Ba-dum. Ba-dum. Ba-dum. Maybe you're recalling a memory of a cold stethoscope pressed against your chest, or the comforting sound of a loved one's heartbeat beneath your ear as you hold them close. Maybe you're hearing the rush of blood in your ears during the championship sports game, or the pounding headache you get when you go too long without sleep. The heart, a biological masterpiece, is key to animal life. Love, making decisions, pumping blood through our veins- at the center of all these things is (whether metaphorical or physical) the heart. Certainly nothing so key to our existence as the heart could ever be replaced by a robot, AI, or any other form of technology. That's the common assumption, at least- but that assumption is wrong. Little known to the general public, humanity has recently accomplished a grand medical feat- the artificial heart. In 2001, the AbioCor artificial heart (created by the Massachusetts-based company AbioMed) became the first artificial transplant to successfully replace a human heart. Fully implantable within a patient- due to a combination of advances in miniaturization, biosensors, plastics, and energy transfer- the AbioCor runs on a rechargeable source of power compatible with our body's system. AbioCor was surgically introduced into 15 total patients, with an average produced life expectancy of 18 months. That number may seem slim, but for non-human transplant organs (like xenotransplants, or using transplant organs and parts from pigs), 18 months is extremely high. Without the AbioCor, most of these patients would have died within a few days or weeks. This artificial heart bought them much-appreciated time with family and loved ones, and made a world of difference in these terminally ill patients' lives. While AbioCor is now discontinued due to insufficient evidence/research on its efficacy, the development of artificial hearts is still underway. The first leap forward in non-living transplant organs, the AbioCor "robot" heart was a huge breakthrough. The artificial heart opens a vast number of doors in the biomedical industry for breakthroughs in transplants, treatments for previously "incurable" conditions, and an extended human lifespan due to new treatments for degenerative diseases. The artificial heart probably still seems like something out of a sci-fi movie to most people, but its impact has been- and will be- enormous.

Green (Super Easy)- Ideas for a First Date (Movies, Coffee, Arcade, Picnic) The movies, getting coffee, having a picnic, or going to the arcade are all ideas for a first date and are commonly shown in the movies as some of the most popular date ideas. Yellow (Easy)- Things That Are Pink (Pig, Quartz, Sunset, Gum) All of these things can be pink. This category is a little harder as all of these things can also be other colors- but pink is the most common form of each of these objects. Pigs can be grey, brown, white, tan, etc. but the iconic pig most of us think of is squeaky clean and pink. Rose quartz is one of the most common and well-known gemstones and is iconicly pink in color, thus its name. A sunset is a combination of many colors, but when I picture a sunset, it's mostly pink. The prettiest sunset pictures often show the sky looking pink in color. When most people think of gum, they think of bubble gum, which is iconic in its own unique shade of "bubblegum pink." Blue (Medium)- College Life (Class, Football, Office Hours, Fraternity) Going to class, watching college football games, attending your professors' office hours to get academic help or tutoring, and being a part of Greek life or going to frat parties are all parts of college life. This one may be a little tricky because the word class has multiple meanings, and office hours may make you think of working in an office, not visiting your professor in theirs. Football may also be a distractor, with a possible incorrect guess of football, movies, pickle, and arcade as all "things you play." Purple (Hard)- Common Idioms (Grass, Cat, Pickle, Leg) This one is pretty tricky and the average person may not connect these four things as having any relation to one another. These four are grouped together because they are all the noun in a common idiom: "The grass is always greener on the other side," "Cat got your tongue?" / "It's raining cats and dogs!", "In a pickle," and "Break a leg!" Pickle could be a distractor for a category named Things You Eat (pickle, movies, gum, and pig), while grass could be a part of a category called Things Outside (grass, sunset, football, picnic). At first glance, you may also group cat and pig together, but past that, the animal category is a dead end. This category would also be hard if you spoke English as a second language and therefore would be unfamiliar with American/English idioms.

"I'm light as a feather, I'm stiff as a board, I pay attention to things most people ignore / ... / I feel for your every little issue, I know just what you mean / and I make light of the darkness / I've got sun coming out of my pockets, best believe." The irony and sarcasm that drips from these lyrics, parts of the chorus from all american b*tch, resonate with anyone struggling with teen angst, particularly the double standards of society that teenage girls struggle against, and the constant battle with mental health for those 1 in 3 teens affected with things like depression, suicidal ideations, and anxiety. In ninth grade, the panic I had first felt in seventh grade two years past was a constant companion. Nervous energy presented itself in fidgeting, frequent migraines, chronic nausea, and a worry that stalked me like a lone wolf through black woods in the dark of night. When I was stressed, it felt like I was drowning. I worried about the most insignificant things, the smallest mistakes sent me spiraling, and minute inconveniences had me in a panic. Anxiety attacks and crying myself to sleep at night were so common I seemed to forget that what I was experiencing wasn't normal. I could never focus, I constantly had a million voices at war in my mind, sweaty palms and shaking hands, gasps of breath, and a pounding heart- they haunted me day and night, no matter the circumstances. Every time I looked in the mirror I was filled with nothing but disgust, desperate to break free from the prison of my body, trapped by the cavern of torture that was my mind. Slowly, I wasted away, nothing but a shell of my former self, barely hanging on by a thread. While I'm proud to say that I'm now in recovery, a fighter, a survivor of all the demons that had been hiding in my closet and under my bed, one of the few things that could get me through the daily struggle to make it to the next day during the worst of my mental health crisis was music. I sought out genuine, deep, meaningful lyrics buried in the catchy tunes of pop songs, searching for anything that I could relate to, a whisper of anything that seemed that someone understood. Olivia Rodrigo was one of those artists who carried me through those difficult times, reminding me that I wasn't alone and that millions of girls around the world were struggling with the same things I was- and even more, that many of those girls had made it through. Her lyrics reminded me that someone understood, and that was more comfort than anything during a period during which I felt so alone. Sharpie tattoos on my wrist of lyrics that held me together were a commonplace sight during my freshman and sophomore years, I was often tucked in a corner, swamped in a hoodie, AirPods in, trying to retain some semblance of sanity by listening to those lyrics that were one of the few things that I could identify with at the time.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. I lost my grandmother to melanoma when I was 14, and both my mom’s parents are cancer survivors. Chronic illnesses like lupus, heart disease, and a blood clotting disorder also run in the family, and ever since I was little I've always wanted to figure out the why behind these diseases that have so affected my life. One day, I hope to contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field and conduct research in a subject I have come to love. I hope to inspire all the girls dreaming of being doctors, scientists, and engineers in male-dominated fields to embrace the badass powerhouses they are, and not be scared to go for their dreams. Ever since I was little, I've always wanted to change the world. I'm determined to leave my mark, and each day I strive to change the world, one small step at a time. Being born into the world I was, I didn't have a choice. I'm a fighter, and I'm proud of that. I fight each day to do my small part to enact lasting change. I fight each day to do my small part to change the world. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. I lost my grandmother to melanoma when I was 14, and both my mom’s parents are cancer survivors. Chronic illnesses like lupus, heart disease, and a blood clotting disorder also run in the family, and ever since I was little I've always wanted to figure out the why behind these diseases that have so affected my life. One day, I hope to contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field and conduct research in a subject I have come to love. I hope to inspire all the girls dreaming of being doctors, scientists, and engineers in male-dominated fields to embrace the badass powerhouses they are, and not be scared to go for their dreams. As a young woman born into Gen Z, I've witnessed a nation split apart with hate, a crumbling economy, and the rising mental health epidemic of teens being blatantly ignored. I've witnessed a world racked by global warming, a worldwide pandemic taking the lives of millions- inflation, government scandals, corruption, worldwide conflict, abuse, oppression...it goes on and on. Yet despite the obvious crises at hand, every time youth around the world speak up for our future, we are silenced. They silence us when we try to protest and do our part to reverse this devastating change. Gen Z was born into this broken world while our elders refused to realize the damage that caused, denying the problems and refusing to attempt to fix this rapidly spreading devastation. Even since as young as two, five, and seven, we have carried the burdens of this broken world on our shoulders. We were born into this mess and are now expected to fix it. Ever since I was little, I've always wanted to change the world. Around the age of ten, I realized that perhaps dreaming of being president or finding the cure for cancer wasn't the most realistic of ambitions. But even so, I was determined to leave my mark, and each day I am determined to change the world, one small step at a time. Being born into the world I was, I didn't have a choice. I'm a fighter, and I'm proud of that. I fight each day to do my small part to enact lasting change. I fight each day to do my small part to change the world. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." I disagree. My past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are intrinsically part of who I am; it was my battle with chronic illness and mental health that shaped my passions and dreams for the future. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts by joining a WGI Color Guard to continue my color guard career and taking elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts through participating in WGI Color Guard and taking elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. I've maxed out AP courses in my schedule, have completed three different pathways (foreign language, Biomed, and dual-enrollment/college prep), and will graduate high school with over 60 college credits. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and am passionate about serving my community. I volunteer with multiple organizations each week and have accumulated over 300 service hours in high school alone. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams and am fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. My dream is to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in bioethics, health policy, or government at Harvard University. I also to continue my passion for the arts and humanities through elective courses in art, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language. My dream is to one day go to medical school, earn my MD in Hematology and Oncology, and start a nonprofit providing scholarships and support and paving the way for other young women and disabled teens like me. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and the people on this planet. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. This scholarship would continue to fuel my passions and help me realize my dreams by pushing my education to reach new heights. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. It’s hard not to be frustrated with my body when it can’t do all the things I want it to. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. I am more than my mistakes- I am also the resilience, creativity, and ambition born from those bumps and bruises along the way. My disabilities, obstacles, and imperfections are a massive part of who I have become. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but also the kindest humans know- taught me that even though life may not be easy, people are rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and for the people on this planet. Challenges, by nature, lead to perseverance. Failure is not fatal—in fact, failure fuels growth. Obstacles are nothing but opportunities. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. I am not perfect, but I am proud of that. One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn is that it’s okay not to be okay. But I’m breathing. I’m alive. I’m here. And honestly? That’s enough. I’m still fighting- for myself and for others. I know that I’m meant to do something, to be somebody. I’m far from perfect, and I’m far from always being ok- but I’m at peace with that. I still have so much to do in the life I’ve been given. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. It’s hard not to be frustrated with my body when it can’t do all the things I want it to. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. I am more than my mistakes- I am also the resilience, creativity, and ambition born from those bumps and bruises along the way. My disabilities, obstacles, and imperfections are a massive part of who I have become. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but also the kindest humans know- taught me that even though life may not be easy, people are rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and for the people on this planet. Challenges, by nature, lead to perseverance. Failure is not fatal—in fact, failure fuels growth. Obstacles are nothing but opportunities. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. I am not perfect, but I am proud of that. One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn is that it’s okay not to be okay. But I’m breathing. I’m alive. I’m here. And honestly? That’s enough. I’m still fighting- for myself and for others. I know that I’m meant to do something, to be somebody. I’m far from perfect, and I’m far from always being ok- but I’m at peace with that. I still have so much to do in the life I’ve been given. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. It’s hard not to be frustrated with my body when it can’t do all the things I want it to. Chronic illness is a long journey of self-acceptance and showing yourself compassion, love, and grace- learning to live with a disability has cultivated compassion, empathy, and a love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. I am more than my mistakes- I am also the resilience, creativity, and ambition born from those bumps and bruises along the way. My disabilities, obstacles, and imperfections are a massive part of who I have become. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but also the kindest humans know- taught me that even though life may not be easy, people are rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and for the people on this planet. Challenges, by nature, lead to perseverance. Failure is not fatal—in fact, failure fuels growth. Obstacles are nothing but opportunities. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. I am not perfect, but I am proud of that. One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn is that it’s okay not to be okay. But I’m breathing. I’m alive. I’m here. And honestly? That’s enough. I’m still fighting- for myself and for others. I know that I’m meant to do something, to be somebody. I’m far from perfect, and I’m far from always being ok- but I’m at peace with that. I still have so much to do in the life I’ve been given. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

