
Hobbies and interests
Acting And Theater
Dance
Foreign Languages
YouTube
Writing
Teaching
Reading
Folk Tales
I read books multiple times per month
Taarika Gandhi
2,155
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Taarika Gandhi
2,155
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
My life goal is to excel in my studies during high school in order to gain admission to a reputable college or university. I aim to achieve high GPAs, as well as good SAT and ACT scores, so that I not only have the opportunity to attend a good university but also qualify for multiple scholarships.
Education
Belleville High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Majors of interest:
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
Career
Dream career field:
Medicine
Dream career goals:
MD
Sports
Tennis
Club2025 – 2025
Arts
RVD Academy
Dance2024 – Present
Public services
Volunteering
National Honor Society — Member2024 – 2025Volunteering
Gurudwara — Member2023 – 2024
Future Interests
Volunteering
Ella's Gift
I was born and raised in India, and I moved to the United States when I was 11 years old. The change was overwhelming. I had to adjust to a new culture, language, and environment. I found it difficult to fit in, and the challenges I faced during this time started to affect my mental health. I often felt isolated and struggled to connect with others. As I grew older, these feelings of loneliness and confusion became more intense, and I began to rely on unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance use, to deal with my emotions.
Moving to a new country at such a young age was not easy. At first, I felt excited about the possibilities, but soon the reality of fitting in at school and making new friends became overwhelming. I felt like an outsider. My classmates were already settled in their lives, and I was still trying to understand the social dynamics of the new environment. The language barrier was another challenge, even though I had learned English in India. The American accent and way of speaking were very different, which made me self-conscious and unsure of myself.
As a result of these difficulties, I began to develop anxiety and depression. I struggled to focus on my studies and withdraw from social situations. My academic performance suffered, and I pushed away the people who cared about me.
Eventually, I realized that I could not keep living this way. I hit a low point in my life when I realized that my mental health was deteriorating and I was heading down a dangerous path. It was then that I decided to make a change. I reached out for help Through counseling, I began to understand the root of my struggles—how the challenges of moving to a new country had impacted my mental health, and how I had turned to substances as a way to escape.
This was the turning point for me. I started focusing on my mental health and recovery, learning how to manage my emotions and make healthier choices. It wasn’t an easy process, and there were setbacks along the way, but with each step forward, I felt more in control of my life. I began to understand the importance of self-care and the value of surrounding myself with supportive people.
Today, I am in a much better place. I continue to manage my mental health through therapy, regular self-care routines, and by staying involved in support groups. I’ve also learned the importance of staying physically active, which helps me relieve stress and maintain balance. One of the most important tools in my recovery has been the practice of mindfulness, which allows me to stay grounded and manage my anxiety more effectively.
As I work on my recovery, I’ve also focused on my educational goals. I realized that in order to move forward, I needed to build a strong foundation in my studies. I am passionate about pursuing a career in mental health, as I want to help others who are facing the same struggles I went through. My experiences with mental health and substance abuse have given me a deep understanding of the challenges people face, and I believe I can make a real difference by working in this field.
I am currently working hard to maintain a strong academic record, and I plan to continue my studies in psychology or social work. I am committed to learning more about mental health, recovery, and how to support others who are struggling. I am especially interested in helping immigrant communities, as I understand the unique challenges they face when adjusting to a new culture and environment.
To continue my recovery and achieve my educational goals, I have developed a plan that includes regular therapy, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying connected to my support network. I also plan to seek out internships and volunteer opportunities to gain practical experience and develop the skills I need for my future career.
In conclusion, my journey with mental health, substance abuse, and personal growth has been challenging, but it has also taught me valuable lessons about resilience, self-care, and the importance of seeking help. I am dedicated to continuing my recovery and pursuing my educational goals. My experiences have inspired me to help others, especially those from immigrant backgrounds who may face similar struggles. I am committed to using my journey to make a positive impact and contribute to people who have faced challenges similar to me.
John J Costonis Scholarship
My main goal for the future is to earn a college degree and build a successful career that allows me to support my family and help others in my community. I want to use my education to make a difference and create a better future for myself and those around me. Reaching this goal will not be easy, but I am ready to face the challenges and work hard to succeed.
