The movie that has had the greatest impact on my life is *The Pursuit of Happyness*, starring Will Smith. The story follows Chris Gardner, a man who faces homelessness while striving to create a better future for his son. Watching him overcome such immense challenges—never giving up despite constant setbacks—really resonated with me. It reminded me that, even in the hardest times, perseverance and hope can lead to a brighter future. Growing up, I faced many personal challenges that often felt overwhelming. From living in a split family to struggling with bullying, social anxiety, and emotional hardships, it was difficult to find my footing. Like Chris, I’ve faced moments where I questioned if things would ever get better. Watching the film showed me that it’s possible to push through these tough moments and keep moving forward, even when things seem impossible. Chris’s ability to continue pursuing his goals, even when the odds were stacked against him, inspired me to keep going despite my own struggles. What struck me most about the film was its emphasis on persistence and hard work. Chris’s journey is not an easy one—he’s constantly rejected, challenged, and forced to face uncomfortable truths about his situation. But no matter how many setbacks he faces, he never gives up. This lesson about the importance of sticking with something, even when it feels like the world is against you, has been life-changing for me. It taught me that success doesn’t come easily, but if you keep going and put in the work, the results will follow. This message helped me reframe my own challenges and view them as opportunities to grow rather than obstacles that would stop me. The movie also taught me the power of love and dedication. Throughout the story, Chris’s love for his son is the driving force behind his determination. He sacrifices so much for his son’s future, and that love fuels his relentless pursuit of a better life. This really spoke to me because it reminded me that when we have a reason to keep going—whether it’s for ourselves or someone we love—it gives us the strength to push through even the toughest times. Another major takeaway from the movie was the importance of believing in yourself, even when others may not. Chris faces numerous rejections and failures, but he keeps pushing forward because he believes in his own potential. That belief is what ultimately leads him to success. It made me realize that self-confidence is a key factor in overcoming challenges. When you believe that you are capable of achieving your goals, you’re more likely to take the steps necessary to get there. *The Pursuit of Happyness* has had a lasting effect on me by showing me that perseverance and determination are crucial for achieving success. It taught me that no matter where we start in life or how difficult our journey may seem, we always have the power to change our circumstances if we keep working hard. This film inspired me to approach my own goals with determination, to never give up in the face of adversity, and to remember that success is about the effort, not just the outcome.

Growing up, I faced many personal challenges that shaped who I am today and profoundly impacted my perspective on life, education, and the way I want to contribute to the world. Coming from a split family, dealing with verbal and emotional abuse, struggling with self-harm and body image issues, and living with social anxiety, I often felt isolated and uncertain about my place in the world. Bullying in school only added to these feelings, making it difficult to find confidence and trust in myself. These struggles took a significant toll on my mental and emotional health, and I often felt overwhelmed by the weight of everything I was going through. However, through support, and personal growth, I’ve learned to navigate these challenges.Turning them into opportunities for healing. Overcoming these hardships wasn’t easy, but it taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, strength, and perseverance. I learned that even when life feels unbearably hard, we can choose how we respond to those challenges. Through therapy, self-care, and seeking out positive influences, I learned to cope with my anxiety and work through the emotional pain. I also developed a deep sense of empathy for others going through their own struggles, which has motivated me to help others who may be facing similar difficulties. This experience has shaped the way I view education. When I was younger, education became a source of comfort for me. It was something I could focus on that provided me with a sense of accomplishment and purpose, despite everything going on in my personal life. School gave me the opportunity to step away from my problems and focus on learning, helping me feel empowered. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to see education not just as a way to achieve career goals, but as a means of personal growth. It has the ability to transform lives, and I want to use my education to make a positive impact in the world. As I pursue my education in the field of zookeeping, I’m excited to use what I’ve learned to help others and make a meaningful difference. My passion for animals and wildlife conservation has been a driving force in my life, and I see this career as a way to turn that passion into action. Through my studies, I hope to gain the knowledge and skills to contribute to the protection of endangered species and to work directly with animals in ways that ensure their survival. I want to be part of the larger conservation efforts that are focused on regrowing species that are at risk of extinction. In addition to animal care, I’m excited about the opportunity to educate others on the importance of wildlife conservation. By working at a zoo, I can help teach visitors about the value of preserving endangered species and how their actions can contribute to conservation efforts. Education is a powerful tool, and I believe that by sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm for animals, I can inspire others to care about wildlife and take action to protect the planet. The obstacles I’ve faced in my life have taught me the importance of perseverance and the power of education to create positive change. They’ve shown me that despite the difficulties we may encounter, there is always a way forward. I’ve learned that we all have the ability to rise above our challenges, and it’s those experiences that can fuel our determination to make a difference. I plan to use my education to contribute to the world in a meaningful way by helping to preserve the world’s wildlife and inspire others to do the same.

