When I think about what it means to be a “You Got It Girl,” I see someone who shows up, stays strong, and keeps pushing — even when life isn’t easy. That’s exactly how I live. Whether I’m on the softball field, working a shift at Raising Cane’s, helping out as a Student Athletic Training Aide, or staying on top of schoolwork, I give 100%. I’ve never been afraid of hard work. I was raised by a strong single mother who taught me early on that if I want something, I have to go get it. Her strength, her selflessness, and her ability to keep going no matter what inspire me every day. Softball has been a big part of my life for the past three years. Being on the varsity team taught me about discipline, leadership, and how to bounce back from failure. I earned Academic All-District honors, which showed me I could excel in both athletics and academics. But beyond just playing the game, I also spent two years as a Student Athletic Training Aide — which became one of the most impactful experiences of my high school career. I got to support athletes from the sidelines, help with recovery, and travel to state with our boys’ basketball team. That role opened my eyes to my future. My dream is to become a certified athletic trainer, and eventually work for the NBA. That goal started with a setback. In middle school, I partially tore my ACL and medial meniscus. At the time, it felt like the end of the world. But that injury introduced me to athletic training, and for the first time, I saw a career where I could still be involved in sports, but in a different way — helping others heal, physically and mentally, the way someone once helped me. I’ve also been heavily involved in FFA for three years. I showed swine at both the Fort Bend County Fair and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, placing 5th in class one year. I joined DECA, too, because I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and learn how to present myself professionally. Every activity I’ve taken part in, from the barn to the training room, has helped shape me into someone who doesn’t quit — someone who works hard and builds toward something bigger. As a first-generation college student, I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I also know how far I still want to go. College isn’t just about getting a degree for me — it’s about breaking barriers, creating opportunities for my future, and being a role model for others who look like me. The You Got It Girl Scholarship would help me tremendously, not just financially, but emotionally. It would help cover school expenses, athletic gear, travel, and other costs — but more than that, it would mean that someone believes in me and what I’m working toward. There’s nothing more powerful than knowing people see your potential. I’ve been putting in the work day in and day out, and this scholarship would be a reminder that everything I’ve sacrificed and committed myself to actually matters. I’m not just building a career — I’m building a life I can be proud of. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready for what’s next — and I got it, girl.

I’ve always grown up surrounded by movement—whether it was the buzz of school hallways, the roar of the gym during game days, or the constant balancing act of school, work, and sports. From a young age, I learned how to stay focused and push forward, even when life got hectic. My mom, a single parent, has always been my biggest supporter, and watching her handle so much with so much strength taught me what resilience really looks like. One of the moments that shaped me most happened in middle school. I partially tore my ACL and medial meniscus, and that injury introduced me to the world of sports medicine. I’ll never forget the way my athletic trainer supported me—not just physically, but mentally as well. That experience stuck with me and sparked something in me. I realized I wanted to be that person for someone else, I wanted to help athletes find their love for the game again. I wanted to be the reason an athlete doesn’t give up when it gets hard. In high school, I became a Student Athletic Training Aide and stayed with it for two years. It wasn’t easy balancing that with my job at Raising Cane’s, varsity softball, and school, but it taught me how to manage my time, stay committed, and lead with compassion. I earned Academic All-District honors and even got to travel with the boys’ basketball team to state. It felt good to be trusted and valued as part of something bigger than myself. Outside of training, I’ve been involved in FFA for three years, showing swine at both the Fort Bend County Fair and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. I placed 5th in class one year, but more than the ribbons, I value what those experiences taught me—responsibility, patience, and the importance of preparation. I’ve also been a part of DECA, which helped me grow more confident in public speaking and professional settings. All of these experiences have built the foundation for who I am: driven, dependable, and passionate about helping others. I plan to major in kinesiology and become a certified athletic trainer, with a dream of working in the NBA one day. I want to be the person athletes can count on—the one behind the scenes helping them come back stronger. My story is still being written, but every step I’ve taken so far has led me closer to where I’m meant to be.

The personal achievement I’m most proud of is becoming a Student Athletic Training Aide and sticking with it for two years. At first, I joined out of curiosity—I had always been interested in the medical field, and after a knee injury in middle school that partially tore my ACL and medial meniscus, I got to see up close how athletic trainers helped athletes recover both physically and mentally. That moment stuck with me, and being on the sidelines in high school gave me a chance to be on the other side of it—to help others in the same way I had once been helped. It wasn’t always easy. Balancing school, sports, and work at Raising Cane’s while also being an aide took a lot of discipline. There were late nights, early mornings, and long practices in the Texas heat. But I showed up every day, and I learned more than just how to tape ankles or prep ice baths. I learned how to communicate under pressure, how to think fast in high-stress situations, and how to support people through injuries that sometimes affected not just their physical health but their confidence and mental well-being too. This role taught me the value of showing up even when no one’s watching. There’s no spotlight in athletic training—no trophies or applause—but the impact is real. One of my proudest moments was helping an athlete through their rehab process after a bad ankle sprain. I wasn’t their physical therapist, but I was there every day with ice, stretches, and encouragement. By the end of the season, they were back on the court, and they thanked me personally for being there. That moment reminded me why I want to pursue this as a career. Now, my dream is to become a licensed athletic trainer and eventually work in the NBA. I know the road won’t be easy—it will take years of education, hands-on experience, and nonstop learning—but I’m ready. Being a Student Athletic Training Aide gave me the foundation, but more than that, it gave me purpose. It helped me realize that I don’t just want to be in the sports world—I want to be the person athletes can rely on when things go wrong. The one in their corner when they feel like giving up. This achievement didn’t just teach me skills—it shaped who I am. It made me more focused, resilient, and empathetic. And it confirmed that I’m on the right path, not just toward a career, but toward a future where I can make a real difference.

