As a core member and founding leader of the Sleep in Heavenly Peace chapter in London, KY, I have taken on significant responsibilities that have honed my leadership skills and prepared me for future challenges. Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a nonprofit organization that provides beds and bedding for children in local communities. Leading this initiative has allowed me to effectively guide dozens of volunteers through the construction, transportation, and installation of these beds, and it has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of leadership. One of the most crucial aspects of my leadership role was developing ingenuity. When faced with unexpected challenges, I learned I could not simply say, "I don't know," and walk away. Instead, I had to quickly assess problems and devise practical solutions to ensure operations continued smoothly. This has helped me be a better leader in situations that demand that role from me.  Creating and managing schedules was another essential component of my leadership role. I was responsible for ensuring that beds were constructed on time and delivered to their destinations as planned. Having to be the one who manages the schedule not only helped my personal growth and skills but also allowed me to carry this skill over to other positions that required it. For example, I joined a club centered around leadership in college, and one of our assignments was creating and presenting ideas and innovations; as busy college students, it took a lot of work to align our schedules and get the job done. Luckily, from this position, I could step up and divvy out roles and set deadlines that allowed us to finish our duties.  Communication emerged as a vital skill in my leadership journey. I believe that clear and effective communication was crucial in coordinating with my team and other stakeholders. I needed to clearly instruct volunteers, address misunderstandings, and relay important information to other directors. I can convey ideas and solutions and adapt my communication style to different audiences.  My experience with Sleep in Heavenly Peace has been more than community service; it has been a transformative leadership experience. It has equipped me with the skills to manage responsibilities, solve problems, and communicate effectively. These skills have allowed me to be a leader in authority positions and any aspect of my life that might demand it. I am grateful that I learned to be a leader at a young age. Through this experience, I was able to discover what makes a leader. It's about more than what positions you hold but your characteristics. Because of this position, I was able to acquire and hone the skills needed to achieve success for not only myself but also my team.

My experience volunteering with college clubs, contributing to Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and interning at a substance abuse counseling center has paved the way for my future career choices and motivated me to continue my efforts. This scholarship is a crucial step toward achieving my goals of enhancing support systems for marginalized populations and fostering a more equitable society. My involvement with college clubs has allowed me to engage actively with the Louisville community, addressing a wide range of needs through various service projects. These clubs, each dedicated to different causes, have enabled me to participate in initiatives. The hands-on experience has given me a unique perspective on the challenges different community segments face, from homelessness to educational inequities. In addition to college clubs, I am a Sleep in Heavenly Peace member. This has caused involvement in a cause that provides more than just physical comfort. This non-profit organization builds and delivers beds and essential bedding to families who cannot afford them. Through this initiative, I have witnessed a simple yet crucial impact on a family's well-being by restoring dignity to those in difficult circumstances. This organization has been a reminder of the importance of addressing basic needs as a critical component of broader social support systems. My substance abuse counseling center internship has been a significant source of inspiration. It has given me a deeper understanding of the intricate connections between addiction, socioeconomic factors, and recovery. The center offers counseling services and addresses clients' basic needs like food and clothing, which has highlighted the complex nature of addiction and the significant obstacles faced by those seeking recovery. As a result, I am motivated to push for systemic changes that will improve rehabilitation programs and support for marginalized individuals, especially those within the criminal justice system. Because of my experiences, I am passionate about promoting rehabilitation programs that offer treatment, education, and vocational training in prisons. These programs are essential for equipping individuals with the skills needed to reintegrate into society successfully. Additionally, advocating for prison reforms that prioritize rehabilitation over punitive measures can help break the cycle of recidivism and foster a more equitable justice system. This scholarship is a crucial step in my journey to create a meaningful impact. With this scholarship, I can achieve my education and training, which will equip me with the tools and education I need to drive systematic change. With this support, I can research and develop effective rehabilitation programs and advocate for comprehensive prison reforms that will help not only the incarcerated population but also my community. Through this scholarship, I can enhance support systems for marginalized populations and promote a more just and inclusive society. I am committed to using this opportunity to continue my community service and advocacy work, ultimately contributing to creating a better life for those in need.