One of humanity's most remarkable aspects is our ability to transform our most significant disadvantages and greatest flaws into our most formidable strengths. Historically, oppression and suffering were among our most difficult hurdles, but they have also acted as our largest catalysts for change. I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. All the obstacles I’ve overcome to reach where I am today have- if nothing else- made me stronger. I’m empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and for the people on this planet. Challenges, by nature, lead to perseverance. Failure is not fatal—in fact, failure fuels growth. Obstacles are nothing but opportunities. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. I am not perfect, but I am proud of that. One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn is that it’s okay to not be okay. I’m not always ok- but I’m breathing. I’m alive. I’m here. And honestly? That’s enough. I’m still fighting- for myself and for others. I know that I’m meant to do something, to be somebody. I’m far from perfect, and I’m far from always being ok- but I’m at peace with that. I still have so much to do in the life I’ve been given. It may be a long road ahead of me, but my story is far from over.

One of humanity's most remarkable aspects is our ability to transform our most significant disadvantages and greatest flaws into our most formidable strengths. Historically, oppression and suffering were among our most difficult hurdles, but they have also acted as our largest catalysts for change. I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Past experiences with physical and emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety cultivated a level of compassion, empathy, and love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I overcame to reach where I am today significantly impacted my current drive and motivation. If nothing else, I am empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. I am more than my mistakes- I am also the resilience, creativity, and ambition born from those bumps and bruises. Those "mistakes" are a massive part of who I have become. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but also the kindest humans know- taught me that even though life may not be easy, people are rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare, mental health advocacy, and funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. One day I hope to start a nonprofit of my own dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and for the people on this planet. Challenges, by nature, lead to perseverance. Failure is not fatal—in fact, failure fuels growth. Obstacles are nothing but opportunities. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. I am not perfect, but I am proud of that. One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn is that it’s okay to not be okay. My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they have been because of them. Despite the scars they left behind the battles I have waged were essential to who I am today. Without the obstacles I’ve overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

One of humanity's most remarkable aspects is our ability to transform our most significant disadvantages and greatest flaws into our most formidable strengths. Historically, oppression and suffering were among our most difficult hurdles, but they have also acted as our largest catalysts for change. I was once told, "Your struggles don't define you." My past experiences and challenges do not dictate my value; I am more than what I have endured. However, my past failures, obstacles, and mistakes are also intrinsically part of who I am. My battle with chronic illness and mental health helped shape my passions and dreams for the future. The perseverance and resilience that those experiences fostered have been some of my greatest assets. As a 17-year-old living with fibromyalgia, I must make an active effort to live each day of my life. Past experiences with physical and emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety cultivated a level of compassion, empathy, and love for life that I otherwise would not possess. My "imperfections" make me who I am, and I am proud of that. All the obstacles I overcame to reach where I am today significantly impacted my current drive and motivation. If nothing else, I am empowered to work harder, dream bigger, and chase the stars- simply because I was told I can’t. I am more than my mistakes- I am also the resilience, creativity, and ambition born from those bumps and bruises. Those "mistakes" are a massive part of who I have become. My struggles define me, but that does not mean that they limit me. My mental health and chronic illness are not a ceiling on my accomplishments or abilities- they are the fuel in the fire of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth. To struggle is to be human. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my struggle with mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field, not only as a prospective doctor but also as a patient, has cemented my decision to make a difference in the lives of others through a medical career. My frustrations with the healthcare system have inspired me to promote change, and the compassion I’ve been shown in some of my darkest moments instilled a passion to be that person for others. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but also the kindest humans know- taught me that even though life may not be easy, people are rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare, mental health advocacy, and funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. One day I hope to start a nonprofit of my own dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. Throughout college and beyond, my dream is to continue fueling my passion for medicine and for the people on this planet. Challenges, by nature, lead to perseverance. Failure is not fatal—in fact, failure fuels growth. Obstacles are nothing but opportunities. To quote Orwell Swett, “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome." Some of the most challenging moments in my life have also been the most transformative. I am not perfect, but I am proud of that. One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn is that it’s okay to not be okay. My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they have been because of them. Despite the scars they left behind the battles I have waged were essential to who I am today. Without the obstacles I’ve overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

There Is No Planet B: 10 Easy Steps to Do Your Part and Make a Difference Our planet is a beautiful, delicate network of unique and awesome ecosystems, filled with such a large variety of creatures we still haven't discovered them all. But Earth is in danger, and it needs every bit of help it can get. "But why me?" you may ask. Why not you? There is no Plan B. There is nowhere else to go. If we don't get all hands on deck- and soon- it's going to be too late. So here are just a few ideas so that you can do your part, one small step at a time: 10. Do your work on your laptop instead of on paper. Instead of going, studies show, over 7 trees a year, you can use a software program like Word, a virtual platform like Schoology or Canva, or use an iPad or virtual notebook to take digital notes by hand. 9. Turn off the water when brushing your teeth. The amount of water waste from that minute or two of leaving the faucet running would surprise you. Conserve water. Your local waterways- and your energy bill- will thank you. 8. Turn off the lights and TV when you leave the room. If you're busy or distracted, devices could remain on without use for hours, wasting large amounts of electricity. 7. Eat green. Every year, we're learning more about the negative health effects of frequent red meat consumption, as well as the huge impact of the industry on our environment. The methane released from cow waste alone is responsible for almost 15% of the greenhouse gasses contributing to global warming. Talk to your family about experimenting with a Meatless Monday- things like mushrooms, nuts, leafy greens, and tofu are pretty tasty if you give them a try. 6. Carpool, bike, or take public transportation. Not only do rideshare services or taking alternative modes of transportation reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses, they also greatly reduce road traffic (you can fit as many people in a public bus or metro as you would usually take up 30-40 cars), preventing the need for new roads to be built as the population continues to grow. 5. Grow a garden. Large, commercial-scale farms have to use gallons of pesticides and chemicals to protect the quality of their crops, which can produce toxic runoff, pollute local bodies of water, and be ingested by human consumers if produce isn't properly washed before eating. Smaller home gardens don't need harmful chemicals, and you can save money by growing your own organic produce right in your backyard. 4. Look at where your electrical company gets its energy from. Are they using green/renewable energy, or moving towards being carbon neutral? Don't support electrical companies that don't support the planet. 3. Volunteer. Plant trees in your neighborhood, pick up trash at a public park or join the Green Team at your school. Volunteering is good for the planet- build new friendships and work together to make a difference. 2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Make thoughtful, informed purchases, don't fall for consumer culture and wasteful trends, and when you do really something new, donate or recycle the old product. Think about where your trash really goes before you toss it in the garbage bin. 1- Be kind: to yourself, the people around you, and our planet. Small, random acts of kindness- even the most mundane, routine tasks- can add up and create lasting change. Be kind to our planet. After all, it's the only one we've got.

I’m Denali Mohler, and I’m currently a senior at Calvert High School in Calvert County, Maryland. I’m in Project Lead the Way biomedical program, doing labs and research that many of my parent’s generation didn’t have access to until medical school. I am also bilingual- fluent in both English and Spanish- and am sitting for the bi-literacy exam this spring (I'm also currently learning ASL and plan to get an ASL certification in college). I participate in numerous extracurriculars, such as being the captain of my school’s Color Guard, which has placed in the top 10 high schools in the country, as well as being a third-degree brown belt in Okinawan Karate. I have been Class President for the past four years and am Treasurer of my school’s chapter of NHS. I have over 300 service hours and volunteer weekly- at my church, at a food pantry, or working on a service project for my school. I also founded a jewelry business, a highly successful years-long endeavor through which I sell at craft fairs around the state. I am also a published poet and have been featured in showcases at art museums, as well as being a Carson Scholar and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I take the most challenging courses available- I'll graduate high school with over 50 college credits between AP, dual enrollment, and PLTW courses. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and a member of an activism club at my school focused on social justice and human rights. I'm passionate about serving my community and volunteer multiple hours each week, trying to use my blessings to benefit those less fortunate than I am. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams, am intrinsically motivated, and fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics and a certification in ASL at Harvard University. I plan to continue my education my earning a Masters Degree in Medicine and certification/licensure as a Physician's Associate in Pediatric Oncology. I want to be treating kids going through the most difficult times of their lives, capable of not only being there for them medically but also emotionally and spiritually. I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it, one small step at a time. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, but the road to get there is an expensive one. In this day and age, college is expensive, and scholarships are sometimes the only thing between an enthusiastic learner and an ocean of student debt. Because of my parents' income bracket, I do not qualify for any financial aid (college, FAFSA, need-based scholarships, or otherwise). However, despite my parents income, I am expected to pay for college entirely on my own. Between my undergraduate and graduate education, I'm looking at anywhere from $100,000 to $350,000 of debt. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals and my hopes and dreams for the future by helping to fund my higher education. I'm fiercely passionate about learning and have an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and this scholarship would allow me to continue that passion and push my education to reach new heights.

Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a three-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the NSHSS, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare, mental health advocacy, and funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. One day I hope to start a nonprofit of my own dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett But my accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today, and without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

I’m Denali Mohler, and I’m currently a junior at Calvert High School in Calvert County, Maryland. I’m in Project Lead the Way biomedical program, doing labs and research that many of my parent’s generation didn’t have access to until medical school. I’m fluent in both English and Spanish, and currently learning ASL as well. I participate in numerous extracurriculars, such as being the captain of my school’s Color Guard, a third-degree brown belt in Okinawan Karate, Class President (for the past four years), and Treasurer of my school’s chapter of NHS. I have over 300 service hours and volunteer weekly at various organizations, own a small business, and am a part-time preschool teacher at Sleepy Hollow Early Learning Center. I'm also a published poet and have been featured in showcases at art museums, as well as being a Carson Scholar and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I take the most challenging courses available- I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits, through both AP and dual enrollment courses. I'm an avid activist, a member of an activism club at my school focused on social justice and human rights, and am passionate about serving my community. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams, am intrinsically motivated, and fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University and get my Master's Degree in Medicine at George Washington University. I hope to become a PA in Pediatric Oncology, treating kids going through the most difficult times of their lives, capable of not only being there for them medically but also emotionally and spiritually. I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it and help to be the change I wish to create, one small step at a time. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, but the road to get there is an expensive one. In this day and age, college is expensive, and scholarships are sometimes the only thing between an enthusiastic learner and an ocean of student debt. Between my undergraduate and graduate education, I'm looking at anywhere from $100,000 to $350,000 of debt. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals and my hopes and dreams for the future by helping to fund my higher education. I'm fiercely passionate about learning and have an insatiable thirst for knowledge. This scholarship would allow me to continue that passion and allow my education to reach new heights. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University, participate in Undergraduate research and intern at Massachusetts General Hospital, and then continue to earn my Master's Degree in Medicine at George Washington University. I hope to become a PA in Pediatric Oncology, treating kids going through the most difficult times of their lives, capable of not only being there for them medically but also emotionally and spiritually. I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it and help to be the change I wish to create, one small step at a time. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, but the road to get there is an expensive one. This scholarship will help to fund my further education and allow me to continue to strive to reach new heights.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare and by funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. I also hope to start a nonprofit dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. “Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the obstacles which we overcome.” -Orwell Swett My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

When I was little, I was the girl in the corner of the classroom immersed in a large book, the world around me nothing but a blur when I was within its pages. Known for being mature for my age, it was contemplative dystopian novels, medical textbooks, philosophical pieces, and psychology books that captured my attention as I learned and grew. Through the books I read, I traveled around the world; my books were my inspiration, my role models, and my dearest friends. So much of who I am was impacted by the stories I grew up with and the characters I loved- women like Annabeth, Katniss, and Citra were my idols: breaking barriers, living loud, and not afraid to speak their minds. Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a junior at Calvert High School. I'm a student in the PLTW Biomedical Program, class president, and color guard captain for my high school's marching band. A member of The Divine Feminine (a teen-led activist group), a free volunteer math tutor for students at my school, and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, 1,000 Dreams Fund, National Youth Leadership Forum, and National Society of High School Scholars, I'm immeasurably passionate about serving my community and volunteer weekly with various organizations in my community like Project ECHO, Calvert Health, and the Special Olympics. I own a small business where I sell handmade jewelry at various pop-ups and craft markets around the state through which I raise funds for various causes like cancer research and healthcare in underprivileged areas, am bilingual (fluent in both English and Spanish) and am currently learning American Sign Language. A two-time Carson Scholar, AP Scholar, and student with a 4.35 GPA and 1560 SAT, I have a huge passion for learning. I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits through both AP and Dual Enrollment, am a published poet, and an exhibited artist with pieces in a Congressional Art Showcase and other local museum exhibits. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Psychology and Cellular Biology with a minor in Ethics at Harvard University, working part-time at Massachusetts General Hospital and participating in undergraduate research. In the summers, I hope to intern with an outreach program dedicated to accessible healthcare for the local underserved community. For my master's in science, I plan to enroll at James Madison or George Washington University for a degree in medicine and certification as a PA in Pediatric Oncology. My dream is to to forge a path for others in the way my path was cleared by the women before me, open my own medical office, and one day, write a novel: a novel not on any particular topic, but just simply about life- the things I've learned, the people who have inspired me, the history that has come before me, about my dreams for the future and my hopes for humanity, all that may come far after I'm gone. A book that will make you laugh and cry and smile and everything in between. In the words of Albus Dumbledore, "Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic." I hope I never forget the wonder of reading: the crinkling of the spine and old paper smell of first opening a new book, the sound of thumbing through the pages, and the feeling of huddling under a blanket late at night, immersed in a world thousands of miles or hundreds of years away. If words are magic, books are portals to everything that can be. Picking up a book feels like coming home.

“Success is not measured by what you accomplish but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.” -Orwell Swett Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving in my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of CHS' National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout the year in my school and community. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl aiming for the Ivy Leagues, I do a lot- but behind the first impression of a girl who's got it all together, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders and a debilitating chronic pain condition. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make things like AP Tests, public speaking, the SATs, leadership roles, or presenting in front of a class huge hurdles. Fibromyalgia- a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion- only adds to my daily struggles. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required in daily life- let alone school, extracurriculars, athletics, working, and volunteering- can cause huge hurdles when living with my disabilities. Still, my struggles against adversity and the hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout my mental health struggle that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to feel fulfilled and foster change. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare, mental health advocacy, and funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. One day I hope to start a nonprofit of my own dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today, and without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

"Hello, I'm Anxiety!" -Inside Out 2 Hi, I'm Denali and I’m a senior at Calvert High School. I’m in my school’s biomedical program, am the captain of my school's color guard, and have been a student in Okinawan Karate since 2016. I am currently serving my fourth year as Class President, am Treasurer of Calvert High’s chapter of the National Honor Society, and volunteer throughout my school and community with platforms like Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, Honor the Blue, Thrive Primary Care, and Project Echo. I’m bilingual- fluent in English and Spanish- and am currently learning American Sign Language. Furthermore, I'm a published poet and exhibited artist, a two-time Carson Scholar, and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, National Youth Leadership Forum, and Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I work at a local daycare as a teacher's aide, in addition to being the owner/founder of a small jewelry business. As a Type A, go-getter seventeen-year-old girl from small-town Southern Maryland, I struggle with multiple mental health disorders that affect every aspect of my life. OCD, depression, and panic disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. I also have fibromyalgia, a life-altering autoimmune disorder that causes widespread chronic body pain, insomnia, debilitatingly low energy levels, serotonin deficiencies, and constant bone-deep exhaustion. Just the mobility, energy, and headspace required to navigate daily life- let alone to participate in extracurriculars, athletics, and volunteer work (and also have a job) can make my life a big challenge when dealing with my disabilities. Still, my battles against adversity and the various hardships I've experienced have also been a transformative part of who I am. It was my battle to have my voice heard throughout the struggle with my mental health that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional life. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way. Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Throughout my life, many of my loved ones have had cancer- both survivors and those who have passed away- and I hope that one day I'm able to help pursue change for the better. In addition to a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy for equity in healthcare, mental health advocacy, and funding medical research and community outreach programs to serve the underserved. One day I hope to start a nonprofit of my own dedicated to not only funding pediatric cancer, mental health, and fibromyalgia research but also providing scholarships for girls pursuing careers in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams. My accomplishments throughout my life have not been despite my struggles- they've been because of them. The battles I've waged- despite the scars they've left behind- are such an important part of who I am today, and without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

In my sophomore year of high school, I dealt with a mental health crisis so crippling I thought I would never see the other side. Within a month, I was diagnosed with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Clinical Depression, Panic Disorder, Body Dysmorphia, and fibromyalgia. There are days when it's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning- however, it was my personal experience with the rapidly growing mental health epidemic that caused my interest in social science, psychology, and neurobiology to bloom. I've grown stronger because of my struggles, and I hope that one day as a PA, I can contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field and conduct research in a subject I have come to love. I have been Class President for the past four years, am currently treasurer of my school's NHS (with over 300 service hours), a published poet, and a museum-exhibited artist (my pieces on mental health and self-advocacy have been featured in numerous anthologies and student art collections.) I'm an avid activist, fiercely passionate, and constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves. I'm a member of an activism club at my school focused on social justice and human rights and I volunteer multiple hours each week, trying to use my blessings to benefit those less fortunate than I am. The past few years of my life have been transformative, to say the least. My mental health battles have shown me I'm stronger than I ever thought possible, and since then, mental health advocacy has been a topic that I am fiercely passionate about. I'm not shy about sharing my story and helping others persevere their struggles as they write the next chapter in their own stories. Through my poetry, photography, art, and advocacy work, I hope to empower others to write their own stories, face their fears, and embrace the power of not being perfect. Throughout my education after high school, whether at Harvard or another institution, in graduate school and beyond, my dream is to continue to fuel my passion for medicine and for the people on this planet, doing my best to spread random acts of kindness and make ripples as I move through life, changing the world one small step at a time.

