For DonorsFor Applicants
user profile avatar

Arysa Puckett

5,745

Bold Points

26x

Nominee

1x

Finalist

Bio

I am Arysa. Everything about me, I want it to shine. I want others to feel inspired when they hear me talk and loved when I spend time with them. I moved to Colorado to major in Ecosystem Science and Sustainability at Colorado State University. I will use my career to heal the environment but also the social atmosphere. Environmental justice naturally carries social justice onward to our communities by reducing overwhelming waste polluting low-income communities, and much more. Social and environmental justice are just a few of the many goals I strive for in this lifetime. These things: the earth, people, and equality are what I am most passionate about. I believe that anyone and everyone deserves a clean, safe place to live and learn, and I hope to be a shining beacon of light for all to see that it can get better.

Education

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Bachelor's degree program
2021 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Sustainability Studies
  • Minors:
    • Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies
    • Anthropology

Yukon Hs

High School
2017 - 2021
  • GPA:
    3.9

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Sustainability Studies
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Test scores:

    • 31
      ACT

    Career

    • Dream career field:

      Renewables & Environment

    • Dream career goals:

      Scientist, Environmental Activist

    • EcoLeader

      EcoLeaders of Colorado State University
      2021 – Present3 years
    • Server

      Kona Ice
      2020 – 2020
    • Geometry Tutor

      Independent
      2018 – 2018
    • Content Creator

      Bold.org
      2020 – 20211 year
    • Babysitter

      Independent
      2018 – 20202 years
    • Barista

      Starbucks
      2020 – 20211 year

    Sports

    Basketball

    Junior Varsity
    2017 – 20181 year

    Research

    • Water Quality

      Multicultural Undergraduate Research Art and Learning Symposium (MURALS at Colorado State University) — Researcher
      2021 – Present

    Arts

    • Yukon High School

      Theatre
      The Murder of Lidice, The Little Mermaid Musical
      2017 – 2020
    • Yukon High School

      Choir
      Christmas in the Rotunda, Fall Concert
      2019 – Present

    Public services

    • Advocacy

      Zero Waste Team at CSU — Zero Waste Team Member
      2021 – Present
    • Advocacy

      Youth Speak Out — I spoke at events to address issues and met with our high school principal to discuss how we could make the school better.
      2018 – 2019
    • Volunteering

      Oklahoma Blood Institute — Blood Donor
      2019 – Present
    • Volunteering

      National Honors Society — NHS member
      2018 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Gateway Express Testing — I was a volunteer who helped clean & organize so that Gateway could function how it needed to to help women.
      2017 – 2017

