My admiration for basketball started with Kobe Bryant. His relentless work ethic, competitive spirit, and dedication to the game inspired me immensely. Kobe wasn’t just a player; he was a symbol of excellence, teaching us to strive for greatness in everything we do. However, as I grew and watched the evolution of the sport, I also found myself becoming a fan of LeBron James, whose influence extends far beyond the court. LeBron represents resilience, leadership, and a commitment to social justice. Qualities that resonate deeply with me and many others in my community. His journey from humble beginnings in Akron, Ohio, to becoming a global icon highlights the power of perseverance. While Kobe taught me the importance of challenging work, LeBron demonstrates how to uplift others along the way. LeBron’s skills are undeniable. His ability to read the game, deliver precise passes, and score in numerous ways sets him apart. Watching him play feels like witnessing a master artist at work. Yet, what truly makes LeBron exceptional is not just his statistics but how he uses his platform for change. Through initiatives like the “I PROMISE School” in Akron, he shows a commitment to education and community upliftment that inspires many young people, especially girls who often feel sidelined in sports. When discussing whether LeBron is the greatest basketball player of all time, the answer is subjective. His achievements, including multiple MVP awards and championships, are impressive. However, greatness can be measured in numerous ways. Players like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant also left their mark on the sport, each bringing a unique flair. While I appreciate the debates surrounding who holds the title of the “greatest,” I think it’s more important to recognize how LeBron’s impact extends beyond the court. In my perspective, LeBron James isn’t just a basketball player; he’s a role model. He advocates for social issues, speaks out against injustice, and encourages youth to dream big. His work empowers individuals, especially marginalized voices, to pursue their goals. In a world that often underestimates the potential of Native and female athletes, LeBron’s story is a beacon of hope. Whether he is the greatest of all time may be up for debate, but there’s no denying his influence. He inspires countless young people, including myself, to believe in their dreams and fight for what is right. In a sense, LeBron is more than a player; he’s a force for good, embodying the spirit of determination and change that we can all aspire to. My journey from Kobe to LeBron highlights not just a shift in fandom but a broader appreciation for the profound impact athletes can have on our lives.

Billie Eilish’s music resonates deeply with me, particularly in songs like “Bellyache,” “Hostage,” and “When the Party’s Over.” As a Native American college student from a poor rural community on the Navajo reservation, her lyrics reflect my own experiences and emotions in meaningful ways. In “Bellyache,” Eilish captures the inner conflict between youthful recklessness and guilt. The song narrates feelings of remorse after a night filled with impulsive choices. This theme speaks to my life, where decisions often carry significant consequences, especially in a tightknit community. The guilt and confusion in the song remind me of moments when my own choices led to painful outcomes. Eilish’s raw honesty helps me reflect on my experiences, fostering a sense of connection and understanding. “Hostage” delves into vulnerability and the complexities of love, resonating with my personal journey. Facing numerous challenges, both personal and societal, I relate to the desire for closeness while fearing entrapment. In a world where expectations weigh heavily, stemming from my cultural background and academic aspirations, Eilish’s portrayal of emotional conflict mirrors my struggle to find balance. Her haunting melodies and poignant lyrics create an emotional landscape that feels familiar, evoking both longing and apprehension. “When the Party’s Over” explores the aftermath of relationships and the loneliness that can follow. As someone navigating life on the reservation while pursuing higher education, this theme hits home. Despite being surrounded by peers, I often feel a deep sense of isolation. Eilish’s exploration of detachment and yearning for connection resonates with my experiences. Her ethereal voice captures that blend of sorrow and beauty, allowing me to process my feelings in a safe space. Overall, Billie Eilish’s music transcends generational and cultural barriers. Her exploration of guilt, vulnerability, and loneliness speaks to my experiences as a Native American navigating life’s complexities. Through her artistry, I find validation for my emotions and a reminder that others, regardless of their backgrounds, share similar struggles. Eilish’s songs become a soundtrack for my journey, illuminating the path as I strive to embrace my identity and aspirations.

Hello, my name is Vetesha Smith. I am a Tribal member from a rural community, known as Crownpoint, which is located on the New Mexico portion of the Navajo Reservation. I lived there with my mother who raised four kids as a single parent. I am a first-generation college student with continued goals of earning my bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona. Currently, I reside in Phoenix, Arizona, where I would like to further my education, and have only recently graduated with my associate degree in computer information systems. I will begin my Bachelor of Science program at the University of Arizona this coming Fall semester as a senior. As a non-traditional student, I have experienced the highs and lows of life as a self-reliant college student. It was not easy supporting and obtaining my own income while trying to pay for school, working two jobs, and going to school full-time. Financially I struggled, which caused me to work more and focus on school a lot less. Now that I have adjusted to both working and attending class full-time, I am more capable of finishing what I started and accomplishing my goal of graduating with my bachelor’s degree. Once earned, I plan on returning home where I can fully utilize my degree in support of empowering my tribal community. I have always been interested in working in the STEM industry. When I was younger, I initially declared a Major Field of Study in Mechanical Engineering because I wanted to join the Air Force. At the time, I did not have a full grasp of my career path and what I wanted to do professionally. After many years of disinterest in experiencing other fields, I know now my full focus lies with Computers and Technology. I believe having an education in STEM, especially now when Technology is ever-changing almost daily, would provide more opportunities. In many rural areas on the Navajo reservation, the telecommunication structure for cellphone towers and internet access capabilities is scarce. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced everyone to stay inside their homes, Tribal community leaders on the reservation acknowledged and understood how restricted the access to the internet was. For this reason, as I earn my degree in STEM, I plan on moving back to the reservation to help build a better infrastructure so that the youth and the overall community have sufficient access to cell phones, internet services, and general technological resources. Having technology and internet access would be highly beneficial back home. I look forward to contributing my education and knowledge to successfully make this happen.

Hello, my name is Vetesha Smith. I am a Tribal member from a rural community, known as Crownpoint, which is located on the New Mexico portion of the Navajo Reservation. I lived there with my mother who raised four kids as a single parent. I am a first-generation college student with continued goals of earning my bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona. Currently, I reside in Phoenix, Arizona, where I would like to further my education, and have only recently graduated with my associate degree in computer information systems. I will begin my Bachelor of Science program at the University of Arizona this coming Fall semester as a senior. As a non-traditional student, I have experienced the highs and lows of life as a self-reliant college student. It was not easy supporting and obtaining my own income while trying to pay for school, working two jobs, and going to school full-time. Financially I struggled, which caused me to work more and focus on school a lot less. Now that I have adjusted to both working and attending class full-time, I am more capable of finishing what I started and accomplishing my goal of graduating with my bachelor’s degree. Once earned, I plan on returning home where I can fully utilize my degree in support of empowering my tribal community. I have always been interested in working in the STEM industry. When I was younger, I initially declared a Major Field of Study in Mechanical Engineering because I wanted to join the Air Force. At the time, I did not have a full grasp of my career path and what I wanted to do professionally. After many years of disinterest in experiencing other fields, I know now my full focus lies with Computers and Technology. I believe having an education in STEM, especially now when Technology is ever-changing almost daily, would provide more opportunities. In many rural areas on the Navajo reservation, the telecommunication structure for cellphone towers and internet access capabilities is scarce. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced everyone to stay inside their homes, Tribal community leaders on the reservation acknowledged and understood how restricted the access to the internet was. For this reason, as I earn my degree in STEM, I plan on moving back to the reservation to help build a better infrastructure so that the youth and the overall community have sufficient access to cell phones, internet services, and general technological resources. Having technology and internet access would be highly beneficial back home. I look forward to contributing my education and knowledge to successfully make this happen.