Receiving this scholarship is crucial for me because financial aid is the only way I can make my aspirations of attending a university and becoming a guidance counselor a reality. My journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of students, but financial obstacles have made the path to higher education challenging. I have worked incredibly hard to achieve academic excellence, maintaining a 4.2 GPA in high school while also taking on the challenge of earning 36 college credits at Anne Arundel Community College, where I have achieved a 3.7 GPA. Balancing rigorous coursework with athletics and leadership roles has required discipline, perseverance, and time management—skills that will serve me well as I pursue higher education and a career as a guidance counselor. However, despite my academic achievements, financial limitations remain a significant barrier to attending a four-year university. Growing up, I experienced firsthand the impact of financial struggles, especially after my parents’ divorce. Paying for college has always been a concern, and without financial assistance, pursuing my degree would be incredibly difficult. This scholarship would allow me to continue my education without the overwhelming burden of debt, giving me the opportunity to focus on developing the skills and knowledge needed to support and guide future students. I want to dedicate my career to helping students navigate their academic, personal, and emotional challenges—just as my own guidance counselors once helped me. Throughout my life, my school counselors were my strongest advocates, guiding me through academic difficulties, personal struggles, and mental health challenges. They provided me with the encouragement and resources I needed to persevere, and now, I want to do the same for others. However, without financial aid, I may not be able to pursue the education needed to achieve this goal. This scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to earn my degree, gain the necessary training, and ultimately serve students who need support, mentorship, and guidance. I am committed to making a difference in the lives of young people, and with this financial assistance, I can focus on my studies and continue my journey toward becoming a dedicated, compassionate, and impactful guidance counselor. By awarding me this scholarship, you would not only be investing in my education—you would be investing in the countless students I hope to help in the future. This opportunity means everything to me, and I am determined to use it to create real, lasting change in the lives of those who need it most.

Being a student-athlete has shaped me in ways that extend far beyond the rink. Ice hockey has been an integral part of my life, teaching me the values of perseverance, discipline, and teamwork. Balancing academics and athletics has challenged me to manage my time effectively, stay committed to my responsibilities, and develop resilience in the face of adversity. These lessons have not only shaped my character but have also influenced my future career goals. Through hockey, I have learned that success is not just about personal achievement—it is about lifting others up, supporting teammates, and working toward a shared goal. This mentality has translated into my desire to become a guidance counselor, where I can use my leadership skills and personal experiences to help students navigate their own challenges. Just as I have supported teammates through difficult seasons, I want to be a source of encouragement and guidance for students facing academic pressures, mental health struggles, or personal hardships. As a student-athlete, I have also witnessed the unique struggles that students face, from maintaining academic performance to dealing with injuries, mental health concerns, and outside pressures. I understand the importance of having a strong support system, and I want to ensure that students—whether they are athletes, artists, or scholars—always have someone in their corner, advocating for their success. Beyond sports, I have a deep passion for leadership, mentorship, and community involvement. Through my involvement at Bay Area Community Church, I have taken on leadership roles where I help welcome and guide students, ensuring they feel connected and valued. My work in student ministry has reinforced my passion for supporting others, and I plan to carry this same energy into my career as a guidance counselor. Additionally, I have a strong interest in psychology and human behavior. My curiosity about how people think, grow, and overcome adversity has led me to explore this field academically, and I have taken courses such as Intro to Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Adolescent Psychology to deepen my understanding. This interest aligns closely with my goal of working in education and counseling, as I want to apply psychological principles to help students develop healthy mindsets and coping strategies. Ultimately, being a student-athlete has prepared me to handle challenges, work hard, and support those around me—qualities that I will carry into my future career. Whether on the ice or in the classroom, I strive to create a positive and encouraging environment where people feel valued and empowered. With my experiences in sports, leadership, and psychology, I am confident that I can make a meaningful impact as a guidance counselor, helping students navigate their own paths toward success.