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Politics

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Pandemic's Box Scholarship
    The pandemic has proved to the general public what scientists have been saying for years: humans are to blame for the pollution, the deterioration of our home planet. When most of the world’s population stayed home because of COVID-19, massive progress was made and smog levels were drastically reduced in major cities. It required a full-blown quarantine for me to decide what I wanted to do with my life, but it’s so clear now. After witnessing the giant plummet in carbon emissions this summer and the drastically positive effects it had, the only thing I can see myself doing is campaigning for environmental change. I've always had a passion for environmental causes, but it's an incredible tug on my heart I can't ignore now. The pandemic gave me many gifts: more time for my family and friends, but also time to reflect on my own desires. The pandemic provided me with insight I might never have gained on my own and for that, I am forever grateful.
    A Sani Life Scholarship
    “I think my mom has COVID.” On a Friday, my boyfriend and I went home early from school because of an ice storm heading our way. We huddled close to the fires in our homes and waited for the snow to start. But, when his mom came home from work, he began to worry. She said she was having trouble tasting and couldn’t smell the candle she was burning less than two feet from her. It was a text I had dreaded but assumed I would get from somebody, soon enough. The number of cases had been jumping drastically in my home state, and it was only a matter of time before someone close to me contracted the virus. We were worried. His whole family was asthmatic and his mom recently underwent a major surgery to remove a cancerous tumor. Our anxiety spiked, and our plans for the next 2 weeks just disappeared. That was October. Luckily, his family made it out fine, but many have not. At that time, we were still doing in-person learning, but it wasn’t for much longer. By the time Thanksgiving was upon us, we had moved back to online learning: 5 hours of zooms, fidgeting with my computer, desperately wishing to be back with my friends. Needless to say, it was a difficult month and a half. Then, our choir concerts were canceled and life seemed to be rapidly coasting downhill. I barely saw anyone except my family, and every venture out of the house was a risk. My escape was work, oddly enough. I had joined Starbucks in July, just in time for mask mandates to begin sparking nationwide disagreements. I witnessed, firsthand, countless arguments between customers and employees, refusals, and even hissy fits and cursing. I saw how selfish the world could be, how ignorant and rude. Being an “essential worker” meant nothing to them. But, on the flip side, I also enjoyed numerous conversations with regulars. They tipped extra during the holidays and thanked us for our peppy spirits. They knew our hearts and wanted to show appreciation for our service. Friendships within my workplace also grew, and even amid a pandemic, I was able to keep human contact. Working became not only a financial advantage but a social one as well. I learned how much I craved being with others only because for so long, I couldn’t be. I realized how lonely I had become, and serving the customers gave me something to look forward to every week. 2020 was certainly not all bad. Many joyous memories were made even through the COVID-19 scares and lockdowns. I learned to be still, to sit with my emotions, and just experience them as a human being should instead of rushing to distract myself. Sure, there were times in which I craved to be out with friends. The first few months of quarantine were probably the worst, but eventually, I learned how to cope. I revisited my passion for reading, began running with my dog, and even taught myself how to crochet. Then, when lockdowns around the country began to drastically reduce carbon emissions, I had an epiphany. I had always loved the environment and we now had clear evidence of the anthropogenic impact on our natural world. I decided to commit to a degree in Ecosystem Sustainability at Colorado State University. It was a year that will go down in history books, a year synonymous with chaos and heartbreak. But, I like to think many of us utilized 2020 to choose introspection over the usual distractions of life. We needed rest. 2020 presented us with challenges, but we're overcoming the pandemic, and I believe we'll be stronger in 2021.
    Susy Ruiz Superhero Scholarship
    There’s something incredible stored inside of English teachers. I might be biased; my mom used to teach Language Arts. But, I could almost guarantee that there’s magic inside of each one of them. Every English class I’ve been in has made me feel at home. Yet, one teacher specifically welcomed me with open arms, and I am forever grateful for her love and devotion to her classroom. I had the exceptional privilege of having Mrs. Reape for two years consecutively, my sophomore and junior year. English has always been a favorite of mine. Reading and writing came naturally to me, and Mrs. Reape recognized my talent quickly. She wrote encouraging notes on my essays, boosting my confidence in my work. For once, I truly felt appreciated by a teacher. But, she didn’t reserve her praise for only those who achieved academically. She dedicated herself to every student in her classroom. Mrs. Reape cared deeply about the subject matter, too, and this was evident in our discussions. The stories we read weren’t time-fillers. No, we jumped into those books and dug out applicable lessons for our lives. She