We exchanged a quick look when our paths of vision met. My grandmother had been diagnosed with ALS. We hugged as we realized we did not have much time left together. As she lost her ability to walk, I pushed her wheelchair to the pond where she had once pushed me in a stroller to feed the ducks dried-out bread. Her struggle with this neurological condition impacted how I view life and perseverance. I have become resilient and determined as a result of seeing her struggle with ALS. She inspires me to push myself on the volleyball court, forwarding my goal to play at the collegiate level. I model the perseverance she dedicates to ALS by playing my best, tackling training and academics with passion and grit, and positively leading my team. I maintain a solid GPA while managing time for both individual training and team practices, equally devoted to excellence in academic and athletic achievement. I make a consistent effort to lead my teammates and peers by example. My freshman volleyball team was unmotivated and lacked leadership and camaraderie. As an experienced player, I was crushed by our 2-12 record and frustrated by having an inexperienced coach. When our coach was let go for misconduct, I had the opportunity to step up and make a difference. Like my grandmother, I kept a positive outlook by leading practices and working to build team morale. The athletic director who was responsible for finding and hiring coaches was not invested in finding a replacement volleyball coach, so I made endless phone calls with club directors from the area, coaches I knew, and even parents to help find a good coach. Eventually, I found an amazing coach willing to step in. We won more games, had more fun, and our camaraderie grew. I am proud of my contribution in leading this team to make playoffs in our county and our region through building camaraderie, leading practices, and finding two committed coaches that all players love. Nana was a part of the journey, talking through the latest successes and frustrations and encouraging me to lead with commitment and positivity. I have long had a habit of visiting my grandma daily, listening to her valuable advice and working to apply it to my life. As her disease progressed and she could only listen, I talked through my challenges, and I found myself already applying her wisdom as I worked to create a vibrant and successful volleyball team. Her disease progressed fast, and as her mobility declined she became dependent on a walker and wheelchair. Now her voice is completely gone. My role has shifted from a visitor to a caregiver, ensuring she has help walking, eats without choking, and someone near to bring her what she needs. I am grateful to be in the giving position, demonstrating the values she taught me. She doesn’t drive me to places anymore; I drive her. She doesn’t make my food anymore; I make food for her. The quick ALS progression taught me to appreciate things that I take for granted like speaking and walking with ease. Now as I do the talking, she types her responses on her phone. Recently she typed, “I love spending time with you.” I cherish moments like these and appreciate every chance I have to see her.

One of the most inspiring athletes to cheer for on Team USA is Stephen Nedoroscik, a standout member of the U.S. gymnastics team. His journey is a testament to determination, resilience, and the underdog spirit that resonates deeply with fans around the world. Nedoroscik’s presence in gymnastics, particularly as a pommel horse specialist, highlights the power of hard work and grit in a sport often overshadowed by many people largely by males. Nedoroscik’s story is that of perseverance against the odds. Not traditionally recognized as one of the elite gymnasts, he carved a niche for himself through relentless dedication and an unwavering focus on perfecting his event. Competing alongside high-profile gymnasts, Nedoroscik faced the challenge of being seen as the underdog—an athlete who defied expectations and constantly worked to prove himself in a highly competitive field. His journey exemplifies what it means to aspire for greatness, especially when the spotlight isn’t shining directly on you. At the Olympics, there was palpable excitement as Nedoroscik took to the horse, showcasing his remarkable talent. As a crucial member of Team USA, Nedoroscik delivered a stellar performance that contributed significantly to the team winning the bronze medal. He had one job and only competed in just that one event. After receiving a 15.3, he truly showed what it meant to be a team player. Without him, the team would not of medaled. USA took a big risk choosing Stephan as one of the 5 gymnasts as he only competed in 1 event and most gymnasts compete in at least 4. He never let team USA down. The camaraderie among teammates and the stories of their individual battles make the victory even sweeter when one of them, like Nedoroscik, emerges as the underdog hero. His triumphs resonate with many aspiring athletes who often feel overshadowed or doubt their potential. Nedoroscik embodies the belief that with hard work, dedication, and passion, anyone can achieve their dreams, regardless of their starting point. Cheering for Stephen Nedoroscik means supporting an athlete who not only competes at the highest level but also inspires countless individuals to push through adversity. His journey reinforces the idea that success is not solely defined by fame or medals but also by the spirit of resilience and the ability to uplift a team in critical moments. For these reasons, cheering for Stephen Nedoroscik is a celebration of the triumph of the human spirit, making him a beloved figure in the heart of Team USA and beyond.

In July 2024, I embarked on a transformative volunteer trip to Ghana, where I dedicated two weeks to working with local schools and orphanages focused on rescuing children from modern-day slavery, abuse, and trafficking. This experience became a crucial moment in my personal growth, reflecting my commitment to kindness and community. Like Jorge Campos, I learned about the transformative power of compassion, resilience, and unity. During my time in Ghana, I engaged closely with children who had faced unimaginable hardships. Many arrived at the orphanage after experiencing modern-day slavery, abuse, and trafficking. My responsibilities included tutoring them in basic subjects, organizing games, and facilitating activities to foster a sense of family and joy. The children's warm smiles and laughter brightened my days, reinforcing my belief in the importance of positivity and support within a community. I realized how even small acts of kindness could uplift spirits and promote healing. I am blessed to have the opportunity to return to Ghana in February of 2025. One of the most impactful aspects of my experience was the strong sense of community that developed among the volunteers and local staff. We shared a common goal: to create a safe, loving environment for these vulnerable children. Our collaboration illustrated that when people come together with open hearts and minds, they can create significant, positive change. Inspired by Don Jorge’s commitment to service, I now approach each day with optimism and a positive attitude, which help me forge strong connections with all the people around me Upon returning to California, I continued my commitment to community service through various local initiatives. Since February 2024, I have volunteered with the San Francisco Fire Department, assisting paramedics and firefighters and gaining firsthand insight into the critical value of emergency service and teamwork. My work at GLIDE, a nonprofit that provides food and care for the homeless, has deepened my understanding of societal challenges and the importance of accessibility to basic needs. Additionally, leading and mentoring young students at Walker Creek, where I dedicated 90 hours as a cabin leader, revealed the rewarding nature of guiding students and fostering a nurturing growth environment. In my leadership roles, I prioritize creating a sense of belonging and positivity among others. As a supervisor at Marinwood Community Center, where I oversee more than 25 employees, I strive to ensure that every member feels valued and supported. Reviving the Terra Linda Men’s Volleyball program and serving as captain of my high school varsity team have allowed me to instill unity and foster a welcoming atmosphere in sports. As captain, I actively recruit athletes, promote teamwork, and teach foundational skills to younger players, embodying the leadership principles I’ve learned through my community service experiences and from Don Jorge. These diverse experiences have had a profound impact on my personal growth, enhancing my understanding of community needs, the importance of inclusivity, and the transformative power of leadership rooted in kindness. In conclusion, my community service journey, inspired by the values of Jorge Campos, has strengthened my commitment to kindness, unity, and effective leadership. I have witnessed how genuine compassion fosters resilience and hope, and I intend to carry this message forward in my future endeavors. Receiving the scholarship in honor of Don Jorge would not only support my academic pursuits but also inspire me to continue embodying the spirit of kindness and respect he exemplified.