From a young age, I have understood the immense value of having a trusted mentor and advocate in school. Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, my guidance counselors were the people I turned to most—not just for academic support but for personal struggles as well. When I faced challenges such as depression, anxiety, and the weight of personal hardships, they were the ones who provided a listening ear, encouragement, and resources to help me move forward. Their unwavering support made a lasting impact on my life, and now, I want to be that same pillar of strength and guidance for future students. I am passionate about becoming a school guidance counselor because I have seen firsthand the struggles that students face. Many deal with mental health issues, family difficulties, financial instability, disabilities, and social pressures—often without knowing where to turn for help. Some students struggle silently, unsure of who will listen or understand. Others face physical health challenges or special needs that make their educational journey even more difficult. I want to be the person in their corner, someone who not only listens but actively works to help them navigate their struggles, find their strengths, and build a path toward success. One of the biggest lessons I have learned through my volunteer experiences is that every student’s needs are different. Whether it’s an athlete balancing school and sports, a student with special needs who requires extra support, or someone battling anxiety and self-doubt, everyone deserves personalized guidance and encouragement. I have worked with students who felt unheard or overlooked, and seeing how just one conversation, one moment of reassurance, or one act of kindness can change their outlook has solidified my desire to pursue this field. In particular, I am passionate about supporting students with special needs and ensuring that they feel seen, valued, and empowered. These students often face additional barriers in school and social settings, and I want to be a counselor who advocates for them, helping them access the resources they need while also fostering an inclusive, understanding school environment. Every student, regardless of their challenges, deserves the chance to thrive in school and in life. However, my path to higher education comes with significant financial challenges. My parents’ divorce has made it difficult to afford college, and financial aid is essential in allowing me to pursue my future aspiration. I have worked hard to overcome personal and academic obstacles, and I am determined to continue my education so that I can give back and support students who, like me, just need someone to believe in them. I know that one counselor, one mentor, one advocate can make all the difference in a student’s life. My goal is to be that difference—to be the person students turn to, the person who fights for them, and the person who helps them recognize their potential. By pursuing this career, I hope to not only guide students through their education but also help them build confidence, resilience, and a future they can be proud of.

Ice hockey has been a cornerstone of my life, not only as a sport but as a way to bring people together and create a sense of community. As a varsity ice hockey player, I have seen firsthand how the game extends beyond the rink, fostering connections between teammates, students, and the broader community. Hockey is more than just competition—it is a shared experience that unites people in support of something greater than themselves. One of the most powerful aspects of hockey is its ability to build a strong sense of belonging. On the team, we rely on one another, not just in games but in everyday life. Whether it’s picking each other up after tough losses or celebrating hard-earned victories, hockey teaches resilience, trust, and camaraderie. These lessons extend beyond the team, bringing students, families, and local supporters together. When students attend games, they become part of something bigger than school itself. They forge friendships, find a place where they belong, and strengthen school spirit. However, the impact of hockey doesn’t stop at the rink—it spreads into the community. The connections formed at games often lead to conversations that spark new opportunities for community engagement, service, and nonprofit work. A simple conversation between parents in the stands, between students on the bleachers, or even between teammates and spectators can lead to the sharing of ideas, volunteer opportunities, and initiatives that benefit the community as a whole. I have personally witnessed how a hockey game can be the catalyst for students getting involved in service projects, local fundraisers, and charitable organizations—all because they found a common ground in supporting the team. One of the most rewarding aspects of being involved in hockey is seeing how it brings different groups of people together. At games, I see students who might not typically interact at school sitting side by side, cheering for the same team. I see younger kids looking up to high school players, excited to one day be part of the same tradition. I see parents, teachers, and alumni coming together in a shared space, supporting not just a sport but the values that come with it—dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. For me, hockey has always been about more than just the game. It has taught me how to be a leader, a mentor, and a supporter of those around me. It has shown me that community isn’t just something we belong to—it’s something we build together. The friendships, connections, and opportunities that come from the sport have shaped me in ways I never expected, reinforcing the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. I am passionate about varsity ice hockey because it has the power to bring people together, create lasting relationships, and inspire individuals to make a difference beyond the sport itself. The energy of a hockey game, the bonds formed between teammates and supporters, and the sense of community that extends beyond the rink all serve as reminders that sports are not just about winning or losing—they are about building something greater than ourselves.