was my teacher, but she was also my mentor and model for living a righteous life. It was in her class that I first felt my passion for justice and equality ignited. When I questioned, Mrs. Reape answered. When I spoke, she listened. I felt empowered when I walked into her class. I didn’t have to hide behind the walls of meekness I had been taught for so long. Mrs. Reape constantly reminded me to advocate for my beliefs, to be loud and emphatic about my activism even if I was the only one standing. This past year, Mrs. Reape retired from her teaching position to become an assistant principal. However, she continues to support me on my path to college. She has sent countless recommendation letters to scholarship donors, directors, and businesses to help me achieve my goals. When I walk down the hallway and see her smiling face, I am reminded of our journey together, and of how far we’ve both traveled. I was once a shy, timid girl who thought her voice would mean nothing to the world. But, Mrs. Reape pushed me to my fullest potential and encouraged me to strive for goals outside of my comfort zone. She’s taught me countless invaluable lessons and shaped me into the mature, spirited young woman I am today.
    Better Food, Better World Scholarship
    Since I was young, I’ve tried to be conscious of my actions, what I eat, and how they affect the planet. I grew up outside: gardening, traveling to national parks, and hiking in the most gorgeous places in the U.S.; this is what brought me to the conclusion that I want to become an environmental scientist. The great outdoors has always been a place of peace and comfort for me and when I was in the 8th grade, I was invited to a camp for girls interested in STEM. One night, a job fair was held and I was introduced to dozens of brilliant women. They were chemical engineers, mathematicians, doctors, vets, and many more. I realized two things that night. The first realization was that a girl such as me could take on a field that had been dominated by men for years, and secondly, that I could create a career out of doing something I loved. I’m a restless soul, and I’d honestly hate creating a career out of anything that doesn’t set my soul on fire. It required a full-blown quarantine for me to decide, this summer, what I wanted to do, but it’s so clear now. After witnessing the giant plummet in carbon emissions this summer and the drastically positive effects it had, the only thing I can see myself doing is campaigning for environmental change. In addition to the pandemic, years of political division in America over environmental policies have been imperative to my journey as a young activist. I have been disappointed in our politicians and know I must learn about the political aspect of environmental studies as well to best serve my community and impact the world around me. Part of my motivation to study the environment stems from the absolute dismissal I have seen from top leaders. Through earning my degree, I wish to guide these lawmakers in the most sustainable manners and to inspire a new generation to be good stewards of the world’s natural resources. I have already switched to a vegan diet to reduce my impact on the environment, and have inspired many others around me to become vegetarians or eat a low-meat diet. Since my decision 4 years ago, I've continued to reach out to fellow activists and learn as much as possible. I've attended zoom calls, watched documentaries with friends, and lobbied for environmental change. I believe the youth of this world are some of the most passionate individuals alive, and I've committed myself to the beautiful restoration of our home planet.
    Darryl Davis "Follow Your Heart" Scholarship
    Evie Irie Misfit Scholarship
    I was sitting alone at a table at the back of the class. My stomach growled as my teammates laughed, enjoying their chicken sandwiches, excited for the upcoming game. Nobody had told our coach I didn’t eat meat, so once again I was accidentally excluded from a meal. I searched through my bag for sustenance and discovered a crumbling granola bar that would at least give me enough energy to get through the game. Being a vegan hasn’t always been a walk in the park. For some reason, everyone seems to think you only eat leaves or grass. You’re often the joke at family functions, and not many restaurants cater to your dietary needs. Your beliefs and values are ridiculed by peers who can’t comprehend the lifestyle you lead, and it can be incredibly lonely. It’s enough to make even the most resilient person feel like an outcast. But I wasn’t just a vegan. I was also the new kid who read a new book every week. I loved to learn, and while most of my peers zoned out in class, I readily asked questions because I strived to fully comprehend the subject matter. As you can imagine, I didn’t win any popularity contests in high school. I wasn’t the president of student council or the captain of the volleyball team. Just a girl concerned about the environment and animal rights. But that’s what made me unique! I realized I didn’t need to be anybody except myself because I excelled in areas where others did not; my misfit-ness would change the world. Just this summer, I decided to major in ecosystem sustainability. It wasn’t for money or fame, but because that’s where my passion lies. Caring about the earth hasn’t always been the most well-received philosophy by my community, but it certainly forced me to establish my own beliefs early on and designate my path in the world. Feeling like a misfit in school and home has also granted me the courage to see things from a new perspective, empathizing with those who might not always have a seat at the table. Although I