If I could create my own Love Island challenge, I wouldn’t just make it drama filled or about who can kiss who the fastest. I’d want it to reflect something real — something that shows who I am and what I care about. That’s how I came up with “Couples’ Court: The Love Island Games.” As a Sports Medicine major, I’ve spent years on the sidelines — taping ankles, watching injuries unfold, helping athletes bounce back. And through it all, I’ve learned that relationships work a lot like sports: they take teamwork, trust, patience, and communication. You’ve got to show up, even when it’s uncomfortable. You’ve got to push through the setbacks and support each other through the mess. This challenge is designed to test exactly that — not just how cute a couple is, but how well they work together under pressure. The Setup: The villa becomes a mini sports training ground: • Turf floors, cones, and obstacle courses • A fake injury tent with wraps and ice packs • Matching jerseys for each couple • A scoreboard tracking performance and chemistry It’s playful, competitive, and full of energy — just like game day. The Challenge: 4 Rounds of Love & Grit 1. Flirt & Sprint One partner races through an obstacle course while the other answers rapid-fire personal questions. Every wrong answer slows their partner down. It’s a test of how well they really know each other. 2. Couples Conditioning A mini boot camp with synchronized exercises: squats, jumping jacks, and ankle taping. Accuracy and chemistry matter here — it’s not just about being fast, it’s about being in sync. 3. Injury Timeout One partner pretends to be hurt, the other plays the trainer. They have to diagnose the injury, react calmly, and carry them off the field. It’s silly — but it reveals how they support each other under pressure. 4. Penalty Kick of Truth Score a goal, answer a juicy truth question. Miss, and you take on a dare. Either way, someone’s true colors are getting revealed. Why It Represents Me This challenge reflects how I see both love and life. I’ve learned that showing up for people matters — not just when it’s fun, but when it’s tough. In sports med, you’re the one behind the scenes, making sure everything runs smoothly, even when no one notices. That’s how I approach relationships too: with loyalty, care, and effort. Final Touch: The Wrap-Up At the end, each couple wraps their partner’s wrist with athletic tape — writing one word that sums up their relationship. Then they hang their jerseys side-by-side in the “Couples’ Hall of Flame.” It’s more than a game. It’s a test of who’s just playing… and who’s really ready to be a team.

My inspiration to pursue a career in physical therapy started with a personal experience that shaped my entire outlook. In middle school, I partially tore my ACL and medial meniscus. It was a scary and painful experience, especially at such a young age, and it felt like everything I loved—sports, movement, being active—was suddenly put on hold. That was the first time I worked closely with an athletic trainer, and I’ll never forget the patience, care, and motivation she gave me during such a difficult time. She didn’t just treat my injury—she helped me understand it, showed me how to trust my body again, and made me believe I could recover. That experience stuck with me. It made me realize how powerful support during recovery can be, not just physically but mentally. I started to see physical therapy and athletic training as more than just medical fields—they were careers where you walk alongside people during their toughest moments and help them find their strength again. In high school, that spark only grew stronger. I joined the Student Athletic Training program and spent two years learning from experienced trainers. I helped with basic taping, supported pre- and post-game routines, and observed how different injuries were treated and managed. I also balanced that with playing varsity softball, working at Raising Cane’s, and participating in FFA and DECA—all while managing my academics and living with ADD. It wasn’t easy, but every challenge helped build my confidence and drive. My ultimate goal is to become both a certified physical therapist and an athletic trainer. More specifically, I want to work in professional sports—my dream is to one day become an athletic trainer for the NBA. I’ve always admired the level of care, precision, and trust that exists between professional athletes and their medical support teams. To work on that level means being part of something bigger than yourself—helping elite athletes maintain peak performance, prevent long-term injuries, and recover safely when setbacks happen. What drives me most is the opportunity to restore more than just movement—I want to restore confidence and motivation. I want to be the person who reminds someone they’re strong, that setbacks don’t define them, and that healing is possible with time and the right support. Physical therapy and athletic training are more than career paths for me—they are my calling, rooted in personal experience, resilience, and a true passion for helping others get back on their feet and continue chasing their goals.