I’m deeply committed to giving back to my community through my work and volunteer efforts. At a local counseling center, I dedicate my time to supporting clients dealing with substance abuse and mental health challenges. This role allows me to offer a compassionate ear and a support system for those navigating the difficult path to recovery and change. Each day, I witness the resilience and courage of individuals striving to improve their lives, and it’s profoundly rewarding to be part of their journey toward healing. In addition to my work at the counseling center, I volunteer with Sleep in Heavenly Peace. This nonprofit organization makes a tangible difference in the lives of families in need. Through this organization, I help build and deliver beds equipped with mattresses and bedding to children who cannot afford or have access to proper sleep arrangements. Sleep in Heavenly Peace has been and will continue to be my most incredible pride and most significant accomplishment. Seeing the joy and relief on the faces of the families we assist motivates me to keep doing everything I can to help those less fortunate and reinforces the importance of our mission. My studies are a critical component of my ongoing commitment to helping others. By advancing my education in the fields of addiction and mental health, I will be better equipped to provide more effective support and intervention strategies. My academic pursuits will help me design a better understanding, enhance skills, and a more holistic approach to treatment that will allow a lifelong change in people's lives. In addition, my studies will enable me to play a more significant role in raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with mental health and addiction issues. With this knowledge, I aim to advocate for better resources and support systems within our communities. Oftentimes, mental health and addiction challenges are linked to poverty and the need for more resources like the kind Sleep in Heavenly Peace provides. With my education, I plan to continue volunteering with Sleep in Heavenly Peace and similar organizations, using my increased expertise to contribute meaningfully and inspire others to get involved. With my academic progress, I will be able to create more meaning for organizations aimed at helping the populations that suffer the most. My current efforts and future academic goals are intertwined with a mission to provide compassionate support and resources to those in need. I strive to positively impact my communities through my professional work and volunteer activities. My studies will enhance my ability to effectively create and impede these organizations and resources.

During the summer, for five months, I was able to intern at a substance abuse and mental health counseling facility, which was a profoundly transformative experience. This role has given me a unique opportunity to make a real impact on individuals facing mental health challenges while also deepening my understanding of their needs and how best to support them. I am committed to enhancing mental health and well-being through direct counseling, community involvement, and personal engagement. Through my role, I provide support to individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. Witnessing clients' progress and recovery is incredibly rewarding; seeing them overcome obstacles and achieve milestones when they continuously doubted themselves is a testament to the importance of empathetic and effective mental health care. My work addresses immediate concerns and helps clients build the tools and strategies for long-term recovery and stability. I've been allowed to develop a nuanced understanding of people's diverse challenges through this direct engagement, resulting in an ability to offer tailored support to those who need it. Through this experience, I have learned valuable lessons about the multifaceted nature of mental health issues. Every individual's journey is unique, and the factors contributing to their struggles are never linear. This understanding has emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to treatment—one that considers the symptoms and the broader context of each person's life. For instance, it has been proven that integrating strategies that address underlying trauma, social support systems, and coping mechanisms is crucial for lasting recovery. This realization has motivated me to focus on new knowledge and techniques to enhance treatment efficacy. Beyond my professional role, I actively engage in activities dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and support. I am involved in college clubs and organizations dedicated to mental health advocacy. I contribute to campaigns and educational efforts to increase access to resources and help reduce the stigma, allowing me to reach a wider audience and foster a community that values mental health and supports those in need. My psychology degree will be critical in advancing my efforts to improve mental health. With my degree, I plan to delve deeper into research and evidence-based practices that can enhance treatment approaches. My goal is to contribute to the development of innovative treatment and recovery plans that address both the immediate and long-term needs of individuals facing mental health challenges.

