Hobbies and interests
Soccer
FBLA
Drawing And Illustration
Community Service And Volunteering
Real Estate
Dentistry
Sports
Cooking
Track and Field
Business And Entrepreneurship
Travel And Tourism
African American Studies
Law
DECA
Reading
How-To
I read books daily
CHLOE THOMPSON
1,895
Bold Points1x
FinalistCHLOE THOMPSON
1,895
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
Hi, I’m Chloe Thompson and I'd characterize myself as a strong-willed introvert with a philanthropic spirit. I was born in Raleigh, NC, but I have spent most of my life raised in the suburbs of Chicago and the Washington, DC area. Despite my meek nature, I've developed self-assurance and confidence allowing me to overcome many obstacles. This quality and exposure has granted me the ability to appreciate different cultures and backgrounds and understand the importance of a first impression.
My goal is to pursue an education and training in the field of dentistry. I want to further my knowledge and encourage dental care in underserved communities. Many times, kids and young adults are overlooked because of their substandard first impressions. A great smile can affect the trajectory of one’s outcome during a first interview or conversation. Everyone should be able to feel empowered and take on the world with a beautiful set of teeth. Creating community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations/clinics, would do just that. Additionally, I plan to pursue a career in real estate by helping others achieve wealth through property investments.
These ambitions require funding and proper education. Being from a middle class family, I now realize that we're ineligible for a generous amount of financial aid, but not well-off enough to flat out pay for my education. That's why I continue advocate for myself as a strong applicant for these scholarships all while giving back to my community, maintaining a high GPA and even leading on the soccer field!
Education
Centreville High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Dentistry
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Real Estate
- Architecture and Related Services, Other
- Interior Architecture
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Accounting and Related Services
- Architectural Engineering
- Construction Engineering
- Engineering, General
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
- Economics
- History and Political Science
- Political Science and Government
Career
Dream career field:
Medicine
Dream career goals:
My long term goal is to own a dental practice or law firm and to educate underserved communities about dental hygiene and then expand into real estate.
Fundraising Campaign Volunteer
HomeAid2023 – Present1 yearStudent Intern - Record keeping, organizing documents for title insurance claims, responsible for organizing closing documents at a real estate settlement firm
First Excel Title Co2022 – Present2 years
Sports
Track & Field
Club2015 – 20205 years
Awards
- VIRGINIA STATE HIGH JUMP CHAMPION
- VIRGINIA STATE 4X400 RELAY CHAMPION
- USATF LONG JUMP INDOOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP - 9TH PLACE
Soccer
Club2014 – Present10 years
Awards
- US YOUTH EASTERN REGIONAL CHAMPION
- MARYLAND STATE CUP CHAMPION
- VIRGINIA STATE CUP CHAMPION
Long Jump
Club2015 – 2015
Awards
- STATE RUNNER-UP IN VIRGINIA
Research
Real Estate
First Excel Title LLC — Internship - Researching records and title insurance claims.2022 – Present
Arts
Fairfax County Schools
MusicPlayed Viola and Saxaphone2016 – 2019
Public services
Volunteering
Brown Sugar Play Dates — Collect toiletries, dental supplies, toys, etc and provided shoebox gifts to donate to a local non-profits (S.O.M.E., ACTS, Alternative House/Second Story, etc). At the end of Summer, we held back to school supply drives to help kids in need.2015 – PresentVolunteering
Homeaid — Fundraising Volunteer2023 – PresentVolunteering
Women Giving Back — My role was to collect donations and deliver them to their place of residence.2016 – 2023Volunteering
Women Giving Back — My role was to promote this agenda to potential donors and to deliver the goods to the shelter.2018 – Present
Future Interests
Advocacy
Volunteering
Philanthropy
Jiang Amel STEM Scholarship
“I would like to develop applications to use on our smartphones to analyze our oral hygiene. By detecting key factors that lead to heart disease I will be able to reduce the health risks of the general population.”
I still remember the day soccer captured my heart. It was a sweltering afternoon, and I was mesmerized by kids effortlessly playing soccer, their skills with the ball utterly captivating. That day marked the start of my deep connection with the sport, which taught me not just about the game but also the value of first impressions, much like soccer's crucial "first touch." This skill, mirroring life's initial encounters, emphasizes the importance of making a good impression, whether it's with a skillful play or a winning smile.
As a young player, perfecting my first touch was a battle. The ball seemed to bounce off my feet like I was trying to play ping-pong with a balloon. But I was stubborn. I practiced till the stars came out, determined to make that ball an extension of me. And, bit by bit, I got there with every touch my confidence boosted!
This whole journey got me thinking about smiles—yes, smiles. Stick with me here. A bright, healthy smile is like a killer first touch; it opens doors, builds bridges. And that's why my buddies and I started "Brown Sugar Playdates." It's our little way of spreading smiles, giving out dental supplies to families who could use a helping hand. Everyone deserves to make a smashing first impression.
My adventure from the soccer field to championing smiles, really highlighted how everything's connected—soccer, science, smiles, you name it. Dentistry isn't just about teeth; it's about using science, tech, engineering, and math to keep those smiles bright. My dream? To use my passion for dentistry to light up the world, one smile at a time. I would like to develop applications to use on our smartphones to analyze our oral hygiene. By detecting key factors that lead to heart disease I will be able to reduce the health risks of the general population.
So, here I am, sharing my story, my dreams with you, hoping to turn these dreams into reality. Thanks for giving me a moment of your time, for considering my application. I'm ready to make a difference, one smile at a time. Now let's create a world where everyone gets a chance to shine!
Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship
“I would like to develop applications to use on our smartphones to analyze our oral hygiene. By detecting key factors that lead to heart disease I will be able to reduce the health risks of the general population.”
I still remember the day soccer captured my heart. It was a sweltering afternoon, and I was mesmerized by kids effortlessly playing soccer, their skills with the ball utterly captivating. That day marked the start of my deep connection with the sport, which taught me not just about the game but also the value of first impressions, much like soccer's crucial "first touch." This skill, mirroring life's initial encounters, emphasizes the importance of making a good impression, whether it's with a skillful play or a winning smile.
As a young player, perfecting my first touch was a battle. The ball seemed to bounce off my feet like I was trying to play ping-pong with a balloon. But I was stubborn. I practiced till the stars came out, determined to make that ball an extension of me. And, bit by bit, I got there with every touch my confidence boosted!
This whole journey got me thinking about smiles—yes, smiles. Stick with me here. A bright, healthy smile is like a killer first touch; it opens doors, builds bridges. And that's why my buddies and I started "Brown Sugar Playdates." It's our little way of spreading smiles, giving out dental supplies to families who could use a helping hand. Everyone deserves to make a smashing first impression.
My adventure from the soccer field to championing smiles, really highlighted how everything's connected—soccer, science, smiles, you name it. Dentistry isn't just about teeth; it's about using science, tech, engineering, and math to keep those smiles bright. My dream? To use my passion for dentistry to light up the world, one smile at a time. I would like to develop applications to use on our smartphones to analyze our oral hygiene. By detecting key factors that lead to heart disease I will be able to reduce the health risks of the general population.
So, here I am, sharing my story, my dreams with you, hoping to turn these dreams into reality. Thanks for giving me a moment of your time, for considering my application. I'm ready to make a difference, one smile at a time. Let's create a world where everyone gets a chance to shine!
Stephan L. Daniels Lift As We Climb Scholarship
“I would like to develop applications to use on our smartphones to analyze our oral hygiene. By detecting key factors that lead to heart disease I will hopefully be able to reduce the health risks of the general population.”
I still remember the day soccer captured my heart. It was a sweltering afternoon, and I was mesmerized by kids effortlessly playing soccer, their skills with the ball utterly captivating. That day marked the start of my deep connection with the sport, which taught me not just about the game but also the value of first impressions, much like soccer's crucial "first touch." This skill, mirroring life's initial encounters, emphasizes the importance of making a good impression, whether it's with a skillful play or a winning smile.
As a young player, perfecting my first touch was a battle. The ball seemed to bounce off my feet like I was trying to play ping-pong with a balloon. But I was stubborn. I practiced till the stars came out, determined to make that ball an extension of me. And, bit by bit, I got there. Every touch became smoother, more assured, boosting my confidence and my game.
This whole journey got me thinking about smiles—yes, smiles. Stick with me here. A bright, healthy smile is like a killer first touch; it opens doors, builds bridges. And that's why my buddies and I started "Brown Sugar Playdates." It's our little way of spreading smiles, giving out dental supplies to families who could use a helping hand. Because everyone deserves to make a smashing first impression.
This adventure of mine, from the soccer field to championing smiles, really highlighted how everything's connected—soccer, science, smiles, you name it. Dentistry isn't just about teeth; it's about using science, tech, engineering, and math to keep those smiles bright. My dream? To use my passion for dentistry to light up the world, one smile at a time. I would like to develop applications to use on our smartphones to analyze our oral hygiene. By detecting key factors that lead to heart disease I will hopefully be able to reduce the health risks of the general population.
So, here I am, sharing my story, my dreams with you, hoping to turn these dreams into reality. Thanks for giving me a moment of your time, for considering my application. I'm ready to make a difference, one smile at a time. Let's create a world where everyone gets a chance to shine!
Onward and Upward Scholarship
For some, the first thought that comes to mind when they think of elementary school is who could swing the highest, who could go down the water slide first at Field Day, or how the lighting was the perfect amount of dim whenever we would sit on that one circle carpet to watch Reading Rainbow. Whatever it may be, when it comes to my experience, I can only think of one word, BUSINESS. My time in elementary school taught me the principles of business and piqued my interest in taking a bunch of entrepreneurial courses later in school. I was a meek girl in elementary school, so I stood in awe whenever I saw my classmates with their own mini businesses at the age of ten. Of course, at this age I had little to no knowledge about the actual logistics behind running a business, but all I knew is that it was something I wanted to take head on. Little doses of entrepreneurship have always been in my life, and for me, elementary school is where I found that spark.
It was a warm spring day and my stomach was mad at me for drinking one of those overpriced, room temperature, prepackaged, Starbucks frappuccinos that were sold at a base price for about $2.50, but of course I bought it for a whopping $5.00. I thought I was getting a steal and even supporting a small business, but really, I was just putting myself in the “dumb consumer” category. I tried hard to educate and prevent myself from being that "dumb consumer” again So nevertheless, I focused on the technical aspects of business, even at home. I had always taken notice of my dad’s email address “tonythompson.mba@gmail.com”. Me at ten thought that “MBA” piece had just meant that my 6 '1 father had a previous pro basketball career in his past life, but I guess I stood corrected. He said an MBA is a degree you earn from mastering in business. So therein lied my mission, to master the art of business one recess at a time.
