Books have always been more than a pastime for me—they have been a guide and a mirror. As an education major and special education minor, the literature I read often focuses on educational philosophy, inclusive practices, and personal growth. Books such as The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Bruce Perry and The Power of Different by Gail Saltz have illuminated how neurological differences can be sources of strength when properly understood and supported. These readings have deepened my empathy and sharpened my focus on becoming an inclusive, adaptive educator—someone who not only teaches but advocates for every student’s right to learn in a way that works for them. I am a student-athlete at the University of Indianapolis, where I compete in both swimming and diving. The discipline, perseverance, and time management required in athletics has profoundly shaped my identity. But beyond the physical rigor, athletics has shown me how to be part of a team—how to support others through both victory and defeat. I carry this spirit into my work as a youth swim coach, where I emphasize not just technique, but self-confidence and sportsmanship, especially for young swimmers aged 5 to 10. Seeing a child light up after mastering a new stroke or cheering for their teammates has reaffirmed my belief in the power of mentorship and community support. One of my most meaningful contributions has been organizing relay swim meets and designing developmentally appropriate drills that engage young athletes while reinforcing teamwork. My journey has not been without its setbacks. A moment of failure came early in my collegiate career when I struggled to adjust academically while balancing the demands of my sport. I missed deadlines and found myself overwhelmed. At first, I was reluctant to ask for help—fearing that doing so would be an admission of weakness. But it was in seeking support from professors, advisors, and teammates that I learned one of the most important lessons of my life: vulnerability is not a flaw; it’s a foundation for growth. That experience taught me the importance of self-advocacy and laid the groundwork for how I approach my students—as individuals navigating their own challenges and strengths. Mentorship has been the cornerstone of my personal development. From coaches who believed in my potential to teachers who took the time to understand my learning style, I have felt the impact of having someone in my corner. Their guidance has inspired me to become that kind of person for others—whether I’m coaching a child struggling with a new swim technique or guiding a student through a tough academic concept. I am unique not simply because of my roles, but because of how I integrate them. As someone with ADHD, I bring creativity, high energy, and a flexible mindset to every space I enter. I understand what it feels like to be excluded, which fuels my desire to build bridges and create inclusive learning environments. My future goal is to become a special education teacher who uses movement-based learning, storytelling, and real-world connections to make content accessible to all students. I want to be the kind of teacher who not only covers curriculum but cultivates curiosity and confidence. Whether it's through adaptive physical education, integrated literacy lessons, or culturally responsive teaching, I plan to leave a lasting, positive impact on the children and communities I serve. In every book I’ve read, student I’ve coached, and challenge I’ve overcome, I’ve seen the same truth reflected back: change happens when we invest in each other. That is the kind of educator—and human being—I aspire to be.

From an early age, I have understood that challenges can be transformed into stepping stones toward personal growth. Living with a disability has meant continuously adapting to environments that are not always designed with my needs in mind. This experience has significantly influenced both my schooling and my evolving career aspirations. My journey—marked by determination, resilience, and an ongoing effort to overcome obstacles—has taught me that the pursuit of higher education is about more than personal advancement; it is also an opportunity to advocate for a more inclusive community. Throughout my academic career, I have encountered multiple barriers that have shaped my educational path. For instance, navigating traditional learning environments has often required me to adapt my study habits and utilize assistive technologies that are not always readily available or affordable. I have had to invest extra time in understanding lectures and managing course material, sometimes relying on tutors and adaptive resources to stay on track. These experiences have underscored the importance of accessible technology and individualized academic support, both of which are critical for students like me who face unique challenges. This persistent drive to succeed, despite the obstacles, has influenced my career aspirations as well. I have come to appreciate the necessity of building inclusive systems and promoting policies that accommodate diverse needs. My ambition is to enter a field where I can contribute to creating more accessible environments—whether through research in adaptive technologies or by advocating for educational reforms that ensure every student has the support they need. I believe that by sharing my story and leveraging the skills I have developed through these challenges, I can become an effective leader and a role model for others facing similar issues. Additional funds would be instrumental in supporting my educational journey and, by extension, my broader goal of advocating for inclusivity. Financial support would help me cover the costs associated with essential adaptive technologies, such as specialized software and hardware that enhance my learning. Moreover, it would allow me to access supplementary tutoring and therapy sessions which are vital not only for academic success but also for emotional well-being. These funds would also reduce the financial strain on my family, thereby enabling me to focus more intently on my studies and extracurricular leadership projects that promote accessibility on campus. Investing in my education means investing in the creation of a more inclusive academic community. With the additional financial support, I can continue to overcome the barriers imposed by my disability, while also using my experience to guide others who might be experiencing similar struggles. My goal is not just to succeed academically, but also to pave the way for future students who may feel that their disability limits their potential. I envision a future where every individual, regardless of their challenges, can access quality education and contribute meaningfully to society.

Giving back to one’s community is a cornerstone of personal growth and collective well-being. It is about recognizing that while our individual paths may be challenging, we can channel our experiences to uplift others who might be facing similar struggles. For me, this belief runs deep, especially in light of my personal experience of having a parent who has been incarcerated. This experience has not only shaped my educational journey but also instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility to give back. From a young age, I observed how my family’s challenges—exacerbated by the stigma and the practical hardships of having a parent separated by the justice system—impacted our daily life. The absence of a parental figure brought about emotional and financial strains that made each day a learning experience in resilience and perseverance. However, rather than allowing these obstacles to define my future, I chose to let them inform my purpose. I saw firsthand that education was a beacon of hope—a way to redefine my circumstances and to open doors for both myself and for others in my community. In the midst of these challenges, I quickly realized that giving back was both a personal healing process and a powerful avenue for change. By volunteering in community centers, tutoring younger students, and participating in mentorship programs, I found solace and purpose. These activities allowed me to transform my pain into advocacy. I began to understand that sharing my experiences, however painful, could inspire others to overcome their own obstacles. I learned that every act of giving—no matter how small—had the potential to create ripples of change that extend far beyond the individual. Academically, I have always prioritized education as a tool for transformation. My parent’s incarceration underscored the importance of seizing educational opportunities, not only as a means to secure a brighter future but also to challenge the systemic issues that affect families like mine. My educational journey has thus been marked by a determination to excel, fueled by the knowledge that success can redefine one’s narrative and provide the foundation for meaningful community impact. I have developed a strong work ethic, engaged in extracurricular activities that promote community service, and sought out leadership roles that allow me to advocate for change. Looking ahead, my goal is to further my education and ultimately engage in work that supports at-risk youth and marginalized families. I aspire to create or participate in programs that offer educational support, mentorship, and resources to those who might feel that life’s circumstances have already dealt them a disadvantage. In doing so, I intend to transform the challenges of my past into stepping stones for future success—not just for myself, but for the broader community that has shaped who I am. By giving back, I honor both my experiences and the collective spirit of resilience that defines my community. I am committed to using my education as a platform for advocacy and change, ensuring that no one feels alone in the face of adversity. In every act of service, I see an opportunity to create a more inclusive, supportive world for those who need it most.