My name is Taylor Jones, and I’m a recent high school graduate with a deep passion for sports, healthcare, and making a difference in people’s lives. Throughout high school, I dedicated myself to a wide range of activities that shaped me into the person I am today. I was a varsity softball player for three years, a member of FFA where I showed animals at county and state-level events, part of DECA, and I worked as a Student Athletic Training Aide for two years. I also held a part-time job at Raising Cane’s, all while maintaining strong academic performance and earning Academic All-District honors. Growing up in a single-mother household taught me the value of hard work, independence, and sacrifice. My mom is retired, and there were times we relied heavily on her pension checks to get by. Watching her stay strong through tough times gave me the drive to push through my own challenges, including being diagnosed with ADD. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve learned how to adapt, stay organized, and advocate for myself—skills I know will carry me far in college and beyond. My ultimate career goal is to become a certified athletic trainer and work for a professional sports team—ideally the NBA. I want to be part of a field that combines my love for sports and my passion for health and injury prevention. I’ve seen firsthand how much athletic trainers do to support athletes, not only physically but emotionally as well. Whether it’s taping an ankle, monitoring a concussion, or simply being someone athletes can trust, I want to be that person who helps others perform at their best while staying safe and confident. Beyond my career, I plan to make a positive impact on my community by giving back to the younger generation. I want to mentor students and student-athletes, especially those growing up in single-parent homes or dealing with learning differences like ADD. I believe in being a visible example of what’s possible through discipline, self-belief, and hard work. I hope to lead workshops on injury prevention, mental health awareness, and career readiness for youth in underserved communities. My dream is bigger than just having a career—I want to build a legacy of service, empowerment, and inspiration. With the right support and continued education, I know I can make that dream a reality and leave a lasting impact on the world around me.

Couple’s Classified” is a fast-paced, flirt-filled communication challenge that blends spy games with classic Love Island chaos. In this challenge, Islanders must work in pairs to decode secret romantic messages hidden in laser-tag style obstacle rooms. But here’s the twist, only one partner can see the message, while the other has to complete physical tasks to unlock the clues. It’s about trust, teamwork, and knowing your partner inside and out. Challenge Breakdown: 1. Setup: • The villa’s garden is transformed into a “Spy Academy.” Think red lasers, neon lights, mission files, and hidden compartments. • Each couple gets a designated “Spy Zone” — a mini obstacle course outfitted with puzzle boxes, trivia traps, and physical challenges like crawling under lasers, balancing across beams, or retrieving coded clues from water tanks. • The zone has two stations: “The Eye” (stationary partner) and “The Agent” (active partner). 2. Roles: • The Eye stays at the comms desk and receives parts of a secret love message being transmitted through scrambled audio and visual clues. • The Agent must complete challenges to earn keywords and passcodes that help unlock each part of the message. 3. Game Play: • The Eye must describe and interpret the message clearly, but they’re forbidden from reading it aloud verbatim. They have to describe it in code or hints — forcing creative communication (“It’s what I said to you under the moon that night…”). • The Agent has 3 minutes to complete each physical challenge (e.g., grabbing a puzzle key from a tank of freezing water, blindfolded puzzle solving, navigating a laser maze). • Once the Agent completes a task, they relay a passcode back to the Eye to unlock more of the message. 4. The Twist: • At the end of the round, each couple is given a blank version of the love message. The Agent has 2 minutes to re-create the full message from memory based on the Eye’s clues. • The messages are wild — think romantic, steamy, or hilariously embarrassing (“I secretly wish you wore my socks to bed”). 5. Scoring: • The couple who gets the message most accurately wins. • Bonus points for the most creative code phrases or funniest wrong answers — judged by the Islanders themselves. 6. Prize: • The winning couple gets a romantic spy-themed date night — “License to Love” — complete with champagne, sleek outfits, and a rooftop dinner with a view. Why It Works: “Couple’s Classified” tests communication, trust, and memory — all key to any relationship. It’s equal parts physical, mental, and emotional. Plus, watching Islanders struggle to decode messages like “I love your snore” or “You smell like coconuts and bad decisions” is guaranteed TV gold.

Being a purposeful, responsible, and productive member of a community means living with intention, holding yourself accountable, and contributing to the collective success of those around you. It’s about understanding that your actions have an impact—whether positive or negative—and choosing every day to act in ways that uplift, improve, and support others. These three values don’t just help build stronger communities; they also shape stronger individuals. As I prepare for my future, I am committed to living out these principles both personally and professionally. To be purposeful means to live and act with clear goals in mind. It’s about knowing your “why.” For me, my purpose is deeply rooted in helping others, especially through health and sports. I plan to pursue a degree in Exercise Science to become a certified athletic trainer. I’ve already begun walking in my purpose by serving as a Student Athletic Training Aide at my high school for the past two years. I’ve assisted athletes with injury prevention and rehabilitation, learning firsthand how impactful it is to support someone during their recovery journey. I want to continue this work and help others not only heal physically, but also mentally—because recovery is a whole-person process. Living purposefully means using my education and experiences to empower others to return stronger, both on and off the field. Being responsible involves being dependable, honest, and making choices that reflect maturity. Responsibility is something I’ve learned through balancing school, sports, work, and community involvement. I’ve maintained academic success while playing Varsity Softball, being active in FFA, volunteering at church, and working part-time at Raising Cane’s. Each commitment taught me time management, self-discipline, and how to follow through—even when it’s hard. In the future, I will carry this sense of responsibility into everything I do, especially in my career, where others will be depending on my expertise, focus, and care. I also believe in taking responsibility for my community by showing up, speaking out when needed, and being a role model for others—especially younger girls who may not yet see their value or potential. Lastly, to be productive means consistently contributing to positive change. Productivity isn’t just about staying busy—it’s about doing work that matters. I want to continue being productive in ways that elevate those around me. Whether it’s mentoring future student trainers, leading health workshops, or advocating for mental health resources for athletes, I plan to keep pushing toward progress. I believe in creating a legacy of impact—not just in my job, but in how I treat people, how I give back, and how I show up in my community. In all, being purposeful, responsible, and productive means living intentionally, being accountable, and creating change. As I move forward in my education and career, I will strive to live these values every day—not just because they lead to personal success, but because they inspire community strength. I want my life to reflect service, growth, and leadership—and I know that starts with embodying these qualities now and in the future.

