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Tristen Johnston-Shedden

905

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

My overall life goals are to start a music program at Fernley's intermediate school, inspire future generations, and eventually get married and have kids. I have a deep interest in anime, manga, music, teaching, bowling, piano, trumpet, and shows like The Owl House. I believe I would be an excellent scholarship candidate due to my unwavering commitment to personal and community growth. My ultimate aim is to establish a music program at the school, where I hope to use the transformative power of music to foster creativity, build confidence, and encourage collaboration among students. This goal reflects my dedication not just to my own aspirations but also to enriching my community and helping young people find their passions. My diverse interests—from anime and manga to teaching and music—showcase my well-rounded character. Engaging with various art forms fuels my creativity and motivates me to share these experiences. Whether playing an instrument, exploring video games, or enjoying animated series, I seek to connect with others and inspire them. Ultimately, my journey is about fostering a love for learning and growth, and I believe this scholarship would enable me to make a meaningful impact on my community and future generations.

Education

Fernley High School

High School
2020 - 2025

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Music
    • Education, Other
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Music

    • Dream career goals:

      I want to become a music teacher to inspire young musicians to continue on the path of music

      Sports

      Tennis

      Intramural
      2011 – Present14 years

      Basketball

      Intramural
      2016 – 20193 years

      Awards

      • team award 3ed place
      • team award 2ed place
      • team award 1sr place

      Soccer

      Intramural
      2016 – 2016

      Football

      Intramural
      2018 – 20213 years

      Awards

      • most tackles in the game
      • game wining play

      Bowling

      Varsity
      2022 – Present3 years

      Arts

      • Fernley high school jazz, marching and concert band

        Music
        2015 – Present

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        food banks around my town — I would hand out the food
        2018 – Present
      Big Picture Scholarship
      **How "Your Name" Changed My Life** "Your Name," directed by Makoto Shinkai, is a captivating anime film that intertwines the lives of two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, through a mysterious phenomenon. While the movie's beautiful animation and poignant storyline captivated audiences worldwide, its deeper themes profoundly impacted my life and perspective. This film taught me valuable lessons about stepping out of my comfort zone, embracing my passions, and pursuing my dreams. At its core, "Your Name" emphasizes the importance of connection and understanding. Both Taki and Mitsuha lead seemingly ordinary lives, yet they feel a strong pull towards something greater. Their journeys demonstrate that life is unpredictable and that we must embrace the unknown rather than hide from it. Watching them navigate their challenges inspired me to confront my fears and insecurities. I realized that staying in my comfort zone would only lead to missed opportunities and regrets. Before watching "Your Name," I often avoided taking risks. I held back from pursuing activities that excited me because of a fear of failure and rejection. The characters in the film experience profound transformations as they learn to trust themselves and each other. This resonated with me deeply; it encouraged me to step beyond my boundaries and embrace the world around me. I began asking myself what I was truly passionate about and what I could do to bring those passions to life. One particularly powerful moment in the film occurs when Taki and Mitsuha finally meet in person. Their connection, forged through dreams and shared experiences, reminds me of the importance of facing challenges head-on. I recognized that for meaningful relationships and experiences to flourish, I must be willing to put myself out there and take a chance. This realization spurred me to engage more actively in my community, join clubs, and start conversations with new people. It was liberating to step outside my usual routine and discover that the world is full of opportunities waiting for me. Moreover, "Your Name" emphasizes the value of pursuing what you love. The film illustrates how passion can drive us forward, even in the face of uncertainty. As Mitsuha and Taki navigate their intertwined fates, their determination to reach each other despite the obstacles is a testament to the power of ambition and desire. This motivated me to reflect on my interests and aspirations. I found myself reigniting my love for writing, an art form I had long neglected out of fear of judgment. Inspired by the film, I committed to writing regularly, participating in workshops, and sharing my work with others. I realized that my passion was worth pursuing for my own sake, not just for external validation. "Your Name" has taught me that life is a vibrant tapestry of connections, dreams, and experiences. It has shown me the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and taking action toward my passions. As I reflect on my journey since discovering the film, I see the transformation within myself. I no longer allow fear to dictate my choices. Instead, I embrace the uncertainties of life, understanding that each step I take is a part of my unique story. In conclusion, "Your Name" is more than just a beautifully animated film; it catalyzes self-discovery and growth. It has empowered me to embrace the world, connect with others, and follow my passions. By putting myself out there and pursuing what I love, I am beginning to create a life rich with experiences and fulfillment. The lessons I learned from Taki and Mitsuha will stay with me as guiding principles for the rest of my life.
      Lidia M. Wallace Memorial Scholarship
      Becoming a teacher has always been a dream of mine, rooted in my experiences and shaped by the people who have influenced me along the way. Growing up in a tough neighborhood presented many challenges, and I often felt different from my peers. The vibrant energy of childhood was overshadowed by feelings of isolation. However, amidst those difficulties, there was a beacon of hope—a teacher who believed in me and recognized my potential. This realization marked the beginning of my journey toward becoming an educator and inspiring future generations. When I think back to my early school years, I remember how important it was to have someone. My teacher didn't just see me as a student; she saw me as a person with unique qualities that deserved to be nurtured. She listened to my thoughts and concerns, offering support that went beyond academic guidance. It was through her encouragement that I began to believe in myself and my abilities. Her genuine interest created a safe space where I could express my feelings and explore my passions. This experience taught me the invaluable role a teacher plays—not merely an instructor but a mentor, a confidant, and a source of inspiration. After moving to a new school, I feared I would lose that support. I worried I would be met with the same solitude that defined my earlier years. Surprisingly, I found a new group of friends and educators who embraced me warmly. This transition was transformative. I learned that compassion and kindness exist in many forms and that the connections we make can transcend environments. These relationships reinforced my belief that educators profoundly influence their students’ lives, fostering resilience and growth. As I navigated my academic journey, I became aware of the responsibility that comes with being an educator. It’s not simply about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing young minds and fostering an environment where students feel valued and understood. The impact of a teacher stretches beyond the classroom. I aspire to be that source of encouragement and guidance for my future students, just as my teacher was for me. The idea of inspiring the youth of future generations brings me immense joy. I envision creating a classroom environment that prioritizes connection and positivity. I want my students to feel safe expressing themselves, exploring ideas, and challenging themselves without fear of judgment. A classroom should be a space where curiosity is ignited and creativity flourishes. Through my teaching, I hope to instill in my students not only the knowledge they need to succeed academically but also the confidence they need to thrive personally. Moreover, I believe education has the potential to break down barriers. It is a powerful tool that can change lives and communities. By becoming a teacher, I want to empower students to realize their dreams and encourage them to contribute positively to society. I hope to instill in them a sense of responsibility toward their peers and their communities, promoting values that extend beyond academics. In conclusion, my aspiration to become a teacher is deeply rooted in my personal experiences and the transformative power educators have had in my life. I wish to carry forward the legacy of those who inspired me, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for future generations. I am dedicated to helping students navigate challenges and discover their potential, ensuring they, too, find the comfort, support, and inspiration that I once did. Teaching, for me, is not just a career; it is a calling to make a difference in the lives of young people, shaping the future one student at a time.