As a founding member of the London, KY Sleep in Heavenly Peace Chapter, I have consistently demonstrated strong leadership skills through my proactive involvement in organizing and leading bed builds and deliveries for needy families in our community. At Sleep in Heavenly Peace, our mission goes beyond just providing beds; it's about restoring dignity and comfort to those in need. In my role, I have coordinated volunteers, managed logistics, and ensured that each family receives a bed and a complete bedding set for a fresh start. Beyond my efforts with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, I have further honed my leadership abilities by actively participating in campus clubs focused on leadership development. These experiences have exposed me to diverse perspectives and challenges, allowing me to refine my communication, organizational, and decision-making skills in a supportive environment. Whether leading a team of volunteers in assembling beds or collaborating with fellow students on campus initiatives, I have consistently strived to set an example of dedication and compassion in all aspects of my leadership journey. With a strong foundation in leadership cultivated through my experiences, such as founding the London, KY Sleep in Heavenly Peace Chapter, and participating in campus leadership clubs, I am eager to apply these skills to tackle critical issues in criminal justice reform. I aim to conduct research to identify and implement effective rehabilitation programs that reduce recidivism rates. By delving into this area, I strive to develop evidence-based practices that support individuals in reintegrating successfully into society after incarceration. Furthermore, I am passionate about advocating for prison reforms that promote the rehabilitation and well-being of inmates. Reforming the prison system to focus more on education, vocational training, mental health support, and meaningful rehabilitation programs is crucial in fostering individuals who can positively contribute to their communities upon release. By leveraging my leadership skills, I plan to collaborate with policymakers, researchers, and community stakeholders to advocate for these reforms and drive positive change. Ultimately, I aspire to help create safer communities by addressing the root causes of crime and promoting effective rehabilitation strategies. Through leadership in research and advocacy, I aim to contribute to a justice system that punishes, rehabilitates, and supports individuals to become productive and law-abiding members. Through this scholarship, I will be able to further my education in psychology and criminal justice, allowing me to continue using my leadership abilities to change my career field for the better.

Every day, I weave the fabric of my faith into the tapestry of my life through intentional actions and commitments. Joining clubs that advocate for the sanctity of life, I stand as a vocal advocate for the rights of the unborn, actively participating in discussions, events, and campaigns that promote pro-life values. My involvement in church functions nurtures my spiritual growth. It provides a platform to serve others, whether through volunteering in community outreach programs or engaging in meaningful dialogue about faith and social issues. Education becomes a tool for transformation as I pursue fields related to law and politics, driven by a desire to dismantle the pro-choice agenda through informed advocacy and legislative action. Moreover, I recognize that true faith isn't just about words but is reflected in the way we live our lives. By embodying the teachings of Christ in my everyday actions, I strive to be a beacon of love, compassion, and integrity to those around me. Whether it's through extending a helping hand to those in need, treating others with kindness and respect, or simply living out my convictions with humility and grace, I seek to inspire others to walk the path of faith. Through education, advocacy, and personal example, I am committed to standing firm in my beliefs and making a tangible difference in the world, one step at a time, guided by the principles of my faith. Studying politcal science and psychology equips me with a profound understanding of human behavior, societal dynamics, and the legal system, empowering me to effect meaningful change in support of the pro-life agenda. Through the lens of psychology, I delve into the complexities of individual decision-making, exploring the factors that influence attitudes toward abortion and reproductive rights. Understanding the psychological underpinnings of these issues enables me to tailor advocacy strategies and interventions that resonate with diverse audiences, fostering empathy, and encouraging informed decision-making. Additionally, a background in politcal science provides me with insights into the legal framework surrounding abortion rights and the enforcement of related laws, enabling me to navigate legislative processes and advocate for policies that protect the sanctity of life from conception to natural death. Being Catholic has profoundly shaped my worldview and career aspirations, instilling in me a deep sense of responsibility to be an advocate for justice and human dignity. Rooted in the teachings of my faith, my desire to enact change and protect the pro-life agenda is driven by a commitment to upholding the sanctity of every human life as a fundamental moral imperative. Inspired by the social teachings of the Catholic Church, which emphasize the inherent dignity of every person and the obligation to promote the common good, I am motivated to pursue a career path that aligns with these values. By leveraging my knowledge and skills in politcal science and psychology, I strive to be a voice for the voiceless, advocating for laws and policies that reflect and uphold the sacredness of life from conception to natural death.

