Grid: Apple Rose Carrot Tulip Dog Goldfish Parrot Cat Mercury Silver Iron Gold Jazz Pop Rock Classical Categories and Explanations: 1. Fruits and Vegetables • Group: Apple, Carrot, Rose, Tulip • Reasoning: This group includes items that are related to plants, specifically those commonly found in gardens or as edible produce. An apple is a fruit, a carrot is a vegetable, and while rose and tulip are flowers, they are also part of the broader category of plants often cultivated alongside fruits and vegetables. 2. Pets and Animals • Group: Dog, Goldfish, Parrot, Cat • Reasoning: All these words refer to common household pets. Dogs and cats are traditional pets, while goldfish and parrots represent popular exotic pet choices. This grouping captures the theme of animals that people typically keep for companionship. 3. Metals • Group: Mercury, Silver, Iron, Gold • Reasoning: This category encompasses elements from the periodic table, specifically those that are classified as metals. Mercury, silver, iron, and gold are all notable metals used in various applications, from construction to jewelry. 4. Music Genres • Group: Jazz, Pop, Rock, Classical • Reasoning: These terms represent distinct genres of music. Jazz is known for its improvisational style, pop is characterized by its mainstream appeal, rock encompasses a wide range of energetic styles, and classical represents traditional orchestral music. This grouping highlights the diversity in musical expression. The connections puzzle groups words into distinct categories based on shared characteristics: plant-related items, pets, metals, and music genres. Each category reflects a different aspect of everyday life and culture, showcasing how diverse yet interconnected our experiences can be. This structure encourages players to think critically about relationships between words, enhancing their engagement with the puzzle.

Pursuing higher education has been a transformative journey filled with significant obstacles that have tested my resilience and determination. As a Nigerian student in a foreign environment, I faced cultural adjustments and academic pressures that felt overwhelming at times. Financial stress from outstanding college bills added to the pressure, making it difficult to focus on my studies while constantly worrying about how to manage my expenses. Another significant challenge arose during my second semester when I experienced a severe bout of anxiety. This period was marked by sleepless nights and a lack of appetite, which not only affected my academic performance but also my overall well-being. The struggle to maintain my mental health during this time was particularly daunting; I often felt isolated and disconnected from my peers. Losing touch with friends added to my sense of loneliness, making it difficult to seek the support I needed. Moreover, being hospitalized due to health issues further disrupted my academic progress. The time away from my studies created a gap that I had to work diligently to bridge upon my return. Each of these challenges forced me to develop coping strategies, build resilience, and cultivate a support network that would help me navigate my educational journey. Despite these obstacles, I remain committed to my education and the possibilities it opens for me and my community. I believe that education is a powerful tool for change, and I intend to leverage my degree to give back meaningfully. My experiences have instilled in me a deep desire to support others facing similar struggles. In the future, I envision myself engaging in community outreach programs that focus on mental health awareness, particularly within Nigerian and immigrant communities. By sharing my story, I hope to create a safe space for individuals to discuss their challenges openly and seek help without stigma. I also plan to advocate for better mental health resources in educational institutions, ensuring that students receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally. Additionally, I aim to establish scholarship programs for underprivileged students, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds. I understand firsthand the barriers that financial stress can create, and I want to help alleviate that burden for others. By providing financial assistance and mentorship, I hope to empower young students to pursue their educational goals without the weight of overwhelming debt. Ultimately, my pursuit of higher education is not just for my own benefit; it is a stepping stone towards creating a positive impact in my community. Through my experiences, I have learned the importance of resilience, empathy, and giving back. I am determined to use my education as a platform to uplift others, fostering a culture of support and empowerment. By addressing mental health issues and providing educational opportunities, I aspire to contribute to a stronger, more connected community where everyone has the chance to succeed.