Growing up, I always believed that community was just the people around you. But as I got older and began actively contributing to my community, I realized it’s much deeper than that—it’s about connection, shared values, and lifting each other up through both struggle and celebration. Being part of a community has shaped my sense of hope for the future because it’s shown me the power of unity, even in the face of adversity. One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had in my community was through my church, where I volunteer on the Audio-Visual (AV) team. Each Sunday, I help set up sound systems, operate slides, and manage live streams so that our services can reach both those inside the building and those watching from home. At first, I thought I was just pressing buttons and fixing equipment, but over time I realized that what I was doing was helping people feel connected—to their faith, to one another, and to something bigger than themselves. There was one Sunday when a technical issue shut down our entire system moments before service. Panic started to rise among the team, but instead of giving in, we all came together quickly, communicated clearly, and problem-solved under pressure. We got the system running again with just minutes to spare. After the service, an elderly woman came up to thank us because she was finally able to hear the full sermon clearly for the first time in weeks. That moment reminded me that even the smallest roles in a community can have a big impact. Outside of church, I’ve also served my school community as a Student Athletic Trainer Aide. From taping ankles to helping athletes recover from injuries, I learned the value of consistency, compassion, and showing up—even when the job isn’t glamorous. When the boys’ basketball team went to state, I traveled with them and supported their needs behind the scenes. We weren’t just celebrating wins on the court, but also the teamwork and dedication it took to get there. That experience taught me how service, even in quiet ways, builds trust and deeper relationships. These roles have shown me that community isn't about being seen—it's about being present. It’s the little things: offering your time, showing up early to set up, or checking in on someone when they’re having a bad day. Through these experiences, I’ve seen people come together during tough times and uplift one another with kindness. Those moments give me hope—hope that no matter what the future holds, there will always be people willing to stand together, serve, and support one another. Being part of a community has taught me resilience, not just in myself but in others. I’ve seen how people bounce back after loss, how they come together after storms, and how they build each other up when everything feels like it’s falling apart. That resilience is contagious. It’s shown me that no matter how difficult life gets, we can get through it—together. Looking ahead, I want to continue building strong communities in everything I do. Whether it’s through my future career as an athletic trainer or through continued service in church and school, I want to be someone who helps others feel seen, supported, and hopeful. Because at the end of the day, community is what carries us forward—and I’ve seen firsthand just how powerful that can be.

Being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) was both confusing and relieving. For a long time, I didn’t understand why I struggled to focus in class, why I forgot things so easily, or why it took me longer to complete assignments even when I tried my best. I often felt frustrated and discouraged, especially when I compared myself to classmates who seemed to complete tasks effortlessly. This sent me down a rabbit hole that led me to become depressed due to me comparing myself to others. Once I received my diagnosis, I finally had a name for what I was experiencing—and more importantly, a path forward. Realizing that other people also experienced this helped me understand that having ADD isn’t an curse but my own superpower Living with ADD hasn’t been easy. It affects nearly every area of my life—from school to work to completing daily routines. Staying organized is one of my biggest challenges. I’ve had to work twice as hard to keep up with deadlines and manage my time effectively. Simple tasks like studying or following multi-step instructions sometimes become overwhelming. There were moments when I doubted myself, wondering if I’d ever be able to keep up in a fast-paced world. But I refused to let my diagnosis limit me. I started to develop tools and strategies to help manage my symptoms. I learned how to break tasks into smaller parts, use planners and reminders, and ask for help when I needed it.I surrounded myself with supportive people who believed in me and encouraged me to keep pushing forward. Over time, I discovered that my brain may work differently—but that doesn’t make me any less capable than everyone else. My ADD has actually helped me grow in unexpected ways. It’s made me more creative, more observant, and more empathetic toward others who may face invisible challenges. I’ve learned how to advocate for myself and speak up when I need support. I’ve also found strength in being open about my mental health journey. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others who are dealing with similar struggles to keep going. ADD is just one part of who I am—it does not define me. I’m proud of the progress I’ve made, and I know that with continued effort and self-awareness, I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. My journey with ADD has taught me that growth is possible, even in the face of adversity.