have often felt excluded from groups, it genuinely transformed me into a more thoughtful person with a knack for caring for hurting individuals. This extends itself to conserving the environment as well and all the inhabitants living in it. I absolutely love the natural world and all it has to offer. It’s brought me great peace in times of solitude when I felt nobody else would support me. This is one of the many reasons why I plan on becoming a conservation scientist. My ultimate goal for my career is to inspire as many individuals as possible to admire the beauty of our world, and to fight for the remaining land we have yet to destroy through reckless behavior. I will advocate for our voiceless environment and use my empathy for good. I want others to know being a misfit is one of the greatest aspects of my existence. Without it, I might have picked out a monotonous office job I would have resented for the rest of my life. I’m so incredibly thankful for the outlook it has brought me and wouldn’t trade it for the world.
    JuJu Foundation Scholarship
    Just last Friday, I sat in my car, eating lunch, and I watched the student in front of me throw a plastic cup out of his truck with absolutely no remorse. I was disgusted and shocked at his actions, but for many Americans littering is simply more convenient than taking care of the environment. As a future sustainability scientist, I believe environmental justice is one of the most pressing issues facing our community today, and I will never stop advocating for the earth and its inhabitants. The beauty of our will forever inspire me to accomplish my dreams. Environmental justice encompasses much more than the natural world. Healing the environment would also address racism, sexism, water inequalities on Indigenous lands, and more. Because there is such a systematic approach to how government and businesses operate, patterns are arising between pollution contamination and its location in neighborhoods highly populated by people of color. This is apparent as Black people face higher asthma rates, elevated cancer rates, and premature deaths while White people experience about 17% less pollution than they produce according to NPR. These correlations are not accidental. For centuries, people of color have been marginalized in the United States, and I feel too many environmentalists are ignoring the role that the climate crisis is playing in racism. This summer, I learned a ridiculous amount about the privilege I was born with as a white individual, and it is an enormous motivating factor for my future career. My job as a scientist would enable me to research sustainable energy practices while inherently advocating for the social change I wish to see in my community. Supporting the environmental justice movement naturally advances social equality. The policies I execute will restore the land minority citizens live on and help implement intersectional environmentalism. I understand that it will take generations of environmentalists and social activists to begin fixing the deep wounds inflicted. However, after experiencing how passionate the youth were this summer protesting injustice, I regained a ray of hope for our future. They have a great desire to see justice restored in our world, not only for the environment but for all communities of color. The beautiful earth around me and these youth inspire me to surpass my perceived potential, and I will not disappoint them.
    Simple Studies Scholarship
    Since I was young, I’ve tried to be conscious of my actions and how they affect the planet. I grew up outside: gardening, traveling to national parks, and hiking in the most gorgeous places in the U.S.; this is what brought me to the conclusion that I want to study environmental sustainability in college. The great outdoors has always been a place of peace and comfort for me and when I was in the 8th grade, I was invited to a camp for young women interested in STEM. One night, a job fair was held and I was introduced to dozens of brilliant women. They were chemical engineers, mathematicians, doctors, vets, and many more. I realized two things that night. The first realization was that a girl such as me could take on a field that had been dominated by men for years, and secondly, that I could create a career out of doing something I loved. I’m a restless soul, and I’d honestly hate creating a career out of anything that doesn’t set my soul on fire. It required a full-blown quarantine this summer to decide what I wanted to do, but it’s so evident now. After witnessing the giant plummet in carbon emissions this summer and the drastically positive effects it had, the only thing I can see myself doing is campaigning for environmental change. In addition to the pandemic, years of political division in America over environmental policies have been imperative to my journey as a young activist. I have been disappointed in our politicians and know I must learn about the political aspect of environmental studies as well to best serve my community and impact the world around me. Part of my motivation to study the environment stems from the absolute dismissal I have seen from top leaders. Through earning my degree in environmental sustainability, I wish to guide these lawmakers in the most sustainable manners and to inspire a new generation to be good stewards of the world’s natural resources.
    Najal Judd Women in STEM Scholarship