In the words of Albus Dumbledore, "Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic. Capable of both inflicting injury, and remedying it." Knowledge is power, and it is through our education that we are empowered to make a difference. College is one of the most valuable times of one's life- you find what you're interested in, you find what you want to do with your life, you find how you want to change the world, you find yourself. College is a stage of metamorphosis in one's life, allowing you to leave behind the parts of you you no longer wish to hold on to and grow in all the ways you've been hoping to. It's an integral part of growing up and becoming an adult- it helps you learn your heart and mind and discover who you want to be. Knowledge is invaluable, and college is one of the most valuable times in one's life when it comes to expanding your knowledge of both yourself and the world around you. My dream has always been to change the world in my own way, standing for those who can't stand for themselves. I'm a go-getter, all or nothing, and throw myself into every goal I set. I'm a successful small business owner at the age of sixteen, Class President, and a member of my school's chapter of NHS, dedicated to serving my community. I also participate in an advocacy club at my school focused on human rights and social justice issues, and am participating in the PLTW biomedical program- running labs and working with equipment many don't have access to until medical school. I'm fascinated with matters of the body and mind, spending my free time exploring things like neuroscience research, philosophical debates, and the latest medical discoveries. Upon graduating high school I hope to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University and continue to get my Master's in Medicine at Georgetown University. My dream is to be a PA in Pediatric Oncology, not only supporting my patients medically but also emotionally and spiritually- fighting for each of them even if they no longer can fight for themselves. Medicine, and oncology in particular, has always been a field close to my heart. I hope to inspire all the girls dreaming of being doctors, scientists, and engineers in male-dominated fields to embrace the badass powerhouses that they are, and not be scared to go for their dreams. I want to work with kids and help raise the next generation, supporting them and cheering them on as they grow into the beautiful young adults I know they're going to be. Community service and volunteering have shaped my hopes and dreams for the future, shown me all that I have to be grateful for, and changed my outlook on humanity. I would not be the person that I am today without the things I have done for others, and I hope that as I grow up, I go on to serve others and do my small part to change the world- one person and one small act of kindness at a time.

Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a rising senior at Calvert High School. I've always been an acquired taste. I'm headstrong, determined, and fiercely passionate about what I believe in, and I'm not scared to voice my opinion or fight for what I know is right. My dream has always been to change the world in my own way, standing for those who can't stand for themselves. I'm a go-getter, all or nothing, and throw myself into every goal I set. I'm a successful small business owner at the age of sixteen, Class President, and a member of my school's chapter of NHS, dedicated to serving my community. I also participate in an advocacy club at my school focused on human rights and social justice issues, and am participating in the PLTW biomedical program- running labs and working with equipment many don't have access to until medical school. I'm fascinated with matters of the body and mind, spending my free time exploring things like neuroscience research, philosophical debates, and the latest medical discoveries. Upon graduating high school I hope to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University and continue to get my Master's in Medicine at Georgetown University. My dream is to be a PA in Pediatric Oncology, not only supporting my patients medically but also emotionally and spiritually- fighting for each of them even if they no longer can fight for themselves. Medicine, and oncology in particular, has always been a field close to my heart. I hope to inspire all the girls dreaming of being doctors, scientists, and engineers in male-dominated fields to embrace the badass powerhouses that they are, and not be scared to go for their dreams. I want to work with kids and help raise the next generation, supporting them and cheering them on as they grow into the beautiful young adults I know they're going to be. Community service and volunteering have shaped my hopes and dreams for the future, shown me all that I have to be grateful for, and changed my outlook on humanity. I would not be the person that I am today without the things I have done for others, and I hope that as I grow up, I go on to serve others and do my small part to change the world- one person and one small act of kindness at a time. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Psychology and Cellular Biology with a minor in Ethics as a pre-med student at Harvard University. I hope to work part-time at Massachusetts General Hospital during the fall and spring semesters while participating in undergraduate research, peer tutoring, and admissions advising. After graduating college, I plan to enroll at James Madison or George Washington University for a master's in medicine and certification as a Physician's Associate in Pediatric Oncology.

Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a junior at Calvert High School. I'm a student in the PLTW Biomedical Program, designing labs, experiments, and procedures, working with live viruses and bacteria; DNA, RNA, and genetic testing; biomedical engineering; various screenings, studies, and patient exams; as well as course concepts like immunology and pathology. I've also been class president my entire high school career (freshman, sophomore, and junior year), planning and leading class events such as homecoming, various fundraisers, Prom, and spirit weeks. I'm the color guard captain for my high school's marching band, and I co-choreographed our 2024 show, “Sweet," with our guard instructor. Additionally, I'm a karate student (since 2016) at a private dojo with a brown belt in karate and proficiency in three forms of weaponry (bo, sai, and nunchaku). I'm a member of The Divine Feminine (a teen-led activist group focused on social justice issues), a free volunteer math tutor for students at my school, and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, 1,000 Dreams Fund, National Youth Leadership Forum, and National Society of High School Scholars. Furthermore, I’m bilingual (fluent in both English and Spanish) and am currently learning American Sign Language. As far as volunteering in my community, I serve in the nursery every Sunday at my church and am a member of Calvert High School's chapter of the National Honor Society (past service projects include collaborations with Project ECHO, the Historical Society, Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, and Calvert Health). Each year I volunteer for the Special Olympics, with Honor the Blue- a local nonprofit dedicated to serving our local police force- and for the VBS program at a church in the area. Additionally, I'm the founder/owner/CEO of the Silver Lining Jewelry Company, a small business through which I sell at various pop-ups, craft markets, and vendor fairs around the state, in addition to fulfilling custom orders. Through this platform, I raise funds for various causes like cancer research, healthcare in third-world countries, and nonprofits supporting women trying to start their own small businesses. A two-time Carson Scholar and AP Scholar with a 3.98 (unweighted) and 4.29 (weighted) GPA with a 1410 SAT, I am very dedicated to my education and have a huge passion for learning. I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits through Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment Courses and am also a published poet with pieces in various anthologies, as well as physical art pieces exhibited in a Congressional Art Showcase and various other local museum exhibits. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Psychology and Cellular Biology with a minor in Ethics as a pre-med student at Harvard University. I hope to work part-time at Massachusetts General Hospital during the fall and spring semesters while participating in undergraduate research and peer tutoring, as well as potentially being an admissions counselor for incoming students. After graduating college, I plan to enroll at James Madison or George Washington University for a master's in medicine and certification as a Physician's Associate in Pediatric Oncology. I've always wanted to be a doctor, and I've always loved kids. When I was little, I thought being a big sister was the coolest thing in the world. Now, I volunteer with kids in my community and consider them all my little best friends. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, and it is through my chosen career that I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it, one small step at a time.

Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a doctor. I want to care for patients and be able to support them and their families when they’re going through rough times. I want to help fund research, to raise awareness for different causes, and to help as many people as I can in the life that I am given. Oncology has been a career of interest for me for as long as I can remember. I lost my great-grandmother, one of my childhood role models, to breast cancer when I was 10. Her daughter, my grandmother and best friend, passed when I was 14 due to melanoma. Both my mom’s parents are cancer survivors, and my great-aunt is battling ovarian cancer today. Seeing so many people I love suffering from this disease we know so little about really inspired my dream to be a part of the constantly evolving push for change in the oncological community. I hope that I can contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field, support families during one of the toughest times of their lives, and conduct research in a subject I have come to love, maybe one day working towards a cure. In the future, I hope to better serve my community and to do my small part in one day changing the world. I have always loved community service projects- especially through school organizations with my friends and teachers, like NJHS and SGA. Service projects for hospitals and other medical causes have always been close to my heart, and they have been special opportunities for me to feel like I’m making a difference in a field that I'm so passionate about. In 7th Grade, I was a part of a committee that ran a Relay 4 Life fundraiser at our school to raise money for cancer research. We provided pledges and decorated donation stations at the school, and the event itself ran for almost four hours. In the end, we raised hundreds of dollars, and it was amazing to know I was helping doctors around the world come one step closer to a cure for cancer. In 8th Grade, I ran a project as President of NJHS to make Christmas and holiday cards and no-sew blankets to donate to the local Calvert Health hospital at the height of the pandemic. In the end, the eight of us designed and created 90 holiday cards and fifteen blankets that we donated to Calvert Health. Throughout high school, I've both volunteered and worked at Thrive Primary Care, a local medical practice focused on serving the community through things like a traveling doctor's office serving low-income communities and free outpatient care. Volunteering to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves shows you how much you have to be grateful for. Every day I try to appreciate my blessings and use my gifts to better the world because I know there are so many who aren’t as well off as I am. Volunteering and serving others have changed me and inspired me in ways I could never have imagined. Community service and volunteering have shaped my hopes and dreams for the future, shown me all that I have to be grateful for, and changed my outlook on humanity. I would not be the person that I am today without the things I have done for others, and I hope that as I grow up, I go on to serve others and do my small part to change the world- one person and one small act of kindness at a time.

Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a doctor. I want to care for patients and be able to support them and their families when they’re going through rough times. I want to help fund research, to raise awareness for different causes, and to help as many people as I can in the life that I am given. Oncology has been a career of interest for me for as long as I can remember. I lost my great-grandmother, one of my childhood role models, to breast cancer when I was 10. Her daughter, my grandmother and best friend, passed when I was 14 due to melanoma. Both my mom’s parents are cancer survivors, and my great-aunt is battling ovarian cancer today. Seeing so many people I love suffering from this disease we know so little about really inspired my dream to be a part of the constantly evolving push for change in the oncological community. I hope that I can contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field, support families during one of the toughest times of their lives, and conduct research in a subject I have come to love, maybe one day working towards a cure. In the future, I hope to better serve my community and to do my small part in one day changing the world. I have always loved community service projects- especially through school organizations with my friends and teachers, like NJHS and SGA. Service projects for hospitals and other medical causes have always been close to my heart, and they have been special opportunities for me to feel like I’m making a difference in a field that I'm so passionate about. In 7th Grade, I was a part of a committee that ran a Relay 4 Life fundraiser at our school to raise money for cancer research. We provided pledges and decorated donation stations at the school, and the event itself ran for almost four hours. In the end, we raised hundreds of dollars, and it was amazing to know I was helping doctors around the world come one step closer to a cure for cancer. In 8th Grade, I ran a project as President of NJHS to make Christmas and holiday cards and no-sew blankets to donate to the local Calvert Health hospital at the height of the pandemic. In the end, the eight of us designed and created ninety holiday cards and fifteen blankets that we donated to Calvert Health. Throughout high school, I've both volunteered and worked at Thrive Primary Care, a local medical practice focused on serving the community through things like a traveling doctor's office serving low-income communities and free outpatient care. Volunteering to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves shows you how much you have to be grateful for. Every day I try to appreciate my blessings and use my gifts to better the world because I know there are so many who aren’t as well off as I am. Volunteering and serving others has changed me and inspired me in ways I could never have imagined. Community service and volunteering have shaped my hopes and dreams for the future, shown me all that I have to be grateful for, and changed my outlook on humanity. I would not be the person that I am today without the things I have done for others, and I hope that as I grow up, I go on to serve others and do my small part to change the world- one person and one small act of kindness at a time.