My personal experience with mental health challenges has been a transformative journey—one that has profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Early on, I learned that grappling with mental health is not a sign of weakness but a journey toward greater self-awareness and inner strength. Confronting these challenges compelled me to reflect deeply on what truly matters and to redefine my understanding of success. One of the most significant ways my mental health journey has influenced my beliefs is by teaching me the importance of empathy and acceptance. I have come to believe that every individual carries unseen battles, and true compassion means recognizing and supporting one another through those struggles. This belief drives me to foster an environment where vulnerability is met with understanding rather than judgment. Over time, I have adopted a mindset that views adversity as an opportunity for growth—an outlook that transforms challenges into learning experiences. These beliefs have also reshaped the way I connect with others. Mental health challenges often create feelings of isolation, but my journey has led me to value authentic relationships and seek out communities where open dialogue about mental well-being is encouraged. I make a conscious effort to be present, listening actively and offering support to friends, family, and colleagues who may be experiencing similar hardships. This has strengthened my relationships, allowing me to create deeper bonds based on mutual understanding and trust. I’ve learned that sharing my own vulnerabilities can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of support and compassion. In terms of my career aspirations, my mental health journey has been equally influential. The challenges I’ve faced have motivated me to pursue work that not only advances my professional goals but also contributes to the well-being of others. Recognizing the critical role of mental health in overall success, I am driven to develop solutions or lead initiatives that promote mental wellness in the workplace and beyond. Whether through data-driven approaches in my current field of Business Analytics or future leadership roles acquired through an MBA, I aim to implement policies and strategies that acknowledge and address mental health challenges. In doing so, I hope to build environments where well-being is prioritized alongside productivity—ensuring that both individuals and organizations can thrive. Beyond my professional aspirations, the lessons learned from my mental health experiences have instilled resilience in me. I have learned how to manage stress, seek help when needed, and maintain a balanced life. These skills have become invaluable assets, not just in my academic and professional pursuits but also in all aspects of life. They remind me daily that overcoming obstacles—whether internal or external—is a continuous process, one that requires persistence, adaptation, and, sometimes, reaching out for support. In summary, my experience with mental health challenges has reshaped my core beliefs, enriched my relationships, and sharpened my career aspirations. It has taught me that empathy, self-care, and resilience are not only essential for personal growth—they are the keys to creating transformative change in every community I engage with. I am committed to using these lessons as a foundation to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of others.

Preparing for the SAT is a journey that demands both discipline and strategy. For me, the SAT is more than just a standardized test—it is a critical stepping stone toward achieving my academic and professional goals. I am preparing for the SAT with a focused, well-rounded approach that includes study plans, practice tests, and personal growth. My ultimate goal is to earn a score that will not only strengthen my college applications but also open doors to scholarships and academic opportunities that will help me pursue a meaningful future. My preparation began with a diagnostic test to determine my current strengths and weaknesses. This gave me a clear sense of where to focus my efforts. For the Math section, I’ve been reviewing key concepts such as algebra, data analysis, and problem-solving using Khan Academy and official College Board materials. I dedicate time each week to solving practice problems under timed conditions, which helps build accuracy and endurance. Additionally, I’m working on refining my test-taking techniques—like using estimation and eliminating incorrect answer choices quickly—to boost my performance. For the Reading and Writing sections, I read a variety of texts each day—from fiction and historical documents to scientific articles—to build comprehension and familiarity with different styles of writing. I use vocabulary lists to strengthen my understanding of high-frequency words and review grammar rules that commonly appear on the test. Weekly writing practice, such as summarizing articles and analyzing arguments, has also helped me build clarity and confidence in my communication. One of the most important elements of my preparation is taking full-length practice tests. These allow me to simulate test-day conditions, track my progress, and adjust my strategies based on performance. After each test, I carefully review the questions I missed, not just to get the correct answers, but to understand why I missed them. This process has helped me avoid repeating the same mistakes and has reinforced my learning over time. I also prioritize maintaining a healthy balance between studying and self-care. I make sure to get enough rest, eat well, and set aside time for physical activity and hobbies. Managing stress and maintaining focus is crucial when preparing for a test that carries significant weight in the college admissions process. My goals with the SAT are ambitious but realistic. I aim to score in the 1300–1400 range, which would position me competitively for a variety of universities and scholarship opportunities. Beyond that, I want my SAT preparation to build habits that will serve me in college and beyond—such as time management, self-discipline, and critical thinking. In conclusion, preparing for the SAT has taught me that success is about more than just natural intelligence—it’s about perseverance, planning, and personal growth. I am committed to giving my best effort, not only to earn a strong score, but to develop skills that will help me thrive in higher education and in life. With every hour of preparation, I move one step closer to my goals and to the future I envision for myself.

My name is William Pettifer, and I am a student-athlete majoring in Business Analytics with a minor in Special Education at the University of Indianapolis. From an early age, I’ve been drawn to leadership roles that require patience, empathy, and determination—qualities that have only grown stronger through my experiences in sports, coaching, and service. While my primary academic path lies in business, my heart has been deeply shaped by working with individuals who have special needs. This blend of interests reflects my belief that inclusive practices and data-informed decision-making can go hand-in-hand to make a genuine difference in people’s lives. My passion for supporting those with special needs developed through personal and volunteer experiences. As a swim coach, I’ve worked with children of various abilities, learning how to adapt instructions and build confidence through positive reinforcement and creative strategies. I’ve seen firsthand the joy a child experiences when they overcome fear, master a skill, or simply feel accepted. These moments, though small on the surface, are powerful reminders of the importance of individualized support and accessible opportunities for all. My decision to minor in Special Education stemmed from a desire to better understand the challenges and strengths of students with exceptionalities. In my coursework and volunteer placements, I’ve learned that success looks different for every child—and that educators must be prepared to meet students where they are. I’ve observed how flexible teaching methods, clear communication, and high expectations can transform not only learning outcomes but also self-esteem. I believe that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and I want to be a part of building inclusive systems that honor that belief. What I’ve gained through volunteering extends beyond technical skills. I’ve learned the value of presence—being fully engaged, even when progress is slow or difficult. I’ve learned to listen before I act, to ask questions instead of assuming answers, and to celebrate effort as much as achievement. These lessons have deepened my empathy and sharpened my sense of purpose. They’ve also shaped my long-term goal: to pursue a career that merges data analytics with advocacy, using insights from both fields to improve education, accessibility, and equity. Financially, I face real challenges. As a full-time student-athlete, my schedule limits the time I can dedicate to employment. While I coach in the summers and volunteer regularly during the academic year, I rely heavily on scholarships, financial aid, and my family’s support to stay enrolled and focused. Additional financial assistance would help me cover tuition, books, and living expenses—allowing me to continue pursuing both my academic and service goals without added strain. Ultimately, I see my journey as one rooted in connection. Whether through coaching a young swimmer, analyzing trends in school performance, or advocating for inclusive practices, I aim to be someone who brings people together and helps them succeed. I am deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of those with special needs, and I’m excited to continue growing into a leader who serves with both heart and skill