It was a perfect eighty degrees; May had just sprung and there was a warm breeze that tickled the newborn grass that laid just right for making little grass angels after lunchtime. The springtime had inspired me and my young entrepreneurial mind was almost as ripe as the honeysuckles I was about to sell during snack time. It was time to make my mark in the business world and I figured this was the perfect way to do so. I would take advantage of those who didn’t remember to bring a snack for snack time. My recess would consist of picking a variety of honeysuckles ranging from vanilla buttercream to mustard yellow. I sold the mustard one for about five dollars a bundle, whereas the whiter ones were 20 for $3.50. Everything was well and sales were booming until word got out to the principal and all businesses got shut down for the remainder of the year. Although my business was shut down, it never stopped any of my business ideas. My honeysuckle business quite literally bloomed me into the entrepreneur I am today. I aspire to build off real life experiences like this in my future.
School has taught me a plethora of things, most of them being about time management or discipline, but it also guided me into a direction I never thought It would. I look forward to watching my meekness grow into a social and driven business woman throughout the remainder of my education. I’m extremely grateful for all those awkward encounters I went through walking up with a bag of flowers to my peers that taught me what I wanted to pursue later in life. I’ll always take what I learned from my buzzing business next time I go on another entrepreneurial venture in the future.
Eleven Scholarship
I remember that day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon. The kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball. As a young soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. Could I ever become a successful player if I could not master this fundamental skill? Instead of giving up, I chose to embrace the challenge and dedicate myself to refining my first touch. Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and an innate sense of ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each successful touch, my drive and confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes became accurate, my dribbles fluid, and my goals unstoppable. My first touch along with my speed and athleticism had become the foundation of my success on the field. I was on a fast track to a Division 1 soccer scholarship at some of the best schools in the nation. That fast track came to a screeching halt after I suffered a complete ACL tear in my knee during my sophomore year of high school. I was devastated, but I quickly dusted myself off and began the rehab work after surgery. In 7 months I was back out on the field. I soon found that while I had focused hard on the physical work, I had neglected the mental aspect. My confidence and mental health plummeted as each month went by. Fortunately, my family had enough funds and insurance coverage to obtain counseling which has been beneficial in my journey. I learned the lesson and importance of mental health and affirmations in all walks of my life. Confidence is key and similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partner with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate youth sports groups in underserved communities. I would organize mental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops. Many times, these kids and young adults are overlooked or simply do not feel as though they belong or qualify because of their socioeconomic status and often cannot afford the mental health development that they so deserve. Low confidence is much like bad "first touch" in soccer. Hopefully, I can change that! This is how I can impact the world. This is when I learned how to "Turn it up to 11."
Hester Richardson Powell Memorial Service Scholarship
For some, the first thought that comes to mind when they think of elementary school is who could swing the highest, who could go down the water slide first at Field Day, or how the lighting was the perfect amount of dim whenever we would sit on that one circle carpet to watch Reading Rainbow. Whatever it may be, when it comes to my experience, I can only think of one word, BUSINESS. My time in elementary school taught me the principles of business and piqued my interest in taking a bunch of entrepreneurial courses later in school. I was a meek girl in elementary school, so I stood in awe whenever I saw my classmates with their own mini businesses at the age of ten. Little doses of entrepreneurship have always been in my life, and for me, elementary school is where I found that spark.
It was a warm Spring Day and my stomach was mad at me for drinking one of those overpriced, room temperature, prepackaged, Starbucks frappuccinos that were sold at a base price for about $2.50, but of course I bought it for a whopping $5.00. I thought I was getting a steal and even supporting a small business, but really, I was just putting myself in the “dumb consumer” category. I tried hard to educate and prevent myself from being that "dumb consumer” again. So nevertheless, I focused on the technical aspects of business, even at home. I had always taken notice of my dad’s email address “tonythompson.mba@gmail.com”. Me at ten thought that “MBA” piece had just meant that my 6 '1 father had a previous pro basketball career in his past life, but I guess I stood corrected. He said an MBA is a degree you earn from mastering in business. So therein lied my mission, to master the art of business one recess at a time.
It was a perfect eighty degrees; May had just sprung and there was a warm breeze that tickled the newborn grass that laid just right for making little grass angels after lunchtime. The springtime had inspired me and my young entrepreneurial mind was almost as ripe as the honeysuckles I was about to sell during snack time. It was time to make my mark in the business world and I figured this was the perfect way to do so. I would take advantage of those who didn’t remember to bring a snack for snack time. My recess would consist of picking a variety of honeysuckles ranging from vanilla buttercream to mustard yellow. I sold the mustard one for about five dollars a bundle, whereas the whiter ones were 20 for $3.50. Everything was well and sales were booming until word got out to the principal and all businesses got shut down for the remainder of the year. Although my business was shut down, it never stopped any of my business ideas. My honeysuckle business quite literally bloomed me into an entrepreneurial mindset!
I believe this was story of resilience and determination, I can inspire others to persevere in pursuing their goals. Even when faced with obstacles. I highlighted the importance of resilience, adaptability, and maintaining a positive mindset.
Redefining Victory Scholarship
I remember the day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon the kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball. Similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities.
Imagine meeting someone for the first time with an alarmingly bad smile and unpleasant breath. The unsightly look of plaque-infested teeth can send some people running in the opposite direction. Although beauty emanates from the inside there is something to be said about having a beautiful smile with clean teeth. Although no one has a perfect smile, it would be in one’s best interest to exude a certain level of dental hygiene because it sets the stage for everything to follow.
As an adolescent soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. How could I ever become a successful player if I could not master my first touch? I pushed myself through countless hours of practice and eventually gained superior ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each touch, my confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes were accurate and my movements became one with the ball. I was virtually unstoppable!