Ever since I was little, I've always wanted to change the world. By the age of 10 or so, I realized that perhaps dreaming of being president or finding the cure for cancer wasn't the most realistic of ambitions. But even so, I was determined to leave my mark, and regardless, each day I am determined to change the world, one small step at a time. My ambition to make the world a better place influences every aspect of my life. I'm a member of my high school's chapter of the National Honor Society, am Class President, and am a member of an advocacy club called The Divine Feminine focused on feminism, social justice, and enacting change through advocacy for our rights. I serve at my church each week, volunteer within my community through organizations like Project Echo and Farming for Hunger, and work at Thrive Primary Care- a medical practice focused on equity and serving the community. I've volunteered at community events to foster connections within our society, to support those in need, and to better the environment around us. I've sewed blankets that I donated to Calvert Health- the local hospital- run food drives and clothing drives for Project Echo, and volunteered with Honor the Blue, a local charity serving our law enforcement and first responders. Each time I help to bring in food and clothes for the needy, I'm helping someone less fortunate than myself, sharing the blessings I've been privileged to have. Each time I stand up for those who feel without a voice, I'm taking a small step toward bringing about lasting change for all those who are underrepresented and unheard. Each time I run community events, serve with local charities and organizations, and bring people together in the name of a cause I'm passionate about, I'm introducing people to others they may never have met otherwise, creating connections that one day could be life-changing. I'm a fiercely passionate individual and am fully dedicated to every cause I serve, and I devote myself each day to helping in any way I can. I love leading my peers in efforts to improve life for our fellow students, teachers, and citizens of our community, and I love knowing that each day, in my small way, I'm making a difference.  I'm not afraid to fight for what I believe in, not afraid to be passionate about the things I care about, and not afraid to stand up for those who can't stand for themselves. I'm a fighter, and I'm proud of that. I fight each day to do my small part to enact lasting change. I fight each day to do my small part to change the world.

"Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds." -Orison Swett Mardin The summer before I started seventh grade, at the age of thirteen, I was bitten by a copperhead snake. We arrived at the hospital while my breath was ripping through my chest, my aching lungs struggled to pull in oxygen, and tears burning in the back of my throat. After having- looking back- what was probably my first panic attack, I was wheeled on a stretcher into a helicopter and flown with my mom to the ICU at Children’s National Hospital in DC. After a week-long stay and around-the-clock doses of antivenom and morphine for the pain, I was discharged for the drive home, the slow road to recovery, and the demanding, six-month journey to walk again. In ninth grade, the panic I had felt after that copperhead bite two years past was a constant companion. Nervous energy presented itself in fidgeting, frequent migraines, chronic nausea, and a worry that stalked me like a lone wolf through black woods in the dark of night. When I was stressed, it felt like I was drowning. The smallest mistakes sent me spiraling, and anxiety attacks and crying myself to sleep at night were so common I seemed to forget that what I was experiencing wasn't normal. I could never focus, I constantly had a million voices at war in my mind, sweaty palms and shaking hands, gasps of breath, and a pounding heart- they haunted me day and night, no matter the circumstances. Every time I looked in the mirror I was filled with nothing but disgust, desperate to break free from the prison of my body, trapped by the cavern of torture that was my mind. But somewhere deep inside of me, I found the belief that I was stronger than this.                 By the start of eleventh grade, I had a new haircut, a new backpack, and the same old smile- but with a new light behind it. Still the "smart girl," still class president, still gunning for admission to Harvard. For the most part, I looked the same, I acted the same, I seemed the same. But I was also changed. The monsters under my bed finally had names: clinical depression, anxiety and panic disorder, OCD, body dysmorphia...But after I came to terms with the pill that I was terrified to take- the medicine that doesn't strip me of my control over my mind, but rather empowers me to take control of the demons I had locked up in the closet- I'm finally free. After admitting that it was okay to not be ok- after a year of therapy teaching me that being imperfect is more beautiful than perfection could ever be, I'm free. For the first time since the carefree days of stuffed animal tea parties and one plus one equals two, I'm free. I choose to excel rather than feel I must because that's what's expected of me. I choose to wear makeup because I think I'm beautiful, not because I think I'm not. And for the first time in a long time, I feel happy without waiting for the storm following the sunshine. I've found myself. And I'm free.   It was my battle to have my voice heard that inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change and lead a fulfilling professional career. The joy I've found through volunteering and working with kids- my little best friends who can be so blatantly honest, but yet also the kindest human beings I know- has taught me that even though life may not be as easy for me as everyone else, there are still people out there rooting for me and supporting me every step of the way.   Medicine- oncology in particular- has always been a field close to my heart. Many people in my family have had cancer, and I hope that one day I'm able to contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field and help pursue change for the better. In addition to pursuing a career in pediatric oncology, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy work on a variety of topics- including equity in healthcare and mental health advocacy- in addition to funding research, community outreach, and one day starting a nonprofit of my own with scholarships for girls interested in medicine and those battling various disabilities to help them pursue their dreams.   I've done a lot in my few years here on this planet, but my accomplishments were not despite my struggles- they've been because of them. Perhaps the version of me a year or two ago would have jumped on the opportunity of a do-over without a second thought, but I'm not the same girl I used to be. I've gone through so much, but I wouldn't change a thing. The battles I've waged, despite the scars they've left behind, are such an important part of who I am today. Without all the obstacles I've overcome, I wouldn't know just how strong I am.

Ever since I was little, I've always wanted to change the world. By the age of 10 or so, I realized that perhaps dreaming of being president or finding the cure for cancer wasn't the most realistic of ambitions. But even so, I was determined to leave my mark, and regardless, each day I am determined to change the world, one small step at a time. My ambition to make the world a better place is reflected in every aspect of my life, particularly my extracurriculars and the ways that I spend my free time. I'm a member of my high school's chapter of the National Honor Society, am Class President- as I have been the past three years- and so lead my class' Student Council each week and additionally am a member of an advocacy club called The Divine Feminine focused on feminism, social justice, and enacting change through advocacy for our rights. I serve at my church each week, volunteer within my community through organizations like Project Echo and Farming for Hunger, work on a case-by-case basis at Thrive Primary Care- a medical practice focused on equity and serving the community- and volunteer at a local charity serving our local law enforcement called Honor the Blue. I've volunteered at community events to foster connections within our society, to support those in need, and to better the environment around us. I've sewed blankets that I donated to Calvert Health, the local hospital, I've run food drives and clothing drives for Project Echo, the local homeless shelter, I've run many service projects at our school, fostering community within our students and giving a voice to those who previously had none, and I've fought for my beliefs through social advocacy on issues like student rights and climate change. I'm a fiercely passionate individual and am fully dedicated to every project I put my mind to and every cause I serve, and I devote myself each day to helping in any way I can. I love serving others in my community, helping those less fortunate than myself, I love leading my peers in efforts to improve life for our fellow students, teachers, and citizens of our community, and I love knowing that each day- each time I accomplish a goal I set for myself to better my school and my community- that in my small way, I'm making a difference. Each time I help to bring in food and clothes for the needy, I'm helping someone less fortunate than myself, sharing the blessings I've been privileged to have. Each time I stand up for those who feel as if they don't have a voice, I'm taking a small step toward bringing about lasting change for all those who are underrepresented and unheard. Each time I run community events, serve with local charities and organizations, and bring people together in the name of a cause I'm passionate about, I'm introducing people to others they may never have met otherwise, I'm creating connections that in some small way, one day, could be life-changing, and I'm doing my small part each day to change the world. I'm not afraid to fight for what I believe in, not afraid to be passionate about the things I care about, and not afraid to stand up for those who can't stand for themselves. I'm a fighter, and I'm proud of that. I fight each day to do my small part to enact lasting change. I fight each day to do my small part to change the world.