Trade careers such as plumbing, electrical work, and construction are the foundation of our communities. They keep our homes functioning, our schools running, and our neighborhoods growing. I have chosen to pursue a trade rather than a four-year college degree because I believe in the value of hands-on work, practical knowledge, and the opportunity to serve my community in a direct and meaningful way. I want to become a skilled tradesperson who not only earns a living through honest, essential work but also contributes to building stronger, safer communities through my craft. From an early age, I was always interested in how things worked—how wires brought light into a room, how water traveled through pipes, and how buildings came together from the ground up. I enjoyed using my hands, solving mechanical problems, and working alongside people. The more I explored these interests, the more I realized that the trades offered not just a job, but a lifelong career filled with purpose and stability. In today’s world, where skilled trades are in high demand, I saw an opportunity to make a living doing something I truly enjoy while filling a vital need. I have chosen to specialize in electrical work because I am fascinated by how energy powers everything we depend on, from homes and hospitals to schools and small businesses. As I continue to train and gain experience, I hope to one day become a licensed electrician and possibly start my own contracting business. My long-term goal is to offer affordable, reliable electrical services in underserved areas, where access to qualified professionals can be limited. I want to ensure that every family—regardless of income—can live in a home that is safe and up to code. That’s the kind of real-world impact that drives me. I also plan to mentor young people who may be uncertain about their future paths. I want to show them that trade careers are not a “second choice,” but a powerful, respectable option that offers financial independence, job security, and the ability to make a lasting difference. I believe that by teaching and encouraging others to enter the trades, I can help build a stronger workforce and a stronger community. That said, I recognize that there will be challenges along the way. One of the biggest hurdles in the trades is the physical demand. Long hours, harsh weather conditions, and the risks associated with construction sites are all part of the reality. But I am committed to maintaining a strong work ethic, prioritizing safety, and taking care of my physical health. Another challenge will be earning the trust and respect of clients and employers as I start my career. To overcome this, I will focus on being dependable, detail-oriented, and constantly improving my skills through continued education and on-the-job training. There may also be financial challenges as I begin my apprenticeship and invest in tools, certifications, and transportation. I plan to be resourceful, budget wisely, and seek out scholarship and support programs for trade students. I am not afraid to work hard or start from the bottom, because I know that what I build—literally and figuratively—will stand the test of time. In conclusion, I’ve chosen a trade career not only because it fits my interests and strengths, but because it gives me the chance to serve others and take pride in the work I do every single day. While I may not be following the traditional four-year college route, I am confident that the skills I develop in my trade will allow me to grow a fulfilling career, and improve the lives of those around me.

My name is William Pettifer, and I am currently majoring in Business Analytics at the University of Indianapolis. I am also a dedicated student-athlete, competing on the university’s swim and dive team. Balancing athletics and academics has helped shape who I am: a disciplined, driven individual who is committed to excellence both in and out of the pool. After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA). My goal is to combine the technical skills I’ve gained through business analytics with the broader leadership and strategic training that an MBA will provide. Ultimately, I want to become a leader who uses data and vision to guide organizations forward in smart, sustainable, and people-centered ways. I chose Business Analytics as my undergraduate major because I’ve always been fascinated by the power of data. Whether in sports, business, or education, data reveals patterns that can lead to stronger decisions. As an athlete, I regularly analyze metrics like race times, training loads, nutrition, and recovery—all of which contribute to performance. Over time, I became curious about how this kind of analysis could be applied in larger organizational contexts. Business Analytics offered the perfect intersection of statistics, technology, and problem-solving. I love that it is a field grounded in logic but aimed at helping people—whether customers, employees, or entire communities. However, while analytics gives us the tools to interpret the world, leadership gives us the power to act on those insights. That’s why I plan to earn an MBA. I want to grow not only as a data specialist, but as a well-rounded leader who can think critically, manage teams, communicate effectively, and navigate complex business environments. I am particularly interested in learning more about strategic management, organizational behavior, and entrepreneurship. With an MBA, I will be better equipped to take on leadership roles that blend data with decision-making. My career goals are ambitious yet rooted in service. I want to work in a role that allows me to lead with purpose—whether that’s in the sports industry, consulting, or corporate strategy. Eventually, I hope to start my own business or serve in an executive role where I can shape a company’s mission, operations, and culture. I am especially passionate about making workplaces more inclusive and innovative, using data to support equity and continuous improvement. I believe an MBA will help me develop the strategic mindset and business acumen needed to make a lasting impact. My experience as a swim coach has further shaped my leadership philosophy. Working with young athletes has taught me how to motivate individuals, set clear goals, and adapt strategies to meet diverse needs. These are all qualities I bring to my academic and professional life. Whether in the pool or the classroom, I strive to be someone others can count on, someone who leads by example and puts in the hard work. To succeed in the future, I plan to continue sharpening both my technical and interpersonal skills. I am developing strong proficiency in analytical tools such as SQL, Python, and Tableau, while also taking every opportunity to strengthen my public speaking, collaboration, and leadership. I’ve learned how to balance competing priorities, manage time effectively, and thrive under pressure—skills that will serve me well in business school and beyond. Ultimately, I am pursuing this path because I want to make a difference. I believe in the power of thoughtful leadership informed by meaningful data. That is the future I am working toward—and the reason I’m excited to take the next step toward earning my MBA.