My first touch had become the foundation of my success on the field. This is how I feel about a beautiful smile. It will create a great first impression. A crooked smile and poor dental habits could quickly become a source of self-consciousness and embarrassment. A few friends formed a community group called, Brown Sugar Playdates, where we collected dental and hygiene supplies and donated them to kids and their families in underserved communities. We understood that with the proper dental products and spreading awareness, we could increase their chances of making a good first impression and establishing meaningful relationships and opportunities in the future.
I understand that a great smile can affect the trajectory of one’s outcome during a first interview or conversation. After completing my education and once I begin practicing in the field of dentistry, I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate the underserved. I would organize dental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops, distribute informational materials, and demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques. This is my "why." Thank you for considering my scholarship application, and I am ecstatic about having an opportunity to impact the world.
Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
I remember that day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon. The kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
As a young soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. Could I become a successful player if I could not master this fundamental skill? Instead of giving up, I chose to embrace the challenge and dedicate myself to refining my first touch. Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and an innate sense of ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each successful touch, my drive and confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes became accurate, my dribbles fluid, and my goals unstoppable. My first touch along with my speed and athleticism had become the foundation of my success on the field. I was on a fast track to a Division 1 soccer scholarship at some of the best schools in the nation. That fast track came to a screeching halt after I suffered a complete ACL tear in my knee during my sophomore year of high school. I was devastated, but I quickly dusted myself off and began the rehab work after surgery. In 7 months I was back out on the field.
THE MENTAL ASPECT.
I soon found that while I had focused hard on the physical work, I had neglected the mental aspect. My confidence and mental health plummeted as each month went by. Fortunately, my family had enough insurance coverage to obtain counseling, which has benefited my journey. I learned the lesson and importance of mental health and affirmations in all walks of my life. Confidence is key and similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partner with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate youth sports groups in underserved communities. I would organize mental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops. Many times, these kids and young adults are overlooked or do not feel as though they belong or qualify because of their socioeconomic status and often cannot afford the mental health development that they deserve. Low confidence is much like bad "first touch" in soccer. Hopefully, I can change that! This is how I can impact the world.
Arthur and Elana Panos Scholarship
For some, the first thought that comes to mind when they think of elementary school is who could swing the highest, who could go down the water slide first at Field Day, or how the lighting was the perfect amount of dim whenever we would sit on that one circle carpet to watch Reading Rainbow. Whatever it may be, when it comes to my experience, I can only think of two words, BUSINESS and FAITH. My time in elementary school taught me the principles of business and piqued my interest in taking a bunch of entrepreneurial courses later in school. I was a meek girl in elementary school, so I stood in awe whenever I saw my classmates with their own mini businesses at the age of ten. Little doses of entrepreneurship have always been in my life, and for me, elementary school is where I found that spark.
It was a warm Spring Day and my stomach was mad at me for drinking one of those overpriced, room temperature, prepackaged, Starbucks frappuccinos that were sold at a base price for about $2.50, but of course I bought it for a whopping $5.00. I thought I was getting a steal and even supporting a small business, but really, I was just an “average consumer” that was spending and not finding a way to create my on opportunities to make a profit. So I focused on the technical aspects of business.
I had always taken notice of my dad’s email address “tonythompson.mba@gmail.com”. As a ten-year-old I thought that “MBA” piece had just meant that my 6 '1 father had a previous pro basketball career in his past life, but I guess I stood corrected. He said an MBA is a degree you earn from mastering in business. So therein lied my mission, to master the art of business one recess at a time but I also learned in Sunday school that incorporating faith-based principles was totally essential, therefore I would try to incorporate this with my business.
It was a perfect eighty degrees; May had just sprung and there was a warm breeze that tickled the newborn grass that laid just right for making little grass angels after lunchtime. The springtime had inspired me and my young entrepreneurial mind was almost as ripe as the honeysuckles I was about to sell during snack time. It was time to make my mark in the business world and I figured this was the perfect way to do so. I would provide for those who didn’t remember to bring a snack. My recess would consist of picking a variety of honeysuckles ranging from vanilla buttercream to mustard yellow. I sold the mustard one for about $3 a bundle or whatever they could afford, whereas the whiter ones were 20 for $5.00. I learned that it was important to use faith-based principles while running a business. I successfully offered a product that was more affordable and also a premium product that would give me a higher profit margin. My honeysuckle business quite literally bloomed!
Elijah's Helping Hand Scholarship Award
I remember that day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon. The kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
As a young soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. Could I become a successful player if I could not master this fundamental skill? Instead of giving up, I chose to embrace the challenge and dedicate myself to refining my first touch. Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and an innate sense of ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each successful touch, my drive and confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes became accurate, my dribbles fluid, and my goals unstoppable. My first touch along with my speed and athleticism had become the foundation of my success on the field. I was on a fast track to a Division 1 soccer scholarship at some of the best schools in the nation. That fast track came to a screeching halt after I suffered a complete ACL tear in my knee during my sophomore year of high school. I was devastated, but I quickly dusted myself off and began the rehab work after surgery. In 7 months I was back out on the field.
THE MENTAL ASPECT IS KEY.
I soon found that while I had focused hard on the physical work, I had neglected the mental aspect. My confidence and mental health plummeted as each month went by. Fortunately, my family had enough funds and insurance coverage to obtain counseling, which has benefited my journey. I learned the lesson and importance of mental health and affirmations in all walks of my life. Confidence is key and similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partner with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate youth sports groups in underserved communities.
I would organize mental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops. Many times, these kids and young adults are overlooked or do not feel as though they belong or qualify because of their socioeconomic status and often cannot afford the mental health development that they deserve. Low confidence is much like bad "first touch" in soccer. Hopefully, I can change that! This is how I can impact the world.
Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship
I remember that day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon. The kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
As a young soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. Could I ever become a successful player if I could not master this fundamental skill? Instead of giving up, I chose to embrace the challenge and dedicate myself to refining my first touch. Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and an innate sense of ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each successful touch, my drive and confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes became accurate, my dribbles fluid, and my goals unstoppable. My first touch along with my speed and athleticism had become the foundation of my success on the field. I was on a fast track to a Division 1 soccer scholarship at some of the best schools in the nation. That fast track came to a screeching halt after I suffered a complete ACL tear in my knee during my sophomore year of high school. I was devastated, but I quickly dusted myself off and began the rehab work after surgery. In 7 months I was back out on the field.
THE MENTAL ASPECT.
I soon found that while I had focused hard on the physical work, I had neglected the mental aspect. My confidence and mental health plummeted as each month went by. Fortunately, my family had enough funds and insurance coverage to obtain counseling which has been beneficial in my journey. I learned the lesson and importance of mental health and affirmations in all walks of my life. Confidence is key and similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partner with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate youth sports groups in underserved communities.
I would organize mental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops. Many times, these kids and young adults are overlooked or simply do not feel as though they belong or qualify because of their socioeconomic status and often cannot afford the mental health development that they deserve. Low confidence is much like bad "first touch" in soccer. Hopefully, I can change that! This is how I can impact the world.
Desiree Jeana Wapples Scholarship for Young Women
Hi, I’m Chloe Thompson and I'd characterize myself as a strong-willed introvert with a philanthropic spirit. I was born in Raleigh, NC, but I have spent most of my life raised in the suburbs of Chicago and the Washington, DC area. Despite my meek nature, I've developed self-assurance and confidence allowing me to overcome many obstacles. This quality and exposure have granted me the ability to appreciate different cultures and backgrounds and understand the importance of a first impression. I have served as a young ambassador and lead recruiter for a community group focused on the local African-American/Black community.
After relocating to Northern Virginia when I was younger, I quickly found the need for my own collective cultural representation … even in an area of great diversity. I expressed this need to my parents, and they discovered that many of their friends had children experiencing similar identity issues as well. From there, they formed a group called ‘Brown Sugar PlayDates,’ an organization designed to provide exposure to the African-American community within Northern VA by fostering a sense of purpose, solidarity & self-awareness through planned social outings & community service projects. Since the age of 10, I have led the selection of peers to join the group and provided valuable input on activities of interest. Brown Sugar Playdates offered black youth as well as adults a sense of belonging and permission to take pride in their background by being exposed to positive members of their community. We come together as friends and family to sow seeds back into our community as a unit. Every December, each family collects gifts and toiletries and the kids fill and decorate shoebox gifts to donate to a local non-profit organization (S.O.M.E., ACTS, Alternative House/Second Story, etc). At the end of Summer, we held back-to-school supply drives to help kids in need.
I'm currently a student intern for a real estate settlement services firm that is partnered with a large residential home builder. My goal is to pursue education and training in real estate law and business management that will allow me to further my knowledge in those fields. Many times, kids and young adults in underserved communities are unaware of the immense value of property ownership. I am inspired by my mother and local mothers in my community who are making a positive impact on the youth by offering a platform for them to have a sense of self-value through community service. Creating community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations/clinics would allow me to do just that as well. I plan to pursue a career in real estate by helping others achieve wealth through property investments and begin a career as a developer within those communities that are in need of fresh revitalization.
Future Dentists Scholarship
I remember the day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon the kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
Similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. Imagine meeting someone for the first time with an alarmingly bad smile and unpleasant breath. The unsightly look of plaque-infested teeth can send some people running in the opposite direction. Although beauty emanates from the inside there is something to be said about having a beautiful smile with clean teeth. Although no one has a perfect smile, it would be in one’s best interest to exude a certain level of dental hygiene because it sets the stage for everything to follow.
As an adolescent soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. How could I ever become a successful player if I could not master my first touch? I pushed myself through countless hours of practice and eventually gained superior ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each touch, my confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes were accurate and my movements became one with the ball. I was virtually unstoppable! My first touch had become the foundation of my success on the field.
This is how I feel about a beautiful smile. It will create a great first impression. A crooked smile and poor dental habits could quickly become a source of self-consciousness and embarrassment. A few friends formed a community group called, Brown Sugar Playdates, where we collected dental and hygiene supplies and donated them to kids and their families in underserved communities. We understood that with the proper dental products and spreading awareness, we could increase their chances of making a good first impression and establishing meaningful relationships and opportunities in the future.
I understand that a great smile can affect the trajectory of one’s outcome during a first interview or conversation. After completing my education and once I begin practicing in the field of dentistry, I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate the underserved. I would organize dental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops, distribute informational materials, and demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques.
This is my "why." Thank you for considering my scholarship application, and I am ecstatic about having an opportunity to impact the world.
Derk Golden Memorial Scholarship
I remembered that day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon. The kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
As a young soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. Could I ever become a successful player if I could not master this fundamental skill? Instead of giving up, I chose to embrace the challenge and dedicate myself to refining my first touch.
Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and an innate sense of ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each successful touch, my confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes became accurate, my dribbles fluid, and my goals unstoppable. My first touch along with my speed and athleticism had become the foundation of my success on the field. I was on a fast track to a Division 1 soccer scholarship at some of the best schools in the nation.
That fast track came to a screeching halt after I suffered a complete ACL tear in my knee during my sophomore year of high school. I was devastated, but I quickly dusted myself off and began the rehab work after surgery. In 7 months I was back out on the field. I soon found that while I had focused hard on the physical work, I had neglected the mental aspect. My confidence and mental health plummeted as each month went by. Fortunately, my family had enough funds and insurance coverage to obtain counseling which has been beneficial in my journey. Through the sport of soccer, I was taught to balance and strengthen physically, but also mentally.
