Mental health has really influenced how I see myself, others, and the person I aspire to be. My battles with depression, along with witnessing a family member deal with addiction and mental health issues, have shown me how crucial it is to be heard, to lend a hand to others, and to prioritize yourself even when times are tough. The toughest time in my life was during middle school, particularly during COVID. It’s not a topic I enjoy discussing because it was one of the darkest phases I’ve ever experienced mentally. Reflecting on it, I never want to go back to that version of me. There were days filled with hopelessness and loneliness, and I often found myself torn between the urge to give up and the desire to keep pushing forward. A part of me was worn out, yet another part clung to the hope that things would eventually improve. What made my depression hard to spot was that it didn’t always show on the outside. Most people would have never guessed I was struggling. I smiled, laughed, and pretended everything was okay. As I grew older, I started isolating myself more and more. I became so skilled at hiding my feelings that I even began to doubt their existence myself. When I was around eight or nine, I told my mom and grandma that I wanted to die. I can still picture them crying and asking me why, but what sticks with me the most is the confusion I felt afterward. If they knew I was hurting enough to say something like that, why didn’t anything change? Why didn’t anyone help me? I wasn’t angry; I was just confused. I was a kid reaching out for help in the only way I knew how, and I couldn’t grasp why no one was taking action. Looking back now, I understand they might not have known how to react, but at that moment, it felt like my pain was being dismissed. Instead, I often heard comments like, “You don’t have anything to be sad about.” Those words lingered with me for years. As I grew older, I began to see him as more than just 'the alcoholic uncle.' I recognized a person in pain. I saw someone who needed support, connection, and kindness. There were moments when I would save some of my food for him because I was concerned about whether he had eaten. Even if I was hungry, I wanted to ensure he had something to eat. Watching him struggle opened my eyes to the fact that mental health issues and addiction impact real individuals, not just numbers. It showed me that those who are hurting often require compassion rather than judgment. Most importantly, it highlighted how crucial it is to make others feel acknowledged and valued, especially when it seems like the world has turned its back on them. Having experienced what it’s like to struggle in silence, I strive to ensure that others never feel invisible around me. I want people to feel heard, appreciated, and cared for because I understand how painful it is when those feelings are absent. My journey with mental health has made me more empathetic, more determined, and more aware of how significant even a small act of kindness can be. It has influenced who I am today and who I aspire to be. The most important lesson I’ve learned is to prioritize myself. For a long time, I sought happiness in others because I didn’t know how to find it within myself. Now, I realize that loving yourself isn’t selfish—it is necessary. You can’t rely on others to create your happiness. My lifelong goal is straightforward: I want to be genuinely happy. Not because someone else has given me happiness, but because I’ve created it for myself. If there’s one takeaway from my story, it’s this: listen when people express their pain. Sometimes, the difference between suffering in silence and starting to heal is knowing that someone cares enough to listen. Because I understand what it’s like to feel unheard, I will dedicate my life to ensuring others know they are not alone.

When people think about sustainability, they usually imagine recycling bins or renewable energy sources, but for me, it means something much larger. Sustainability is about safeguarding the future, not just for the Earth, but also for humanity's capacity to grow, explore, and thrive. In any area related to science and innovation, sustainability is essential. It serves as the cornerstone for long-term development. I aim to build a career in science, particularly with a keen interest in space and astrophysics. At first glance, space exploration and sustainability might appear unrelated, but they are actually closely intertwined. The technologies we create for space missions often impact how we handle resources on our planet. For instance, systems designed to recycle air and water in spacecraft can be utilized to enhance efficiency and minimize waste in our daily lives. Without a sustainable mindset, both space exploration and life on Earth would encounter significant challenges. Sustainability must be a key focus in my field because scientific progress relies on the responsible use of resources. Space missions demand careful planning, limited materials, and effective energy systems. These same concepts can inform our approach to environmental issues on Earth. If we disregard sustainability, we risk exhausting the very resources that enable both innovation and survival. Conversely, emphasizing sustainability empowers us to expand our horizons while still safeguarding the planet that sustains us. I envision myself playing a role in this initiative by merging scientific research with real-world solutions. Whether I'm delving into physics, aiding in aerospace advancements, or collaborating with organizations dedicated to innovation, I aspire to engage in projects that take environmental impact into account from the outset. This might mean backing technologies that lower energy use, enhance recycling processes, or develop more effective methods to support human life in extreme conditions. The same thinking that enables humans to thrive in space can assist us in building more sustainable systems here on Earth. Moreover, I think that raising awareness is crucial. A lot of people see sustainability as a distinct issue instead of something that should be woven into every discipline. As someone who is pursuing higher education, I aim to help change that viewpoint by motivating others to consider how their work affects the environment. Change doesn't just stem from big organizations; it also arises from individuals who decide to think differently and act responsibly in their professions. Ultimately, sustainability is about finding balance. It's about progressing without causing destruction, creating without depleting resources, and exploring without ignoring our responsibilities. As I advance in my education and step into my future career, I am dedicated to being part of a generation that cherishes both innovation and conservation. By doing this, I hope to help shape a future where progress and sustainability are not seen as opposing goals, but as one unified objective.