My name is Taylor Jones, and I am a 2025 graduate from Thurgood Marshall High School. I will be attending Texas State University this fall, majoring in Exercise Science with a concentration in Pre Rehabilitation Sciences with plans to become an athletic trainer. Throughout high school, I have worked hard to balance academics, athletics, extracurricular activities, and service to my community, all while maintaining a 3.3GPA. I was a member of the varsity softball team for three years and earned Academic All-District honors each year. Playing softball taught me discipline, leadership, and how to manage my time effectively. In addition to playing sports, I served as a Student Athletic Training Aide for two years, which gave me hands-on experience in injury care, taping, and athlete support. One of the most memorable moments of this experience was traveling with our boys' basketball team to the state championship. That moment confirmed for me that sports medicine is the field I want to pursue. Outside of athletics, I’ve also been an active member in organizations like FFA, where I showed pigs at the Fort Bend County Fair and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.I recently won 5th place swine in my class at the 2024 Fort Bend County Fair for the. I also participated in DECA, which helped build my communication and business skills, and I’ve volunteered through church and school events to give back to my community. Coming from a single-mother household has shaped my perspective and motivation. My mom is retired and lives on a fixed pension income, so financial support is not always easy to come by especially since her last year working was the year my FAFSA was based on meaning her income has now dropped. Watching her sacrifice to make sure I had everything I needed inspired me to work hard and stay focused on my goals. Receiving this scholarship would lift a major burden off of both the of us and allow me to focus more on my studies and training. It would help cover tuition, books, and other expenses that add up quickly in college. Most importantly, this scholarship would bring me one step closer to my dream of becoming an athletic trainer for a professional basketball team in the NBA. I’m determined to succeed, give back, and make a positive impact in the sports world. I truly believe that this scholarship would help me get there.

My identity is shaped by my passion for service, leadership, and breaking barriers—especially as a young Black woman in male-dominated spaces like sports and athletic training. I've learned to speak up, take initiative, and lead with both confidence and care. Being a varsity softball player taught me discipline, time management, and resilience. Balancing that with AP classes and working as a student athletic trainer pushed me to develop a strong work ethic. Traveling with the boys' basketball team to state as a trainer reminded me that leadership doesn’t always mean being in the spotlight—it often means being the one others rely on behind the scenes. Involvement in FFA, DECA, and church has deepened my values around commitment, service, and purpose. I enjoy working hard for something bigger than myself—whether that’s helping an injured athlete recover or mentoring peers. Being raised by a single mother has also shaped how I carry myself. Watching her manage everything with strength and grace taught me the power of perseverance. Her example reminds me to keep pushing, even when things aren’t easy. Altogether, these experiences have given me a well-rounded, grounded perspective: that success isn’t just about achievement—it’s about impact. I see myself as someone who brings heart, strength, and purpose into everything I do, and I’m committed to building a future where I can help others grow, thrive, and succeed.