Understanding the Nature of the Universe: The Cosmos and the Human Condition "The universe bursts into existence from life, not the other way around as we have been taught. For each life, there is a universe, its own universe. We generate spheres of reality, individual bubbles of existence. Our universe is comprised of billions of spheres of reality, generated by each individual human." - Robert Lanza There has never been a greater mystery than that of the universe and the question of humanity's reason for existence. How did we get here? And more importantly, why are we here? Humanity's two greatest questions are often asked- and answered- hand in hand. The beautiful, marvelous complexity of being human is found mirrored in that same majestic mystery of our universe. The imagination and the human brain are an endless source of mystery for scientists, and even after decades and centuries of research we can only comprehend a small portion of the complexities of the mind. But like the universe, it’s exactly how little we understand and the sheer amount we have yet to learn that makes the mind so fascinating to philosophers, neurologists, and psychologists around the world. The imagination, some argue, is the essence of being human- it’s what makes our minds different from the brains of lizards, elephants, or apes. But unlike our motor cortex’s ability for complex coordination or the hypothalamus’ chemical signals to feel love, the science behind the imagination is relatively unclear. The imagination is not easily definable- some describe it as an intellectual means of transportation; some credit it as what gave birth to evolution. The imagination has been compared to a lightbulb, a spark, the sudden and violent strike of lightning…Much like the fire that launched our transformation from early humans to the thriving society we are today, the imagination is a light in our dark world. It brings hope into otherwise hopeless places, fuels creation and invention, and sheds light on the inner workings of our minds. The imagination provides a spark that can quickly grow into a blazing fire of passion, expression, and discovery. The imagination is a breath of vibrancy in an otherwise monotonous task of living, much like the first breath that birthed life into our inverse. It’s the imagination that is the real mystery of the mind, and it’s the question of our place in this endless universe that has been plaguing the minds of humanity for millennia. Infinity is one of the most interesting and perplexing concepts ever birthed from the human brain. The vastness of consciousness, the depth of curiosity, and the endless desire to learn- these things know no limits. Matters of the heart and the mind- emotion, ethics, philosophy, psychology, the imagination- are never-ending. There will always be more to explore, and this drive, this constant craving to expand one's knowledge, to ceaselessly gain an understanding of oneself and the world around you- is the most important characteristic of being human. The magic of this most complex characteristic of humanity will never be fully understood. An infinite imagination, an unconscious drive, and a constant craving for knowledge- it makes us human, and it makes us so much more. Infinity is an idea that goes on forever, with no beginning and no end, something that has always -been-. It's no wonder that the universe is so difficult to comprehend. Yet, even within the vastness of our infinite universe, humanity still matters, and you can still make a difference. The universe is infinitely expanding in infinite directions- imagine a balloon that always has room for more air. In an endless expanse that goes on forever, any one point in that vastness is its center, because this expanse goes on forever in every direction. And because this space is infinite, it can also hold an innumerable number of points- so in an infinite space, there are an infinite number of "middles," and every point in that expanse is at its never-ending center. This, in a nutshell, is a long-winded, complex explanation as to how you- and every person on this planet, wonderfully unique as we all are- are the center of the universe. And that is a profoundly beautiful thing. As humanity moves forward, technology becoming ever more prevalent, we must not allow modern society to hamper our individuality and intellect. When artificial intelligence is readily available, why should we continue to exercise our minds, expand our knowledge, and harness our intellect? An increasingly concerning number of people are disconnecting from the most important aspects of being human as society becomes increasingly modernized. Self-reflection, individual intelligence, and emotional awareness are critical to supporting humanity as it thrives. Despite the growing number of distractions from traditionally valued qualities, such as creativity, individuality, thoughtfulness, empathy, and self-reflection, the quest to understand our world is something that we cannot let be swept away in the tides of AI, changing societal standards, and the significance placed on sameness in modern culture. No matter what the internet may tell you, thoughtful introspection, philosophical debate, and the constant conquest to expand one's knowledge are still crucial. You cannot succeed in this world without understanding yourself, and you will fail to understand yourself if you cannot comprehend the nature of our world. Curiosity is one of humanity’s greatest assets. Scientifically, the definition of being human is our ability to walk on two feet, make and use tools, and communicate through a spoken language. Philosophically, we're human because of empathy, responsibility, motivation, introspection, emotional awareness, judgment, and forethought. At the center of human existence is the mind, and since the very beginning of time, that same human mind has been driven by curiosity and imagination. Without the imagination, we would not be human. Furthermore, it is through our unique capability for imagination as humans that we thirst for knowledge of the world around us. Constantly, we delve into the depths of the universe, exploring the vast expanse to which we belong, an endless puzzle to which we are a minute- yet crucial- piece. Through scientific and philosophical exploration, we not only learn about the nature of our world but also the nature of ourselves. As we explore the stars and chart the night sky, we discover humanity's appreciation for the beauty of the unknown. As we delve into the depths of space, we are awe-inspired by how we can be so small and insignificant but still have such an impact. The universe and humanity's imagination are the same- vast, endless expanses that we can never fully comprehend, yet we still constantly long to discover. The beautiful complexity of the universe inspires our desire to understand the world around us and drives us to strive to better understand ourselves. We metamorphosis through our quests to better understand our universe, and it is on the tattered wings of a transformed butterfly persevering through the trials of life that humanity can begin to soar. The infinitely beautiful universe to which we belong perpetually inspires the imagination of the human mind- and it is this imagination that gives us the power to define what it means to be human.

Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a junior at Calvert High School. I'm a student in the PLTW Biomedical Program, designing labs, experiments, and procedures, working with live viruses and bacteria; DNA, RNA, and genetic testing; biomedical engineering; various screenings, studies, and patient exams; as well as course concepts like immunology and pathology. I've also been class president my entire high school career (freshman, sophomore, and junior year), planning and leading class events such as homecoming, various fundraisers, Prom, and spirit weeks. I'm the color guard captain for my high school's marching band, and I co-choreographed our 2024 show, “Sweet," with our guard instructor. Additionally, I'm a karate student (since 2016) at a private dojo with a brown belt in karate and proficiency in three forms of weaponry (bo, sai, and nunchaku). I'm a member of The Divine Feminine (a teen-led activist group focused on social justice issues), a free volunteer math tutor for students at my school, and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, 1,000 Dreams Fund, National Youth Leadership Forum, and National Society of High School Scholars. Furthermore, I’m bilingual (fluent in both English and Spanish) and am currently learning American Sign Language. As far as volunteering in my community, I serve in the nursery every Sunday at my church and am a member of Calvert High School's chapter of the National Honor Society (past service projects include collaborations with Project ECHO, the Historical Society, Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, and Calvert Health). Each year I volunteer for the Special Olympics, with Honor the Blue- a local nonprofit dedicated to serving our local police force- and for the VBS program at a church in the area.   Additionally, I'm the founder/owner/CEO of the Silver Lining Jewelry Company, a small business through which I sell at various pop-ups, craft markets, and vendor fairs around the state, in addition to fulfilling custom orders. Through this platform, I raise funds for various causes like cancer research, healthcare in third-world countries, and nonprofits supporting women trying to start their own small businesses. A two-time Carson Scholar and AP Scholar with a 3.98 (unweighted) and 4.29 (weighted) GPA with a 1410 SAT, I am very dedicated to my education and have a huge passion for learning. I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits through Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment Courses and am also a published poet with pieces in various anthologies, as well as physical art pieces exhibited in a Congressional Art Showcase and various other local museum exhibits. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Psychology and Cellular Biology with a minor in Ethics as a pre-med student at Harvard University. I hope to work part-time at Massachusetts General Hospital during the fall and spring semesters while participating in undergraduate research and peer tutoring, as well as potentially being an admissions counselor for incoming students. After graduating college, I plan to enroll at James Madison or George Washington University for a master's in medicine and certification as a Physician's Associate in Pediatric Oncology. I've always wanted to be a doctor, and I've always loved kids. When I was little, I thought being a big sister was the coolest thing in the world. Now, I volunteer with kids in my community and consider them all my little best friends. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, and this scholarship will open doors for me to continue to foster my love of learning and get one step closer in my dream to change the world.

Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a junior at Calvert High School. I'm a student in the PLTW Biomedical Program, designing labs, experiments, and procedures, working with live viruses and bacteria; DNA, RNA, and genetic testing; biomedical engineering; various screenings, studies, and patient exams; as well as course concepts like immunology and pathology. I've also been class president my entire high school career (freshman, sophomore, and junior year), planning and leading class events such as homecoming, various fundraisers, Prom, and spirit weeks. I'm the color guard captain for my high school's marching band, and I co-choreographed our 2024 show, “Sweet," with our guard instructor. Additionally, I'm a karate student (since 2016) at a private dojo with a brown belt in karate and proficiency in three forms of weaponry (bo, sai, and nunchaku). I'm a member of The Divine Feminine (a teen-led activist group focused on social justice issues), a free volunteer math tutor for students at my school, and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, 1,000 Dreams Fund, National Youth Leadership Forum, and National Society of High School Scholars. Furthermore, I’m bilingual (fluent in both English and Spanish) and am currently learning American Sign Language. As far as volunteering in my community, I serve in the nursery every Sunday at my church and am a member of Calvert High School's chapter of the National Honor Society (past service projects include collaborations with Project ECHO, the Historical Society, Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, and Calvert Health). Each year I volunteer for the Special Olympics, with Honor the Blue- a local nonprofit dedicated to serving our local police force- and for the VBS program at a church in the area. Additionally, I'm the founder/owner/CEO of the Silver Lining Jewelry Company, a small business through which I sell at various pop-ups, craft markets, and vendor fairs around the state, in addition to fulfilling custom orders. Through this platform, I raise funds for various causes like cancer research, healthcare in third-world countries, and nonprofits supporting women trying to start their own small businesses. A two-time Carson Scholar and AP Scholar with a 3.98 (unweighted) and 4.29 (weighted) GPA with a 1410 SAT, I am very dedicated to my education and have a huge passion for learning. I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits through Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment Courses and am also a published poet with pieces in various anthologies, as well as physical art pieces exhibited in a Congressional Art Showcase and various other local museum exhibits. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Psychology and Cellular Biology with a minor in Ethics as a pre-med student at Harvard University. I hope to work part-time at Massachusetts General Hospital during the fall and spring semesters while participating in undergraduate research and peer tutoring, as well as potentially being an admissions counselor for incoming students. After graduating college, I plan to enroll at James Madison or George Washington University for a master's in medicine and certification as a Physician's Associate in Pediatric Oncology. I've always wanted to be a doctor, and I've always loved kids. When I was little, I thought being a big sister was the coolest thing in the world. Now, I volunteer with kids in my community and consider them all my little best friends. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, and it is through my chosen career that I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it, one small step at a time.

