Throughout my life, I’ve faced challenges that felt like walls between me and my career goals. From medical conditions to learning difficulties, it often seemed like I was working uphill just to keep up. But those experiences shaped me and taught me how to keep moving forward, no matter what. I was born with a cleft lip and palate, which required multiple surgeries over the years. On top of that, I’ve dealt with OCD, ADHD, memory difficulties, and other medical issues that affected me both physically and mentally. These challenges didn’t just disrupt my life—they also tested my confidence and made everyday things, like school, much harder. While academics weren’t my strong suit, I knew I needed to succeed in school to pursue the career I wanted. I worked harder than most to stay on track, determined to meet the same milestones as my peers, even if it meant taking extra steps to get there. In the midst of all this, I found peace and purpose in art. While school felt like a struggle, art was where I thrived. It became my outlet for processing everything I was going through and a way to express myself when words didn’t feel like enough. That’s when I realized that art wasn’t just something I enjoyed, it was what I wanted to pursue as a career. Still, there were times when it felt like my challenges were holding me back. But I learned to view them differently. Instead of focusing on what I couldn’t control, I started focusing on what I could. I sought out support systems, developed better ways to stay organized, and found methods that worked for me in both school and life. Slowly but surely, I learned to manage my learning conditions and other difficulties, not by trying to make them go away but by understanding how to work with them. These experiences have shaped not only who I am but also the kind of art I create. My work is deeply influenced by the resilience I’ve had to build over the years. I try to reflect that in my art, creating pieces that explore themes of overcoming adversity and finding strength in vulnerability. Looking back, I realize that the things I once saw as barriers have actually given me the tools I needed to succeed. They’ve taught me how to adapt, persevere, and stay focused on my goals, no matter what comes my way. Now, I see every challenge as an opportunity to grow and improve, both as a person and as an artist. Ultimately, my ambition has always been fueled by a desire to turn my experiences into something meaningful. I want my journey to inspire others who might feel like their own challenges are holding them back. My art is my way of showing that no matter what obstacles you face, it’s possible to keep moving forward and achieve your dreams.

I grew up in a small, lower-class neighborhood in Knoxville, Tennessee. Life was challenging, and money was always tight. On top of that, my family faced the weight of medical bills, most of them for my cleft lip and palate and other unrelated health issues. Those challenges weren’t just physical—they affected me mentally too. I had to grow up fast and learn to navigate difficulties that felt overwhelming at times. School wasn’t much easier. I struggled with ADHD, memory loss, and comprehension issues that made learning feel like climbing an uphill battle every single day. It was frustrating, feeling like no matter how hard I tried, I was always a step behind. Traditional success felt out of reach for me, and for a long time, I didn’t know where I could truly succeed. That’s where art came in. For as long as I can remember, creating has been my escape. Whenever life felt too heavy or my emotions became too much to handle, I turned to art. Drawing, painting, and creating weren’t just hobbies—they were my way of processing everything I was feeling. Art became my outlet when words couldn’t capture what I wanted to say. Growing up in a lower class environment shaped the way I see the world, and that influence shows up in my art. I’ve learned to see beauty in imperfection—in cracked sidewalks, old buildings, and the resilience of people who refuse to give up no matter what life throws at them. That sense of raw, unpolished beauty has always inspired me and continues to shape my creativity. I want to be an artist because it feels like the most honest way I can tell my story. Art helps me connect with others who might be going through struggles of their own. It’s my way of saying, “I see you. I understand.” And I hope that, in turn, my work helps others feel seen and understood. As much as my journey has inspired me, my biggest source of inspiration is God. I believe He gave me this gift for a reason. Art has been my refuge, my way of making sense of life’s chaos, and I know it’s a gift from Him. Through my art, I’ve learned to appreciate the world in a deeper way. I see His handiwork in everything, even the struggles I’ve been through. There’s so much beauty in the imperfections, and that realization has fueled my creativity. God’s work as the ultimate artist humbles and inspires me. I know I’ll never match the beauty and complexity of His