Growing up, I realized pretty early on that not every home feels secure. Some experiences shape you quietly, while others make you mature faster than you should. Being affected by domestic violence changed my perspective on the world, but it also helped me develop the strength and independence I carry with me today. For a long time, I didn’t fully grasp what I was going through. I just sensed that things were unstable and unpredictable. Living in that kind of environment teaches you how to read people quickly, stay alert, and protect your peace in any way you can. Although those habits came from tough situations, they also enhanced my awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience. I learned how to stay calm under pressure and keep pushing forward even when things felt overwhelming. As I grew older, I began to think about how those experiences were influencing me. I realized that I didn’t want my past to dictate my future. Instead of allowing it to hold me back, I decided to use it as motivation. I became more determined to create stability for myself and build a life that feels safe, healthy, and fulfilling. That mindset drove me to take my education seriously and view it as a pathway to independence. Being part of an early college program has shown me just how powerful education can be. Juggling high school and college classes hasn’t always been easy, but it has taught me discipline, time management, and perseverance. Every academic challenge I’ve faced has reinforced the belief that I am capable of more than my circumstances. Education gives me control over my future in a way that my past never could. For me, pursuing higher education is about more than just getting a degree. It symbolizes freedom, stability, and the chance to create a life on my own terms. I intend to further my education in a field that intellectually challenges me and helps me grow, while also providing opportunities that I didn't see before. My ultimate goal is to work in a science and discovery-related field, where I can contribute to something bigger than myself and keep expanding my knowledge of the world. The obstacles I've encountered haven't defeated me. Instead, they've pushed me to adapt, grow, and become someone who won't settle for anything less than what I know I deserve. I take those lessons with me as I move ahead. With the help of this scholarship and my dedication to my education, I am determined to create a future that is shaped not by my beginnings, but by the path I choose to take.

Growing up, I never really got a formal education about money. Most of what I know about finances comes from observing others, my own experiences, and figuring things out as I go along. As I've aged, especially while juggling high school and college classes through an early college program, I've started to grasp how crucial financial literacy is for achieving independence and stability. One of the main ways I began to learn about money was through having a job. Working taught me that earning money requires time, effort, and consistency. It made me more conscious of how quickly money can come and go based on how I choose to use it. Initially, I wanted to spend most of what I earned because it felt rewarding at the time. However, over time, I realized that constantly spending left me with nothing to rely on. That realization encouraged me to think more about saving and being intentional with my finances. Learning to balance spending and saving has made me more disciplined and aware of my decisions. Getting ready for college has also significantly influenced my understanding of finances. As someone already enrolled in college classes, I've had to consider tuition, financial aid, and long-term expenses earlier than most. Researching scholarships and recognizing how costly higher education can be opened my eyes to the necessity of planning ahead. It made me understand that the choices I make now can either benefit or harm me in the future. Due to these experiences, I've become more driven to learn about personal finance. I want to grasp how to budget well, establish and keep good credit, save regularly, and eventually invest. I also aim to steer clear of unnecessary debt and make decisions that enhance my future instead of restricting it. Looking ahead, I intend to put what I learn into practice. I want to develop a straightforward budget that shows my income, expenses, and savings targets so I can stay organized and prevent overspending. I also plan to build my credit wisely by understanding how it functions and using it carefully. Additionally, I want to start learning about investing early on, even if I start with small amounts, because I realize that time is crucial for growing money. My ultimate goal is financial independence. I want to be able to support myself, make choices without ongoing financial pressure, and create stability in my life. I also hope to be in a position to give back and assist others when I can. Financial education isn't just about money; it's about having control over my future. These experiences have taught me that being financially literate is vital. By continuing to learn and apply these skills, I'm preparing myself for a more secure and confident future.