When I was little, I was the girl in the corner of the classroom immersed in a large book, the world around me nothing but a blur when I was within its pages. Known for being mature for my age, it was contemplative dystopian novels, medical textbooks, philosophical pieces, and psychology books that captured my attention as I learned and grew. Through the books I read, I traveled around the world; my books were my inspiration, my role models, and my dearest friends. So much of who I am was impacted by the stories I grew up with and the characters I loved- women like Annabeth, Katniss, and Citra were my idols: breaking barriers, living loud, and not afraid to speak their minds. Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a junior at Calvert High School. I'm a student in the PLTW Biomedical Program, class president, and color guard captain for my high school's marching band. A member of The Divine Feminine (a teen-led activist group), a free volunteer math tutor for students at my school, and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, 1,000 Dreams Fund, National Youth Leadership Forum, and National Society of High School Scholars, I'm immeasurably passionate about serving my community and volunteer weekly with various organizations in my community like Project ECHO, Calvert Health, and the Special Olympics. I own a small business where I sell handmade jewelry at various pop-ups and craft markets around the state through which I raise funds for various causes like cancer research and healthcare in underprivileged areas, am bilingual (fluent in both English and Spanish) and am currently learning American Sign Language. A two-time Carson Scholar, AP Scholar, and student with a 4.29 GPA and 1410 SAT, I have a huge passion for learning. I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits through both AP and Dual Enrollment, am a published poet, and an exhibited artist with pieces in a Congressional Art Showcase and other local museum exhibits. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Psychology and Cellular Biology with a minor in Ethics at Harvard University, working part-time at Massachusetts General Hospital and participating in undergraduate research. In the summers, I hope to intern with an outreach program dedicated to accessible healthcare for the local underserved community. For my master's in science, I plan to enroll at James Madison or George Washington University for a degree in medicine and certification as a PA in Pediatric Oncology. My dream is to to forge a path for others in the way my path was cleared by the women before me, open my own medical office, and one day, write a novel: a novel not on any particular topic, but just simply about life- the things I've learned, the people who have inspired me, the history that has come before me, about my dreams for the future and my hopes for humanity, all that may come far after I'm gone. A book that will make you laugh and cry and smile and everything in between. In the words of Albus Dumbledore, "Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic." I hope I never forget the wonder of reading: the crinkling of the spine and old paper smell of first opening a new book, the sound of thumbing through the pages, and the feeling of huddling under a blanket late at night, immersed in a world thousands of miles or hundreds of years away. If words are magic, books are portals to everything that can be. Picking up a book feels like coming home.

Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a junior at Calvert High School in Southern Maryland. I'm a student in the PLTW Biomedical Program, working with experiments and lab equipment often unavailable to students until medical school, and as part of the program, I design lab procedures and carry out various experiments, such as dealing with live viruses and bacteria, working with DNA and genetic screening, biomedical engineering, immunology, vaccine development, and various groundbreaking medications, therapies, and treatments. I also am the color guard captain for my high school's marching band (I co-choreographed our entire 2024 show), have been class president my entire high school career, and hold a brown belt in karate. I'm a member of The Divine Feminine (a teen-led activist group focused on social justice issues), a free volunteer math tutor for other students at my school, and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, the National Youth Leadership Forum, and the National Society of High School Scholars. I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits (through both AP and Dual Enrollment Courses), with the seal of Biliteracy for my fluency in English and Spanish, and at the top of my class. I'm a member of Calvert High School's chapter of the National Honor Society, and I love volunteering in my community- whether at my church, with Project ECHO, the Historical Society, Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, or the local hospital. I also volunteer each year for the Special Olympics, during the summer for VBS, and with Honor the Blue, a local nonprofit dedicated to serving our community's police force. Additionally, I run the weeknight childcare program at my church and am the founder/owner of the Silver Lining Jewelry Company. The majority of my income goes into my savings for college, but I also donate to causes like cancer research, healthcare in third world countries, and nonprofits that support women trying to start their own small business. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Psychology and Cellular Biology with a minor in Ethics as a pre-med undergraduate student at Harvard University. I hope to work part-time at Massachusetts General Hospital during the fall and spring semesters while participating in various clubs and organizations like Women in STEM, the American Medical Student Association, and at least one volunteer-based organization. In the summers, I hope to work full-time in an outreach position at Mass Gen or a related organization. Additionally, I plan to participate in undergraduate research and either tutor or do admission advising at my college for both prospective and current students. Upon completing my bachelor's degree, I plan to enroll at James Madison or George Washington University to obtain my master's in medicine and gain my PA certification as a Physician's Associate in Pediatric Oncology, hoping to not only medically care for my patients but be there for them emotionally and spiritually as well- not only as their physician but also as their friend. I've always wanted to be a doctor and I've always loved kids- when I was little, to me, being a big sister was the coolest thing in the world. Now, I volunteer with the kids and work in childcare, and I think of all the kids I watch and the babies I care for as my little best friends and bonus siblings. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, and it is through my chosen career that I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it, one small step at a time.

Hi, I'm Denali, and I'm a junior at Calvert High School. I'm a student in the PLTW Biomedical Program, designing labs, experiments, and procedures, working with live viruses and bacteria; DNA, RNA, and genetic testing; biomedical engineering; various screenings, studies, and patient exams; as well as course concepts like immunology and pathology. I've also been class president my entire high school career (freshman, sophomore, and junior year), planning and leading class events such as homecoming, various fundraisers, Prom, and spirit weeks. I'm the color guard captain for my high school's marching band, and I co-choreographed our 2024 show, “Sweet," with our guard instructor. Additionally, I'm a karate student (since 2016) at a private dojo with a brown belt in karate and proficiency in three forms of weaponry (bo, sai, and nunchaku). I'm a member of The Divine Feminine (a teen-led activist group focused on social justice issues), a free volunteer math tutor for students at my school, and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, 1,000 Dreams Fund, National Youth Leadership Forum, and National Society of High School Scholars. Furthermore, I’m bilingual (fluent in both English and Spanish) and am currently learning American Sign Language. As far as volunteering in my community, I serve in the nursery every Sunday at my church and am a member of Calvert High School's chapter of the National Honor Society (past service projects include collaborations with Project ECHO, the Historical Society, Farming 4 Hunger, Relay 4 Life, and Calvert Health). Each year I volunteer for the Special Olympics, with Honor the Blue- a local nonprofit dedicated to serving our local police force- and for the VBS program at a church in the area.   Additionally, I'm the founder/owner/CEO of the Silver Lining Jewelry Company, a small business through which I sell at various pop-ups, craft markets, and vendor fairs around the state, in addition to fulfilling custom orders. Through this platform, I raise funds for various causes like cancer research, healthcare in third-world countries, and nonprofits supporting women trying to start their own small businesses. A two-time Carson Scholar and AP Scholar with a 3.98 (unweighted) and 4.29 (weighted) GPA with a 1410 SAT, I am very dedicated to my education and have a huge passion for learning. I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits through Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment Courses and am also a published poet with pieces in various anthologies, as well as physical art pieces exhibited in a Congressional Art Showcase and various other local museum exhibits. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Psychology and Cellular Biology with a minor in Ethics as a pre-med student at Harvard University. I hope to work part-time at Massachusetts General Hospital during the fall and spring semesters while participating in undergraduate research and peer tutoring, as well as potentially being an admissions counselor for incoming students. After graduating college, I plan to enroll at James Madison or George Washington University for a master's in medicine and certification as a Physician's Associate in Pediatric Oncology. I've always wanted to be a doctor, and I've always loved kids. When I was little, I thought being a big sister was the coolest thing in the world. Now, I volunteer with kids in my community and consider them all my little best friends. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, and it is through my chosen career that I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it, one small step at a time.

The Price of Perfection: Why Society’s Standards for Success Need to Change In the news, we see headlines about depressed teens, plummeting test scores, soaring suicide rates, and the rapidly spreading mental health epidemic occurring in our nation’s youth. Humanity is flawed- striving for perfection has no real value in a realistic world, and it can be detrimental to growth and emotional and mental well-being. It's ok to not be perfect. There’s a popular saying: “Pressure makes diamonds.” Pressure does make diamonds, in the perfect conditions. Pressure makes diamonds maybe .01% of the time, and the other 99.9% of the time, the pressure to be perfect can break a person. The world has been increasingly receptive to people sharing their stories and experiences with mental illness, but the expectations to always be “good enough” can be suffocating.  As a recovering perfectionist myself, I know all too well the consequences that stem from society’s pressure to be perfect. The unrealistic expectations pushed on young women have, for centuries, been some of our greatest hurdles. Growing up, my parents made sure I knew that my best was always good enough. They made sure that I felt loved no matter what grade came home on the report card or the score at the end of the sports game, but even with the nurturing childhood I'm increasingly grateful for, I too eventually cracked under society's expectations. Often, girls and young women are taught that they’re not good enough the way they are and that they’re not worthy of love or happiness unless they fit into society's perfect mold. Sometimes this failure to meet the bar is loudly announced- like being bullied by other kids, shamed by teachers for poor grades, or being excluded from a group because you didn’t meet whoever’s stupid standards. Other times, though- and often more dangerously- this voice in our heads saying that we’ll never be enough is cultivated in sly, subconscious ways, adults not even realizing the influence they have on the self-esteem and emotional well-being of our nation’s youth. Small, everyday, seemingly harmless things like school sports, our Instagram feeds, even the stores we shop at, the neighborhoods we live in, the friends we have, and the schools we attend- they all influence who we are as people, and more often than not, our environment, society, and surroundings are whispering the subconscious message that we need to change, get better, or try harder because we’re not good enough the way that we are. Things like social media cater to an individual’s feed towards what they want to see- or to what will sell whatever message it is that they're currently blasting. It’s not uncommon that girls insecure with their bodies are forced to scroll past screens flooded with bold, blaring signs that they're not good enough. Supermodels, makeup tutorials, the latest fashion trends, diet fads, even things as innocuous as college admission reaction videos- all carry a subliminal message of guilt and shame, whispering in your ear that since you’re not like them, since you don’t have the things they do, you’re not enough. Especially as a young woman, double standards and glass ceilings are the norm- the world is sexist as hell even if it’s not trying to be. You’re always either too skinny to too fat, the numbers on the scale are always too high or too low, you’re too short or too tall, too pretty or not pretty enough. If you have a bunch of friends and lots of followers on social media, you’re shallow and fake and desperate for attention. On the flip side, if you only have a few close friends, float in the same reliable circle, and don’t venture out into society at large, you’re a weirdo, a loner, or a freak. Dress in baggy, comfy, or modest clothes and you’re lazy, frumpy, or a prude- but wear crop tops, makeup, short skirts, or athletic shorts and you’re “asking for it” and need to cover up. Too curvy or too thin, too flat-chested or a cup size too large, too smart, or too dumb, the list goes on and on. If you’re a career woman, you’re heartless, lonely, and told to find a husband, make some babies, and settle down. No children? Something’s wrong with you. As a woman, you have a responsibility to procreate. Have kids, but “too many?” Irresponsible, selfish, and need to use protection. If you think you have everything figured out, you’ll get shut down, have your motivations questioned, and people constantly tell you you’re not qualified and never going to make it. On the other hand, if you’re still figuring life out and don’t have it all together yet, you’re a failure and never going to go anywhere. Even though we’ve made so many improvements in the past few years, the world is still full of double standards dragging young women down and glass ceilings we have yet to find a way to break through. No matter what you do, you’re never enough. Yes, we should strive to be our best selves. Yes, when we make mistakes, we should try to learn from them. Yes, we should do our best and go after the things we want, and not just try to ride the coattails of someone else and tag along for the ride. All these things are true, and just as important as it is to not push for perfection, it’s equally important to put in effort and try. You should do your best and push yourself, but don’t push yourself to your limit. You don’t have to be (and never should be expected to be) perfect. We all break down sometimes, we all have our flaws, and we all make mistakes- the important thing is that we brush ourselves off, get back up, and keep trying. It took a long time for me to understand this- years of living with OCD, anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia- but when I did, it was like a lightbulb went off, and it changed everything. Striving for perfection only demoralizes you, breaks down your self-esteem, and pushes you toward burnout and exhaustion. Trying to be perfect creates standards we were never meant to live up to in the first place. Being driven, knowing your path, and striving for your best self isn’t bad- in fact, those things are important to leading a successful and fulfilling life- but it’s important to know when to quit and when it’s ok to cry, or take a break, or throw in the towel. There’s no shame in realizing you’re not cut out for something and deciding it’s a more efficient use of energy and time to just move on to something else. Society’s pressure to be perfect- the perfect daughter, perfect wife, perfect mother- is simply unachievable. It’s impossible to have everything together- the dream job, the dream guy, the dream house, and the whole picture-perfect life. Expecting perfection does nothing but set you up for failure 100% of the time. We need to be realistic in our goals, be gentle with ourselves, and not be afraid to get bumps and bruises along the way. We’re all doing this thing called life for the first time, so no one can expect you to get it all right on the first try. Our imperfections make us who we are, and that’s what’s so beautiful about being human. We aren’t perfect, and that’s awesome. Our scars, bruises, and rough edges- our uniqueness and individuality- make us who we are and make us human. Society needs to change the narrative. Instead of expecting perfection and demanding it relentlessly, we need to encourage forgiveness, and kindness, and acknowledge that your best? It’s enough.