Abortion is an abomination, argues the pro-life activist. It makes no sense for a woman to murder a human being not even born. The bible says, "Thou shalt not kill," and it does not discriminate between different stages of life. A fetus is the beginning of life. Therefore, abortion is murder, and is in direct defiance of God's will. Regardless of the mother's life situation (many women who abort are poor, young, or drug users), the value of a human life cannot be measured. Therefore, laws should be passed to outlaw abortion. After all, there are plenty of couples who are willing to adopt an unwanted child. Supporters of both pro-life and pro-choice refer to religion as support for their side of the argument. Pro-life supporters claim that abortion is murder, and is therefore against God's will. However, pro-choice defenders argue that abortion is not murder since the fetus is not yet a fully formed human. Therefore, abortion would not be a defiance against God. The unborn child has the right to life, and that abortion unlawfully takes away that right.

Nature is always an integral part of the community. Every day nature provides a community with oxygen and views. However, this is often ignored as the community is more focused on the 9-5 job or school. I appreciate all the leaves falling, beautiful spring flowers blooming and all that nature has to give. We recently met with a community leader who walked us through all the invasive plant, flower and tree species in Mariemont. Seeing all the honeysuckles suck the life out of nature inspired me to become a community leader. After 2 hours of work every day, my friends and I had removed a total of 60 honeysuckles from Mariemont. What I learned from this experience was that saving the environment wasn't easy. There were many moments of frustration in removingThey have to be removed without damaging the environment around them. We worked in very cold temperatures, Often it was tough to work in 20-degree Fahrenheit. Sawing away at a branch that looked like it wasn't going to break. However, after the branch snapped it felt like a sigh of relief for me and nature. It also taught me the value of teamwork. As the old saying goes "Teamwork makes the dream work" and I believe that this can be applied to nature. The more we worked as a team, the more invasive species were cut down. It also taught me the values of networking. I believe that from this experience I now have a friend in environmentalism. I will carry this with me through my entire life. Helping Nature doesn't just affect me, thanks to everyone's effort we have helped nature. As the honeysuckles were killing the plant life. As a result, we have made nature more colorful and inspired more people in the community with nature.

I believe everyone is unique and has special and unique gifts. My family environment has taught me the value of truly understanding our unique talents. My younger brother Joe has been diagnosed with autism. My relationship with Joe is more than the standard older brother and younger brother sibling relationship. I have learned to understand Joe, to understand his mind and his motivations, and to help him manage his emotions. I have internalized how to make him happy, how to reassure him, and how to bring out the best in him. In some respects, I have learned how to connect with him on a deeper level than I thought possible. This experience has given me a passion for special education and how the unique talents of individuals can be unleashed. As special needs, educators can develop personal relationships and understanding to empower students and help them succeed at school and in society. I hope these careers will help me build a strong foundation that I can use to decide which job I will pursue. I believe all are important as they are all integral parts of society. Each part is important and will ensure I pursue my passion and help others in every way. No matter what it is integral as humans to help others. Not sit and rob people of the chance of pursuing dreams. Humans are meant to explore and use their minds. Expand their views and understand how different people live. Or compete against each other and gain newfound respect and endurance.

The Mariemont Swim Team is where I concentrated my efforts on spirit and my giving nature. I put a strong value on relationships with my Swim Team and took my role as Swim Team Captain as very important. The 2022 Men’s Swim Team was a young team, many freshmen starting their progression from MJHS swim to MHS Swim. I spent 18 hours a week with the same group of great boys. I like to embody the positive characteristics I learned from the great swimmers from previous years. Swimming is a tough sport, mentally and physically. It is very important to have a good attitude and be a good teammate. As Swim Captain, I wanted to embody all positive aspects of leadership. At Swim Meets I would be a cheerleader, cheering on everyone in the team. Making sure they all felt special and one of the Team. In training, I would always tell people to keep going during the complicated sets and telling them that we are halfway done or almost. I love to thank people for all they do. Thank the boys for all the effort they put into their training and competing well at events. As well as keeping the boys focused on swimming. I also liked to motivate them with fun. We had pizza/movie nights together and we bonded together, laughing together. I am always respectful to other people. No matter what, it is important to stay connected with people as they can make your day. They can make you laugh and keep you going during the rough days. They can also give you feedback to help you keep motivated. I hope I do this to others, so they pass onto others.

When I started high school things began very easy. I was in average classes and I had normal grades. I have always seemed to obsevessly care about my grades and my schedule. Maybe it was because I have been competitive with my friends. After freshman year I had 2 options to either take ap european history or continue cp classes I chose ap european history. Sophomore year I got bad grades on my report card and began to fall into depression. It demonstrated my college stress as I felt depressed afterwards. It felt like I had made an irreversible mistake and there was nothing I could do to justify it. The importance of that event helped me understand that if I make a mistake and not fix it then I will face consequences. In that year the new freshman had come to school and they made me feel like I wasn't doing enough to advance my education. That year was the year I also took my first AP class due to a schedule change. I had to take it to continue my music major. The class was ap european history and as a result in the opening weeks I found it difficult. I remember on the first day of school crying afterwards because I have never experienced difficulties in class. With the ap exams and the overall fast pace of the class I found it very difficult at first. However as the year progressed I began to stay organized and became more efficient in my work as I found what I needed to do to palace an ap with my schedule. I also developed a passion for history and understanding its effects today. My work ethic has improved as a result. I learned to focus on what is due tomorrow instead of next week. The importance of history is understanding what worked and what didn't. As a result I have doubled my AP classes in US history and art history and next year I am planning to take AP government. Due to me not giving up when things got difficult gave me the confidence to continue. I still have doubts even to this day about if I am good enough am I in the right place. I always remember that if it wasn't for the scheduling change then I wouldn't be where I am today. This helped mold into the person I am today. I am passionate about history and learning how it affects me. Events such as the French Revolution or the introduction of corned beef in new zealand simple events have a big impact on everyone. I also use it as a what if scenario for instance what affect does tobacco have on the american soil or how does jamestown differ from Plymouth rock. Or how do progressive presidents compare with new deal presidents. I feel like this event help give me an option for a carrer path and I am looking forward to pursuing it in college. I plan to become a history teacher no matter how tough or difficult things get.

The Mariemont Swim Team is where I concentrated my efforts on spirit and my giving nature. I put a strong value on relationships with my Swim Team and took my role as Swim Team Captain as very important. The 2022 Men’s Swim Team was a young team, many freshmen starting their progression from MJHS swim to MHS Swim. I spent 18 hours a week with the same group of great boys. I like to embody the positive characteristics I learned from the great swimmers from previous years. Swimming is a tough sport, mentally and physically. It is very important to have a good attitude and be a good teammate. If you are a peer who is negative and annoying this means that swimmers will feel demotivated and unable to reach their goals. As Swim Captain, I wanted to embody all positive aspects of leadership. At Swim Meets I would be a cheerleader, cheering on everyone in the team. Making sure they all felt special and one of the Team. In training, I would always tell people to keep going during the complicated sets and telling them that we are halfway done or almost done. Thank the boys for all the effort they put into their training and competing well at events. As well as keeping the boys focused on swimming. I also liked to motivate them with fun. We had pizza/movie nights together and we bonded together, laughing together. Lots of happy memories for them and me. I am always respectful to other people. No matter what, it is important to stay connected with people as they can make your day. They can make you laugh and keep you going during the rough days.