I’ve always been fascinated by the universe for as long as I can remember. I don’t just enjoy having answers; I love asking questions that don’t have straightforward responses. That’s what attracted me to STEM, particularly astronomy. It serves as a reminder that there’s always more to discover, and not knowing something doesn’t mean I’m falling behind. It signifies that I’m evolving. My curiosity began at a young age. I recall learning about the solar system when I was a kid and realizing how tiny we are compared to everything out there. Instead of feeling small, it inspired me. Ever since, I’ve wanted to be part of something greater, which is why I aspire to work with NASA one day and help enhance our understanding of space. As a first-generation, low-income student, my journey into STEM hasn’t always been easy or clear-cut. There are moments when challenges like tuition fees, limited resources, or the absence of role models who have experienced this path make it feel daunting. However, rather than letting that deter me, it has motivated me to take my goals more seriously. I’ve had to navigate things independently, maintain discipline, and persevere even when the future seems uncertain. As a woman of color entering a STEM field, I’m also conscious that I might not always see people who resemble me in the environments I wish to be part of. But that doesn’t dishearten me; it inspires me. I want to demonstrate to myself that I belong there, and I want other girls who look like me to feel that they belong as well. Representation is crucial, and I aim to be part of that transformation. Looking ahead, I intend to build a career in STEM where I can contribute to something significant. Whether through research, discoveries, or collaborating on projects with organizations like NASA, I want my work to help broaden our understanding of the universe. I also hope to use my experiences to show others that your background doesn’t define your future. This scholarship would truly change my life. It would relieve some of the financial stress, but more importantly, it would serve as a reminder that all my hard work is paying off. As a first-generation student, I often feel the pressure to navigate everything by myself, and having support like this means I won’t have to face it alone. It would allow me to concentrate more on my studies, keep developing my skills, and seize opportunities that will help me prepare for a career in STEM. Above all, this scholarship would empower me to move forward with assurance. It would be an investment not just in my education, but also in my aspirations to contribute to STEM and create pathways for others like me. With this assistance, I would be one step closer to transforming my love for astronomy into a fulfilling career and making a significant difference.

When I was nine, I discovered the solar system, and rather than just memorizing the planets like most kids, I began to ask questions that no one could answer. What lies beyond the universe? How do we know what we know? That sense of curiosity has stayed with me. It developed into a love for astronomy--not merely as a subject, but as a means to comprehend uncertainty, possibilities, and my role in something far greater than myself. My academic path has been anything but conventional. As a young college student, I found myself in a university setting at an early age, surrounded by older peers and facing expectations that often felt daunting. I had to adapt quickly--learning to advocate for myself, handle demanding coursework, and navigate environments where I sometimes felt out of place. There were times I questioned my abilities, especially when I faced difficulties in tough classes like precalculus. But rather than retreating, I chose to push ahead. I sought assistance, altered my study techniques, and reminded myself of my initial motivations. For me, perseverance isn’t about avoiding struggles--it’s about moving forward in spite of them. I’ve learned to maintain discipline even when I feel unsure, and to keep showing up even when things are tough. This mindset goes beyond my studies. Through volunteering, whether it’s helping at community events, supporting families, or simply stepping in when needed, I’ve realized that making a difference doesn’t always require grand gestures, it often comes from being consistent and willing to lend a hand without being asked. I have a strong passion for using education as a means for both exploration and transformation. My aim is to build a career in astrophysics, with the long-term goal of making contributions to space research, possibly through organizations like NASA. Yet, my influence extends beyond just scientific contributions. As a young Black woman stepping into a field where there is a lack of representation, I want to challenge the stereotype of who can be in science. I aim to be a visible figure for others who, like me, grew up with curiosity but were uncertain about their place in such environments. Education has already started to influence my perspective on the world--not only in a scientific sense but also socially. I’ve become increasingly aware of the disparities in access to opportunities, whether in education, healthcare, or resources. Through my academic journey, I intend to keep delving into these matters and using my voice to advocate for fairness, particularly for underrepresented groups. Kristen McCartney’s story embodies resilience, the capacity to keep living fully despite facing obstacles. That concept resonates with me on a deep level. Perseverance isn’t always loud or obvious. Sometimes it’s subtle. It’s about choosing to move forward, to keep learning, and to maintain faith in a future that isn’t visible yet. That is the type of perseverance I carry with me and the kind I will continue to develop as I pursue my education and strive to make a significant impact on the world.