creation, but that’s not the point. The point is to celebrate it, to honor it, and to use the talent He’s given me to create something meaningful. My faith teaches me humility and gives me the drive to keep pushing forward, even when the road gets tough. For a long time, I felt like art was the only thing I could truly succeed at. In many areas of life, success seems so narrowly defined, such as good grades, big achievements, fitting into a certain mold. But art is different. With art, success isn’t about perfection. It’s about expression. It’s about capturing feelings, moments, and stories in a way that resonates. That freedom is what has kept me going. I’m also inspired by people who turn their struggles into something beautiful. Artists who share their vulnerabilities and use their work to empower others have shown me what’s possible. They remind me that art can be more than personal, as it can connect people, inspire hope, and create change. That’s exactly what I want to do with my work. Looking back, I’ve faced a lot of obstacles, but those experiences have shaped who I am and why I create. Art has been my lifeline, my way of turning pain into purpose. It’s taught me to find beauty in unexpected places and to embrace the imperfect. More than anything, it’s given me a way to honor God, share my story, and connect with others. Being an artist isn’t just a career choice, it’s my calling. I want to leave behind a legacy of resilience, faith, and creativity that reflects not just my journey but also the beauty and grace of the one who inspires me every day. Art, for me, is about reflection and self-expression. My work draws from the art I encounter in popular media, Japanese culture and language, and my identity in Christ. It is deeply personal. My emotions and experiences dictate the mood and focus of my creations. Wrestling with so many feelings that demand expression, I seek to capture moments of tension and release, inviting others to connect with the sense of longing, reflection, or hope embedded in each piece. My work is not an end in itself; it’s a way of reaching across to the viewer, reminding them of the universality of struggle and grace. My style oscillates between the realism-inspired and the graphic energy of comic art, brought to life through dynamic compositions that emphasize movement and balance. Whether working digitally or with traditional mediums like paper and pencil, I strive to create images that resonate with immediacy and depth. At its core, my work is an exploration of emotion—not merely as a personal catharsis but as a bridge to the viewer—and, more importantly, my faith. My growth as an artist, and indeed as a person, is inseparable from my faith. I give full credit to my walk with Christ, whose influence provides both the foundation and the compass for my creative journey. Through this lens, I aim to create work that is not only deeply felt but imbued with meaning—an invitation to reflect, to connect, and to find something lasting in the ephemeral.

Throughout my own journey with mental health, I’ve gainedvaluable insights that have made me able to support others in their own struggles. Although the path has been challenging, it has shaped my deep commitment to helping those around me. I’ve learned that consistent, compassionate presence is key in supporting others, especially during difficult times. This has driven my efforts to offer emotional support to friends and loved ones who face mental health challenges. For example, I have supported a close friend through a traumatic event by checking in on her multiple times a week. I make sure to be there physically or over the phone, listening to her, offering my companionship, and consistently reminding her that she is not alone. This consistent support has been ongoing for several months, and I believe it has made a significant impact on her emotional well-being. I’ve learned that people struggling with mental health often need more than temporary assistance; they need someone who will be there for them, without judgment, day in and day out. This practice of consistency in offering love and support extends beyond this one relationship. It is a principle I apply to multiple areas of my life, always striving to show up for others, no matter the difficulty. I recognize that mental health struggles are complex and unique, and I want to continue developing my knowledge necessary to make a lasting impact on others’ emotional well-being. Looking ahead, I aspire to use my studies and future career to further this mission of supporting others. While I’m still exploring specific career paths, I am certain I want to dedicate myself to helping people navigate mental health challenges. Whether in therapy, counseling, or another field, my goal is to create environments where people feel seen, heard, and loved. Through my personal experiences, I understand the value of emotional support and I am driven to provide that for others in need. In doing so, I hope to make a meaningful impact on individuals' lives, just as others have done for me.

