This scholarship will allow me to continue pursuing my academic and career goals, ultimately helping me give back to the community in meaningful ways. My goal is to become the first hijab-wearing athletic trainer, a role that would provide representation and support to underrepresented groups, such as Muslim and Latina communities, in the sports world. The scholarship will ease the financial burden of my education, enabling me to focus more on gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to make a lasting impact. I am passionate about using my education to empower others and promote diversity and inclusion within the athletic and academic spaces. 3) Philately is a hobby that promotes the study of postage stamps. How would you encourage young people to pursue this hobby? I would encourage young people to pursue philately by highlighting how this hobby can be both educational and enjoyable. Collecting stamps not only introduces them to the history and culture of different countries, but it also encourages attention to detail, organization, and patience. Through stamps, young people can learn about geography, art, and historical events, which could spark curiosity and provide a deeper understanding of the world. I would also emphasize the social aspect of philately, as it provides opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The definition of “rowing” might be paddling across water, but to me, it means resilience, teamwork, and the will to push forward despite the current. Rowing taught me valuable life lessons about pushing through challenges with resilience and working as a team to achieve a common goal. It’s not just a sport to me, but a metaphor for life’s struggles. When my family faced difficulties during the pandemic, I found myself in a similar position: constantly paddling forward despite turbulent waters. Rowing taught me the power of perseverance, discipline, and the importance of staying connected to others, no matter how hard the journey gets. Each stroke of the oar, just like each step in my life, is a reminder that progress, even slow, is still progress.

Entering higher education has been both a challenge and an opportunity for me as a first-generation immigrant. My parents, who only completed high school, have always supported me, but they haven’t been able to guide me through the complexities of college life because they haven't experienced it themselves. This means I often have to navigate the system on my own, figuring out things like applications, financial aid, and academic choices without the benefit of their direct experience. Being part of multiple minority groups adds another layer of difficulty. As a visibly Muslim woman who wears a hijab and a proud Latina, I often feel like I don’t see many people who look like me in the field of athletic training. This lack of representation can be isolating and sometimes makes me doubt my place in the profession. It’s hard to envision myself succeeding in a field where few people share my background or look like me. I grew up watching the NFL, captivated by the intensity and excitement of the game. The energy of the field and the dedication of the athletes inspired me from a young age. These experiences have fueled my determination to pursue a career in athletic training. My parents' sacrifices and hard work have given me the strength to overcome challenges and pursue my dreams. I am particularly motivated by my goal of becoming the first hijab-wearing Latina athletic trainer in the NFL. I want to break barriers and show that people from diverse backgrounds can excel in this field, just as I have always admired those athletes I watched growing up. However, I am also concerned about the potential biases and extra hurdles I might face because of my appearance and cultural identity. Despite these concerns, I am committed to forging ahead, confident that my unique perspective and experiences will enrich the profession and pave the way for future generations. Looking forward, I am committed to using my experiences to advocate for greater inclusivity and representation in both higher education and the field of athletic training. I want to be a role model for other first-generation students and underrepresented individuals, demonstrating that success is possible even when you feel like an outsider. My goal is to make a meaningful impact in my field, create more inclusive environments, and support others who may face similar challenges in their educational journeys. I hope my story can inspire change and encourage diversity in spaces where it is lacking.