I’m passionate about pursuing a degree in zookeeping because it combines my love for animals with my desire to make a tangible difference in conservation efforts. From a young age, animals have been a source of wonder and comfort for me. I've always felt a strong connection to them, and over time, this connection grew into a passion to work with them in a way that benefits both the animals and the world around us. A degree in zookeeping is a perfect fit because it allows me to combine hands-on care for animals with the opportunity to actively contribute to wildlife preservation and education. One of the main reasons I’m drawn to zookeeping is the critical role that zoos play in conservation. Many species are facing the threat of extinction, and zoos provide a safe environment where endangered animals can be protected, studied, and even bred to help increase their populations. I want to be part of that process, helping to care for animals that are struggling to survive in the wild and contribute to efforts that ensure their long-term survival. The idea of directly helping to preserve species that are at risk of disappearing from the planet is something that deeply motivates me. Beyond the physical care of animals, I’m excited about the opportunity to work in education and outreach. Zoos are not only places to care for animals but also serve as important centers for teaching the public about wildlife conservation. I believe that educating visitors, especially young people, about the importance of protecting animals and their natural habitats is essential. Through this degree, I hope to gain the knowledge and skills needed to connect with others and inspire them to take an active role in preserving wildlife. Being able to share my passion and knowledge with others is something I look forward to, as it could encourage more people to care about conservation. What excites me about zookeeping is how it combines my interests in science, animal behavior, and environmental protection. It’s a career that requires a mix of practical skills, such as animal care and habitat management, along with scientific understanding of ecology, genetics, and conservation biology. This degree will give me the chance to learn all of these aspects in-depth, preparing me to not only care for animals but also contribute to ongoing research and conservation efforts. Zookeepers play a crucial role in shaping how animals are cared for in captivity, and I am eager to take on that responsibility. Ultimately, my passion for animals and conservation is what drives me to pursue this degree. The chance to care for animals, contribute to their preservation, and educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation is something I am deeply committed to. This degree will equip me with the knowledge and practical experience to make a real difference in the world. I look forward to using everything I learn to help protect endangered species, create better living conditions for animals in captivity, and inspire others to join the fight for wildlife preservation.

Jack Terry’s story of perseverance and overcoming adversity truly inspires me. His journey of facing difficult challenges, pushing through them, and emerging stronger is something I deeply connect with. Like Jack, I’ve faced a lot of hardships in my life that have at times seemed overwhelming. From growing up in a split family and enduring verbal and emotional abuse from a young age to struggling with self-harm and body image issues, I’ve had to find a way to keep going despite the obstacles. Social anxiety and being bullied throughout elementary and middle school only added to the challenges I had to navigate. Though these experiences were painful, they taught me important lessons about strength, resilience, and the power of healing. Over the years, I’ve learned to find my own worth and take steps toward healing. It’s through this journey that I’ve developed a deep empathy for others who may be going through similar struggles. It’s also made me realize that hardships, while difficult, can shape us in ways that make us stronger and more compassionate. Much like Jack, who used his experiences to fuel his passion for helping others, I’ve learned that the best way to move forward is by turning pain into purpose. As I continue my studies and work toward my future, I hope to give back to society by contributing to animal conservation. My passion for animals has been a constant in my life, and I want to use my education to make a real difference in protecting endangered species. My dream is to work at a zoo, where I can help educate others about the importance of conservation and play a part in regrowing species that are at risk of disappearing. The challenges I’ve faced have taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience, and I want to carry those lessons into my career. I’ve learned how to turn pain into a driving force, and now I want to use that energy to make a positive impact in the world. By working in conservation, I can share my love for animals with others and teach them the value of protecting the planet’s most vulnerable species. I hope my future work will not only help preserve wildlife but also inspire others to take action and make a difference. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read my application and your commitment to Jack Terry’s ideas and principles.