Graduating from college is more than just a personal achievement—it’s the fulfillment of a dream that represents resilience, hard work, and a brighter future for myself and my family. I come from a single-mother household where financial challenges have always been part of our reality, but giving up was never an option. My mother, now retired and living on a fixed income, always instilled in me the importance of education and perseverance. Watching her provide for us using her pension, while still caring for our home and supporting my future, has given me the motivation to aim high—even when the path hasn’t always been easy. Once I earn my college degree in Exercise Science from Texas State University, I hope to build a career as a certified athletic trainer. Through this career, I want to combine my passion for sports, health, and helping others. I’ve spent the last few years deeply involved in athletics and student sports medicine—as a varsity softball player and a student athletic trainer aide—where I gained firsthand experience with injury prevention, athlete care, and the emotional toll that physical setbacks can have on young athletes. These experiences have shaped my career goals and given me a deep sense of purpose in helping others maintain not only their physical health but also their confidence and strength during recovery. While I plan to start my career in a high school or collegiate setting, my all-time dream is to work as an athletic trainer for the NBA. I’ve always loved basketball and have had the opportunity to travel with our boys’ basketball team to the state tournament as a student athletic training aide. Being part of that atmosphere, seeing the pressure, energy, and physical demands on players up close, made me realize this is where I ultimately want to be. The NBA represents the highest level of the sport, and working there would be the culmination of my personal passion and professional ambition. I want to be part of a team that keeps elite athletes performing at their peak, helps them recover from injuries, and supports them through the mental and physical demands of their careers. But even more than just the prestige of working at that level, I want to be a trailblazer for young Black women in sports medicine. Representation matters, and in the professional sports world—especially in athletic training—there are still very few women of color. I want to be someone young girls can look up to and say, “If she did it, I can too.” I want to break barriers while building trust with athletes from all backgrounds and showing that empathy, knowledge, and professionalism have no gender or racial limit. This scholarship would play a major role in helping me move toward that dream. The financial burden of college is heavy, especially for families like mine. My mother has done everything she can to support me, but we rely heavily on her retirement income to cover basic living expenses. There’s very little left over for tuition, books, lab fees, certification exams, or travel costs for internships and clinical experiences. While I’ve worked throughout high school to help, it’s not enough to cover everything. Receiving this scholarship would relieve that pressure and allow me to focus more on learning, developing my skills, and preparing for the demanding journey of becoming a professional athletic trainer. Beyond financial relief, this scholarship would also mean opportunity. It would allow me to invest in necessary resources like professional certifications (such as CPR, First Aid, and Athletic Training Technician), attend hands-on workshops, and participate in internships that will give me real-world experience. These are the stepping stones that lead to competitive roles in professional sports. With this support, I could take the extra steps needed to stand out in a field that’s already competitive—especially for someone with big dreams like working in the NBA. My passion for healthcare and recovery also became more personal when my aunt—who my mother and I live with—was diagnosed with sepsis. It came on suddenly. One day she wasn’t feeling well, and within hours she was in the hospital, disoriented and fighting for her life. I had never witnessed anything like that before. It was terrifying. Thankfully, she survived. She fought off the infection and slowly began to recover, but the process was long and exhausting—for her and for us as caregivers. This experience opened my eyes even more to how important skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals are in people’s lives. Whether it’s recovering from sepsis or a torn ACL, every patient deserves someone who listens, advocates, and supports them through the process. That’s exactly the kind of athletic trainer I want to be—someone who doesn’t just tape ankles or manage rehab schedules but truly cares for the people they serve. Whether I’m working with high school students, college athletes, or NBA players, I want to be a trusted presence. Someone who shows up prepared, who sees the whole person behind the injury, and who helps people get back to doing what they love. After earning my bachelor’s degree, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in Athletic Training. This will give me the advanced skills and qualifications needed to work at the professional sports level. From there, I will work toward certifications and seek internships or fellowships with major athletic programs, building connections and gaining hands-on experience until I can one day earn my place as an athletic trainer for an NBA team. I know this won’t be easy. The road will be competitive and challenging. But with hard work, faith, and the right support, I know I can get there. Ultimately, my future is about more than just personal success. I want to give back to the community that raised me, the schools that supported me, and the young people who look up to me. I hope to one day mentor students—especially young women of color—who are interested in healthcare careers but may feel like their dreams are too far out of reach. I want to be the example I once needed. In conclusion, this scholarship would be more than financial support—it would be an investment in a young woman who is determined to make a difference. It would help me focus on my education, gain the hands-on experience I need, and build a career in a field I love. With your support, I can move one step closer to my all-time dream of working for the NBA while creating a legacy of representation, resilience, and impact in the world of sports medicine.

My name is Taylor Jones, and I’m a 2025 graduate of Thurgood Marshall High School. I live in Missouri City, Texas, with my mother and my aunt. Recently, our family faced one of the scariest challenges we’ve ever been through: my aunt was diagnosed with sepsis. It was a life-threatening situation that changed our lives and gave me a new understanding of strength, resilience, and what it truly means to fight for your life. Before this experience, I didn’t fully understand what sepsis was. It started off with my aunt feeling weak and running a fever. We thought it was something minor, maybe the flu. But within hours, her condition worsened drastically—she became confused, disoriented, and could barely move. She was rushed to the hospital, and that’s when we were told she had sepsis. I remember feeling overwhelmed and terrified. The doctors made it clear just how serious it was—and how close we had come to losing her. But my aunt is a fighter. Against all odds, she pulled through. She didn’t give up, and she didn’t let sepsis take her life. With strong medical care and support from our family, she survived. Her recovery wasn’t easy. There were days she could hardly speak, and others where just sitting up took everything out of her. But step by step, she regained her strength. Watching her push through the pain and fear was nothing short of inspiring. Throughout her journey, my mother and I stood by her side, doing everything we could to help her heal. It was hard—balancing school, home responsibilities, and caring for someone recovering from such a serious illness—but it brought us even closer as a family. It also opened my eyes to how fragile life can be and how important it is to act quickly in a medical emergency. This experience has had a lasting impact on me. I plan to attend Texas State University to study Exercise Science and become an athletic trainer. While I’ve always been interested in health and the human body, seeing what my aunt went through deepened that passion. It made me want to be someone who not only helps people recover from physical setbacks but who also brings awareness to critical health conditions like sepsis that often go unnoticed until it’s nearly too late. My aunt’s fight for her life reminded me that true strength shows up in the hardest moments. Living through this with her has shaped who I am—more compassionate, more focused, and more committed to making a difference in the lives of others. Her survival is a testimony to the power of faith, family, and the will to keep going.

