Chappell Roan’s music has really resonated with me, not just because of her amazing voice and emotional lyrics, but because of the way she lives her life. What I admire most about her is her dedication to kindness and her ability to set healthy boundaries. In an industry where there’s so much pressure to keep going no matter what, Chappell shows that it’s okay to take a step back and focus on mental health. I watched the SNL Christmas Special that introduced the audience to her parents and showed her humble beginnings. She’s shown that success doesn’t mean sacrificing personal well-being, and that’s something I really respect. Her music, filled with raw emotion and vulnerability, has been a soundtrack to my own experiences. It’s helped me realize the importance of being kind to myself and others. Chappell’s approach to success, where she stays true to her values and sets clear boundaries, reminds me that it’s possible to follow your dreams while still protecting your peace. I support her career because she’s changing the game and showing that it’s okay to prioritize yourself. I hope her influence keeps encouraging others to stay authentic and make their mental health a priority, too.

Comb Bee Meat Cherry Phone Curl Honey Combination Blow Cut Gym Straighten Fly Chestnut Sweaty Chocolate In this Connections puzzle, the categories are: Words found in Hairstyling, Types of Lockers, Things that Buzz, and Foods that Describe Hair Colors. Each category groups words that share a common connection based on their meanings or associations. Hairstyling words are related to haircare and styling techniques. Types of Lockers include terms that would typically be followed by the word "locker". Things that Buzz refers to things that are associated with a buzzing noise, including a buzz cut. Finally, Foods that Describe Hair Colors groups foods that are commonly used as metaphors for hair shades. The puzzle contains words that seem related- such as "bee" and "honey"- but are not in fact in the same category in order to provide a challenging experience for the user. I love the Connections puzzle because it helps create real human connection; my mother and I send the results of our Connections puzzles to each other daily. Words found in Hairstyling: Comb Curl Blow Straighten Types of Lockers: Meat Combination Gym Sweaty Things that Buzz: Bee Phone Cut Fly Foods that describe Hair Colors: Honey Cherry Chestnut Chocolate

Growing up in a conservative Christian community, mental health was often misunderstood, and I struggled in silence with anxiety, depression, anorexia, and undiagnosed ADHD. The pressures to be perfect and the lack of education surrounding mental health only intensified these struggles. I often felt like I was falling behind, unable to keep up with expectations, both academically and emotionally. The ADHD went undiagnosed until this past year, and I found myself unable to concentrate, stay organized, or process information in the way others did. This made it incredibly difficult to accommodate myself in an environment that didn’t recognize the need for support. Despite these challenges, therapy and learning new coping mechanisms helped me navigate my obstacles. I learned to embrace my unique brain and develop strategies that worked for me. I now see that my struggle with ADHD is not a weakness but part of my journey toward resilience. Therapy taught me the importance of self-compassion and the value of seeking help when needed. It also helped me build the determination to overcome learning barriers that once felt insurmountable. These experiences have played a pivotal role in shaping my decision to pursue biochemistry, a field where I can apply my passion for science in a meaningful way. In 2025, I experienced the profound loss of my aunt to colon cancer, which sparked my desire to study cancer research. Watching her battle a disease that still lacks effective treatments left me feeling helpless, but it also made me realize that my scientific curiosity could be channeled into something much more impactful—research that could potentially save lives. Her death ignited a passion for understanding the biochemical processes behind cancer, and I am determined to contribute to the research that could lead to breakthroughs in early detection, treatment, and ultimately a cure for cancer. This journey hasn’t been easy, and I’ve had to overcome both mental health struggles and academic barriers, but these challenges have only strengthened my resolve. My determination to contribute to cancer research is driven by my personal experiences with loss, mental health, and the desire to make a difference. Through therapy, coping mechanisms, and a commitment to my studies, I am focused on overcoming obstacles and dedicating myself to biochemistry. This scholarship would provide the financial support I need to pursue my degree and research opportunities, allowing me to take the next step in turning my passion into action and contributing to the fight against cancer.