Being a student-athlete has had a profound impact on shaping both my personal growth and my future career goals. As a cheerleader, I’ve learned not only about the importance of physical strength and coordination, but also about the values of teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. These lessons have been crucial in my journey and will continue to play a major role as I move forward in my career. Whether I'm leading my team through difficult routines or striving to meet academic goals, the discipline and time management skills I’ve developed from cheerleading have taught me how to work hard and stay focused even when faced with challenges. Cheerleading has also helped me become a better communicator. It’s not just about stunts and performances; it's about being in sync with teammates, following directions, and offering support when others need it. The ability to work closely with others and lead with empathy is something that will translate into any career I pursue. Additionally, managing both cheerleading and my studies has taught me how to juggle multiple responsibilities. I’ve learned how to prioritize my time effectively, which has made me more efficient in every area of my life, whether it's schoolwork or personal goals. Outside of sports, I have a range of interests that help me stay balanced and allow me to express my creativity. One of my biggest passions is running my own small business, Eternity Florist, where I create custom ribbon flower arrangements. This business has given me the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills, from managing orders to customer relations, and it’s been an amazing experience to see something I love turn into a real business. In addition to my business, I enjoy crocheting and cosplaying, both of which let me explore my creativity in different ways. Crocheting is a relaxing activity that allows me to create something beautiful, while cosplaying lets me immerse myself in a world of storytelling and craftsmanship. Both activities have taught me patience and problem-solving, skills I can apply to any career. The combination of my athletic experience and creative passions has shaped my outlook on life. I’ve learned the importance of working hard, staying organized, and balancing multiple pursuits. Whether I continue developing my business, follow a different career path, or pursue a combination of both, the skills I’ve gained as a cheerleader and from my hobbies will continue to guide me toward success in the future. Through all these experiences, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of who I am and what I want to achieve, and I’m excited to keep building on that foundation.

My name is Arianna Bisson-Rink, and I’m a dedicated student, a passionate cheerleader, and someone with a deep love for animals. Since I was young, I’ve felt a strong connection to wildlife, and I’ve always dreamed of turning this passion into a career. That’s why I am determined to pursue a degree in zoology or a related field and ultimately become a zookeeper. I want to use my education to make a difference in animal care, contribute to conservation efforts, and promote awareness about wildlife protection. As a cheerleader, I’ve had the opportunity to develop important skills that extend far beyond the sport itself. Cheerleading has taught me how to be a team player, work together toward common goals, and lead by example. These are qualities that I know will serve me well in my future career. Whether it’s working in a team of professionals at a zoo or leading educational programs about animal conservation, I understand the importance of collaboration, communication, and dedication. Balancing the demands of cheerleading with my academic responsibilities has also taught me how to manage my time effectively and remain disciplined, skills that are vital as I work toward achieving my goal of becoming a zookeeper. In addition to my involvement in cheerleading, my passion for animals has led me to actively pursue opportunities to learn more about wildlife. I’ve volunteered at local animal shelters, worked with rescue organizations, and participated in educational programs about animal care. These experiences have deepened my understanding of animal behavior, the challenges facing wildlife today, and the crucial role zoos play in conservation. Through these hands-on opportunities, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to combine practical experience with formal education to make a meaningful impact in the field of animal care. This scholarship will play a pivotal role in helping me achieve my dream of becoming a zookeeper. The financial support will allow me to focus more on my studies and less on the stress of paying for tuition, textbooks, and other academic expenses. With this assistance, I will be able to fully immerse myself in my education, pursue internships, and take part in hands-on learning opportunities that will prepare me for my future career. I am eager to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to animal welfare and conservation efforts, and this scholarship will bring me one step closer to that goal. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, and I believe that with your support, I will be able to turn my passion into a meaningful career that positively impacts the lives of animals and the world around us. Thank you for considering my application.