My journey into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) began in high school when I took a coding class that introduced me to the basics of programming. As I became more comfortable with languages like Python, my curiosity about AI sparked, and I started exploring its potential applications. This exploration quickly turned into hands-on projects that would shape my understanding and future aspirations in the field. One of my first significant projects was developing a simple machine learning model to classify handwritten digits using the MNIST dataset. I was fascinated by the idea that a computer could learn to recognize numbers with accuracy comparable to human ability. Using Python and libraries like TensorFlow and Keras, I built a neural network from scratch. The process was both challenging and rewarding: I had to preprocess the data, select the appropriate model architecture, and fine-tune hyperparameters to optimize performance. When the model finally achieved over 95% accuracy, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. This project ignited my passion for AI and led me to undertake more complex challenges. I then ventured into creating a personal app called “FitMate,” aimed at helping users develop healthier habits through personalized fitness recommendations. Using ML algorithms, FitMate analyzes user input—such as fitness goals, current activity levels, and dietary preferences—to generate tailored workout and nutrition plans. The development process involved not only coding but also understanding user experience and data privacy considerations. This experience taught me how to merge technical skills with real-world applications, emphasizing the importance of user-centric design. Beyond individual projects, I sought to expand my knowledge through internships and online courses. I participated in a summer internship at a local tech startup, where I contributed to an AI-driven project that analyzed customer data to enhance user engagement. Collaborating with experienced data scientists, I learned the intricacies of data preprocessing, feature selection, and model evaluation. This experience provided me with valuable insights into the industry, highlighting how AI can drive business strategies and improve customer experiences. Looking forward, I envision making a significant impact in the AI and ML field, particularly in healthcare. The potential for AI to revolutionize patient care and medical research is immense. I aim to develop algorithms that can analyze medical data, assist in diagnosing diseases, and optimize treatment plans. My personal connection to this field is rooted in my family’s experiences with healthcare, which has motivated me to pursue innovations that can improve health outcomes, especially for underserved communities. Moreover, I am committed to ensuring that AI technology is developed responsibly and ethically. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, addressing issues such as bias, privacy, and accessibility is crucial. I plan to advocate for inclusive AI practices that consider diverse populations and promote equitable access to technology. In summary, my hands-on experiences with AI and machine learning—from developing a digit recognition model to creating the FitMate app—have fueled my passion for this transformative field. Through future projects and collaborations, I aspire to leverage AI to create meaningful solutions in healthcare while advocating for ethical practices. The journey ahead is filled with challenges, but I am excited about the potential of AI to shape a better future for all.

As the daughter of Nigerian immigrant parents, I have faced numerous challenges that tested my resilience and commitment to my goals. Growing up in a predominantly white school, I often felt out of place. My name, Uchechi, was a source of mockery, and the traditional Nigerian dishes my mother packed for lunch became targets for teasing. These experiences of exclusion were painful and left me questioning my identity. The pressure from my parents to excel academically compounded these challenges. In Nigerian culture, there is an expectation to achieve top grades and pursue prestigious careers, such as law or medicine. My parents, having sacrificed so much to provide for me, often reminded me of the importance of hard work and success. While I appreciated their intentions, this pressure felt overwhelming, particularly when compounded by feelings of isolation at school. I often found myself torn between my cultural identity and the desire to fit in. The turning point came during my junior year of high school when I struggled in advanced classes while trying to maintain my grades. I was at risk of disappointing my parents, which fueled my anxiety. I realized that I needed to confront my fears and find a way to balance my cultural expectations with my personal aspirations. To overcome these obstacles, I adopted several strategies. First, I reached out for support. I connected with a guidance counselor who understood my background and encouraged me to explore my interests beyond the rigid expectations I felt. She introduced me to clubs and activities where I could meet peers who shared my experiences. This sense of community was vital; I found solace in a multicultural club that celebrated diversity. Through it, I learned the value of embracing my identity rather than hiding it. Next, I began to prioritize my mental health. I started journaling to express my feelings and reflect on my experiences. This practice not only helped me manage my anxiety but also allowed me to articulate my dreams and goals more clearly. I discovered a passion for writing, which ultimately became a significant aspect of my life. Throughout this journey, I learned several invaluable lessons. I realized that adversity is not merely a barrier but a catalyst for growth. I learned to advocate for myself, to communicate my needs, and to be unapologetically proud of my identity. Embracing my Nigerian heritage became a source of strength rather than a source of shame. Today, these lessons continue to shape my life. I am now pursuing a degree in data science, a field that reflects my passion for problem-solving and creativity. My experiences have taught me the importance of resilience, and I use these lessons to navigate challenges in my academic and personal life. I actively engage in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion, determined to ensure that others feel supported in their journeys. In conclusion, facing adversity as a first-generation immigrant has profoundly impacted my life. The challenges I encountered taught me the value of community, the importance of self-advocacy, and the strength found in embracing one’s identity. These lessons not only guide my current pursuits but also empower me to create a more inclusive environment for those who share similar experiences.