Growing up in a very conservative Christian community, mental health was often boiled down to disbelief or weakness, and there was a strong emphasis on perfection. This environment left me struggling silently with anxiety, depression, and anorexia, feeling as though I couldn’t share my struggles for fear of being misunderstood or judged. The pressure to always appear “perfect” coupled with a lack of education about mental health challenges made me internalize these feelings, which only worsened over time. As I faced these challenges, I began to realize the importance of self-compassion and understanding, both for myself and others. I came to understand that mental health is just as important as physical health and that it’s okay to seek help and be vulnerable. Over time, this perspective has allowed me to build more authentic relationships, where open communication and mutual support are prioritized. I now value empathy and understanding in my personal connections, knowing that everyone is fighting battles that others may not see. These experiences have also shaped my decision to pursue a degree in biochemistry. This year, I encountered grief for the first time when my aunt passed away from cancer. Watching her battle the disease and feeling helpless in the face of its progression deeply affected me. Her death left me grappling not only with the loss itself but also with the overwhelming feelings of helplessness and sadness that came with it. I struggled to find ways to truly grieve, as the finality of her death was hard to accept. There were moments when I felt paralyzed, unsure of how to process the depth of my emotions. The absence of her presence in my life left a void, and I had to learn how to cope with the reality of losing someone so close. She left behind four beautiful children that I feel a tremendous responsibility for, and that pressure has been overwhelming. I have found peace through counseling, meditation, and journaling. I have begun advocating for others around me to care for their own mental health because I finally realized that treatment works. Her death inspired me to pursue biochemistry and cancer research, as I realized the importance of understanding the biochemical processes that contribute to cancer. I want to be part of the research that leads to better treatments, earlier detection, and ultimately, more effective cures for cancer. I believe that through scientific research, we can make significant strides in helping others avoid the pain and loss that my family and I have experienced. This desire to make a difference in the field of cancer research is what fuels my determination to pursue this degree. This scholarship will help me deepen my understanding of biochemistry and enable me to contribute to the fight against cancer. By honoring my aunt’s memory through my studies and research, I hope to contribute to improving the lives of others affected by this devastating disease. Her passing ignited a passion in me to dedicate my career to science and discovery, and with the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to turning that passion into action.

I’ve been a fan of Sabrina Carpenter since her first album came out, and it’s been so exciting to see her grow in popularity over the years. As a hairstylist, I hear her music all the time in the salon, and it’s always a vibe—both for me and my clients. What I really admire about Sabrina is how she’s managed to stay true to herself despite all the pressures of fame. Her response to people who over-sexualize her, especially as she’s grown into adulthood, has been so empowering. She handles it with such grace and confidence, and it makes me respect her even more. Watching her evolve from a young actress to a successful singer and artist is so inspiring. Many people underestimate her because of her roles with Disney. It reminds me that you can stay authentic to who you are, no matter how the world tries to box you in. Seeing her rise to where she is now has motivated me to pursue my own passions with the same determination and self-assurance. I'm happy to see her getting the recognition she deserves, and her success encourages me to stay focused and true to myself in my own career.

For me, success means making a meaningful impact in the world by using my skills and education to improve the lives of others. Specifically, success looks like contributing to cancer research that leads to more effective treatments, early detection, and ultimately, a cure for cancer. Growing up, I was fascinated by chemistry, especially how compounds in cosmetics, skincare, and hair treatments interacted. This initial interest led me to pursue cosmetology, but the recent loss of my aunt to colon cancer reshaped my vision. Witnessing her struggle with an illness that still lacks effective treatments ignited my determination to contribute to cancer research. I realized that the chemistry I loved could be used for something far more meaningful—saving lives. Success, for me, is not simply about personal achievement or recognition. It’s not about wealth, popularity, or the conventional markers of success that society often highlights. True success, in my eyes, is about making a lasting, positive impact on the world and the people around me. It’s about channeling my passions into something that has the power to change lives for the better. I want to use my education in biochemistry to address the gaps in cancer treatment and prevention, particularly for cancers that affect women, such as breast and cervical cancer. These cancers are often underresearched, and I am committed to dedicating my career to advancing the scientific understanding of these diseases. Moreover, I want to advocate for more funding for critical research that could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Success to me means contributing to a future where the pain and loss caused by cancer are minimized and where effective treatments are available to all. Through my work, I hope to make significant contributions to cancer research that lead to better treatment options and early detection methods, ultimately helping patients and families like mine who have been deeply affected by cancer. The loss of my aunt has not only strengthened my resolve but also given me a sense of purpose in pursuing a career in healthcare. Watching her go through a disease that claimed her life, despite the advances in medicine, made me acutely aware of how much more needs to be done. It showed me that the research landscape is still too narrow, and much remains to be discovered, especially in the fight against cancers that disproportionately affect women. This scholarship represents a crucial opportunity for me to continue my education at Arizona State University, enabling me to fully focus on my studies and pursue research opportunities that align with my career goals. It will provide the financial support necessary to allow me to dedicate myself to my academic and professional aspirations without the burden of juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet. I want to be fully immersed in my studies and research, and this scholarship would be instrumental in making that possible. In the future, I hope to work with research institutions like Upstate Medical Center, where my aunt received treatment, to contribute to the ongoing fight against cancer. I want to be part of a community of researchers and scientists who are striving for breakthroughs and innovations that will bring us closer to a world where cancer is no longer a life sentence. Success, for me, is about making the world a better place—by improving cancer treatment, advancing research, and helping to create a future where fewer families have to endure the pain of losing loved ones to this devastating disease. This scholarship is the stepping stone that will bring me one step closer to that goal..