Life is a lot like a butterfly going through different stages of change, with each stage offering a chance to grow and become better. As we get older, the person we turn into depends on the promises we make to ourselves now. With this idea in mind, I am committed to three important goals that will guide me as I strive for personal and professional success. These promises are more than just dreams; they are deeply connected to my aspirations and my journey through education. Each promise represents a step towards becoming a better version of myself and achieving the goals I have set for my future. Firstly, I promise to be on that NFL field as an athletic trainer. This vision is not only a career goal but also a reflection of my dedication to merging my passion for sports with my desire to contribute to the athletic community. Growing up, I was always drawn to football. The excitement of the game and the hard work of the players inspired me. While I loved watching them play, I knew I wanted to be involved in a different way—by becoming an athletic trainer who helps keep them in top shape. For me, being an NFL athletic trainer isn't just a job; it's the perfect blend of my passion for sports and my desire to make a real difference. This path requires a lot of training, commitment, and knowledge of sports medicine. This scholarship is essential for me. It will help cover college costs and let me focus on learning the skills I need to succeed. With your support, I'll be one step closer to achieving my dream of working with NFL players and helping them perform at their best.. Secondly, I pledge to be a role model to those who look like me, proudly wearing my hijab. Representation matters, and I am determined to be an inspiration for others who share my background and face similar challenges. By showing that it is possible to succeed in high-profile fields while adhering to my cultural and religious values, I hope to pave the way for future generations. Lastly, I promised to never give up and to persist with our dream of becoming the first hijab-wearing athletic trainer in the NFL. The road to this goal will be filled with challenges. Each setback will be a stepping stone, and each obstacle will be met with resilience. As the eldest of five siblings, I am aware of the financial burden my family bears in supporting three of us through college. My parents are working tirelessly to make sure we all have the opportunity for higher education. By receiving this support, I can ease some of the financial pressure on my family and honor their efforts through my achievements. In conclusion, the promises I make to my future self are deeply connected to my personal values and professional aspirations. Becoming an NFL athletic trainer is more than just a career goal—it's an opportunity to blend my lifelong passion for sports with my desire to make a significant difference. I envision a future where I can support athletes, help them perform at their best, and be a role model for others who share my dreams. Ultimately, this scholarship will help me turn my dreams into reality, enabling me to proudly represent my identity and contribute to the field I am passionate about. Your support will play a crucial role in shaping my future and helping me realize my vision of a fulfilling and impactful career in athletic training.

My Barbie Dream House is a haven of joy and imagination, located beside a sun-kissed beach. Its exterior is a delightful fusion of modern elegance and fairytale charm, decorated in soft pastel hues of pink, blue, and purple, with large windows and a charming balcony overlooking the endless ocean. When you enter, the living room welcomes you with warmth and coziness. A large TV and comfortable sofas make for the perfect place to unwind. With modern appliances and a large island, the kitchen is a culinary haven and ideal for creating delicious meals. A magical nook is reserved for mermaids, complete with a crystal-clear pool where vibrant fish dart among aquatic plants. The bedroom is a princess's dream, with a canopy bed with comfy fabrics. An enchanting closet with everything a hijabi Barbie would need. A flowery garden with brilliant flowers invites you outside the walls, and a refreshing pool invites carefree splashing; on the rooftop, a heavenly lounge sets the stage for starlit parties and amazing gatherings with friends. In this Barbie Dream House, every corner is a canvas for creativity and laughter. It's a realm where friends unite, fashion flourishes, and memories are crafted, epitomizing the magic of togetherness and endless possibilities.

SyneneMaria Abukaram Harry Potter and sorting house scholarship Because Slytherin is undoubtedly a distinctive house with a distinct set of characteristics, I think I belong there. A Slytherin is someone who possesses traits like ambition, resourcefulness, cunning, and tenacity. All of these are excellent traits to possess, especially when it comes to accomplishing your objectives. Being a Slytherin can be a great experience because it allows you to develop these qualities and become the best version of yourself. It's important to remember that not all Slytherins are evil, despite what some people might think. There are plenty of good and talented people who come from Slytherin, such as Severus Snape and Horace Slughorn. A Slytherin loves ambition and tenacity, which is among its many wonderful qualities. You can become successful in life and accomplish your goals by exhibiting these traits. Which I can attest to as traits I've employed in my day-to-day life to aid in my studies, training, and even a recent internship with the USLF (United States Football League). The inventiveness and cunning of Slytherins are also well-known, and these traits come in handy in a variety of circumstances. These characteristics can aid in your ability to think creatively and solve challenges in novel ways. The close-knit nature of the Slytherin group is yet another wonderful feature. Slytherins are fiercely loyal to one another and will defend one another at all costs. When you're going through hard times, this sense of loyalty and camaraderie can be very consoling and encouraging. College life can benefit much from being a Slytherin. You can maintain focus on your objectives and succeed in school with the ambition and tenacity that come with being a Slytherin. Slytherins are known for their resourcefulness and cunning, which can be helpful when navigating the social and professional sides of college life. Furthermore, having a sense of support and belonging in the Slytherin community can be comforting during trying times. Overall, being a Slytherin in college can assist you in developing into a successful and all-around person. Naturally, being in Slytherin also requires that you exercise caution to prevent your zeal and resolve from turning into harshness or brutality. It's critical to keep in mind that there are other people in the world besides yourself and that you should always be polite to and respect others. In conclusion, if you embrace and utilize the positive aspects of being a Slytherin, it can be a wonderful experience. You can grow into the best version of yourself with the assistance of this house, which honors ambition, resourcefulness, and cunning. Don't be scared to embrace your inner snake and make the most of your time at Hogwarts if you are sorted into the Slytherin house.