Community involvement has been a defining part of my life, shaping my leadership, values, and future aspirations. I have dedicated myself to serving others through my church, school, and athletics. At Bay Area Community Church, I play an active role in student ministry, welcoming new students, hosting Sunday services, speaking about upcoming events, and assisting in hospitality. My church community has been a place where I have developed leadership skills, learned the importance of serving others, and helped create a welcoming environment for those seeking connection and support. Beyond my church involvement, I have also taken on leadership roles in sports. As a leader on my varsity and club ice hockey teams, I have worked to build a strong team culture focused on resilience, discipline, and camaraderie. Hockey has been an integral part of my life, teaching me the values of perseverance and teamwork, especially during difficult seasons filled with losses. I have always strived to set an example for my teammates, ensuring that our team remains united and focused on growth, regardless of the challenges we face. While I have poured myself into my community, my own journey has not been without struggles. Financial difficulties due to parental divorce have made higher education an uncertain path for me. Despite these obstacles, I have remained committed to higher education and my goal of helping students navigate academic and personal hardships. However, financial assistance is crucial in ensuring that I can pursue my studies without the burden of overwhelming debt. One of the most pressing issues I have worked to address in my community is protecting children and youth from bullying and cyberbullying. Through my leadership roles, I have actively advocated for safe, inclusive environments where students feel valued and protected. In school and sports, I emphasize the importance of kindness, respect, and standing up for others, encouraging my peers to create a culture of support rather than division. I have worked with students who have experienced bullying firsthand, helping them develop the confidence to speak up and seek help. Online safety is just as important, especially in today’s digital world. I encourage students/teammates to be mindful of their privacy settings, online interactions, and the impact of their words on social media. I have also helped individuals recognize and escape toxic online environments, drawing from my own experience in guiding one of my friends away from isolation and coercion. By fostering conversations about responsible social media use, online boundaries, and recognizing manipulation, I help equip students with the tools to protect themselves from cyberbullying and harmful influences. As I prepare to enter higher education, my passion for guidance, mentorship, and advocacy continues to drive me. My experiences serving my community have reinforced my desire to help students overcome adversity and realize their full potential. While financial challenges pose a significant hurdle, I am determined to continue my education and make a lasting impact in the lives of students. With the right support, I can turn my passion into a lifelong career of guiding and empowering others as a high school guidance counselor.

I'm a fan of Wicked because it feels like a vibrant new chapter to a story that has always been a cornerstone of my childhood. Growing up, The Wizard of Oz wasn’t just any movie; it was a cherished tradition that I shared with my grandmother. Every time she came to visit, we’d sit down together to watch it, and I would get lost in the world of Oz, the magic of its characters, and that comforting, shared experience with her. Those moments became a foundation of my childhood, bringing me a sense of warmth, wonder, and connection. Watching The Wizard of Oz with her built this nostalgic magic that has stayed with me through the years. With Wicked, it feels like that same world has been reborn with fresh layers. The musical brings to light the untold stories of the Wicked Witch and Glinda, adding complexity and humanity to characters I grew up with, which makes it even more meaningful. Wicked lets me reconnect with Oz in a new, deeper way, stirring up those cherished memories of my grandmother while introducing me to different perspectives. Every time I experience Wicked, it feels like a bridge between childhood nostalgia and an exciting new take on a beloved story.

My top three Billie Eilish songs are everything i wanted, when the party’s over, and Happier Than Ever. Each song reflects a different side of Billie’s artistry and explores themes that resonate with me deeply. everything i wanted – This song has a haunting beauty, and its lyrics explore themes of vulnerability, self-worth, and the impact of fame. Billie’s voice feels almost otherworldly here, and the way she describes her struggles with mental health and the desire to escape resonates with the challenges many people face internally but may not openly express. The line, “If I could change the way that you see yourself, you wouldn’t wonder why you hear, ‘They don’t deserve you,’” is incredibly powerful, offering a perspective of empathy and self-love that I find inspiring and grounding. when the party’s over – This song captures the ache of separation and unspoken feelings in a way that feels so intimate. Billie’s raw vocals, paired with minimal production, make this song hauntingly beautiful. It speaks to the emptiness that can follow a relationship’s end, and the line, “I’ll only hurt you if you let me,” really hits home. It reminds me of the importance of boundaries and the bittersweet reality that sometimes the best decision is to let go. The simplicity and emotional depth of this song allow me to connect with my own experiences and give them space to be felt. Happier Than Ever – This song stands out for its duality, shifting from a soft, melancholic tone to an explosive, rock-inspired release of anger and frustration. It’s about reclaiming one’s power and refusing to let anyone make you feel less than you are. The rawness of the second half, where Billie lets loose, feels like a cathartic release of every suppressed feeling that’s built up. It’s empowering and reminds me of the importance of speaking up for myself, setting boundaries, and letting go of toxic relationships or situations that hold me back. Each of these songs highlights different emotions and experiences—vulnerability, heartache, and self-empowerment—that have been part of my own journey. Billie’s unique way of capturing these feelings makes her music feel deeply relatable, almost like she’s voicing things I’ve felt but couldn’t put into words.