Before I was born, my parents were faced with a difficult decision. Doctors informed them that I had a cleft lip and palate, a condition that could involve additional complications. My parents, young and financially struggling with one child already, were advised to abort me. The recommendation was based on the assumption that I would face significant challenges in life and be a financial burden. However, my parents’ faith in God and their belief in the sanctity of life led them to reject that option. They chose me. Since birth, I have faced numerous physical and mental challenges, including countless surgeries, hospital stays, and struggles with anxiety, depression, and other health conditions. These experiences have been far from easy, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I am blessed to have struggled and face hard challenges as they have shaped me into someone who is stronger, more compassionate, and more determined. Because of what I have faced, I am able to use what I learned to support and sympathise with those also struggling. The most prepared people for challenges are those who have faced them, yet the world chooses to take away the life of those with the most potential. Just because someone has a future assured with challenges does not mean that they should not get to live. Not even those who seem to have a ‘good’ future are not guaranteed a life without struggles. Every life, no matter how difficult the path ahead may seem, has inherent value and dignity. I’ve come to see my journey as a testament to the truth that adversity doesn’t diminish a person’s worth—it enhances their capacity for growth, resilience, and empathy. The world often takes away those with potential challenges, viewing their lives as expendable or less valuable. But I stand as proof that struggles don’t define a person’s value. Instead, they offer opportunities to grow, to overcome, and to impact others in profound ways. The argument that circumstances dictate whether a child should live is flawed. By that logic, I wouldn’t be here today. My birth might have been “inconvenient,” but convenience should never override the right to life. This perspective also denies parents the opportunity to grow. Raising a child, especially in challenging circumstances, teaches selflessness, resilience, and profound love. Studies show that most parents who choose life after considering abortion, find joy and fulfillment in their decision, far beyond what they initially imagined. To promote the value and dignity of all human beings, especially the unborn, I actively support pro-life organizations. I withhold my support from companies and businesses that do not align with these values. I’ve shared my testimony in conversations and classroom discussions, even when I stood alone in my position. Additionally, I conduct personal research to strengthen my understanding and arguments for the sanctity of life. My life is a reflection of the beauty and potential of choosing life, even in the face of difficulty. I am dedicated to sharing that message and advocating for a world where every life is seen as precious, no matter the circumstances

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my life has been finding ways to show kindness and love to others. I believe that true care isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about the small, consistent acts of compassion that require dedication and attentiveness. My own battles and struggles have taught me the value of empathy, and I’ve made it a personal mission to use those lessons to uplift and support others. One story that stands out involves a friend of mine who lost his mother. I was heartbroken for him and knew I couldn’t take away his pain, but I wanted to ensure he never felt forgotten in his grief. For over two years, I sent him a message every night with a Bible verse. It was a small act, but it became a meaningful ritual. My goal was to remind him, daily, that someone cared and was thinking of him. It wasn’t about the verses themselves but the consistent reminder that he wasn’t alone. Through this, I learned the power of persistence in kindness—how ongoing support can be more impactful than a single grand gesture. More recently, a friend of mine lost her brother. Having been through my own struggles, I understood that grief often feels most isolating in the weeks and months after the initial outpouring of support fades. I committed to checking in with her weekly—sometimes through calls, other times in person. I listened as she shared her feelings, created space for her to grieve, and offered my support however she needed it. My aim was not just to comfort her in the moment but to be a consistent source of strength as she navigated her loss. At my college, I’ve found another way to practice kindness and support. We host a group of English Language Students (ELS) from various countries who come to study here. While their academic opportunities are immense, their resources for day-to-day life are limited. They don’t have reliable transportation through the school, as apps for car transportation can be a bit difficult and very expensive. Recognizing this gap, I began offering rides to the store, to pick up groceries, or to get clothing and supplies, or just to bring them out to have fun. I’ve been doing this for over a year, up to a few times a week when needed. It’s a small way to make their experience less stressful and ensure they feel welcomed and cared for. What I’ve learned from these experiences is that kindness isn’t always about what’s visible or celebrated. It’s about seeing the needs others might overlook and being willing to meet those needs, even when it requires time, effort, and patience. True impact lies in consistency and thoughtfulness—in recognizing that kindness, when sustained over time, can transform someone’s life. These experiences have also fueled my ambition. They’ve shown me the importance of looking beyond myself and being attentive to the needs of others. As I continue to grow, I want to expand my efforts to create systems and communities where kindness and care are foundational. Whether it’s mentoring, supporting peers, or finding creative solutions to help those in need, I am committed to making an impact that goes beyond individual acts and contributes to lasting change. Kindness isn’t about doing something grand for recognition; it’s about showing up, time and again, for the people who need it most. I hope to continue this pattern of care in all areas of my life, using what I’ve learned to make a difference not just in the lives of individuals but in the communities I’m part of. Through dedication, drive, and an unwavering commitment to others, I aim to carry forward the lessons these acts of kindness have taught me.