I’m passionate about an education in STEM because it gives me the opportunity to combine my love for science, sports, and helping others in a meaningful and impactful way. As a student who has been actively involved in varsity softball and served as a student athletic training aide for two years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for how STEM—science, technology, engineering, and math—shapes the way athletes heal, grow, and succeed. Every injury I’ve witnessed, every recovery I’ve helped with, and every question I’ve asked about the human body has sparked a curiosity in me that I want to explore even further. Being an athlete myself, I’ve always been fascinated by the human body—how it moves, how it responds to stress, and how it recovers after injury. That interest grew when I started working alongside our school’s athletic trainers. I learned how to wrap ankles, prepare ice baths, assist with stretching, and help monitor injuries throughout practices and games. These tasks may seem small, but they opened my eyes to the complex science behind physical health and performance. I began to understand that healing isn’t just rest—it’s a process that involves biology, chemistry, physics, and often technology. That realization made me want to pursue a career in athletic training and earn a degree in Exercise Science. What makes STEM even more exciting to me is the constant innovation. New advancements are happening all the time—from injury-prevention technology to data-driven recovery plans. Things like motion analysis software, cryotherapy chambers, and wearable performance trackers are transforming the way athletes train and recover. I want to be part of that movement. I want to learn the science behind these tools, understand how they work, and even help develop better solutions in the future. With a strong STEM education, I’ll have the skills and knowledge to adapt to changes and lead in a field that’s always evolving. Beyond the science and the career goals, I’m drawn to STEM because of how it allows me to give back to my community. I don’t just want to help athletes recover—I want to educate and empower others, especially young athletes who may not have access to proper care or training resources. Growing up in a single-mother household, I understand the importance of opportunity. My mom worked hard and sacrificed a lot, and we had to rely on her pension to make ends meet. I want to use what I learn to give others the support and knowledge they may not otherwise receive. One of my long-term goals is to host free youth athletic training camps in underserved communities. At these camps, I would teach injury prevention, proper stretching techniques, the importance of hydration, and how to listen to your body. Pursuing a degree in STEM isn’t just a way to build a successful career—it’s a way to make a difference. It’s a chance to challenge myself, to be a strong female leader in a field that’s still growing in diversity, and to serve others through knowledge and compassion. I believe that leadership isn’t always about being in the spotlight; sometimes it’s about being the person who’s there in moments of pain, fear, or doubt—helping someone stand back up and keep going. In the end, my passion for STEM is rooted in my desire to lead, to serve, and to grow. It’s not just about what I can do for myself, but what I can do for others. I’m excited to continue this journey, and I know that with a strong STEM education, I’ll be prepared to change lives—one injury, one athlete, and one step at a time.

One of the most meaningful times I made an impact through service was during a church-led outreach program that provided meals, clothing, and emotional support to the homeless in downtown Houston. This experience wasn’t just about giving—it became a moment that changed the way I view leadership, faith, and what it truly means to serve others. What inspired me to take action was witnessing the way my church leaders showed compassion without judgment. I remember one Sunday after service, our youth leader talked about how faith isn’t just about attending church, but about being the hands and feet of Christ outside the walls. That message hit me hard. Growing up in a single-mother household, I knew what it felt like to go without. My mom, who lives off a pension check, worked hard to make ends meet, and we had to rely on help sometimes. I realized then that just because I wasn’t rich in money didn’t mean I couldn’t be rich in service. When I volunteered for the outreach, I expected to pass out food and clothes and head home. But that’s not what happened. I met people with real stories—former teachers, veterans, single moms—people who looked just like me but had fallen on hard times. The hardest challenge was not knowing what to say when someone told me they hadn’t eaten in days or that they were trying to find their kids. I felt helpless at times, like what I was doing wasn’t enough. But then I realized, sometimes the most important thing is showing up with love and respect, not pity. I learned to listen with my heart and offer kindness without needing to fix everything. This experience shaped my understanding of service in a powerful way. Service isn’t about being the hero—it’s about showing up consistently, humbly, and with intention. Leadership, I learned, isn’t always loud or in front of a crowd. It can be quiet, behind the scenes, and fueled by empathy. And my faith grew stronger because I saw God in the small moments: in shared prayers, warm meals, and laughter shared between strangers. Now, whether I’m helping a teammate, training as a student athletic trainer aide, or just being there for a friend, I carry those lessons with me. I serve not because I have to, but because I’ve seen what happens when you do—it brings light into places that desperately need it.

I come from a single-mother household, and that has shaped every part of who I am today. My mother has been my biggest inspiration—strong, steady, and selfless. After retiring, she began relying on a modest pension check to support the two of us. There were times when money was tight, and choices had to be made between needs and wants. But even in those tough moments, my mother never let me feel like I was missing anything. She made sure I had what I needed, and more importantly, that I knew I was loved and supported. Watching my mother manage our household with so little inspired me to be resourceful, grateful, and determined. While some of my peers had the luxury of financial security, I learned how to stretch every dollar, how to stay focused even when things were uncertain, and how to appreciate the value of hard work. I understood early on that success isn’t about what you’re handed—it’s about what you’re willing to work for, especially when the odds are against you. Balancing school, sports, and a job while helping out at home has pushed me to grow up quickly. I’ve learned how to manage my time, stay disciplined, and keep pushing even when I’m tired or overwhelmed. Playing varsity softball, being a Student Athletic Trainer Aide, and staying involved in school and church while maintaining strong grades hasn’t been easy, but it’s helped me become the strong, focused young woman I am today. Every late night, every early morning, and every sacrifice has been worth it because I know who I’m doing it for—my mother and the future I want to build. These challenges haven’t held me back—they’ve fueled me. They’ve shown me that I want to be someone who makes a difference. I plan to attend Texas State University and major in Exercise Science to become a certified Athletic Trainer. My goal is to work with professional athletes, possibly in the NBA, but also to create opportunities for youth who come from low-income households like mine. I want to host athletic training camps for young athletes who may not have access to resources, mentorship, or support. In the long run, I hope to give back to single-parent families, especially those led by strong mothers like mine. I want to help others navigate the struggles that I’ve lived through by offering support programs, mentorship, and financial literacy education. I believe that no one should be limited by their financial situation or background. My dream is to be the kind of person who lifts others up and opens doors for those who feel forgotten. Coming from a single-mother household and relying on my mother’s pension check has taught me about resilience, gratitude, and purpose. I carry my mother’s strength with me every day, and I plan to use everything I’ve learned to make a lasting, positive impact on the world around me.