To achieve my dream, I have taken steps to prepare myself. I am working hard in high school to keep my grades high and stay focused on my education. I have also participated in volunteer work to develop skills and gain experience
One of the biggest challenges I will face while pursuing a college education is financial hardship. Coming from a low-income family, I know that paying for tuition, books, and other school expenses will be difficult. To address this, I have applied for scholarships and plan to work part-time during college to help cover costs. Balancing work and school will not be easy, but I am determined to make it work because I believe in the power of education.Sometimes, I worry about failing or not living up to expectations, but I remind myself that every step forward is progress. I always remind myself that nothing is impossible. If I have the courage and passion to do it, I can do it.
Additionally, I know that college will require me to manage my time carefully. Balancing classes, assignments, and a part-time job will be demanding, but I have learned time management skills in high school that I will carry with me. For example, I plan my schedule in advance and set clear priorities to make sure I stay on track.
Despite these hardships, I am motivated to keep going because I know the rewards will be worth it. A college education will open doors to new opportunities, help me achieve financial stability, and allow me to make a positive impact on others.
In conclusion, my goal for the future is to earn a college degree and build a meaningful career. I am working hard to prepare for this by focusing on my education and gaining experience through volunteer work. While I know the road ahead will have challenges like financial struggles, emotional stress, and time management, I am determined to overcome them. With perseverance and dedication, I will achieve my dreams and create a brighter future for myself, my family, and my community.
Lotus Scholarship
Growing up in a low-income household taught me the value of hard work and resilience. Despite financial struggles, my family encouraged me to focus on education and never give up. Their sacrifices inspired me to persevere through challenges, adapt to difficult situations, and turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.
Limited resources meant I had to find creative solutions to succeed. For example, when I couldn’t afford tutoring, I used free resources like library books and online materials to improve my studies. I balanced school and family responsibilities, learning time management and problem-solving skills that have shaped my character and work ethic.
My background also gave me a deep sense of empathy and a strong desire to give back. I know what it feels like to struggle, and I want to help others facing similar challenges. My goal is to work in a field where I can uplift underprivileged communities by addressing inequality and providing opportunities.
In the future, I plan to use my education and experiences to create programs that improve access to education, healthcare, and resources in low-income communities. I believe our challenges shape us, but it is how we respond to them that defines us. I choose to respond with hope, determination, and a commitment to creating meaningful change for others.
Achieve Potential Scholarship
This scholarship is very important to me because it will help me achieve my goals and support my family. I have worked hard in school to maintain a high GPA, and I want to continue my education to create a better future for myself. However, my family has a low income, and paying for college is a big challenge. This scholarship would give me the opportunity to follow my dreams without putting too much financial stress on my family.
Education is very important to me because I know it is the key to success. I have always dreamed of going to college to study and build a career that can make a difference in the world. Receiving this scholarship would help me cover some of the costs, like tuition, books, and other school supplies. With this support, I can focus more on my studies and less on worrying about money.
My family has always encouraged me to work hard in school, even when times were tough. My parents have made many sacrifices so I can have a good education. For example, my mom took on extra work to make sure I had everything I needed for school, like notebooks, a laptop, and even the bus fare to get to classes. This scholarship would mean a lot to them, as it would show that their sacrifices and my hard work are paying off. It would also allow me to give back to my family by working toward a brighter future.
Receiving this scholarship would also motivate me to keep striving for excellence. Knowing that someone believes in my potential would inspire me to continue working hard and reaching for my goals. I want to make my family proud and show them that their efforts were worth it. I also hope to use my education to give back to my community. Whether it’s through mentoring younger students or volunteering, I want to be someone who lifts others up and makes a positive impact.
In conclusion, receiving this scholarship is not just about financial support, it is also about hope, opportunity, and making a difference. It would ease the financial burden on my family, help me achieve my educational goals, and inspire me to give back to others. With this scholarship, I could continue my journey toward a brighter future for myself, my family, and my community. I am deeply grateful for the chance to apply, and I hope to use this opportunity to work hard and make a lasting impact.
Brian J Boley Memorial Scholarship
I have always wanted to help people, especially those who feel alone or are struggling with their emotions. Mental health is an important part of our lives, but many people do not get the support they need. That is why I decided to pursue a degree in the mental health field. I want to understand more about how the mind works and use that knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others.
One reason I chose this path is because of a personal experience that changed my perspective. A close friend of mine went through a very difficult time in high school. They were dealing with depression and often felt worthless. One day, they opened up to me about how hard life felt and even admitted that they had thought about ending their life. I was shocked and scared, but I stayed with them, listened, and encouraged them to talk to someone who could help. With the support of a counselor and those who cared about them, my friend began to heal and find hope again.