Childhood experiences are paramount for developing and creating functioning adults later in life. Trauma not only can/ will affect the individual's lives but it could also affect others in their lives. Through my studies at the University of Louisville, a life span and development class put into perspective how important events in adolescent lives can be. Though some can combat the side effects of trauma, many fall victim to them and could have monumental issues throughout their lives. For example, at a young age, my father and mother got divorced because my father kept cheating. Not only did I hear nasty things from both ends of the spectrum, but my father soon discarded me and my sister from his life to focus on his new wife and her children. After years of being estranged, it came out that my dad suffered from alcoholism and had to go to rehab and intensive therapy. Needless to say, these experiences at such a young age heavily impacted how I handled people and the challenges in my life. As much as I would love to say this trauma made me stronger and helped me become a better version of myself, for a long time it had the opposite effect. For many years I did not know how to regulate my emotions or communicate, so I took it out on everyone in my life. I used many loved ones as punching bags to make myself feel better about myself rather than trying to combat the issues and ask for help. I became hostile, defensive, and unable to communicate any emotion I experienced. It took many years to unlearn the bad habits I picked up from my parent's volatile relationship and work through the trauma my dad's leaving caused. Luckily I had a very privileged life and had a mother who was present in my life and pushed me to do better, so I did not fall into the world of drugs or delinquency like many others I know have. The effects of childhood trauma can be catastrophic and I hope to help those who suffer from such events in my future career. Watching my parents work in the law enforcement world, I naturally developed a love for criminal justice, but I soon learned there is more to it than just enforcing the law. I found myself asking “why” to others' actions and wanting to know more about their background and childhood. I have realized throughout the years many people who criminally offend have a very unhealthy or abusive childhood. Many of these people do not have the resources to help themselves and sadly a life of crime and drugs can be an outcome for some. My hope in my future career is to help others heal from their trauma, be rehabilitated, and become functioning members of society. Too many times incarcerated people are thrown in jail and left to their own devices instead of investing in them and seeing their potential to give back to the community. Because they are left to their own devices they have no guidance or programs to help show them the different routes to life. I hope to show them their worth by healing their inner child and past traumas and helping them create a productive happy life. With this scholarship, I will be able to continue my studies, which will result in not only helping the individual but also society.

Many see traveling as an escape from everyday life but are unaware of the impact it can create. Travel can be a transformative experience that can shift a person's beliefs about the world and themselves. By immersing in different cultures, perspectives, and environments, one can gain a new understanding and appreciation for other cultures and people. This exposure to diversity can lead to personal growth and development, as it challenges individuals to step outside their comfort zones and gain a broader perspective of the world. One of the greatest gifts travel can give to us is humility. Growing up in the same place with consistent values and ideas creates a secular understanding of the world; and an egocentric perspective that we know the "correct" ways to do things. However, when we travel, we often come across different ways to handle daily domestics or life that do not fit into our norms. This can lead to the realization that there may be different ways to complete a task, and even better, the realization that these differences are not abnormal. For example, in some parts of the world, eating with one's hands is considered the norm, while in other parts, it can be seen as unsanitary. This can also be true for different values such as animal rights, green energy/materials, or geriatric care. Traveling exposes us to different customs and practices, making us more aware of the nuances in other societies. This awareness can encourage individuals to be more accepting of different ways of life, which is the most valuable lesson that I have carried with me throughout my life since my travels. Yet another impact of traveling is the development of empathy towards other people, their cultures, and the issues they might be facing. Exposure to new situations can allow us to understand the struggles and challenges that people from different cultures face. These issues can and should be explored individually and through resources such as books, the internet, and journals. However, it is far more raw and inspiring to learn about them in the area in which they occur. It is human nature to worry about ourselves and what is going on around us, rather than the issues of others. Through travel, the struggles can impact us directly, which makes us more likely to have compassion for others, which can result in trying to take action to help solve these problems. Ultimately, traveling can help us develop empathy and understanding toward other cultures, which is essential in creating a more compassionate and connected world. Traveling allows us to broaden our knowledge and considerations for ways of life. Through travel, we can experience new customs, political systems, values, and cuisines that help us gain a new perspective on the world. Through travel, you can experience new ways you want to live your life and bring new knowledge into your everyday life that can inspire you to be more tolerant, respectful, and compassionate toward people from all walks of life.