My name is Grace, and I’ve always been captivated by chemistry, especially its applications in the beauty industry. I was fascinated by how different compounds interacted to create cosmetics, skincare, and hair treatments. Although my passion for chemistry was clear, financial constraints made it difficult to pursue my dream of studying biochemistry. Instead, I chose cosmetology as a practical alternative, using it to channel my love for chemistry while still being able to support myself. I believed I had found a balance between science and creativity, but everything changed when my aunt was diagnosed with colon cancer. Watching my aunt battle cancer was a life-altering experience. Cancer didn’t just affect her—it affected everyone who loved her. I witnessed firsthand the limitations of the treatments available and the overwhelming need for more advanced research. When she passed away, I felt a deep sense of helplessness. Yet, through this loss, I found a new sense of purpose. I realized that my curiosity about chemistry could be applied to something more meaningful: cancer research. The same passion I had for formulating beauty products could now be used to improve treatments and ultimately save lives. Her passing ignited a drive in me to return to school, not just to further my education, but to contribute to the fight against cancer. As I work toward earning my biochemistry degree at Arizona State University, my goal has become clearer—I want to contribute to cancer research and make a significant impact on the medical field. I am particularly interested in research opportunities at Upstate Medical Center, where my aunt received treatment. Their dedication to advancing cancer therapies deeply resonates with my aspirations, and I hope to be part of the breakthrough efforts in early detection and treatment that could help save countless lives in the future. The experiences with my aunt have shaped my academic and professional goals by inspiring me to dedicate my career to cancer research. This scholarship would provide the financial support I need to continue my education and take meaningful steps toward my goal of advancing cancer treatment. My journey has been shaped by loss, but that loss has fueled a determination to make a difference. What started as a love for chemistry in the beauty industry has evolved into a mission to fight cancer through scientific research, and I am determined to use my education to help create a future where cancer is no longer a devastating diagnosis.

I have chosen to pursue a degree in biochemistry with the goal of entering the healthcare field because of my personal experience with cancer, particularly the loss of my aunt to colon cancer. Witnessing the limitations of cancer treatments and the devastating effects of the disease ignited a deep passion in me to contribute to the fight against cancer. I realized that my interest in chemistry, which started with beauty and cosmetics, could be applied to something much greater—advancing cancer research and improving treatment outcomes for patients. This realization solidified my commitment to healthcare, and I decided to pursue my degree at Arizona State University, focusing on biochemistry with a goal of making a meaningful impact in cancer research. Cancer is a global issue, and while great strides have been made in understanding and treating it, many cancers, particularly those that affect women, remain underresearched. Cancers like cervical and breast cancer, which disproportionately affect women, often face insufficient funding and research compared to other types. I am passionate about addressing this disparity. I want to contribute to the research that leads to better understanding and treatment of these specific cancers. For example, cervical cancer has high rates of preventability, but too many women still lack access to early detection and proper treatments. Similarly, although breast cancer awareness has grown in recent years, there is still so much that we don’t know about its underlying biology and how to combat it more effectively. These issues drive my desire to focus my research on improving outcomes for women affected by these cancers. As a woman in the healthcare field, I hope to use my voice and education to advocate for more research funding and better treatment options for cancers that predominantly affect women. Women’s health, particularly in oncology, needs more attention, and I want to be part of the change. I believe that women’s perspectives and experiences are essential in shaping the healthcare field, and I am committed to ensuring that women’s cancers receive the research and attention they deserve. By combining my biochemistry background with a passion for women’s health, I hope to make a tangible impact—whether through groundbreaking research, improved treatments, or raising awareness. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to a future where cancer, particularly those cancers that disproportionately affect women, is no longer a devastating diagnosis but a treatable and preventable condition. Through my education and work, I hope to make the healthcare field more inclusive and equitable for all women.

Cancer is a global issue that affects millions of people every year, and despite significant progress, it remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The need for innovative research, better treatments, and preventative measures is more urgent than ever. The challenges cancer presents are vast—from its complexity and the variety of forms it takes to the limitations of current treatments. My passion for addressing this issue comes from the hope that one day, through research and advancements in science, we can make cancer a treatable, manageable, or even preventable disease. I am deeply passionate about cancer research, a cause that became personal after the sudden loss of my aunt to colon cancer. Watching her battle a disease that still lacks effective treatments and cures inspired me to pursue a career in biochemistry. I realized that my love for chemistry, which began with a fascination for beauty and cosmetic products, could be channeled into something much greater—advancing our understanding of cancer and improving treatments for patients. This passion has become the driving force behind my decision to return to school and pursue a biochemistry degree at Arizona State University. I envision using my education in biochemistry to contribute to cancer research in meaningful ways. By exploring the molecular mechanisms behind cancer and working to develop targeted therapies, I hope to be part of the scientific community that brings about real change. I am particularly interested in research opportunities at institutions like Upstate Medical Center, where my aunt received treatment. Their commitment to advancing cancer therapies aligns with my aspirations, and I hope to be part of efforts to create new solutions for early detection, treatment, and ultimately, cures. My skills and education in biochemistry will allow me to understand the complexities of cancer at a molecular level, while my experiences as a hairstylist have given me a unique ability to connect with people. I hope to use both—my scientific expertise and my ability to engage with others—to not only make strides in research but to also raise awareness about the importance of cancer prevention, early detection, and continued support for those battling the disease. Through my work, I aim to make a positive impact on both a local and global scale. I want to ensure that fewer families experience the heartbreak mine did and that the future holds hope for better treatments, more effective cures, and ultimately, a world where cancer is no longer a death sentence.