That experience taught me two important things. First, I realized how powerful it can be just to listen and show someone that they are not alone. Second, I saw how a trained mental health professional can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Watching my friend go from feeling hopeless to finding strength inspired me to want to do the same for others.
By studying in the mental health field, I hope to gain the skills and knowledge needed to help people cope with their struggles. I want to create a safe and supportive space where people feel comfortable sharing their feelings. Listening with kindness and without judgment is one way I can make a difference. Many people feel alone in their battles, and simply being there for them can mean so much.
I also want to educate others about mental health. Many people do not understand how common mental health challenges are or how to seek help. I hope to raise awareness and break the stigma around mental health issues. When people feel comfortable talking about their struggles, they are more likely to get the help they need.
In the future, I plan to work with individuals and communities to promote mental well-being. Whether it is through therapy, counseling, or community programs, I want to help people find hope and strength. I believe that every person deserves to feel heard, valued, and supported.
Pursuing a degree in the mental health field is not just about building a career for me; it is about making a positive impact in the lives of others. My friend’s story showed me how important this work is, and I want to be that source of hope for others who are struggling. By working in this field, I hope to bring healing and light to those who need it most.
Sean Carroll's Mindscape Big Picture Scholarship
The universe is vast, mysterious, and beautiful. It holds countless secrets about how everything began, how it works, and what the future might hold. Learning more about the universe helps us understand not only the world around us but also ourselves. I believe it is important to explore the nature of the universe because it inspires curiosity, solves important problems, and connects us to something greater than ourselves.
Understanding the universe inspires curiosity and discovery. When we look at the stars, we can’t help but wonder about what lies beyond. Questions like "How did the universe begin?" or "Are we alone in the galaxy?" make us think deeply. This curiosity leads to scientific discoveries that help us grow our knowledge. For example, studying the universe has led to the invention of technologies like satellites and GPS, which we use in our daily lives. Each discovery builds on the next, helping us see our place in the universe more clearly.
Studying the universe also helps solve real-world problems. For example, by observing other planets, scientists learn about climate change and how to protect Earth. Researching energy from the sun and stars can help us create clean and sustainable power. By understanding space, we can prepare for dangers like asteroids or harmful solar radiation. The more we learn about the universe, the better we can protect our planet and improve life here. In addition, exploring space can teach us how to survive on other planets, which might be important for humanity’s future.
Lastly, exploring the universe gives us a sense of connection and wonder. When we see pictures of distant galaxies or learn about the vastness of space, we realize how small we are in the grand scheme of things. This perspective can bring people together, reminding us that we all share the same home—Earth—and must take care of it. Learning about the universe shows us that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves, which can be both humbling and inspiring.
To better understand the universe, I hope to use ideas like critical thinking and scientific methods. Observing, asking questions, and testing ideas are key to uncovering the universe’s mysteries. I also want to explore concepts like physics, astronomy, and mathematics, which are tools that help us make sense of what we see. By combining creativity with science, we can push the boundaries of what we know. Teamwork and global collaboration will also play an important role, as exploring the universe is something no one can do alone.
In conclusion, understanding the universe is important because it helps us discover new things, solve problems, and feel connected to something greater. It can improve our lives, prepare us for the future, and spark a sense of wonder that inspires us to keep asking questions. By learning more, we can not only expand our knowledge but also create a better future for everyone. The universe is a mystery worth exploring, and I am excited to be part of that journey. There is still so much to learn, and every step we take brings us closer to understanding the amazing world we live in.
Sheila A Burke Memorial Scholarship
Becoming a nurse is my dream because I want to help people when they need it the most. My vision for myself as a nurse in the future is to be kind, skilled, and trustworthy. I want to make a difference in people’s lives by providing excellent care, supporting them emotionally, and being a strong part of the healthcare team.
This dream started when I was young. I remember a time when my grandmother was very sick and had to stay in the hospital for weeks. She was scared, and so was I. But there was one nurse who made everything feel better. She was gentle, patient, and always smiled at us. She explained things clearly and made my grandmother feel safe. Watching that nurse made me realize how much a kind and caring person can mean to a patient and their family. That moment inspired me to become a nurse.
As a nurse in the future, I want to be like that nurse who helped my grandmother. I want to care for my patients not just physically but emotionally too. I believe that listening to their worries and showing kindness can help them heal faster. My goal is to build trust with my patients so they know they are in good hands.