Mental illness has had a profound impact on my life, shaping my academic journey, personal relationships, and outlook on the future. From the time I was born, I have faced numerous medical challenges, beginning with a craniofacial birth defect—a cleft lip and palate—that required countless operations, hospital stays, and surgeries. Alongside these physical struggles, I’ve dealt with unrelated medical issues that worsened my mental health challenges. Anxiety, body dysmorphia, and depression became part of my reality as I navigated what it meant to look and feel different from others. In school, I faced memory difficulties, ADHD, OCD, and reading comprehension issues, all of which made learning an uphill battle. While my peers seemed to grasp concepts with ease, I had to work twice as hard just to achieve average results. By high school, an unexpected medical complication related to my cleft lip and palate brought my mental health struggles to the forefront. Anxiety and depression consumed me. Attending school became a battle in itself, and I often isolated myself, avoiding social interactions and retreating to sleep just to escape the weight of my emotions. The mirror became a source of pain—I could barely stand to look at myself. My body dysmorphia, paired with Dermatillomania, a form of OCD that caused excessive skin-picking, left me ashamed and physically scarred. I avoided social events unless I could cover up the red marks on my skin, sometimes spending hours with makeup just to feel presentable. The cycle felt endless, and I questioned why I had to face such relentless challenges. I prayed for healing, asking God to take away my struggles, but those prayers weren’t answered in the way I expected. Instead, I slowly began to see my challenges as opportunities. Every fall taught me how to stand again, stronger than before. What once felt like a curse became a blessing in disguise. I realized that the battles I faced didn’t have to define me negatively—they could be tools for growth, resilience, and empathy. Mental illness has undeniably shaped my life, but it has also equipped me with the tools to persevere and make a difference. While the road has been hard, it has also been transformative, giving me a deeper sense of purpose and the ambition to create a future where my experiences can inspire and uplift others. This scholarship would not only help me continue my education but also enable me to pursue that purpose fully, turning my struggles into a source of hope for others.

My mental health has had a deep impact on both my academic performance and personal life, shaping the way I face challenges and find purpose. Living with a birth defect that required multiple surgeries, along with other unrelated health issues, has meant dealing with anxiety, depression, memory struggles from repeated anesthesia, and body dysmorphia. These struggles could have easily held me back, but instead, they’ve driven me to grow stronger, stay determined, and turn challenges into opportunities. In school, my mental health challenges often make things harder, but they’ve also taught me how to persevere. Struggling with memory and focus means I spend extra hours reviewing material, breaking down concepts until they truly stick. Anxiety can make tests and class participation overwhelming, but I’ve learned to prepare in advance and remind myself to take things one step at a time. Progress may come slowly at times, but I’ve embraced the mindset that showing up, putting in effort, and staying consistent are what truly count. Personally, these challenges have shaped how I see myself and connect with others. Dealing with body image issues and self-doubt has been difficult, but it’s also made me more empathetic and understanding. I’ve realized how important it is to offer patience and kindness—not just to myself, but to others who might be silently struggling. These experiences have deepened my relationships and motivated me to be a source of support and encouragement whenever I can. Taking care of my mental health while attending school has been a top priority. My faith had played the biggest role in how I handle tough moments. I’ve learned to lean on God, surrendering the weight of my struggles and trusting Him to guide me through. This gives me peace and hope, even when things feel overwhelming. I also use practical strategies to stay balanced. Setting small, manageable goals helps me stay on track without feeling burned out, and sticking to a routine keeps me grounded. I make time for activities that recharge me, like journaling, walking, or simply taking a break when I need it. I’ve also learned the value of reaching out for help, whether it’s talking to a friend, mentor, or counselor. Having a support system reminds me that I don’t have to face everything alone. One of the most meaningful parts of my journey has been using my experiences to help others. I know what it feels like to struggle, so I try to be there for people who are going through their own challenges. Whether it’s through long conversations, small acts of kindness, or just consistently showing up for someone, I’ve seen how powerful it is to make someone feel seen and supported. Even small efforts can make a big difference, and it’s something I’m committed to doing. Looking ahead, I want to use what I’ve learned to make an even bigger impact. My goal isn’t just to overcome my own challenges but to help others see their struggles as opportunities for growth. Whether it’s through mentoring, advocacy, or creating spaces where people feel supported, I want to break down the stigma around mental health and empower others to prioritize their well-being. While my mental health journey hasn’t been easy, it’s shaped me into someone who is resilient, determined, and purpose-driven. It’s taught me to find strength in adversity, to value progress over perfection, and to use my experiences to make a positive impact on others. No matter how hard things get, I believe there’s always a way forward—and that belief drives me every day.