My family environment has taught me the value of truly understanding our unique talents. My younger brother Joe has been diagnosed with autism. My relationship with Joe is more than the standard older brother and younger brother sibling relationship. I have learned to understand Joe, to understand his mind and his motivations, and to help him manage his emotions. I have internalized how to make him happy, how to reassure him, and how to bring out the best in him. In some respects, I have learned how to connect with him on a deeper level than I thought possible. This experience has given me a passion for special education and how the unique talents of individuals can be unleashed. As special needs, educators can develop personal relationships and understanding to empower students and help them succeed at school and in society. To be a special educator I feel it is important that I have a balance of science, business, and history so I can provide students with the academic skills needed for life. I hope these careers will help me build a strong foundation that I can use to decide which job I will pursue. I believe all are important as they are all integral parts of society. Each part is important and will ensure I pursue my passion and help others in every way. No matter what it is integral as humans to help others. Not sit and rob people of the chance of pursuing dreams. Humans are meant to explore and use their minds. Expand their views and understand how different people live. Or compete against each other and gain newfound respect and endurance. It might just change their view and ideas about the world we live in.

Nature is always an integral part of the community. Every day nature provides a community with oxygen and views. However, this is often ignored as the community is more focused on the 9-5 job or school. I appreciate all the leaves falling, beautiful spring flowers blooming and all that nature has to give We recently met with a community leader who walked us through all the invasive plant, flower and tree species in Mariemont. Seeing all the honeysuckles suck the life out of nature inspired me to become a community leader. There were many moments of frustration in removing invasive species. It was not as simple as simply removing the invasive species. They have to be removed without damaging the environment around them. The difference between saving the environment and killing was usually a fine line. We worked in very cold temperatures, Often it was tough to work in 20-degree Fahrenheit. Sawing away at a branch that looked like it wasn't going to break. However, after the branch snapped it felt like a sigh of relief for me and nature. It also taught me the value of teamwork. As the old saying goes "Teamwork makes the dream work" and I believe that this can be applied to nature. The more we worked as a team, the more invasive species were cut down. It also taught me the values of networking. I believe that from this experience I now have a friend in environmentalism. I will carry this with me through my entire life. Helping Nature doesn't just affect me, thanks to everyone's effort we have helped nature. As the honeysuckles were killing the plant life. As a result, we have made nature more colorful and inspired more people in the community with nature.

Swimming is more than just a sport to me, it is a way of life, and what I learn in the water helps me grow and develop as a person. First, swimming teaches the importance of my holistic health; when I eat and sleep well I glide through the water.  Immersed in the water, I am focused only on how I can efficiently power through the water. I am not looking at a screen or social media. The only sound I hear is that of the water and my breathing. I can not hear my coach and their instructions. The only voice I can hear is my self-talk, willing me on. In my life, swimming teaches me how to focus, how to block out life's distractions, and how to be in the moment. When competing, swimming teaches me to be self-motivated and independent, yet still part of a team. My swimming has taught me the importance of building a strong (training) plan, the importance of keeping to that plan and how small improvement across many areas leads to breakthrough results. Specifically, my swimming reminds me that to cut through the water, I need to be efficient and have a plan.

Swimming is more than just a sport to me, it is a way of life, and what I learn in the water helps me grow and develop as a person. First, swimming teaches the importance of my holistic health; when I eat and sleep well I glide through the water.  Immersed in the water, I am focused only on how I can efficiently power through the water. I am not looking at a screen or social media. The only sound I hear is that of the water and my breathing. I can not hear my coach and their instructions. The only voice I can hear is my self-talk, willing me on. In my life, swimming teaches me how to focus, how to block out life's distractions, and how to be in the moment. When competing, swimming teaches me to be self-motivated and independent, yet still part of a team. My swimming has taught me the importance of building a strong (training) plan, the importance of keeping to that plan and how small improvement across many areas leads to breakthrough results. Specifically, my swimming reminds me that to cut through the water, I need to be efficient and have a plan. In terms of personal growth, has swimming shaped me as a person? Swimming has taught me that in my life I need to get up early in the morning, the importance of practice to gain mastery,  and important to work with those around me and not use brute force to move things forward.

When I started high school things began very easy. I was in average classes and I had normal grades. Maybe it was because I have been competitive with my friends. After freshman year I had 2 options to either take ap European history or continue cp classes I chose ap European history. In sophomore year I got bad grades on my report card and began to fall into depression. The class was ap European history and as a result, in the opening weeks, I found it difficult. I remember the first day of school and crying afterward because I have never experienced difficulties in class. With the ap exams and the overall fast pace of the class, I found it very difficult at first. However, as the year progressed I began to stay organized and became more efficient in my work as I found what I needed to do to palace an ap with my schedule. I also developed a passion for history and understanding its effects today. My work ethic has improved as a result. I learned to focus on what is due tomorrow instead of next week. Not giving up when things got difficult gave me the confidence to continue. I still have doubts even to this day about if I am good enough or am I in the right place. I always remember that if it wasn't for the scheduling change then I wouldn't be where I am today. This helped mold me into the person I am today.

I plan to achieve success through saving the enviroment. We recently met with a community leader who walked us through all the invasive plant, flower and tree species in Mariemont. Seeing all the honeysuckles suck the life out of nature inspired me to become a community leader. From this, my friends and I worked to develop a community invasive species action plan. Every other Sunday, the Environmental club would head down and work with environmentalists to get rid of invasive species in Mariemont. After 2 hours of work every day, my friends and I had removed a total of 60 honeysuckles from Mariemont..There were many moments of frustration in removing invasive species. It was not as simple as simply removing the invasive species. The difference between saving the environment and killing was usually a fine line. We worked in very cold temperatures, Often it was tough to work in 20-degree Fahrenheit. Sawing away at a branch that looked like it wasn't going to break. However, after the branch snapped it felt like a sigh of relief for me and nature. It also taught me the value of teamwork. I believe that from this experience I now have a friend in environmentalism. I will carry this with me through my entire life. Helping Nature doesn't just affect me, thanks to everyone's effort we have helped nature. As the honeysuckles were killing the plant life. As a result, we have made nature more colorful and inspired more people in the community with nature.