STEM has been a big part of shaping my dream of becoming a zookeeper. I’ve always been fascinated by animals and ecosystems, and STEM has given me the tools to better understand them. But pursuing this path hasn’t been without its challenges, especially as a young woman in a field where stereotypes still exist. Those obstacles, however, have only fueled my determination and strengthened my passion for this career. One challenge I’ve faced is overcoming the assumption that STEM fields, or roles like wildlife conservation and zookeeping, aren’t always for women. Instead of letting those stereotypes discourage me, I’ve worked hard to prove otherwise. I’ve learned to lean on mentors, focus on my strengths, and stay determined in pursuing what I love. These experiences have helped me grow more confident and resilient. What keeps me so passionate about STEM and zookeeping is the chance to make a real difference for animals and their environments. Learning about biodiversity, conservation, and animal behavior has inspired me to use my knowledge to tackle real-world challenges, like protecting endangered species and educating people about wildlife conservation. I want to play a role in preserving ecosystems and ensuring the animals under human care have the best lives possible. Participating in STEM-related extracurriculars has also helped me grow as a leader. I’ve worked on animal care projects at shelters and joined citizen science programs, like tracking local wildlife populations. These experiences taught me how to organize teams, communicate effectively, and take responsibility for achieving goals. I plan to carry those skills with me into my career as a zookeeper, where I’ll not only care for animals but also lead initiatives to educate others and contribute to conservation efforts. Becoming a zookeeper combines everything I’m passionate about: animals, science, and solving real-world problems. With the skills and confidence I’ve gained through STEM, I’m excited to turn my dream into reality and make a meaningful impact in the world of wildlife.

Being a high school cheerleader, especially one who participates in football, basketball, and state competitions, is an experience full of challenges and rewards. While the sport demands significant physical, mental, and emotional effort, it also provides opportunities for personal growth and life lessons that last far beyond high school. One of the biggest challenges cheerleaders face is managing their time. Balancing practices, games, competitions, schoolwork, and a social life is no easy task. Cheerleaders often have especially demanding schedules during football and basketball seasons, with the added pressure of preparing for state competitions. This leaves little room for downtime, requiring careful planning and prioritization to avoid falling behind in school or feeling burned out. Cheerleading is also physically demanding. Long practices filled with stunts, tumbling, and complex routines take a toll on the body. Exhaustion is common, and injuries are always a risk. On top of that, cheerleaders often face intense mental and emotional pressure. Performing in front of crowds during games or competing at the state level can be nerve-wracking, especially when the team is striving for perfection. Academics present another hurdle. Missing classes for games, pep rallies, or travel means that cheerleaders often have to work twice as hard to keep up with their schoolwork. This can be stressful, especially during busy seasons. Team dynamics can also be challenging. Cheerleading is a team sport, and conflicts among team members can make it harder to perform as a cohesive group. Finally, cheerleaders often face social expectations or stereotypes. Being in the spotlight brings added scrutiny, which can create pressure to live up to certain ideals. Despite these challenges, being a cheerleader teaches valuable life lessons. One of the most important is the power of hard work. The long hours of practice and dedication required to perfect routines show that persistence pays off, even when things get tough. Cheerleaders also develop exceptional time management skills, learning to juggle busy schedules—a skill that will serve them well in college and beyond. Cheerleading also emphasizes teamwork. Success depends on trust and cooperation. Whether it’s hitting a stunt or performing a flawless routine, the team’s achievements are the result of everyone working together. Cheerleaders also learn resilience. Whether it’s bouncing back from an injury, a failed stunt, or a tough loss, they gain the ability to recover and move forward with determination. Leadership is another key lesson. Many cheerleaders take on roles like team captain, which teach responsibility, decision-making, and how to inspire and guide others. Additionally, being part of a cheer team fosters school spirit and a sense of community. Cheerleaders play a vital role in bringing people together, whether it’s through cheering at games or representing their school at state competitions. Finally, cheerleading teaches how to handle pressure. Performing in front of large crowds or competing at high-stakes events helps cheerleaders develop focus and composure, skills that are valuable in any high-pressure situation. In the end, being a high school cheerleader is about much more than performing routines or competing for trophies. The challenges push cheerleaders to grow as individuals, and the lessons they learn—about hard work, teamwork, resilience, and leadership—stay with them for life. Through every game, competition, and practice, cheerleaders develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed, both on and off the mat.