While I may not always be the most naturally skilled person in the room, I make up for it with unwavering determination and relentless effort. I have learned to get through challenges with the mindset that giving up is not an option. Instead, I push forward, no matter how steep the climb. Although it often takes me longer than others to get better at a new skill or concept, I firmly believe that perseverance is the key to personal growth. This determination has allowed me to overcome obstacles and achieve goals that once seemed out of reach. Throughout my life, I have faced significant learning challenges, including memory loss and ADHD. These obstacles have made academic success more difficult, often requiring me to put in far more effort than my peers to achieve the same results. I have spent countless hours studying, revisiting material multiple times, and seeking extra help to stay on track. Yet, every small victory shows the result of hard work and dedication. In addition to academic challenges, I’ve faced several medical hurdles, including surgeries and hospital stays related to my cleft lip and palate, as well as other health issues. These experiences tested my resilience, forcing me to confront pain, fear, and uncertainty head-on. Through these trials, I developed a deep sense of empathy and a greater appreciation for the strength it takes to persevere through life’s difficulties. These challenges have become a source of purpose, inspiring me to help others who are going through their own struggles. Looking ahead, my future plans revolve around service, connection, and impact. I am pursuing a degree in a foreign language, driven by my passion for bridging cultural and linguistic gaps. I believe that learning a second language will allow me to connect with people in meaningful ways, particularly those who may feel isolated due to language barriers. My goal is to use my skills to foster understanding, promote unity, and extend kindness to those who need it most. In addition to building personal connections, I aspire to use my education to create broader impacts. Whether it’s through community outreach, translation work, or teaching, I want to empower others and make a tangible difference in their lives. Language is a powerful tool, and I see it as a way to break down barriers and foster a sense of belonging. However, achieving these goals requires continued education, and financial constraints pose a significant hurdle. I would like to advance my studies, but without financial assistance, this dream may be out of reach. This scholarship would help me to reach my goal, as I am simply not able to handle the financial barrier alone. It would be an investment not only in my future but in the lives I hope to touch through my work. I am deeply committed to making an impact, both in my personal and professional life. My journey so far has been marked by perseverance and a drive to turn challenges into opportunities. This scholarship would provide the support I need to take the next step in my education and, ultimately, my mission to serve others. With God’s guidance and my determination, I am confident I will continue to grow, make a difference, and fulfill my purpose.

I couldn’t be more grateful for the challenges mental health has brought into my life. These struggles have become opportunities for growth, wisdom, and strength that only experience can provide. What could have felt like a curse, I’ve chosen to see as a blessing. When we determine to view everything as an opportunity, we discover that the battles we face with mental health don’t have to define us negatively—they can become tools for growth, tools not everyone gets the chance to hold. This perspective wasn’t something I could have gained without being in the midst of the battle itself. Recently, I lost a battle I fought very hard for—one I knew would be an incredibly difficult journey to heal from. But amidst the struggle, a spark of determination ignited in me. I resolved not to let it become my downfall. Instead, I would use it as a tool for my growth and betterment. That’s when I decided to surrender everything I was feeling, every battle I faced, to God. I let go of the weight I had carried alone for so long. I relinquished my control and placed my trust in Him. My strength and credit, I give entirely to God. For years, I tried to navigate these struggles on my own, only to fail repeatedly. Now, I thank God for the experiences and challenges I’ve endured. The knowledge and compassion I’ve gained allow me to serve others in ways I never could before. My struggles have made me more patient, empathetic, and loving toward others. I’ve been able to counsel people who face similar battles, helping them feel understood and supported. One way I’ve raised awareness about mental health is by encouraging others to withhold judgment, extend patience, and offer understanding to those who are struggling. I’ve supported others through hours-long conversations, acts of inclusion, and even simple, years-long ongoing messages to remind them they’re not alone. I hope to continue helping others in the future, even if it’s within the small capacities I have now. With God by my side, I see life in a way I never have before. I’ve learned to thank Him not only for the joys but also for the struggles and the things I didn’t want. By surrendering control, I’ve found that I am never alone in the fight. I couldn’t share this story without giving all credit to God. His grace has shaped me into a better person—one filled with hope, love, and forgiveness for both myself and others in ways I never imagined possible.