I grew up in a predominantly white small town. The majority have the same conservative views and do not care about social or economic injustices or choose to stay ignorant. I knew I needed and wanted a change so I decided to go to the biggest city in Kentucky to gain a deeper understanding of other perspectives and be surrounded by diversity. Going to the University of Louisville has opened many doors of opportunity, to not only impact my community but also have open conversations with those who suffer firsthand from these injustices. Learning about others' experiences and views has opened my eyes to what social issues are still alive in today's society and hearing opinions on how to fix them. One of my favorite opportunities UofL gives its students is a wide array of clubs. During my freshman year, I joined Equity and Justice, Community Aid and Immersion, Vote Anywhere, and Cards Lead. These clubs help empower students to make a change in the community of Louisville, whether it’s spreading awareness or participating in community service. Through these clubs, I can optimize my knowledge of social issues such as racism, sexism, and economic inequality. I then advocate and use my voice to help change these social issues around campus. For example, Vote Anywhere educates young voters on how/where to vote, and ways to learn about candidates and empowers these students to use their voices to pick the right people who are dedicated to trying to fix these social issues. Though it might be a small feat I think it is a step in the right direction to tackle these bigger social issues plaguing our world. During my studies at the University of Louisville, I took a class about the corrections system in the US. This class impacted me the most and ignited a passion I did not know I had. There are horrible injustices and issues within our prison systems. One of my main goals through my studies is to find ways to reduce recidivism and create programs that are more beneficial to rehabilitation. Too many inmates are thrown in jail and left to rot, and then when they are realized we wonder why they reoffend. I envision a transformative approach to the corrections system that prioritizes reducing recidivism rates and promoting successful reintegration into society. Central to this vision is the expansion of programs within prisons and jails, making them more accessible to inmates. By focusing on the development of effective rehabilitation programs, I aim to empower individuals to break the cycle of reoffending and become productive members of society. Through personalized support, skills training, and growth opportunities, we can create lasting change and foster a community where every individual has the chance to thrive.