My curiosity has always influenced how I view the world. Since I was little, I’ve been asking questions about things that most people don’t think about: Why does the universe exist? What’s out there beyond the stars we can see? These questions first came to me when I learned about the solar system in elementary school, and ever since, my interest in space and the universe has only intensified. Now, that curiosity fuels my academic ambitions and my wish to have a career in physics and astrophysics. I’m currently a student at Isaac M. Bear Early College High School in Wilmington, North Carolina, where I get to work on my high school diploma while also earning college credits through the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Being in an early college program has pushed me to grow both academically and personally. Taking college level classes while still in high school has taught me discipline, independence, and resilience. It has also boosted my confidence to aim for high academic goals. My love for science stems from a desire to better understand the universe and humanity’s role in it. I plan to get a bachelor’s degree in physics and then go to graduate school to study astronomy or astrophysics. My long term goal is to contribute to scientific research that enhances our understanding of the universe and possibly collaborate with organizations involved in space exploration and research. Outside the classroom, community service has significantly influenced my values. I volunteered at Brunson’s MMA, where I helped with front desk tasks, assisted new members in signing up for classes, and supervised younger students during their training sessions. This experience taught me the value of responsibility, patience, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. I also volunteered at Emma B. Trask Middle School, where I supported teachers and students during various classroom activities. Working with younger students made me realize how vital encouragement and mentorship are in helping others gain confidence in their skills. Looking ahead, I aspire to merge my love for science with my dedication to helping others. Fields like physics and astronomy often lack diversity, and I want to inspire students who might not see themselves in STEM careers. By mentoring younger students, engaging in STEM outreach initiatives, and sharing my enthusiasm for the universe, I aim to motivate others to delve into science and ponder significant questions about the world around them. Education is the journey that will enable me to transform curiosity into discovery and knowledge into meaningful impact. By pursuing a degree in physics and maintaining my involvement in community service, I hope to contribute to both scientific knowledge and the communities that have played a crucial role in shaping my identity.

Since I was young, I've always been intrigued by the universe and the mysteries it presents. As a kid, I would gaze at the night sky, pondering what lay beyond our view. That sense of wonder grew into a strong passion for astronomy, physics, and the quest to understand the universe. Now, as a student at Isaac M. Bear Early College High School, I'm focused on transforming that curiosity into a career in scientific exploration. Through my early college program, I've had the chance to take college courses while still in high school. This has pushed me academically and helped me become a more self-sufficient and disciplined learner. In college, I aim to earn a bachelor’s degree in physics while also delving into astronomy and astrophysics. My ultimate goal is to go to graduate school and engage in research that broadens our knowledge of the universe, possibly collaborating with organizations like NASA or in the realm of space science. In addition to my academic aspirations, community service has played a significant role in my personal development. Volunteering has shown me that making an impact doesn't always require grand gestures; sometimes, it starts with simply being present and assisting others. I volunteered at Brunson’s MMA, where I helped with front desk tasks, guided new members in signing up for classes, and supervised younger students during their training. This experience highlighted the importance of responsibility, communication, and fostering a friendly atmosphere for everyone. I also volunteered at Emma B. Trask Middle School, where I supported teachers and helped students stay focused during class activities. Being able to assist students in their learning space made me realize the value of mentorship and encouragement. Even minor acts of support can significantly impact students, helping them feel valued and inspired. In college and after, I aim to keep serving my community by getting involved in outreach programs that support STEM education. A lot of students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, might not see themselves in areas like physics or astronomy. I want to help change that by sparking interest in science and showing younger students that they can have careers in STEM. Whether it's through tutoring, mentoring, or joining educational programs, I hope to motivate others to ask questions about the world and chase their own scientific interests. In the end, my goals go beyond just personal success. I want to be part of scientific discoveries while also helping others discover their own curiosity and build their confidence. By merging my love for astronomy with my dedication to community service, I hope to create a significant impact both in the scientific field and in the communities that have influenced me.