Confidence is key and similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partner with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate youth sports groups in underserved communities. I would organize mental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops. Many times, these kids and young adults are overlooked or simply do not feel as though they belong or qualify because of their socioeconomic status and often cannot afford the mental health development that they so deserve. Low confidence is much like bad "first touch" in soccer.
Hopefully, I can change that. This is how I can impact the world.
Servant Ships Scholarship
I remembered that day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon. The kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
As a young soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. Could I ever become a successful player if I could not master this fundamental skill? Instead of giving up, I chose to embrace the challenge and dedicate myself to refining my first touch.
Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and an innate sense of ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each successful touch, my confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes became accurate, my dribbles fluid, and my goals unstoppable. My first touch along with my speed and athleticism had become the foundation of my success on the field. I was on a fast track to a Division 1 soccer scholarship at some of the best schools in the nation.
That fast track came to a screeching halt after I suffered a complete ACL tear in my knee during my sophomore year of high school. I was devastated, but I remembered a funny, yet inspiring soccer movie that I had seen, 'Bend it Like Beckham.' The movie was about going after your passion despite the setbacks and others telling you to give up. I soon began rehab work after surgery. In 7 months I was back out on the field. I soon found that while I had focused hard on the physical work, I had neglected the mental aspect. My confidence and mental health plummeted as each month went by. Fortunately, my family had enough funds and insurance coverage to obtain counseling which has been beneficial in my journey.
Confidence is key and similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partner with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate youth sports groups in underserved communities. I would organize mental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops. Many times, these kids and young adults are overlooked or simply do not feel as though they belong or qualify because of their socioeconomic status and often cannot afford the mental health development that they so deserve. Low confidence is much like bad "first touch" in soccer.
Hopefully, I can change that. This is how I can impact the world!
Xavier M. Monroe Heart of Gold Memorial Scholarship
I remembered that day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon. The kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
As a young soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. Could I ever become a successful player if I could not master this fundamental skill? Instead of giving up, I chose to embrace the challenge and dedicate myself to refining my first touch.
Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and an innate sense of ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each successful touch, my drive and confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes became accurate, my dribbles fluid, and my goals unstoppable. My first touch along with my speed and athleticism had become the foundation of my success on the field. I was on a fast track to a Division 1 soccer scholarship at some of the best schools in the nation.
That fast track came to a screeching halt after I suffered a complete ACL tear in my knee during my sophomore year of high school. I was devastated, but I quickly dusted myself off and began the rehab work after surgery. In 7 months I was back out on the field. I soon found that while I had focused hard on the physical work, I had neglected the mental aspect. My confidence and mental health plummeted as each month went by. Fortunately, my family had enough funds and insurance coverage to obtain counseling which has been beneficial in my journey. I learned the lesson and importance of mental health and affirmations in all walks of my life.
Confidence is key and similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partner with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate youth sports groups in underserved communities. I would organize mental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops. Many times, these kids and young adults are overlooked or simply do not feel as though they belong or qualify because of their socioeconomic status and often cannot afford the mental health development that they so deserve. Low confidence is much like bad "first touch" in soccer.
Hopefully, I can change that! This is how I can impact the world.
Healing Self and Community Scholarship
I remember the day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy day and kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I'd often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course. Frustration engulfed me.
Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and my confidence grew. My first touch along with my athleticism had become the foundation of my success. I was on a fast track to a Division 1 soccer scholarship at some of the best schools in the nation.
That fast track came to a screeching halt after I suffered a complete ACL tear in my knee during my sophomore year of high school. I was devastated, but I jumped right into rehab after surgery. In 7 months I was back out on the field. I discovered that while I had focused hard on the physical work, I had neglected the mental aspect. My mental health plummeted day by day. Fortunately, my family had enough funds for counseling which has been beneficial in my journey.
Confidence is key. I'd like to create community outreach programs and partner with local organizations to educate youth sports groups in underserved communities. Often, these kids are neglected due to their socioeconomic status and cannot afford the mental health development that they deserve.
I will make an impact to change that!
Sallie Rowland Bright Futures Scholarship
Hi, I’m Chloe Thompson and I'd characterize myself as a strong-willed introvert with a philanthropic spirit. I was born in Raleigh, NC, but I have spent most of my life raised in the suburbs of Chicago and the Washington, DC area. Despite my meek nature, I've developed self-assurance and confidence allowing me to overcome many obstacles. This quality and exposure have granted me the ability to appreciate different cultures and backgrounds and understand the importance of a first impression. I have served as a young ambassador and lead recruiter for a community group focused on the local African-American community. After relocating to Northern Virginia when I was younger, I quickly found the need for my own collective cultural representation … even in an area of great diversity. I expressed this need to my parents, and they discovered that many of their friends had children experiencing similar identity issues as well. From there, they formed a group called ‘Brown Sugar PlayDates,’ an organization designed to provide exposure to the African-American community within Northern VA by fostering a sense of purpose, solidarity & self-awareness through planned social outings & community service projects. Since the age of 10, I have led the selection of peers to join the group and provided valuable input on activities of interest. Brown Sugar Playdates offered black youth as well as adults a sense of belonging and permission to take pride in their background by being exposed to positive members of their community. We come together as friends and family to sow seeds back into our community as a unit. Every December, each family collects gifts and toiletries and the kids fill and decorate shoebox gifts to donate to a local non-profit organization (S.O.M.E., ACTS, Alternative House/Second Story, etc). At the end of Summer, we held back-to-school supply drives to help kids in need.