    Every scientist and person is different. We all have thousands of ideas spinning inside of our heads that nobody else ever will. While you might accomplish a task simply and efficiently, another will add highlights to their notes, take pictures of the finished product, or sketch out their plans before they ever begin. Our unique thoughts are the very fuel that advances science, and through this, we learn more from each other than we ever could from a textbook. Once, when I was younger, I detested group projects. I found them to be exasperating assignments in which I had to pester the other group members into doing their part. But once I began working in the field I am most passionate about, environmental science, I soon realized that there isn’t one right way. There isn’t a “correct” path to create an experiment and more often than not, my team could dream up much cooler ideas than I ever would have. It was humbling to recognize my shortcomings, but ultimately it was the most imperative epiphany to my career. Yet, it wasn’t only an educational enlightenment, but also a personal one. When communicating with my family and friends, remembering our diversity allowed me to listen with greater focus and have a more accurate comprehension of the conversation. I believe this uniqueness is the greatest gift we’ve been given, and we must utilize it if we are ever to progress as a science community or a society as a whole.
    Pettable Pet Lovers Scholarship
    This is Sammy! She loves lounging in the grass outside in the sunshine, going on walks around the neighborhood, and eating puppuccinos from my job. She is about 3 years old and is very energetic!
    Nikhil Desai Reflect and Learn COVID-19 Scholarship
    “I think my mom has COVID.” On a Friday, my boyfriend and I went home early from school because of an ice storm heading our way. We huddled close to the fires in our homes and waited for the snow to start. But, when his mom came home from work, he began to worry. She said she was having trouble tasting and couldn’t smell the candle she was burning less than two feet from her. It was a text I had dreaded but assumed I would get from somebody, soon enough. The number of cases had been jumping drastically in our state and it was only a matter of time before someone close to me contracted the virus. We were worried. His whole family was asthmatic and his mom recently underwent a major surgery to remove a cancerous tumor. Our anxiety spiked and our plans for the next 2 weeks just disappeared. That was October. Luckily, his family made it out fine, but many have not. At that time, we were still doing in-person learning, but it wasn’t for much longer. By the time Thanksgiving was upon us, we had moved back to online learning: 5 hours of zooms, fidgeting with my computer, desperately wishing to be back with my friends. Needless to say, it was a rough month and a half. Then, our choir concerts were canceled and life seemed to be rapidly coasting downhill. I barely saw anyone except my family and every venture out of the house was a risk. My escape was work, oddly enough. I had joined Starbucks in July, just in time for mask mandates to begin sparking nationwide disagreements. I witnessed, firsthand, countless arguments between customers and employees, refusals, and even hissy fits and cursing. I saw how selfish the world could be, how ignorant and plain rude. Being an “essential worker” meant nothing to them. But, on the flip side, I also enjoyed numerous conversations with regulars. They tipped extra during the holidays and thanked us for our peppy spirits. They knew our hearts and wanted to show appreciation for our service. Friendships within my workplace also grew, and even amid a pandemic, I was able to keep human contact. Working became not only a financial advantage but a social one as well. I learned how much I craved being with others only because for so long, I couldn’t be. I realized how lonely I had become, and serving the customers gave me something to look forward to every week. 2020 was certainly not all bad. Many joyous memories were made even through the COVID-19 scares and lockdowns. I learned to be still, to sit with my emotions, and just experience them as a human being should instead of rushing to distract myself. Sure, there were times in which I craved to be out with friends. The first few months of quarantine were probably the worst, but eventually, I learned how to cope. I revisited my passion for reading, began running with my dog, and even taught myself how to crochet. Though we still aren’t quite out of the woods, I have hope for the coming year. I’ve seen how the human race can band together in times of need, and I believe we are finally turning the corner with this new vaccine. Who knows? Maybe this time next year I won’t even flinch at the sound of coughing.
    Amplify Green Innovation Scholarship
    Once I earn my degree, I will set my sights on one of my most important goals: working to stop the disastrous effects of the climate crisis. I recognize it could take decades to reverse the effects, but the pandemic has also proved to the general public what scientists have been saying for years: humans are to blame for the pollution, the deterioration of our home planet. I believe the most interesting aspect of the climate crisis is utilizing green energy in place of fossil fuels. This summer, we saw a drastic decrease in carbon pollution because of mass quarantines and this is the type of future we could continue to enjoy if only we would shift to clean powers such as wind, solar, and nuclear energy. The only problem I predict is the issue of nuclear waste clean-up. Although nuclear waste is minuscule in comparison to other energy sources, it is radioactive, and therefore requires more time-intensive storage either in storage ponds or burial. Because nuclear energy is a relatively new energy source, many are also afraid of potential dangers and I wish to dispel those fears as well. If we could gain the support of the public, research would continue to improve and we could work to implement nuclear energy into our everyday lives. I am incredibly excited to work with other scientists in researching green energy sources to advance their value and work towards gradually replacing fossil fuels.