Challenge Name: "Secrets in the Sand" Concept: “Secrets in the Sand” is a beach-based challenge designed to reveal hidden truths and test connections. Islanders will face questions and dares related to their personal secrets, preferences, and even feelings they may not have shared. The goal is to stir things up by pushing islanders to dig a little deeper, both figuratively and literally! Setup: The challenge will take place on the villa’s beach, set up with colorful beach shovels and sand pits for each couple. The area will be decorated with tropical props, but the main attraction will be a series of pits filled with sand, seashells, and buried boxes containing “secret tokens.” Each token has a symbol: a heart, a lightning bolt, a broken heart, a star, or an exclamation mark. Each symbol corresponds to a different type of secret or challenge. How It Works: Pairing Up: Each islander will be paired with either their current partner or a randomly selected islander. Instructions: The couples are told that they’ll be competing against each other to find the most tokens in the sand. For every token they dig up, they must complete a challenge, reveal a secret, or answer a question together to earn points. Each symbol means something different: Heart 💖: "Secret Affection" – The couple must share a hidden crush, a past crush from within the villa, or reveal a moment they felt attracted to someone they haven’t shared before. Lightning Bolt ⚡: "Spicy Dare" – The couple must complete a playful dare, such as swapping an article of clothing, sharing a three-legged race to the water, or feeding each other a treat from the villa kitchen. Broken Heart 💔: "Awkward Confession" – One or both islanders must reveal something they find annoying or awkward about their partner (lighthearted but revealing, to test compatibility and communication). Star 🌟: "True Feelings" – The couple must each say something they've been holding back, whether it's a compliment, a concern, or something they've been hesitant to admit. Exclamation Mark ❗: "Wildcard Question" – These are intense questions or dares, such as, “If you had to pick one other person in the villa to couple up with, who would it be?” or “Reveal a past secret relationship or fling.” Timed Digging: Each couple has five minutes to dig up as many tokens as possible from their sand pit. They must complete the challenge on each token before moving to the next one. Scoring Points: Couples earn points based on the successful completion of each token challenge, with each token type having different point values. Hearts and Stars are worth the most, as they require revealing the most emotionally charged secrets. Lightning Bolts and Broken Hearts earn moderate points, while Exclamation Marks (because they’re wildcard challenges) earn unpredictable points based on the difficulty of the task. Final Reveal: At the end, the couple with the most points is crowned the “Secrets in the Sand” challenge winner and earns a romantic evening away from the villa. They will also have the power to send one couple of their choosing on a separate date, introducing a new element of strategy and potential jealousy. Purpose of the Challenge: “Secrets in the Sand” is designed to reveal hidden dynamics within the villa, spark fresh drama, and challenge the islanders to be vulnerable with each other. It combines physical activity with emotional exposure, so that by the end, everyone learns something new about each other, possibly leading to new alliances, rekindled romances, or heightened tension.

When it comes to Team USA, my favorite athlete to cheer for is, without a doubt, Hilary Knight. She’s a powerhouse in women’s hockey and has been a pivotal figure for Team USA for years, bringing skill, passion, and leadership to every game she plays. Watching her on the ice, it’s clear she’s not only driven by a fierce competitive spirit but also by a deep love for hockey, which has made her an icon for fans across the world, especially in the U.S. Hilary Knight has redefined what it means to be an elite athlete in women’s hockey. From her swift speed and agility on the ice to her impeccable stickhandling and incredible game vision, she’s a player who commands attention whenever she steps out onto the rink. She’s known for her ability to score in high-pressure situations, which is one of the many reasons she’s such an exciting player to follow. Her impact becomes especially evident in Team USA’s matchups with Canada, which are always intense. These rivalry games are thrilling, often with everything on the line, and Knight has consistently been at the heart of these big moments, delivering goals and plays that leave fans on the edge of their seats. One of the things I admire most about Hilary Knight is her dedication to elevating the sport, particularly for women’s hockey. For years, she has pushed for equality, fair pay, and better resources for female hockey players, both in the U.S. and globally. Knight, along with other trailblazing players, has been a vocal advocate for women’s professional hockey leagues, aiming to create a world where young girls can dream of playing professionally in the same way boys do. Her willingness to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s difficult, speaks to her character and commitment to the game beyond her success. This activism is inspiring to watch because it shows her dedication to paving the way for future generations, ensuring that hockey is an inclusive sport with room for everyone. Knight’s story is one of resilience and dedication. She’s been a part of Team USA for over a decade, leading her team through numerous world championships and Olympic competitions. Despite setbacks, including close losses to Canada in past Olympics, she’s never stopped pushing herself and her team to improve. In 2018, when Team USA finally defeated Canada to win Olympic gold, it felt like a triumphant moment not just for the players but for fans who had followed her career and witnessed the hard work and perseverance she put into reaching that goal. Cheering for Hilary Knight is about more than just supporting a talented athlete. It’s about cheering for someone who represents the best of what sports can be—grit, heart, and a commitment to making things better for those who come after her. She’s shown that, with determination, it’s possible to break barriers and redefine expectations. Knight’s impact on hockey is enormous, and her legacy will surely inspire future generations. She embodies what it means to be a true competitor and an advocate for positive change, making her a standout and an easy choice as my favorite athlete on Team USA.