I'm currently a student intern for a real estate settlement services firm that is partnered with a large residential home builder. My goal is to pursue education and training in architecture and/or real estate design that will allow me to further my knowledge and knowledge in those fields. Many times, kids and young adults in underserved communities are unaware of the immense value of property ownership. Creating community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations/clinics would do just that. I plan to pursue a career in real estate by helping others achieve wealth through property investments and begin a career as a developer within those communities that are in need of fresh revitalization.
These hungry ambitions require funding and again, proper education. Being from a humble middle-class family, I now realize that we're ineligible for a generous amount of financial aid, but not well-off enough to flat-out pay for my education. That's why I continue to advocate for myself as a strong applicant for this scholarship all while giving back to my community, maintaining a high GPA and even leading on the soccer field!
Joshua’s Home Remodeling Scholarship
Hi, I’m Chloe Thompson and I'd characterize myself as a strong-willed introvert with a philanthropic spirit. I was born in Raleigh, NC, but I have spent most of my life raised in the suburbs of Chicago and the Washington, DC area. Despite my meek nature, I've developed self-assurance and confidence allowing me to overcome many obstacles. This quality and exposure have granted me the ability to appreciate different cultures and backgrounds and understand the importance of a first impression. I have served as a young ambassador and lead recruiter for a community group focused on the local African-American community. After relocating to Northern Virginia when I was younger, I quickly found the need for my own collective cultural representation … even in an area of great diversity. I expressed this need to my parents, and they discovered that many of their friends had children experiencing similar identity issues as well. From there, they formed a group called ‘Brown Sugar PlayDates,’ an organization designed to provide exposure to the African-American community within Northern VA by fostering a sense of purpose, solidarity & self-awareness through planned social outings & community service projects. Since the age of 10, I have led the selection of peers to join the group and provided valuable input on activities of interest. Brown Sugar Playdates offered black youth as well as adults a sense of belonging and permission to take pride in their background by being exposed to positive members of their community. We come together as friends and family to sow seeds back into our community as a unit. Every December, each family collects gifts and toiletries and the kids fill and decorate shoebox gifts to donate to a local non-profit organization (S.O.M.E., ACTS, Alternative House/Second Story, etc). At the end of Summer, we held back-to-school supply drives to help kids in need.
I'm currently a student intern for a real estate settlement services firm that is partnered with a large residential home builder. My goal is to pursue education and training in architecture and/or real estate that will allow me to further my knowledge and knowledge in those fields. Many times, kids and young adults in underserved communities are unaware of the immense value of property ownership. Creating community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations/clinics would do just that. I plan to pursue a career in real estate by helping others achieve wealth through property investments.
These ambitions require funding and again, proper education. Being from a middle-class family, I now realize that we're ineligible for a generous amount of financial aid, but not well-off enough to flat-out pay for my education. That's why I continue to advocate for myself as a strong applicant for this scholarship all while giving back to my community, maintaining a high GPA and even leading on the soccer field!
Nasser Seconi Scholarship Fund
I remember the day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid afternoon. Kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
Similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. Imagine meeting someone for the first time with an alarmingly bad smile and bad breath. The unsightly look of plaque-infested teeth can send some people running in the opposite direction. Although beauty emanates from the inside, there is something to be said about having a beautiful smile with clean teeth.
As an adolescent soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. How could I ever become a successful player if I could not master my first touch? I pushed myself through countless hours of practice and eventually gained superior ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each touch, my confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes were accurate and my movements became one with the ball. I was virtually unstoppable! My first touch had become the foundation of my success on the field.
This is how I feel about a beautiful smile. It will create a great first impression. A crooked smile and poor dental habits could quickly become a source of self-consciousness and embarrassment. A few friends and I donated our time by helping kids in underserved communities. We understood that with the proper dental products and spreading the awareness we could increase their chances of making a good first impression and establishing meaningful relationships and opportunities in the future.
We were able to hand out dental necessities to the young adults and kids. My friends and I were able to develop our transformative leadership skills by serving local communities around greater Washington DC. I hope to keep evangelizing this message after I finish dental school. I was so grateful that I was able to dedicate my time to educating them to emphasize the importance of a great first impression. Hopefully, this gave them a greater sense of purpose and the willingness to unlock relationships within the community.
I am grateful for the game that taught me so much. Soccer did not just teach me how to control a ball—it led me to my purpose. It taught me to endure hard times, embrace challenges, and find purpose in becoming selfless and it's why I continue to advocate for myself as a strong applicant for this scholarship all while giving back to my community, maintaining a high GPA and even leading on the soccer field!
Patrick B. Moore Memorial Scholarship
Hi, I’m Chloe Thompson and I'd characterize myself as a strong-willed introvert with a philanthropic spirit. I was born in Raleigh, NC, but I have spent most of my life raised in the suburbs of Chicago and the Washington, DC area. Despite my meek nature, I've developed self-assurance and confidence allowing me to overcome many obstacles. This quality and exposure have granted me the ability to appreciate different cultures and backgrounds and understand the importance of a first impression.