Throughout my life, I’ve never been certain about what I wanted to be when I grew up. At the age of seven, I thought I wanted to be a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys. Those dreams quickly faded after I attempted a cheer stunt in my living room and scratched myself badly on the sharp edge of my dining table. After that incident, I considered becoming a teacher, thinking I would enjoy working with elementary students. However, after years in school, I realized I didn’t want to endure the challenges my teachers faced. I truly enjoyed writing and was thrilled to be accepted into my dream summer program, where I took a Journalism and Mass Media class. I thought journalism would be a great career for me, but my parents were not very supportive, expressing doubts about that path. For a significant portion of my life, I believed I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. As a Nigerian, entering a medical profession is often the expectation placed on children. I frequently switched between different paths within the medical field because I was uncertain about what would make me happy. Some days, I considered pharmacy and working with medicine. Other days, I thought about nursing and treating patients directly. At times, I even contemplated studying nutrition to help people with unhealthy eating habits. I stuck with nursing throughout my senior year and into my first semester of college. However, I soon realized that it was never truly what I wanted to do. A biology class required for nursing made me realize that I didn’t understand the material as well as I had thought. Although I had never failed a science class, I didn’t grasp the concepts fully. I also became aware of how anxious pursuing a medical career made me, which overwhelmed me significantly. I considered psychology after enjoying a psychology class in junior year, but I still had doubts about my ability to succeed. This period prompted me to focus and reflect seriously on my future. I analyzed my skills and the subjects I excelled in. Throughout my educational journey, one subject stood out: math. My teachers often praised my performance, highlighting awards and advancement to higher-level classes. Math has been my favorite subject since kindergarten, which is somewhat uncommon. Every aspect of math resonated with me—from numbers and formulas to charts and statistics. This realization helped me decide to major in data science, a field that deeply engages my love for mathematics. Data science offers numerous impactful career paths, particularly in business and healthcare. I aspire to be part of this change in my generation and utilize my skills to solve problems. Studying abroad will equip me with the tools to pursue these objectives, for which I am truly grateful. Although it took a long journey to determine my career path, it was worth it.

Mental health is deeply important to me because it forms the foundation for everything I do in life—from pursuing my academic goals to maintaining relationships and navigating the world as a queer Nigerian woman. Having experienced heightened anxiety and depression, especially since COVID-19, I’ve come to realize that mental wellness is essential not only for my happiness but for my sense of safety and identity in a world where I often feel alone. The pandemic isolated many of us, but it also brought out struggles that were already simmering beneath the surface. For me, COVID-19 was a magnifying glass, making me face issues I previously could push aside. I became more aware of my feelings of isolation and the impact my family dynamics had on my mental health. Growing up, I never really had “my person,” a friend or mentor to rely on or confide in. While I am close to my sisters, we were all affected by our parents’ relationship issues, which often created a tense environment at home. This made me feel as if I was navigating these struggles alone, which only added to my anxiety and feelings of isolation. My experiences as a young queer woman, coupled with these family dynamics, made me painfully aware of how important mental wellness is, especially when there’s no solid ground to stand on. In a sense, my mental health has been the one thing I can try to manage and protect, even when other aspects of my life feel out of control. Maintaining my mental wellness has been a journey of self-discovery and resilience. First, I learned that I need to prioritize my mental health as actively as my physical health. This means building habits and rituals that help me stay grounded, even during difficult times. One major part of my routine is journaling, which gives me an outlet to express my thoughts and feelings without judgment. Writing has been a safe space for me, allowing me to process what’s happening internally and gain some clarity over my emotions. Additionally, therapy has been a transformative tool. Being able to speak openly to someone who listens and offers guidance without judgment is empowering. Therapy has helped me to see patterns in my life and develop strategies for handling anxiety and depression when they surface. It’s also given me the courage to set boundaries, something I struggled with, especially within my family. As a queer Nigerian woman, therapy has also been essential in helping me embrace my identity with confidence. Connecting with other people who understand my experiences has also been invaluable for my mental health. Joining online communities and clubs on campus has given me a sense of belonging I lacked before. In these spaces, I find understanding and acceptance, which has been crucial for my mental wellness. It reminds me that while I might feel alone at times, there are others who share similar journeys. Being part of a community helps me feel seen and valued, reducing the sense of isolation that once felt overwhelming. Lastly, I make time for activities that bring me joy and allow me to recharge—reading, listening to music, and spending time in nature. These moments help me reconnect with myself and remind me of the beauty in life, even amid struggles. In the end, my mental health is important because it’s a key part of my overall well-being. When I prioritize my mental wellness, I’m better equipped to navigate life’s challenges, to support others, and to create a life that is true to who I am.