Another part of my vision is to keep learning and improving my skills. The world of healthcare is always changing, with new treatments and technologies. I want to stay updated so I can give the best care to my patients. For example, I would love to specialize in pediatrics because I enjoy working with children and want to help them feel better during tough times.
Teamwork is also a big part of my vision. Nurses work closely with doctors, therapists, and other healthcare professionals. I want to be a nurse who communicates well and supports my team. Together, we can make sure patients receive the best care possible.
Lastly, I hope to make a difference in my community by educating people about staying healthy. I want to organize health camps and teach people how to prevent diseases and take care of themselves.
My vision for myself as a nurse is clear. I want to be kind, skilled, and always ready to help. The nurse who cared for my grandmother showed me what a good nurse should be, and I hope to follow in her footsteps to make a positive impact on others’ lives.
James Gabriel Memorial Scholarship
Everyone has someone in their life who leaves an unforgettable impact, and for me, that person is my sister. She has been my guide, my friend, and my constant support system. Through her love, strength, and wisdom, she has helped shape who I am today. My sister has been the greatest force in my life.
From the very beginning, my sister has been like a second parent to me. When I was little, she was the one who helped me learn how to read, tie my shoes, and ride a bicycle. Her patience and kindness made everything feel easy and fun. Even when I struggled, she never got upset. Instead, she would tell me, "It's okay, you'll get it next time." That simple encouragement gave me confidence, and I learned not to give up easily.
As I grew older, my problems became more complicated. Schoolwork became harder, and friendships weren’t always easy. Sometimes, I doubted myself or felt like I wasn’t good enough. During these moments, my sister was always there to lift me up. She would listen to my worries, no matter how small or silly they seemed. Her advice was thoughtful and wise, like she always knew the right thing to say. When I needed guidance, she was my compass, pointing me in the right direction.
What makes my sister so special is not just her kindness but also her strength. Life hasn’t always been easy for her, but she faces every challenge with courage and determination. Watching her overcome struggles has taught me to be brave in my own life. Her strength reminds me that even in hard times, I can find a way to move forward. She leads by example, and that inspires me to be strong too.
Another thing I admire about my sister is how much she believes in me. Whether I succeed in school, sports, or personal goals, she is always my biggest cheerleader. She celebrates my achievements like they are her own, and her pride in me gives me the motivation to keep trying. She makes me feel like I can do anything if I put my mind to it.
To me, my sister is more than just family. She is my best friend, my role model, and my greatest supporter. Her love, guidance, and belief in me have shaped my life in so many positive ways. I am truly lucky to have her, and I know that no matter where life takes us, she will always be by my side. My sister is, and always will be, the greatest force in my life.
Mickey Hamilton Memorial Scholarship
I want to be a teacher because teaching is more than just a profession for me. I have a deep passion for education. Being a teacher can also help me have an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of students. From a young age, I have always been captivated by the process of learning and joy of discovery. The teachers’ guidance at my school have shaped not just my academic journey but also my character and aspirations since they have been very supportive throughout. Therefore, my desire to be a teacher came from the encouragement I currently have as a student and a commitment that I want to give to the next generation. I am excited about the prospect of making a difference in the lives of students and helping them realize their full potential.
The people who have influenced me the most in education and athletics are my teachers in my high school and my sister. This is because my teachers were the ones who improved me in both education and athletics and my sister is the one who always supports me. Students need support from their teacher in order to have a better understanding of their education and students need their family in order to get support and encouragement towards the things students can do, and I was luckily the one who got support from both my teachers and my sister. I have been really grateful that I have got such amazing people around me that I know will always be supportive to me in my life.
Participation in athletics has been a journey of self-discovery for me since it has revealed my valuable insights about my character, strengths, and areas for growth. I have also learned important lessons that extend far beyond the field. Through competition I have been doing sports and self-reflection after every game, I have gained a deeper understanding of my strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. I have learned to trust abilities, embrace challenges with courage, and believe in my capacity to overcome obstacles and setbacks. This helps me become a better person mentally and emotionally. Furthermore, participating sports have been a part in sharpening my time-management and goal-setting skills. Balancing practice schedules with academic responsibilities has taught me the importance of discipline, prioritization, and setting realistic goals. Hence, my journey in sports has been an invaluable learning experience, shaping me into a resilient, collaborative, and goal-oriented person.