As a fan of Sabrina Carpenter, her career feels like it's grown alongside my own journey, starting from her early days on Disney Channel. Watching her as Maya Hart in Girl Meets World made her an icon of my childhood, embodying a character who was funny, daring, and confident—qualities that made her so relatable and aspirational. Her presence on Disney Channel marked her as a role model for many kids, showing that it was okay to embrace who you are, even if you don’t fit the mold. When she transitioned into music, Sabrina really began to inspire me on a new level. Her albums, from Eyes Wide Open to emails i can’t send, show her incredible growth and versatility as an artist. Her music explores themes of love, heartbreak, self-discovery, and resilience, which has resonated with me in different stages of my own life. Tracks like "Skin" and "because i liked a boy" demonstrate her ability to transform personal experiences into universal anthems, offering both emotional insight and empowerment. Her evolution from a Disney star to a multifaceted artist has been inspiring to witness, proving that it’s possible to redefine yourself and pursue your passions on your own terms. Sabrina’s journey has shown me the importance of resilience, creativity, and staying true to yourself, making her much more than just a childhood icon—she’s become a lifelong inspiration.

For me, a perfect ending to The Bear would bring each character to a point of fulfillment and stability while staying true to the gritty, chaotic world they inhabit. Here’s how I'd imagine it: Carmy: Carmy would finally find a balance between his intense passion for culinary arts and a healthier personal life. He’d learn to step back from micromanaging and trust his team to carry out his vision. With The Bear established as a successful and renowned restaurant, Carmy might take a break from cooking, exploring different cuisines, perhaps in a European sabbatical, allowing him to nurture a more balanced lifestyle. His character arc would conclude with him finding peace—something he’s sought throughout the series. Sydney: After spending the series pushing her culinary boundaries, facing setbacks, and learning to balance ambition with realism, Sydney would evolve into a highly respected chef in her own right. As The Bear flourishes, she might open her own spin-off restaurant that combines her family’s heritage with her own flair for the avant-garde. Through Carmy’s mentorship and her own growth, Sydney would finally be recognized as a culinary force in her own right. In the series finale, we’d see her happily leading her own kitchen, with her personal goals and relationships more harmonized. Richie: Richie’s journey would bring him to a place of newfound confidence and respect within The Bear. By the end of the series, he’d embrace his role in management, even taking on a mentor role for younger employees. After a rocky road, Richie’s personal life could stabilize too—he might reconcile with his ex-wife or find a new, supportive partner who appreciates his growth. As Carmy’s right-hand man, Richie would represent loyalty and grit, embodying the restaurant's core values. Marcus: Marcus would fulfill his dream of becoming a celebrated pastry chef, incorporating his own creative ideas into the menu at The Bear. His character arc would take him on a culinary journey—maybe through an international experience where he learns new techniques. By the end of the series, he might even launch a separate dessert-focused brand that complements The Bear, showcasing his signature, unique creations. His return to The Bear as a seasoned and renowned pastry chef would add another layer of sophistication to the restaurant. Tina and Ebraheim: Tina would gain recognition as a senior chef in The Bear, respected for her loyalty and resilience. She’d finally feel valued and respected in her work, becoming the unofficial “heart” of the kitchen, with her guidance respected by both the old and new team members. Ebraheim, on the other hand, would find contentment in a quiet role, perhaps as a head chef in a restaurant back in his home country, connecting with his roots and passing down his skills to local chefs. The Restaurant – The Bear Itself: The restaurant would gain its own identity as a top-tier dining spot while still retaining its rough-around-the-edges character. They’d find the perfect balance between fine dining and the down-to-earth vibe of the original sandwich shop, preserving its Chicago roots and community loyalty. In the finale, we’d see The Bear hosting a city-wide event, celebrating local talent and culinary innovation, with Carmy, Sydney, and Richie proudly leading the show together. This ending would celebrate the journey each character has taken, highlighting their growth, newfound balance, and triumphs in their personal and professional lives. It would preserve the unique and vibrant energy of The Bear, giving fans a satisfying conclusion that respects the intense world they’ve created.