    Justricia Scholarship for Education
    My mother had to ground me from reading once. I had recently discovered Harry Potter and refused to leave my room until I had finished the book. I was in the second grade. See, my mother is a 6th-grade math teacher who used to teach English, and my grandpa is a custodian at a local elementary school. Since I was a baby, I've been surrounded by people who love to learn. It's in my blood. My closest family members are the waves sweeping me across the ocean of knowledge. The gifts I'd receive for Christmas were always books, puzzles, beginner sudoku magazines. They set me up! Now, I'd rather watch National Geographic documentaries than "Pretty Little Liars." That might make me a nerd, but I've come to embrace the title. I wouldn't trade my education for the world. My familial roots are the reason I challenged myself in high school. Going to college was never a question for me. It was what I knew I’d do because I genuinely crave understanding and higher levels of comprehension. But, until last year, I had no idea what I wanted my career to be. Certainly, I loved my classes, but nothing specific jumped out at me. The pandemic hit and school moved online. I watched as carbon pollution drastically decreased due to mass quarantines, and it struck me: environmental science! All these years of hiking and traveling to National Parks, listening to teachers explain climate change, and somehow I never thought of it until then. The role of education has shifted for me now. What once was a casual, fun learning experience has now become a career goal. I want to become an Ecosystem Sustainability major and an advocate for green energy. Through obtaining my degree, I wish to use my education to conserve the beautiful world around me. I will labor to preserve the natural world in all its splendor and guide lawmakers in creating new policies for wildlife conservation. Sure, I’ll always enjoy a good book, but my focus is now on a higher goal, a possible world-wide impact that I could have because of my degree. Education will always be important to my family, and I won't ever stop thanking them for their generous influence on my learning. However, my education is on my shoulders now. They have shaped my life in numerous measures, and I only hope to influence my peers to the same extent. So, goodbye Harry Potter! Make room for the environmental textbooks!
    Cynthia Lennon Scholarship for Girls
    This picture is one I took when crossing a bridge and I thought it was brilliant to put the sticker here. It would remind others of the beauty of their life and how many people love them.
    Rosemarie STEM Scholarship
    Since I was young, I’ve tried to be conscious of my actions and how they affect the planet. I grew up outside: gardening, traveling to national parks, and hiking in the most gorgeous places in the U.S.; this is what brought me to the conclusion that I want to become an environmental scientist. The great outdoors has always been a place of peace and comfort for me and when I was in the 8th grade, I was invited to a camp for girls interested in STEM. One night, a job fair was held and I was introduced to dozens of brilliant women. They were chemical engineers, mathematicians, doctors, vets, and many more. I realized two things that night. The first realization was that a girl such as me could take on a field that had been dominated by men for decades, and secondly, that I could create a career out of doing something I loved. I’m a restless soul, and I’d honestly hate creating a career out of anything that doesn’t set my soul on fire. After witnessing the giant plummet in carbon emissions this summer due to mass quarantine and the drastically positive effects it had, the only thing I can see myself doing is campaigning for environmental change. In addition to the pandemic, years of political division in America over environmental policies have been imperative to my journey as a young activist. I have been disappointed in our politicians and know I must learn about the political aspect of environmental studies as well to best serve my community and impact the world around me. Part of my motivation to study the environment stems from the absolute dismissal I have seen from top leaders. Through earning a sustainability degree, I wish to guide these lawmakers in the most environmentally responsible manner and to inspire a new generation to be good stewards of the world’s natural resources. To me, an environmental scientist is a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Such as the Lorax once said, “unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.” Obtaining a degree in sustainability means I will be campaigning for an entire world of voiceless, but essential creatures, from microscopic tardigrades to skyscraper redwoods. My greatest hope is to specialize in the use of green energy to transform the way the world consumes power. My father now works as a sustainability specialist for a green energy company and his passion for his new job has inspired me. Everyday I hear stories of new opportunities and I am wildly excited for my career. I believe in science and its ability to change the world and I can only hope I will be able to become a cog in the grand machine.
    Bold Moments No-Essay Scholarship