Travel can be a transformative experience for individuals in many ways. Exposure to different cultures, perspectives, and environments can lead to significant personal growth and development. As someone who has had the opportunity to study abroad in London and Dublin, I have experienced firsthand how travel can shape a person. When I traveled to London and Dublin, I was exposed to new ways of thinking and living. I noticed how people in these cities approached life differently from what I was used to in the United States. This exposure made me more open-minded and adaptable. I learned to appreciate diversity and understand that there is not just one way to live or think. Being a part of different cultures also helped me develop empathy. In London, I interacted with people from various backgrounds, which made me more aware of the challenges others face. This awareness has made me more compassionate and driven to help others, which aligns with my involvement in service activities like tutoring, working at food pantries, and volunteering at the Humane Society. Traveling also pushed me out of my comfort zone. Navigating new cities, understanding different accents, and trying unfamiliar foods were all challenges that helped me grow. These experiences taught me resilience and problem-solving skills. For example, when I got lost in Dublin, I had to rely on my instincts and ask locals for directions. This experience boosted my confidence and made me more independent. Furthermore, travel has enriched my academic journey. As a member of the Honors Program and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, I have always valued learning. My travels have provided me with real-world knowledge that complements my studies. Seeing historical sites in London and Dublin brought my history and literature classes to life, making my education more meaningful and engaging. In addition, being exposed to different environments has inspired me to think globally. As a member of Global Leaders Unite and the Pre-Professional Health Student Society, I aim to make a positive impact on the world. My travel experiences have fueled my passion for global health and community service, and I am determined to use my education to help others. In conclusion, travel has been a transformative experience for me. It has made me more open-minded, empathetic, resilient, and globally aware. I believe that these qualities will help me succeed in my academic and professional pursuits. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to travel and look forward to continuing to grow through new experiences.

As a Black queer woman, I deal with discrimination because of my race, gender, and sexual orientation. In healthcare, work, and social settings, I often face unfair treatment. I sometimes feel left out in LGBTQ+ spaces and can also encounter homophobia in Black communities. This mix of biases makes it hard to find acceptance and support, leading to stress and feeling isolated. Despite these challenges, I have remained committed to my education and personal growth. My academic achievements, like making the Dean's List, participating in study abroad programs in London and Dublin, and being part of the Honor's Program, have been sources of pride and motivation. Being a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the Academy Scholars Program has also given me the chance to connect with other driven students and learn from their experiences. My extracurricular activities, such as working as a CIEGE Student Worker, participating in the AFA Club, and serving on the Honors Student Advisory Council, have allowed me to develop leadership skills and build a supportive community. Additionally, my involvement in the Pre-Professional Health Student Society and Global Leaders Unite has helped me explore my interest in healthcare and global issues. I aspire to pursue higher education in the field of healthcare, with a focus on addressing disparities faced by marginalized communities. I believe that with the right education, I can make a meaningful impact on the healthcare system and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. My goal is to become a healthcare professional who not only provides quality care but also works to create inclusive and equitable healthcare environments for all patients. Receiving the Rainbow Futures Scholarship would greatly alleviate the financial burdens that come with pursuing higher education. As someone who has balanced academics with numerous extracurricular activities and part-time work, I understand the importance of financial support in achieving my goals. This scholarship would allow me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress, enabling me to fully commit to my education and advocacy efforts. With the scholarship, I would be able to continue my involvement in organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights and social justice. I plan to use my education to develop programs and initiatives that address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. By doing so, I hope to create a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone. In conclusion, my experiences as a Black queer woman have shaped my aspirations and commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. The Rainbow Futures Scholarship would provide the financial support needed to pursue my higher education goals and make a positive impact on society. Thank you for considering my application.