Nature is always an integral part of the community. Every day nature provides a community with oxygen and views. However, this is often ignored as the community is more focused on the 9-5 job or school. I appreciate all the leaves falling, beautiful spring flowers blooming and all that nature has to give We recently met with a community leader who walked us through all the invasive plant, flower and tree species in Mariemont. Seeing all the honeysuckles suck the life out of nature inspired me to become a community leader. From this, my friends and I worked to develop a community invasive species action plan. Every other Sunday, the Environmental club would head down and work with environmentalists to get rid of invasive species in Mariemont. After 2 hours of work every day, my friends and I had removed a total of 60 honeysuckles from Mariemont. What I learned from this experience was that saving the environment wasn't easy. There were many moments of frustration in removing invasive species. It was not as simple as simply removing the invasive species. They have to be removed without damaging the environment around them. The difference between saving the environment and killing was usually a fine line. We worked in very cold temperatures, Often it was tough to work in 20-degree Fahrenheit. Sawing away at a branch that looked like it wasn't going to break. However, after the branch snapped it felt like a sigh of relief for me and nature. It also taught me the value of teamwork. As the old saying goes "Teamwork makes the dream work" and I believe that this can be applied to nature. The more we worked as a team, the more invasive species were cut down. It also taught me the values of networking. I believe that from this experience I now have a friend in environmentalism. I will carry this with me through my entire life. Helping Nature doesn't just affect me, thanks to everyone's effort we have helped nature. As the honeysuckles were killing the plant life. As a result, we have made nature more colorful and inspired more people in the community with nature.

A book that made an impact in life was Frankenstein written by Mary Shelley. his novel emphasizes ideas about how creator vs created. The Scientist vs the monster he created. Before reading, I expected a simple tale regarding a monster and a scientist. One of the main things captivating about the book is the story of Victor. Victor is the main protagonist who is a scientist from Geneva. Whose mom died Victor's mom inspired Victor to attempt to bring back the dead. It is interesting to explore the various areas of Victor's character. He ends up making Frankenstein and I like analyzing his character. Victor created the monster and realizes the hideous monster he had created abandoning his work. Readers often think the monster would break free and would destroy the creator and roam free. However, instead, it is the creator that leaves his work. When reading Frankenstein, many questions emerged regarding what would have changed if Victor had stayed with his creation. It is interesting to look at this from the present. Learning about how things were made in the book would be looked at from today's perspective. How scientific advance could be the end of us. It is cool to think about this information when considering the advances of technology made in years past. AI and self-driving cars. They all seem to be good but what if things go wrong.

Swimming is more than just a sport to me, it is a way of life, and what I learn in the water helps me grow and develop as a person. Immersed in the water, I am focused only on how I can efficiently power through the water. I am not looking at a screen or social media. The only sound I hear is that of the water and my breathing. I can not hear my coach and their instructions. The only voice I can hear is my self-talk, willing me on. In my life, swimming teaches me how to focus, how to block out life's distractions, and how to be in the moment. When competing, swimming teaches me to be self-motivated and independent, yet still part of a team. My swimming has taught me the importance of building a strong (training) plan, the importance of keeping to that plan and how small improvement across many areas leads to breakthrough results. Moreover, to me, swimming is a blend of art and science and this is a metaphor for my life. When I swim, raw, untamed energy (the science) will only get me so far. I have learned that I need to apply that power in a way that makes me concurrent with my environment and water becomes my “friend” (the art). So, swimming has taught me to be at one with my surroundings. In terms of personal growth, has swimming shaped me as a person? Swimming has taught me that in my life I need to get up early in the morning, the importance of practice to gain mastery,  and important to work with those around me and not use brute force to move things forward.

Nature is an integral part of the community. Every day nature provides a community with oxygen and views. We recently met with a community leader who walked us through all the invasive plant, flower and tree species in Mariemont. Seeing all the honeysuckles suck the life out of nature inspired me to become a community leader. From this, my friends and I worked to develop a community invasive species action plan. Every other Sunday, the Environmental club would head down and work with environmentalists to get rid of invasive species in Mariemont. After 2 hours of work every day, my friends and I had removed a total of 60 honeysuckles from Mariemont.There were many moments of frustration in removing invasive species. It was not as simple as simply removing the invasive species. They have to be removed without damaging the environment around them. The difference between saving the environment and killing was usually a fine line. We worked in very cold temperatures, often it was tough to work in 20-degree Fahrenheit. Sawing away at a branch that looked like it wasn't going to break. However, after the branch snapped it felt like a sigh of relief for me and nature. It also taught me the value of teamwork. As the old saying goes "Teamwork makes the dream work" and I believe that this can be applied to nature. The more we worked as a team, the more invasive species were cut down. It also taught me the values of networking. I believe that from this experience I now have a friend in environmentalism. I will carry this with me through my entire life. As the honeysuckles were killing the plant life. As a result, we have made nature more colorful and inspired more people in the community with nature.

I believe everyone is unique and has special and unique gifts. My family environment has taught me the value of truly understanding our unique talents. My younger brother Joe has been diagnosed with autism. My relationship with Joe is more than the standard older brother and younger brother sibling relationship. I have learned to understand Joe, to understand his mind and his motivations, and to help him manage his emotions. I have internalized how to make him happy, how to reassure him, and how to bring out the best in him. In some respects, I have learned how to connect with him on a deeper level than I thought possible. This experience has given me a passion for special education and how the unique talents of individuals can be unleashed. As special needs, educators can develop personal relationships and understanding to empower students and help them succeed at school and in society. To be a special educator I feel it is important that I have a balance of science, business, and history so I can provide students with the academic skills needed for life. I feel that history is something that excites me. I feel that history can teach people life lessons from other examples. I love how there are paradoxes and what happens today and what happens in history. History is an important lesson in kids' lives. When it comes to teaching kids I strive to ensure that kids can take the lessons they learn from history and expand it wherever they go. I hope to not make my class just about getting an A. I hope that my class is engaging enough so that students feel like they are getting experiences they can apply to their next life decision and not just for the next test. I feel that business is important for a changing economy. I understand no business problem can be solved by an individual. Business Solutions, creativity, and innovation occur when people come together and solve problems. My skill is bringing people together. I believe there is no substitute for hard work. My work is characterized by tenacity and a commitment to developing solutions. I have a desire to win. Business, like sport, is a competition. Failure to innovate on products on services means you go backward. I hope these careers will help me build a strong foundation that I can use to decide which job I will pursue. I believe all are important as they are all integral parts of society. Each part is important and will ensure I pursue my passion and help others in every way. No matter what it is integral as humans to help others. Not sit and rob people of the chance of pursuing dreams. Humans are meant to explore and use their minds. Expand their views and understand how different people live. Or compete against each other and gain newfound respect and endurance. It might just change their view and ideas about the world we live in.