My fascination with chemistry began in an unexpected place—the beauty industry. I was captivated by how different compounds interacted to create cosmetics, skincare, and hair treatments. Studying biochemistry was my dream, but financial limitations made a traditional path impossible. Instead, I pursued cosmetology as an affordable alternative, allowing me to channel my passion for chemistry in a practical way. I believed I had found a career that balanced my love for science with creativity—until my aunt was diagnosed with colon cancer. Watching her battle this disease changed everything. Cancer didn’t just affect her; it impacted everyone who loved her. I saw firsthand the limitations of current treatments and the desperate need for more advanced research. When she passed away, I felt helpless—but I also felt a newfound determination. I realized that the same curiosity that led me to explore cosmetic chemistry could be used for something even more profound: cancer research. My passion for science wasn’t just about formulating beauty products; it could be about saving lives. Inspired by her journey, I made the decision to return to school, this time with a deeper purpose. I enrolled in an online business program while continuing to work full-time as a hairstylist, knowing that education would be my path forward. Every late-night study session and long shift in the salon reinforced my resilience and discipline. Though it hasn’t been easy, I am more determined than ever to achieve my goal of earning a biochemistry degree at Arizona State University. I want to use my knowledge of chemistry to contribute to advancements in cancer treatment, ensuring that fewer families experience the pain mine did. I am particularly interested in research opportunities with Upstate Medical Center, where my aunt received treatment. Their commitment to innovation and groundbreaking cancer therapies aligns with my aspirations, and I hope to be part of the work that leads to life-saving discoveries. Whether it’s developing targeted treatments, improving early detection methods, or understanding the molecular mechanisms of cancer, I want to be at the forefront of change. This scholarship would not only provide financial relief but also allow me to fully focus on my education and research goals. My journey has taken unexpected turns, but every challenge has reinforced my determination. What started as a love for chemistry in beauty products has transformed into a mission to fight cancer through science. With the right opportunities, I know I can make a difference—one discovery at a time.

My fascination with chemistry began in an unexpected place—the beauty industry. I was captivated by how different compounds interacted to create cosmetics, skincare, and hair treatments. Studying biochemistry was my dream, but financial limitations made a traditional path impossible. Instead, I pursued cosmetology as an affordable alternative, allowing me to channel my passion for chemistry in a practical way. I believed I had found a career that balanced my love for science with creativity—until my aunt was diagnosed with colon cancer. Watching her battle this disease changed everything. Cancer didn’t just affect her; it impacted everyone who loved her. I saw firsthand the limitations of current treatments and the desperate need for more advanced research. When she passed away, I felt helpless—but I also felt a newfound determination. I realized that the same curiosity that led me to explore cosmetic chemistry could be used for something even more profound: cancer research. My passion for science wasn’t just about formulating beauty products; it could be about saving lives. Inspired by her journey, I made the decision to return to school, this time with a deeper purpose. I enrolled in an online business program while continuing to work full-time as a hairstylist, knowing that education would be my path forward. Every late-night study session and long shift in the salon reinforced my resilience and discipline. Though it hasn’t been easy, I am more determined than ever to achieve my goal of earning a biochemistry degree at Arizona State University. I want to use my knowledge of chemistry to contribute to advancements in cancer treatment, ensuring that fewer families experience the pain mine did. I am particularly interested in research opportunities with Upstate Medical Center, where my aunt received treatment. Their commitment to innovation and groundbreaking cancer therapies aligns with my aspirations, and I hope to be part of the work that leads to life-saving discoveries. Whether it’s developing targeted treatments, improving early detection methods, or understanding the molecular mechanisms of cancer, I want to be at the forefront of change. This scholarship would not only provide financial relief but also allow me to fully focus on my education and research goals. My journey has taken unexpected turns, but every challenge has reinforced my determination. What started as a love for chemistry in beauty products has transformed into a mission to fight cancer through science. With the right opportunities, I know I can make a difference—one discovery at a time.