My name is Uchechi Anyanwu, and I am honored to apply for the VNutrition & Wellness’ Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship. I am currently a student who has been fortunate to be on the Dean’s List and participate in various academic programs like the Governor’s Scholars Program and the Honor’s Program. Through my education, I aim to make a positive impact on society, focusing on health and wellness, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. My academic journey has been enriched by experiences abroad in London and Dublin, where I observed diverse health practices and cultural perspectives. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the importance of inclusive health care. As a member of the Pre-Professional Health Student Society, I have been exposed to the challenges and opportunities in the health sector. I plan to use my education to address these challenges by promoting wellness and providing accessible health care to marginalized communities. One of my key interests is in preventive health care and education. I believe that educating people about their health can lead to better outcomes and a healthier society. My involvement in the Honors Student Advisory Council and the Global Leaders Unite club has taught me the value of leadership and advocacy. I plan to use these skills to create programs that educate and empower individuals, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community, to take charge of their health. Working as a student worker at CIEGE and participating in the AFA Club has given me practical experience in community engagement and event planning. I plan to use these skills to organize health fairs, workshops, and support groups that cater to the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community. By providing a safe space for discussions and learning, I hope to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help and encourage more people to prioritize their well-being. In addition to my academic and extracurricular activities, I have volunteered at various organizations like the Madison County Public Library, God’s Outreach Food Pantry, and the Humane Society. These experiences have taught me the importance of service and giving back to the community. I plan to continue this spirit of service by working with non-profits and community organizations to improve access to health care and wellness resources. My participation in sports like track and field and tennis has taught me the value of discipline, teamwork, and resilience. These qualities are essential in the field of health care, where challenges are inevitable. I believe that my background in sports will help me stay committed to my goal of making a positive impact on society through health and wellness. In conclusion, my education has provided me with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to make a meaningful impact on society. I am committed to using my education to promote health and wellness, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. With the support of the VNutrition & Wellness’ Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship, I am confident that I can make a difference and contribute to a healthier, more inclusive society. Thank you for considering my application.

Ever since I was a child, math has been my favorite subject. Unlike many of my peers who leaned towards subjects like English or history, I found joy in numbers, formulas, charts, graphs, shapes, quantities, and statistics. Everything about math just clicked for me. I remember the excitement of winning awards for my achievements in math and advancing to higher-level classes in grade school. These experiences solidified my passion for the subject and helped me decide on a major in data science. Choosing data science as my major was not just a practical decision but a heartfelt one. My parents always encouraged me to pursue a career in the medical field, believing it was the path to success. While I respect their perspective, I knew deep down that my passion lay elsewhere. I wanted to find a field where I could be both successful and genuinely happy. Data science offered that perfect blend. It allowed me to dive deep into the mathematical concepts I love while also providing a wide range of impactful career opportunities. In today's world, data science is more than just crunching numbers. It is about using data to make informed decisions, solve complex problems, and drive meaningful change. For instance, data scientists and analysts play crucial roles in businesses and healthcare systems by providing leaders with the information they need to make critical decisions. This can lead to the development of new technologies, the improvement of healthcare services, and the implementation of changes that benefit communities. One of the most exciting aspects of data science is its potential to address some of the biggest challenges our planet faces, such as preserving biodiversity, improving the health of our environment, and alleviating human suffering. By analyzing large datasets, data scientists can identify patterns and trends that might otherwise go unnoticed. This information can be used to develop strategies for conserving endangered species, reducing pollution, and finding sustainable solutions to environmental problems. For example, data science can be used to track the migration patterns of animals, monitor deforestation, and predict the impact of climate change on various ecosystems. By providing accurate and timely information, data scientists can help policymakers and conservationists make informed decisions that protect our planet's biodiversity. In the healthcare sector, data science can lead to significant advancements in patient care and medical research. By analyzing patient data, researchers can identify risk factors for diseases, develop personalized treatment plans, and improve the overall quality of care. This can lead to better health outcomes and a reduction in human suffering. Throughout my academic journey, I have been fortunate to receive several honors and awards that have further fueled my passion for data science. I have made the Dean's List, participated in study abroad programs in London and Dublin, and been a part of the Honor's Program. I was also a Governor's Scholars Program participant and a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the Academy Scholars Program. In conclusion, my passion for math and data science drives me to pursue a career that can make a difference in the world. By leveraging the power of data, I hope to contribute to efforts that preserve biodiversity, improve the health of our planet, and alleviate human suffering. With the support of the Women in STEM Academic Scholarship, I am confident that I can achieve my goals and make a meaningful impact in the field of data science. Thank you for considering my application.