My talent is swimming. For me swimming is more than just a sport to me, it is a way of life, and what I learn in the water helps me grow and develop as a person. First, swimming teaches the importance of my holistic health; when I eat and sleep well I glide through the water. Immersed in the water, I am focused only on how I can efficiently power through the water. I am not looking at a screen or social media. The only sound I hear is that of the water and my breathing. I can not hear my coach and their instructions. The only voice I can hear is my self-talk, willing me on. In my life, swimming teaches me how to focus, how to block out life's distractions, and how to be in the moment. When competing, swimming teaches me to be self-motivated and independent, yet still part of a team. My swimming has taught me the importance of building a strong (training) plan, the importance of keeping to that plan and how small improvement across many areas leads to breakthrough results. Specifically, my swimming reminds me that to cut through the water, I need to be efficient and have a plan. In terms of personal growth, has swimming shaped me as a person? Swimming has taught me that in my life I need to get up early in the morning, the importance of practice to gain mastery, and important to work with those around me and not use brute force to move things forward. When people see me standing behind the block they don’t see the things that have happened to me. They see the result and I feel the success.

I believe everyone is unique and has special and unique gifts. My family environment has taught me the value of truly understanding our unique talents. My younger brother Joe has been diagnosed with autism. My relationship with Joe is more than the standard older brother and younger brother sibling relationship. I have learned to understand Joe, to understand his mind and his motivations, and to help him manage his emotions. I have internalized how to make him happy, how to reassure him, and how to bring out the best in him. In some respects, I have learned how to connect with him on a deeper level than I thought possible. This experience has given me a passion for special education and how the unique talents of individuals can be unleashed. As special needs, educators can develop personal relationships and understanding to empower students and help them succeed at school and in society.

Swimming has inspired me. Swimming is more than just a sport to me, it is a way of life, and what I learn in the water helps me grow and develop as a person. First, swimming teaches the importance of my holistic health; when I eat and sleep well I glide through the water. Immersed in the water, I am focused only on how I can efficiently power through the water. I am not looking at a screen or social media. The only sound I hear is that of the water and my breathing. I can not hear my coach and their instructions. The only voice I can hear is my self-talk, willing me on. In my life, swimming teaches me how to focus, how to block out life's distractions, and how to be in the moment. When competing, swimming teaches me to be self-motivated and independent, yet still part of a team. Swimming helps me grow as a person and distress. My swimming has taught me the importance of building a strong (training) plan, the importance of keeping to that plan and how small improvement across many areas leads to breakthrough results. Specifically, my swimming reminds me that to cut through the water, I need to be efficient and have a plan. Moreover, to me, swimming is a blend of art and science and this is a metaphor for my life. When I swim, raw, untamed energy (the science) will only get me so far. I have learned that I need to apply that power in a way that makes me concurrent with my environment and water becomes my “friend” (the art). So, swimming has taught me to be at one with my surroundings. Swimming has taught me that no matter what is going on it will always relax me no matter how old I am. I feel that business is important for a changing economy. I understand no business problem can be solved by an individual. Business Solutions, creativity, and innovation occur when people come together and solve problems. My skill is bringing people together. I believe there is no substitute for hard work. My work is characterized by tenacity and a commitment to developing solutions. I have a desire to win. Business, like sport, is a competition. Failure to innovate on products on services means you go backward. I hope these careers will help me build a strong foundation that I can use to decide which job I will pursue. I believe all are important as they are all integral parts of society. Each part is important and will ensure I pursue my passion and help others in every way. No matter what it is integral as humans to help others. Not sit and rob people of the chance of pursuing dreams. Humans are meant to explore and use their minds. Expand their views and understand how different people live. Or compete against each other and gain newfound respect and endurance. It might just change their view and ideas about the world we live in.

Nature is always an integral part of the community. Every day nature provides a community with oxygen and views. However, this is often ignored as the community is more focused on the 9-5 job or school. I appreciate all the leaves falling, beautiful spring flowers blooming and all that nature has to give We recently met with a community leader who walked us through all the invasive plant, flower and tree species in Mariemont. Seeing all the honeysuckles suck the life out of nature inspired me to become a community leader. From this, my friends and I worked to develop a community invasive species action plan. Every other Sunday, the Environmental club would head down and work with environmentalists to get rid of invasive species in Mariemont. After 2 hours of work every day, my friends and I had removed a total of 60 honeysuckles from Mariemont. What I learned from this experience was that saving the environment wasn't easy. There were many moments of frustration in removing invasive species. It was not as simple as simply removing the invasive species. They have to be removed without damaging the environment around them. The difference between saving the environment and killing was usually a fine line. We worked in very cold temperatures, Often it was tough to work in 20-degree Fahrenheit. Sawing away at a branch that looked like it wasn't going to break. However, after the branch snapped it felt like a sigh of relief for me and nature. It also taught me the value of teamwork. As the old saying goes "Teamwork makes the dream work" and I believe that this can be applied to nature. The more we worked as a team, the more invasive species were cut down. It also taught me the values of networking. I believe that from this experience I now have a friend in environmentalism. I will carry this with me through my entire life. Helping nature doesn't just affect me, thanks to everyone's effort we have helped nature. As the honeysuckles were killing the plant life. As a result, we have made nature more colorful and inspired more people in the community with nature.

I want to help people. I believe everyone is unique and has special and unique gifts. My family environment has taught me the value of truly understanding our unique talents. My younger brother Joe has been diagnosed with autism. My relationship with Joe is more than the standard older brother and younger brother sibling relationship. I have learned to understand Joe, to understand his mind and his motivations, and to help him manage his emotions. I have internalized how to make him happy, how to reassure him, and how to bring out the best in him. In some respects, I have learned how to connect with him on a deeper level than I thought possible. This experience has given me a passion for special education and how the unique talents of individuals can be unleashed. As special needs, educators can develop personal relationships and understanding to empower students and help them succeed at school and in society. To be a special educator I feel it is important that I have a balance of science, business, and history so I can provide students with the academic skills needed for life. I feel that history is something that excites me. I feel that history can teach people life lessons from other examples. I love how there are paradoxes and what happens today and what happens in history. History is an important lesson in kids' lives. When it comes to teaching kids I strive to ensure that kids can take the lessons they learn from history and expand it wherever they go. I hope to not make my class just about getting an A. I hope that my class is engaging enough so that students feel like they are getting experiences they can apply to their next life decision and not just for the next test. I feel that business is important for a changing economy. I understand no business problem can be solved by an individual. Business Solutions, creativity, and innovation occur when people come together and solve problems. My skill is bringing people together. I believe there is no substitute for hard work. My work is characterized by tenacity and a commitment to developing solutions. I have a desire to win. Business, like sport, is a competition. Failure to innovate on products on services means you go backward. I hope these careers will help me build a strong foundation that I can use to decide which job I will pursue. I believe all are important as they are all integral parts of society. Each part is important and will ensure I pursue my passion and help others in every way. No matter what it is integral as humans to help others. Not sit and rob people of the chance of pursuing dreams. Humans are meant to explore and use their minds. Expand their views and understand how different people live. Or compete against each other and gain newfound respect and endurance. It might just change their view and ideas about the world we live in.