When we get to the age to question our purpose in life, we have to find the drive that keeps us going. Let me introduce myself before I tell you my hopes and dreams. My name is SyneneMaria Abukaram; I come from a huge family of seven; I am the eldest, in all honesty, a prime example of what my siblings should strive to be. Aside from that, I enjoy a good book now and then or an evening with my rowing team. I guess at this point, your wondering when do I get to the juicy details of Synene's life, what makes her tick. My family is really sports orientated, so imagine when the athletic trainer at my high school soccer game tells me end career type news. He told me I tore my ACL, and the only thing I could ask " did they score, though." But as we headed into the hospital and we headed right back out. This was because all I did was bruise my meniscus. I was dedicated to every sport I played cross country, track, and soccer. No matter who was on my team, I made sure we acted as one. My greatest inspiration in life is sports, that moment when I realized that an athletic trainer was wrong. I began to wonder how many students did he give false news to. Was I mad when I knew he was wrong? Of course, I mean, he was there to make sure I was okay and to give me the right conclusion of what was wrong. After that, I promised I would become the next athletic trainer for my school. To be there on the field and guarantee that never happens to another student-athlete.

As cliche as it sounds, my family is everything. I come from a diverse family being Puerto Rican and Egyptian, the people in my small community weren't as welcoming as you think they would be. In the piece below you will notice two distinctive animals a snake and an owl. The snake is to represents the challenges I endured being a hijabi and a Latina in an Arab and white community. The owl is a representation of the wisdom/ purity that I am supposed to have, which was decided by being a Muslim or the fact that I look a certain age. These preconceived notions are based purely on my appearance, do not fully justify the flavor that is SyneneMaria Abukaram. My family on the other hand has helped me through this maze of challenges that society has placed on my path.

My great-grandma lived in Puerto Rico, unfortunately, she passed away so my family and I claimed down a mounting into the crater where the island meets the ocean in memory of her.

My name is SyneneMaria Abukaram, I come from a diverse household of Egyptian and Puerto Rican. I am the eldest of five which is pretty cool if I do say so myself. I graduated from The Bounty Collegium highschool back in 2020. In school, I participated in Cross Country, Track, Soccer, even Broomball, although I did start the first Speech and Debate team at my school. I was able to do publish my research on the Antibacterial textile effects at the University of Toledo. I wouldn't have been able to continue to push barriers without my great-grandma by my side the very woman who I was named after. Fun Fact about her she decided to pursue her dreams and start her career as a doctor at the age of 50! Although she is no longer with us, she's with me in my heart. The reason she is my inspiration is that she opened the first, first aid clinic in the city of San Juan Puerto Rico. Unfourntly there aren't many hospitals or urgent care around the city I'm from. For my great-grandma to achieve this pushes me even closer to my dreams of becoming an athletic trainer and re-open the clinic. Her memory pushes me through the roadblocks I overcome, she is my motivation. Occasionally I will stumble in my research, not knowing where to go from part A to part B but I don't lose hope and power through it. At the end of my college career, my goal is to reopen my great grandma's clinic in her memory.

My name is SyneneMaria Abukaram. I come from a multi-ethnic household, Puerto Rican and Egyptian. Unfortunately, my parents enrolled me in an Arab school during my middle school years, a scene from Harry Potter where Draco Malfoy calls an intelligent female Hermonie Granger mud blood. In the book, this would have been considered a slur for not being a complete wizard or witch. The kids at the school couldn't understand why both of my parents weren't Arab; they didn't understand how this could happen. At the time, I didn't understand until my parents explained that they didn't understand the concept of outside the box. That's okay because I wasn't meant to fit in, I was supposed to stand out, and I live by that statement. I became the first hijabi runner for my public school; I represented my school at multiple science fairs. I like standing out and owning up to who I am.