Throughout my life, I've struggled to pinpoint what I wanted to be when I grew up. At seven, I dreamt of being a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys until a cheer stunt gone wrong led to a painful scratch from my living room dining table. Next, I considered teaching, but observing my own teachers' challenges dissuaded me from that path. Writing was a passion that led me to a Journalism and Mass Media class in a summer program, sparking an interest in journalism. However, my parents' doubts in succeeding squashed those dreams. For a significant period, I pursued a career in the medical field, as it was the expectation for me as a Nigerian. I oscillated between pharmacy, nursing, and nutrition, hoping to find my niche. Nursing seemed promising until a biology class in college revealed it wasn't my true calling. My lack of deep understanding and the anxiety it induced made it clear that medicine wasn't for me. Psychology also intrigued me during my junior year, but doubts about my success in that field persisted. I realized I needed to seriously reflect on my future and identify what truly made me happy. This introspection led me to a subject where I had consistently excelled: math. Since kindergarten, math had been my favorite subject. It came naturally to me—numbers, formulas, charts, graphs, shapes, quantities, and statistics all clicked effortlessly. This epiphany guided me to choose data science as my major, a field rich in the math concepts I love. Despite my parents' belief that a medical career was the key to success, I knew I had to follow my own aspirations. Data science offers a multitude of impactful careers, such as data scientists, analysts, quantitative analysts, data engineers, and AI research scientists. This field is crucial for businesses and healthcare systems, providing leaders and organizations with data-driven insights for decision-making, addressing societal challenges, advancing technology, and fostering community change. I want to be part of this transformation, using my skills to solve real-world problems. Studying abroad can also equip me with the tools and guidance to achieve these objectives by gaining intercultural perspectives and ideas. Although it took me a long journey to figure out my path, it was a valuable experience. It opened my eyes to the diversity of different fields and how they can intersect, ultimately leading me to a career where I can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Throughout my life, I've struggled to pinpoint what I wanted to be when I grew up. At seven, I dreamt of being a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys until a cheer stunt gone wrong led to a painful scratch from my living room dining table. Next, I considered teaching, but observing my own teachers' challenges dissuaded me from that path. Writing was a passion that led me to a Journalism and Mass Media class in a summer program, sparking an interest in journalism. However, my parents' doubts in succeeding squashed those dreams. For a significant period, I pursued a career in the medical field, as it was the expectation for me as a Nigerian. I oscillated between pharmacy, nursing, and nutrition, hoping to find my niche. Nursing seemed promising until a biology class in college revealed it wasn't my true calling. My lack of deep understanding and the anxiety it induced made it clear that medicine wasn't for me. Psychology also intrigued me during my junior year, but doubts about my success in that field persisted. I realized I needed to seriously reflect on my future and identify what truly made me happy. This introspection led me to a subject where I had consistently excelled: math. Since kindergarten, math had been my favorite subject. It came naturally to me—numbers, formulas, charts, graphs, shapes, quantities, and statistics all clicked effortlessly. This epiphany guided me to choose data science as my major, a field rich in the math concepts I love. Despite my parents' belief that a medical career was the key to success, I knew I had to follow my own aspirations. Data science offers a multitude of impactful careers, such as data scientists, analysts, quantitative analysts, data engineers, and AI research scientists. This field is crucial for businesses and healthcare systems, providing leaders and organizations with data-driven insights for decision-making, addressing societal challenges, advancing technology, and fostering community change. I want to be part of this transformation, using my skills to solve real-world problems. Studying abroad can also equip me with the tools and guidance to achieve these objectives by gaining intercultural perspectives and ideas. Although it took me a long journey to figure out my path, it was a valuable experience. It opened my eyes to the diversity of different fields and how they can