    In Zion National Park, the Virgin River provides a hiking trail called The Narrows. It is a hike through the freezing water and my family and I dared to travel it this summer. I didn't realize how slippery the rocks would be nor how tired my body would become. For many sections, I had to carry my brothers just to keep their head above water. The miles of swift currents attempted to carry us away, but many years of training prepared me for this moment. It was a bold hike I'll never forget.
    Amplify Women in STEM Scholarship
    When I was young, I learned about an amazing conservationist named Jane Goodall. She was one of the first women I had ever heard about that was loved and respected by the scientific community and I knew something about her was special. Goodall, I later learned, had to forego her undergraduate degree coming out of high school and delved into research because of financial hardships. However, even without a formal education, she effectively observed and discovered a handful of chimpanzee behaviors that were completely new to the science community. Many scientists have refuted her discoveries and even condemned her taboo practices of naming chimps and playing with them, but it doesn't take away the admiration I have for her inspirational work. In my work, I hope to succeed Goodall in a way that would make her proud. I strive to become an environmental scientist with a double major in biology. I want to continue her conservation efforts and bring awareness to young people specifically. I believe that the youth of our nation are zealous and inspired to save our planet and I want to encourage that passion. I’ve always loved immersing myself in nature and want to do my absolute best to conserve the forests and plains and deserts of our beautiful world. I believe it is of utmost necessity to not only conserve it but restore the polluted pieces to their original glory. My greatest wish as a woman in STEM is to bring health back to Mother Nature. And that’s exactly what I work towards every single day.
    Nikhil Desai "Perspective" Scholarship
    “But, plants have feelings too!” I cannot count the number of times I heard that phrase trailing behind my admission that I was a vegan. The defensive stance that complete strangers would take all because I chose to eat a different diet than them. But, I’m going to be honest. Certainly, there was a time in my young life where this simple responsive comment would have made my blood boil. “You know that’s not true,” I would shout. “The animals are the ones locked up in cages! Being tortured so that you can use them as a resource!” Their smiling, calculating eyes revealed their true intentions: to rile me up and betray myself as a monstrous radical. Those sly sneaks won their fun for a year or so while I refused to even try a friend’s homemade bread or take a popsicle because of the small chance that the sugar was bleached with animal bones. But, what was I doing for the animals by losing all the joy in my own life? Scaring off friends and family members wasn’t helping the cause at all, much less convincing them to maybe try a “meatless Monday” every now and then. My extreme views, though well-intentioned, were becoming an obstacle I’d have to learn to hurdle if I ever wanted to converse with the world about animal activism. So, on Christmas Break, I decided to take the leap. “I know Arysa won’t eat this, but here you all can try it.” “Umm, actually I think I want to try it this time.” All eyes darted to me. We were at dinner, and my grandma had exhausted herself baking goodies for us. This was the first time in over a year that I had “broken” my great vegan covenant and decided to ingest something that included a devilish animal product. Guilt began to claw its way into my stomach as the full realization of my crime hit me, but I extended my hand out anyways. An epiphany overwhelmed me. Taking a few bites of my grandma’s chocolate-covered pretzels wasn’t going to make me into a terrible, animal-killer. It doesn’t make me a hypocrite. However, it does dress me in human characteristics and forces me to lay down my crown of self-righteousness. Those strangers and friends who mocked my dietary choices didn’t care about my 30 on the ACT or any test scores. All they could examine was my haughty attitude and “better-than-thou” demeanor when I spoke to them of animal cruelty and abstaining from eating what I called: “carcasses.” In my race to convert the most people to veganism, I lost sight of the most important goal in my life: to love my neighbors. I was so caught up in what truly is a good goal, but that stirred up countless angry fights between myself and others. And it just wasn’t worth it. In the following year and a half since that Christmas break, I have celebrated 3 years of being a vegan and also formulating my own goals to become an environmental scientist. The two go hand-in-hand considering that plant-based diets are comparably much more sustainable than meat and dairy diets. However, instead of judging my fellow peers for their beliefs or diets, I’ve learned that the most impactful conversations have come from listening. Just listening to the other side of the story and appreciating how creative we all are. As a soon-to-be college student, I think that my open mind will now be of utmost importance to me as I delve into a world of diversity. I’m excited and grateful for the journey I’ve been through as a vegan and the ways that it has shaped me into a kinder human being.
    Pettable Pet Lovers Annual Scholarship
    1. Sam chilling after a hard day chasin' squirrels 2. Hardly able to hold this big pupper anymore! 3. Sam AKA my garden buddy forever Instagram handle is @arysapucktt My dog's name is Sam and she's a girl just so you know
    Share Your Dream Job No-Essay Scholarship
    https://vm.tiktok.com/J2Us5GY/