My mental health experience is not generated by myself but by the loved ones in my life. My first experience with mental health struggles was when I met my now boyfriend. We met in middle school, and I immediately started crushing on him. Though he did not reciprocate, we became best friends. The closer we got, the more I learned about his past and his coping mechanism. He suffers from extreme depressive episodes and anxiety. As a coping mechanism, he started smoking weed, drinking, and vaping a copious amount at such a young age. I had been pretty sheltered up until that point and had never gone through what he was experiencing. I soon learned how to comfort and try to help him get better. I took on a lot of the burden of trying to help both his mental health and trying to help him find another way to cope. There were many nights I stayed awake near the phone, scared I would miss a call of him going through an episode and not be able to talk him off the edge. I soon started feeling the burden of being the therapist and the only support in his life. Eventually, he got help, and we have been together for 4 years. Even though times have gotten better and he has stopped all of the illegal coping mechanisms, he still goes through rough patches. His being in my life has taught me so much and has shaped a lot of my beliefs, views on relationships, and what I want to do with my life Another big impact is my father. He used to be my best friend and was a great dad, but he and my mom eventually got divorced, he then remarried, and me and my sister took a back seat in his life. Little did we know how bad his mental health was. About a year ago we learned that has had been struggling with alcohol addiction and passed out at an airport and needed to check into rehab for a while. After a while, all of the little things started making sense. He soon confessed that his declining mental health led to his use of alcohol to cope. He felt weak and unworthy and promised to do better for us. Seeing my once best friend and role model struggle in silence put a lot into perspective for me. For a long time, I blamed myself and felt guilty for not reaching out more or not being there. I eventually learned that I cannot control others' feelings or mental health issues, instead when they’re ready, I can be a support system and shoulder to cry on when they’re in need. This revelation once again impacts my beliefs, view on relationships, and career ambitions. Again, growing up, I was very privileged. My parents had good jobs, I had a roof over my head and food on the table, and I was never around drugs or struggling people. However, after I met my boyfriend and my parents divorced everything changed. Asked me before these encounters I would’ve shamed anyone who did drugs or people who used self-harm as a way to cope. Through these experiences I have been able to develop companionship and empathy for those struggling and have started to make sure everyone I come into contact with feels cared for and important because I have come to realize how important kindness and patience are for people, even those who do not look like they are struggling, you never know what someone is going through. My experience with mental health has shaped my philosophies on life and how I treat those around me. The relationships in my life have more open communication and support than they would have had without these encounters. I make sure my boyfriend feels loved and supported and have created a safe space so that when something happens he can confide in me. I have learned the importance of listening without judgment, providing unconditional love and support, and being a pillar of strength during the darkest moments, which has equipped me with what I need to implement in all my relationships. My career interests lie more in the criminal justice field. What I am most interested in is creating programs for mental health in prisons. So many incarcerated inmates are in there because of underlying mental health issues. Many of these inmates are thrown in prison or jail and left to rot, and when they get out, they don’t have anyone or anything and usually relapse and re-offend. I want to give their lives purpose and prove to them they mean something and are important, regardless of past mistakes. Focus on mental health can do so much good for not just individuals but communities. I hope to make communities safer and allow people to be productive members of society. With this scholarship, I will be able to achieve my goals by continuing my education and changing as many lives as I can, by promoting mental health in one person at a time.

As a society, we are constantly striving to improve the quality of life for everyone. One way to achieve this goal is by investing in education, particularly in fields that directly impact the well-being of individuals and communities. By pursuing an undergraduate degree in criminal justice and psychology, followed by a doctorate in psychology, I will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact on my community. Criminal justice and psychology are two fields that intersect in many ways. Criminal justice focuses on the study of crime, law enforcement, and the legal system, while psychology is concerned with the study of human behavior and mental processes. By combining these two fields, I can gain a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to criminal behavior and how to prevent it. Possessing the knowledge of both criminal justice and psychology is an amazing advantage and necessity for changing the violent society we live in. One way that a degree in criminal justice and psychology can help people in the community is by improving the criminal justice system. By understanding the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior, I will be able to work to develop more effective rehabilitation programs for offenders. This can help reduce recidivism rates and ultimately make communities safer. In addition to rehabilitating criminals, obtaining a degree in criminal justice and psychology means that I can work to improve mental health services in my community. Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being. Many individuals who come into contact with the criminal justice system have mental health issues, helping improve mental health in my community will not only lessen crime but improve the well-being of the members of my community. Receiving this scholarship will greatly assist me in obtaining my degrees, ultimately allowing me to make a crucial change in my community. With the financial burden of tuition lifted, I can focus on my studies and fully dedicate myself to learning and growing as a professional. With my further education, I will be caple of evaluating and studying criminals to have a deeper understanding of their behaviors and minds. With this knowledge, I will be able to prevent crime and help recover offenders so that more people in my community can be protected. This scholarship will not only benefit me but also those around me as I strive to make a positive impact in my community.