I have served as a young ambassador and lead recruiter for a community group focused on the local African-American community. After relocating to Northern Virginia when I was younger, I quickly found the need for my own collective cultural representation … even in an area of great diversity. I expressed this need to my parents, and they discovered that many of their friends had children experiencing similar identity issues as well. From there, they formed a group called ‘Brown Sugar PlayDates,’ an organization designed to provide exposure to the African-American community within Northern VA by fostering a sense of purpose, solidarity & self-awareness through planned social outings & community service projects. Since the age of 10, I have led the selection of peers to join the group and provided valuable input on activities of interest. Brown Sugar Playdates offered black youth as well as adults a sense of belonging and permission to take pride in their background by being exposed to positive members of their community. We come together as friends and family to sow seeds back into our community as a unit. Every December, each family collects gifts and toiletries and the kids fill and decorate shoebox gifts to donate to a local non-profit organization (S.O.M.E., ACTS, Alternative House/Second Story, etc). At the end of Summer, we held back-to-school supply drives to help kids in need.
My goal is to pursue an education and training in the field of dentistry. I want to further my knowledge and encourage dental care in underserved communities. Many times, kids and young adults are overlooked because of their substandard first impressions. A great smile can affect the trajectory of one’s outcome during a first interview or conversation. Everyone should be able to feel empowered and take on the world with a beautiful set of teeth. Creating community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations/clinics, would do just that. Additionally, I plan to pursue a career in real estate by helping others achieve wealth through property investments.
These ambitions require funding and proper education. Being from a middle-class family, I now realize that we're ineligible for a generous amount of financial aid, but not well-off enough to flat-out pay for my education. That's why I continue to advocate for myself as a strong applicant for this scholarship all while giving back to my community, maintaining a high GPA and even leading on the soccer field!
Valiyah Young Scholarship
Hi, I’m Chloe Thompson and I'd characterize myself as a strong-willed introvert with a philanthropic spirit. I was born in Raleigh, NC, but I have spent most of my life raised in the suburbs of Chicago and the Washington, DC area. Despite my meek nature, I've developed self-assurance and confidence allowing me to overcome many obstacles. This quality and exposure have granted me the ability to appreciate different cultures and backgrounds and understand the importance of a first impression.
I have served as a young ambassador and lead recruiter for a community group focused on the local African-American community. After relocating to Northern Virginia when I was younger, I quickly found the need for my own collective cultural representation … even in an area of great diversity. I expressed this need to my parents, and they discovered that many of their friends had children experiencing similar identity issues as well. From there, they formed a group called ‘Brown Sugar PlayDates,’ an organization designed to provide exposure to the African-American community within Northern VA by fostering a sense of purpose, solidarity & self-awareness through planned social outings & community service projects. Since the age of 10, I have led the selection of peers to join the group and provided valuable input on activities of interest. Brown Sugar Playdates offered black youth as well as adults a sense of belonging and permission to take pride in their background by being exposed to positive members of their community. We come together as friends and family to sow seeds back into our community as a unit. Every December, each family collects gifts and toiletries and the kids fill and decorate shoebox gifts to donate to a local non-profit organization (S.O.M.E., ACTS, Alternative House/Second Story, etc). At the end of Summer, we held back-to-school supply drives to help kids in need.
My goal is to pursue an education and training in the field of dentistry. I want to further my knowledge and encourage dental care in underserved communities. Many times, kids and young adults are overlooked because of their substandard first impressions. A great smile can affect the trajectory of one’s outcome during a first interview or conversation. Everyone should be able to feel empowered and take on the world with a beautiful set of teeth. Creating community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations/clinics, would do just that. Additionally, I plan to pursue a career in real estate by helping others achieve wealth through property investments.
These ambitions require funding and proper education. Being from a middle-class family, I now realize that we're ineligible for a generous amount of financial aid, but not well-off enough to flat-out pay for my education. That's why I continue to advocate for myself as a strong applicant for this scholarship all while giving back to my community, maintaining a high GPA and even leading on the soccer field!
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
I remembered the day I fell in love with soccer. It was a hazy and humid summer afternoon. The kids were screaming at a fever pitch while they effortlessly controlled the ball with their feet. The ball seemed to move harmoniously at their every command. They could guide the ball wherever they wanted it to go with the least amount of effort. Their moves were fascinating. Little did I know this sport would teach me so many life lessons about making a memorable first impression. In the game of soccer, a player’s "first touch" is the ability to control a pass and make the ball do whatever you would like it to do. Having this ability can immediately determine a player’s talent level. It sets the stage for everything that follows. A poor first touch can lead to missed opportunities and ultimately fumbling of the ball.
As a young soccer player, I quickly realized that my first touch needed improvement. I would often mishandle the ball, sending it wildly off course or losing control altogether. Frustration engulfed me, and doubts crept into my mind. How could I ever become a successful player if I couldn't master this fundamental skill? But instead of giving up, I chose to embrace the challenge and dedicate myself to refining my first touch.
Through countless hours of practice, I developed a delicate touch and an innate sense of ball control. The ball became an extension of my foot, responding effortlessly to my every command. With each successful touch, my confidence grew, and the game started to reward me. My passes became accurate, my dribbles fluid, and my goals unstoppable. My first touch had become the foundation of my success on the field.
Similarly, in the game of life, a bad first impression can significantly hinder one’s growth and development. It can create barricades and can stifle one’s opportunities. I would use this scholarship to encourage dental care in underserved communities. Many times, these kids and young adults are overlooked because of their substandard first impressions. A bad smile is much like bad "first touch" in soccer.
This is how I can impact the world.
I understand that a great smile can affect the trajectory of one’s outcome during a first interview or conversation. I want them to feel empowered to take on the world with a beautiful set of teeth. I would like to create community outreach programs as well as partnering with local organizations, schools, and clinics to educate that group. I would organize dental health campaigns, where I could conduct interactive workshops, distribute informational materials, and demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques. Thank you for considering my scholarship application, and I am ecstatic about having an opportunity to impact the world.