intersect, ultimately leading me to a career where I can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Throughout my life, I've struggled to pinpoint what I wanted to be when I grew up. At seven, I dreamt of being a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys until a cheer stunt gone wrong led to a painful scratch from my living room dining table. Next, I considered teaching, but observing my own teachers' challenges dissuaded me from that path. Writing was a passion that led me to a Journalism and Mass Media class in a summer program, sparking an interest in journalism. However, my parents' doubts in succeeding squashed those dreams. For a significant period, I pursued a career in the medical field, as it was the expectation for me as a Nigerian. I oscillated between pharmacy, nursing, and nutrition, hoping to find my niche. Nursing seemed promising until a biology class in college revealed it wasn't my true calling. My lack of deep understanding and the anxiety it induced made it clear that medicine wasn't for me. Psychology also intrigued me during my junior year, but doubts about my success in that field persisted. I realized I needed to seriously reflect on my future and identify what truly made me happy. This introspection led me to a subject where I had consistently excelled: math. Since kindergarten, math had been my favorite subject. It came naturally to me—numbers, formulas, charts, graphs, shapes, quantities, and statistics all clicked effortlessly. This epiphany guided me to choose data science as my major, a field rich in the math concepts I love. Despite my parents' belief that a medical career was the key to success, I knew I had to follow my own aspirations. Data science offers a multitude of impactful careers, such as data scientists, analysts, quantitative analysts, data engineers, and AI research scientists. This field is crucial for businesses and healthcare systems, providing leaders and organizations with data-driven insights for decision-making, addressing societal challenges, advancing technology, and fostering community change. I want to be part of this transformation, using my skills to solve real-world problems. Studying abroad can also equip me with the tools and guidance to achieve these objectives by gaining intercultural perspectives and ideas. Although it took me a long journey to figure out my path, it was a valuable experience. It opened my eyes to the diversity of different fields and how they can intersect, ultimately leading me to a career where I can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

I never thought me watching the 2021 Grammy's and discovering the K-Pop group, BTS would tremendously impact my life. 2021 was a stressful and tiring year for me. COVID-19 was still at an all-time high. My depression skyrocketed to the moon. Isolation contributed to my depression. The stress from doing track and field during the second half of the semester added more to my depression. But miraculously, I was able to discover my light; BTS was my light, my joy. Their music gave me more comfort than a therapy session could. The authenticity from the lyrics to the beautiful vocals and raps, to the catchy melodies and tunes, I felt like I truly resonated with them. Especially the song, Butterfly. Something about that song immediately connected with me when I first listened. I was curious to understand the lyrics, and when I pulled up the Genius lyrics for the song, tears fell from my eyes like cats and dogs. I failed to realize the song resembled the fear of losing someone dear to them. Like when I experienced "s-word" thoughts left and right. It almost felt like a tap on the shoulder telling me not to let go, and that I'm too precious to them to disappear, like a butterfly. Outside of their wonderful music, I also developed a deep connection with each of the members and their personalities when watching their variety shows, interviews, live streams, and other content. Although I truly adore each member, my favorite member, or “bias” is the leader, RM. Outside of his cute dimples, pretty smile, and attractive voice, I also admired his leadership, work ethic, and his lyricism in each BTS song, as he’s the main lyricist for their songs. I never knew 7 boys from South Korea would impact my life so positively until I realized I missed one of my AP European History Zoom meetings due to binge-watching their content for over 2 hours. I never knew I would develop such a connection with people I never met, but I hope that when the day comes, I’m able to meet them and thank them for the joy they've brought me for 3 years now. I wouldn't have met the amazing people I've met without them. I wouldn't have the confidence I have today if it weren't for them. I would've still been the depressed teenage girl if it weren't for them. So, thank you BTS for bringing me joy.