Growing up, I’ve always been captivated by the intricate relationship between humans, nature, and the creatures that inhabit it. For me, agriculture and caring for animals represent more than just work—they are a way to connect with the earth, foster sustainability, and nurture life. This passion has been cultivated over time, shaped by personal experiences, values, and a desire to contribute to a healthier, more balanced world. My connection to agriculture began with an appreciation for how it sustains communities. The process of planting seeds, nurturing them, and eventually seeing them grow into life-giving crops is a humbling reminder of our responsibility as stewards of the land. Agriculture offers a tangible way to give back, and it teaches patience, hard work, and resilience. There is something deeply fulfilling about watching a field transform across seasons—a process that is both a reflection of nature’s power and a result of human care. My passion for caring for animals stems from the bond I’ve experienced with them over the years. Animals have a unique way of teaching empathy and responsibility. Whether it’s tending to livestock, feeding farm animals, or simply observing their behavior, the relationship between humans and animals is one of mutual dependence and respect. I’ve always believed that when we care for animals—ensuring they are healthy, safe, and valued—they, in turn, enrich our lives, from providing food to companionship and even lessons in perseverance. This passion has also shaped my dream of working at a zoo, where I can dedicate myself to the care, protection, and education surrounding animals. Zoos provide an incredible opportunity to create connections between people and wildlife, fostering awareness about conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species. I am inspired by the role zoos play in educating the public and contributing to global efforts to preserve biodiversity. Being a part of that mission would allow me to combine my love for animals with my desire to make a meaningful impact. My passion also extends to a broader desire to promote sustainable practices. As the world faces challenges like climate change and food insecurity, I feel inspired to be part of a movement that emphasizes ethical farming, humane animal care, and environmental preservation. Agriculture, animal care, and zoo work aren’t just traditions or career paths to me—they’re opportunities to create a more harmonious relationship with our planet. In essence, agriculture, animal care, and working at a zoo are more than interests—they are ways for me to feel connected to something larger than myself. They embody the values of nurturing, respect, and sustainability that I hold dear. By pursuing this passion, I hope to contribute to a future where both humans and the natural world thrive together.

Growing up with teenage parents who separated early on was anything but easy. As a kid, I often felt like my feelings and opinions didn’t matter. My parents were still figuring out their own lives, and emotional support wasn’t something they could always provide. I learned to stay quiet and suppress my emotions, even turning to self-harm just to feel “normal.” It was a tough way to grow up, and for a long time, I thought that was just how life had to be. Things started to change in high school when I decided to try therapy. At first, it was one of the hardest things I’d ever done. After spending years believing that no one cared about what I felt, opening up to someone—especially a stranger—felt impossible. But my therapist was patient, and over time, I began to realize that my voice did matter. She taught me coping mechanisms that helped me deal with my emotions, and she gave me the structure and tools to succeed. For the first time in a long while, I was able to stay on top of assignments, keep my grades up, and feel proud of myself. Therapy became a turning point in my life. Through this process, I discovered a purpose that goes beyond my own healing. I’ve always had a passion for animals, and learning about endangered species has made me realize how much they need our help. Animals like the Amur leopard and the vaquita aren’t disappearing because they can’t adapt—they’re disappearing because of human actions. I want to change that. My goal is to work in conservation, helping endangered animals survive and thrive. My mission doesn’t stop there. I also want to educate others—both kids and adults—about why protecting wildlife is so important. Many people don’t realize how deeply connected we are to the natural world and how much we lose when a species disappears. By raising awareness and encouraging sustainable choices, I hope to inspire others to take action too. Protecting endangered animals isn’t just about saving them—it’s about preserving the ecosystems that all of us rely on. The challenges I faced growing up taught me resilience and empathy, two qualities I now carry with me in everything I do. While I can’t change the past, I can use those experiences to create a better future—for myself and for the animals who don’t have a voice. I’m determined to make a difference and honor the memory of Mark D. Schwarck by committing to the values of compassion, perseverance, and positive change.