I believe everyone is unique and has special and unique gifts. My family environment has taught me the value of truly understanding our unique talents. My younger brother Joe has been diagnosed with autism. My relationship with Joe is more than the standard older brother and younger brother sibling relationship. I have learned to understand Joe, to understand his mind and his motivations, and to help him manage his emotions. I have internalized how to make him happy, how to reassure him, and how to bring out the best in him. In some respects, I have learned how to connect with him on a deeper level than I thought possible. This experience has given me a passion for special education and how the unique talents of individuals can be unleashed. As special needs, educators can develop personal relationships and understanding to empower students and help them succeed at school and in society. To be a special educator I feel it is important that I have a balance of science, business, and history so I can provide students with the academic skills needed for life. I also feel that for teaching I would teach history. I feel that history is something that excites me. I feel that history can teach people life lessons from other examples. I love how there are paradoxes and what happens today and what happens in history. History is an important lesson in kids' lives. When it comes to teaching kids I strive to ensure that kids can take the lessons they learn from history and expand it wherever they go. I hope to not make my class just about getting an A. I hope that my class is engaging enough so that students feel like they are getting experiences they can apply to their next life decision and not just for the next test. I believe all are important in my classroom as they are all integral parts of society. Each part is important and will ensure I pursue my passion and help others in every way. No matter what it is integral as humans to help others. Not sit and rob people of the chance of pursuing dreams. Humans are meant to explore and use their minds. Expand their views and understand how different people live. Or compete against each other and gain newfound respect and endurance. It might just change their view and ideas about the world we live in.

I believe everyone is unique and has special and unique gifts. My family environment has taught me the value of truly understanding our unique talents. My younger brother Joe has been diagnosed with autism. My relationship with Joe is more than the standard older brother and younger brother sibling relationship. I have learned to understand Joe, to understand his mind and his motivations, and to help him manage his emotions. I have internalized how to make him happy, how to reassure him, and how to bring out the best in him. In some respects, I have learned how to connect with him on a deeper level than I thought possible. This experience has given me a passion for special education and how the unique talents of individuals can be unleashed. As special needs, educators can develop personal relationships and understanding to empower students and help them succeed at school and in society. To be a special educator I feel it is important that I have a balance of science, business, and history so I can provide students with the academic skills needed for life.

The Mariemont Swim Team is where I concentrated my efforts on spirit and my giving nature. I put a strong value on relationships with my Swim Team and took my role as Swim Team Captain as very important. The 2022 Men’s Swim Team was a young team, many freshmen starting their progression from MJHS swim to MHS Swim. I spent 18 hours a week with the same group of great boys. I like to embody the positive characteristics I learned from the great swimmers from previous years. Swimming is a tough sport, mentally and physically. It is very important to have a good attitude and be a good teammate. If you are a peer who is negative and annoying this means that swimmers will feel demotivated and unable to reach their goals. As Swim Captain, I wanted to embody all positive aspects of leadership. At Swim Meets I would be a cheerleader, cheering on everyone in the team. Making sure they all felt special and one of the Team. In training, I would always tell people to keep going during the complicated sets and telling them that we are halfway done or almost done. I believe everyone is unique and has special and unique gifts. My family environment has taught me the value of truly understanding our unique talents. My younger brother Joe has been diagnosed with autism. My relationship with Joe is more than the standard older brother and younger brother sibling relationship. I have learned to understand Joe, to understand his mind and his motivations, and to help him manage his emotions. I have internalized how to make him happy, how to reassure him, and how to bring out the best in him. In some respects, I have learned how to connect with him on a deeper level than I thought possible. This experience has given me a passion for special education and how the unique talents of individuals can be unleashed. As special needs, educators can develop personal relationships and understanding to empower students and help them succeed at school and in society. To be a special educator I feel it is important that I have a balance of science, business, and history so I can provide students with the academic skills needed for life. I also feel that for teaching I would teach history. I feel that history is something that excites me. I feel that history can teach people life lessons from other examples. I love how there are paradoxes and what happens today and what happens in history. History is an important lesson in kids' lives. When it comes to teaching kids I strive to ensure that kids can take the lessons they learn from history and expand it wherever they go. I hope to not make my class just about getting an A. I hope that my class is engaging enough so that students feel like they are getting experiences they can apply to their next life decision and not just for the next test. I believe all are important in my classroom as they are all integral parts of society. Each part is important and will ensure I pursue my passion and help others in every way. No matter what it is integral as humans to help others. Not sit and rob people of the chance of pursuing dreams. Humans are meant to explore and use their minds. Expand their views and understand how different people live. Or compete against each other and gain newfound respect and endurance. It might just change their view and ideas about the world we live in.

I would like to continue swimming. Swimming is more than just a sport to me, it is a way of life, and what I learn in the water helps me grow and develop as a person. First, swimming teaches the importance of my holistic health; when I eat and sleep well I glide through the water. Immersed in the water, I am focused only on how I can efficiently power through the water. I am not looking at a screen or social media. The only sound I hear is that of the water and my breathing. I can not hear my coach and their instructions. The only voice I can hear is my self-talk, willing me on. In my life, swimming teaches me how to focus, how to block out life's distractions, and how to be in the moment. When competing, swimming teaches me to be self-motivated and independent. My swimming has taught me the importance of building a strong (training) plan, the importance of keeping to that plan and how small improvement across many areas leads to breakthrough results. Specifically, my swimming reminds me that to cut through the water, I need to be efficient and have a plan. Moreover, to me, swimming is a blend of art and science and this is a metaphor for my life. I have learned that I need to apply that power in a way that makes me concurrent with my environment and water becomes my “friend” (the art). In terms of personal growth, has swimming shaped me as a person? Swimming has taught me that in my life I need to get up early in the morning, the importance of practice to gain mastery, and important to work with those around me and not use brute force to move things forward.