Being a female athlete has shaped me in more ways than I ever imagined. Playing softball, balancing school, working a job, and maintaining my personal life has taught me strength, discipline, and confidence. These experiences have helped me grow into a young woman who isn’t afraid to take up space, speak up, and push through challenges—especially in a world that sometimes underestimates the power and presence of strong females. Softball has been my second home for the past three years. It’s where I’ve learned to compete, to lead, and to overcome failure. On the field, I’ve had to prove myself constantly—not just to opponents, but even to people who didn’t take girls’ sports seriously. There have been times when we were overlooked or underfunded, when we were expected to play second to the boys. But instead of letting that defeat me, I used it as fuel to push harder. Every practice, every game, every sprint became a way to prove that I belonged—and that all female athletes deserve the same respect and recognition. At the same time, I’ve had to balance sports with school and life responsibilities. Juggling late-night studying, early morning workouts, family responsibilities, and my job has taught me time management, mental toughness, and perseverance. I’ve learned how to prioritize and still perform at a high level, even when things feel overwhelming. That ability to handle pressure has given me an edge not just in sports, but in the real world—where women often have to work twice as hard to earn half the credit. Being in a male-dominated world isn’t just about being surrounded by men—it’s about facing systems and expectations that weren’t always built with women in mind. But through my journey, I’ve found strength in knowing that I have what it takes to break through. I’ve learned how to speak with confidence, carry myself with purpose, and be proud of my abilities. I’ve also learned the importance of lifting up other women and setting an example for younger girls who are watching and dreaming of their own path. My experiences as a student-athlete have also helped shape my future. I plan to major in Exercise Science at Texas State University and become a certified Athletic Trainer. My goal is to work in professional sports—possibly the NBA—where I can continue to challenge gender roles and show that women can lead and excel in sports medicine. I also hope to host training camps for young athletes, especially girls, to give them the confidence and tools to succeed in spaces where they may be overlooked.

Softball has shaped me into the person I am today. What started as just a sport I enjoyed quickly became something that taught me how to push through challenges, trust in my abilities, and grow into a leader—not just on the field, but in every area of my life. Being a part of the varsity softball team for three years has left a lasting impact on my character, my future goals, and how I view success. When I first joined the team, I was quiet and unsure of myself. I wasn’t the fastest or the strongest, but I was willing to learn and put in the work. Over time, I began to see that leadership isn’t always about being the loudest voice or scoring the most runs—it’s about showing up, supporting your teammates, and staying consistent even when things get tough. I learned how to lead by example, to encourage others, and to stay mentally strong when the pressure was high. Softball wasn’t always easy. There were days when practice was exhausting, when we lost games we thought we had in the bag, and when it felt like all the hard work wasn’t paying off. But those moments built something in me that I wouldn’t trade for anything: resilience. I learned how to keep going when it was easier to quit, how to turn failure into motivation, and how to grow from every setback. My coach played a huge role in my development—not just as an athlete, but as a person. She believed in building character just as much as building skill. Her constant encouragement helped me find my confidence, and she reminded me that it’s okay to struggle as long as you keep showing up and giving your best. That mindset has followed me into everything I do, from academics to work to my role as a Student Athletic Trainer Aide. Being a Student Athletic Trainer Aide has opened my eyes to a new side of sports—one where care, patience, and behind-the-scenes effort make all the difference. I’ve worked closely with athletes who were recovering from injuries, and I’ve seen how important it is to have someone in your corner during those tough times. I even had the opportunity to travel to state with the boys’ basketball team and experience the energy and pride that comes with helping others succeed. Those experiences have inspired me to pursue a career in athletic training. This fall, I’ll be attending Texas State University to major in Exercise Science with the goal of becoming a certified Athletic Trainer. One day, I hope to work with professional athletes, ideally in the NBA, but my dream doesn’t stop there. I also want to come back to my community and give back—by hosting training camps, mentoring young athletes, and helping those who may not always see their own potential. I want to be the voice that says, “You’ve got this,” just like my coach once said to me. Softball taught me the importance of teamwork, effort, and heart. It gave me more than just memories—it gave me direction. I now understand the power of mentorship, and I see how it can completely change someone’s path, just like it did for me. The Brett Brakel Memorial Scholarship honors everything I’ve come to believe in: mentorship, perseverance, and community. These values aren’t just part of my past—they’re part of my future. With this scholarship, I will continue striving toward my goals, and more importantly, I will carry Mr. Brakel’s legacy forward by being that mentor and source of strength for others.