In my sophomore year of high school, I dealt with a mental health crisis so crippling I thought I would never see the other side. Within months, I lived in the shadow of diagnoses that have since affected every aspect of my life: OCD, Clinical Depression, Body Dysmorphia, Generalized Anxiety, and Panic Disorder, just to name a few. My mental health can make tasks common for a teenager- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, job interviews, college applications, and fostering healthy relationships- huge struggles. Additionally, I deal with fibromyalgia (diagnosed at an astonishingly young age for the disease) which comes with an aching body, insomnia, and bone-deep exhaustion. This means that the mobility required by daily life- let alone participating in sports, extracurriculars, and having a normal social life with my chronically low emotional and physical battery- can be a big challenge. Frequent migraines, panic attacks, the struggle to sleep, and constant aches and pains are just a glimpse of daily life with my mental and physical disabilities. But my battles against adversity have come with their silver lining- it is my personal experience with the rapidly growing mental health epidemic, after all, that caused my interest in social science, psychology, and neurobiology to bloom. My battle to have my voice heard inspired my present-day passion for advocacy, and my experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change, pursue my interests, and lead a fulfilling professional career. I'm fascinated with matters of the body and mind- mainly due to my personal experiences with the matter- and spend my free time exploring things like neuroscience research, philosophical debates, and the latest medical discoveries. Upon graduating high school I hope to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University and continue to get my Master's in Medicine at Georgetown University. My dream is to be a PA in Pediatric Oncology, not only supporting my patients medically but also emotionally and spiritually- fighting for each of them even if they no longer can fight for themselves. Medicine, and oncology in particular, has always been a field close to my heart. Oncology has been a career of interest for me since I was very little, as many people in my family have had cancer- some survivors, some who have passed away, and some still fighting their battles today. Seeing so many people I love suffering from this disease we know so little about really inspired me to be a part of the constantly evolving push for change in the oncological community. In the future, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy work on a variety of topics- including equity in healthcare, mental health, and both business and STEM opportunities for women in the workforce- in addition to funding and conducting biomedical and oncological research, various community service projects, and one day starting a non-profit of my own with scholarships for girls in STEM pursue their dreams. My dream- which is the fire behind all my passions and goals for the future- has always been to change the world, one small step at a time.

In my sophomore year of high school, I dealt with a mental health crisis so crippling I thought I would never see the other side. Within months, I lived in the shadow of diagnoses that have since affected every aspect of my life: OCD, Clinical Depression, and Generalized Anxiety with Panic Disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. Additionally, I deal with fibromyalgia (diagnosed at an astonishingly young age for the disease) which comes with an aching body, insomnia, and bone-deep exhaustion. Things like going up stairs and the mobility required to navigate a large campus- let alone participating in sports, extracurriculars, and having a normal social life with my chronically low emotional and physical battery can be a big challenge. Frequent migraines, panic attacks, struggling to sleep, and something as small as wearing a backpack causing pain are just a glimpse of daily life with my mental and physical disabilities. But my battles against adversity and my various hardships in life do come with their silver lining- it's my personal experience with the rapidly growing mental health epidemic that caused my interest in social science, psychology, and neurobiology to bloom, and my battle to have my voice heard inspired my present-day passion for advocacy. My experience in the medical field as not only a prospective doctor but as a patient has cemented in my mind that I've chosen the right career path to foster change, pursue my interests, and lead a fulfilling professional career. Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a doctor. My dream has always been to change the world, one small step at a time. I'm a go-getter, all or nothing, and throw myself into every goal, passion project, extracurricular, and business venture. I'm a successful small business owner at the age of sixteen, a three-time Class President, and a member of my school's chapter of NHS, dedicated to serving my community. I volunteer with my church, local food pantry, and Honor the Blue, a nonprofit dedicated to serving our local police force. Additionally, I'm captain of my school's color guard in our nationally placing marching band, hold a third-degree brown belt in Okinawan Karate- which I've studied for the past eight years- and run the weeknight childcare program at my church in addition to volunteering in the nursery on Sundays. I'm a member of NSHSS, the Youth Leadership Forum, and the Congress of Future Medical Leaders. Throughout high school, I've both volunteered and worked at Thrive Primary Care, a local medical practice focused on serving the community through things like a traveling doctor's office serving low-income communities and free outpatient care. I also participate in an advocacy club focused on human rights and social justice issues, and am in the PLTW biomedical program at my school running labs and working with equipment many don't have access to until medical school. I'm fascinated with matters of the body and mind- mainly due to my personal experiences with the matter- and spend my free time exploring things like neuroscience research, philosophical debates, and the latest medical discoveries. Upon graduating high school I hope to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University and continue to get my Master's in Medicine at Georgetown University. My dream is to be a PA in Pediatric Oncology, not only supporting my patients medically but also emotionally and spiritually- fighting for each of them even if they no longer can fight for themselves. Medicine, and oncology in particular, has always been a field close to my heart. Oncology has been a career of interest for me since I was very little. Many people in my family have had cancer- some survivors, some who have passed away, and some still fighting their battles today. Seeing so many people I love suffering from this disease we know so little about really inspired me to be a part of the constantly evolving push for change in the oncological community. I hope that one day as a PA in Oncology caring for patients, I can contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field and conduct research in a subject I have come to love. In the future, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy work on a variety of topics- including equity in healthcare, mental health advocacy, and both business and STEM opportunities for women in the workforce- in addition to funding research, community service projects, and one day starting a non-profit with scholarships for girls in STEM pursue their dreams. To prepare for college and the career beyond, I currently take the most challenging courses available, volunteer weekly, and participate in numerous clubs and school organizations. I'll graduate high school with over 60 college credits- through both Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment Courses and the seal of Biliteracy for my fluency in English and Spanish. I'm also currently learning ASL in hopes of better serving my patients and the medical community in the future. Being a PA in Oncology at Children's National Hospital has been my dream since I could talk, but the road to get there is expensive and full of bumps along the way. My parents' income bracket qualifies me for little to no financial aid, but I'm expected to pay for college almost entirely on my own. This scholarship will help me fund my education, continue to grow my love of science and medicine- in both mind and body- and enable me to make an impact on a field close to my heart.

Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a doctor. My dream has always been to change the world, one small step at a time. I'm a go-getter, all or nothing, and throw myself into every goal, passion project, extracurricular, and business venture. I'm a successful small business owner at the age of sixteen, a three-time Class President, and a member of my school's chapter of NHS, dedicated to serving my community. I volunteer with my church, local food pantry, and Honor the Blue, a nonprofit dedicated to serving our local police force. Additionally, I'm captain of my school's color guard in our nationally placing marching band, hold a third-degree brown belt in Okinawan Karate- which I've studied for the past eight years- and run the weeknight childcare program at my church in addition to volunteering in the nursery on Sundays. I'm a member of NSHSS, the Youth Leadership Forum, and the Congress of Future Medical Leaders. Throughout high school, I've both volunteered and worked at Thrive Primary Care, a local medical practice focused on serving the community through things like a traveling doctor's office serving low-income communities and free outpatient care. I also participate in an advocacy club focused on human rights and social justice issues, and am in the PLTW biomedical program at my school running labs and working with equipment many don't have access to until medical school. I'm fascinated with matters of the body and mind, spending my free time exploring things like neuroscience research, philosophical debates, and the latest medical discoveries. Upon graduating high school I hope to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University and continue to get my Master's in Medicine at Georgetown University. My dream is to be a PA in Pediatric Oncology, not only supporting my patients medically but also emotionally and spiritually- fighting for each of them even if they no longer can fight for themselves. Medicine, and oncology in particular, has always been a field close to my heart. Oncology has been a career of interest for me since I was very little. Many people in my family have had cancer- some survivors, some who have passed away, and some still fighting their battles today. Seeing so many people I love suffering from this disease we know so little about really inspired me to be a part of the constantly evolving push for change in the oncological community. I hope that one day as a PA in Oncology caring for patients, I can contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field and conduct research in a subject I have come to love. In the future, I hope to better serve my community through advocacy work on a variety of topics- including equity in healthcare, mental health advocacy, and both business and STEM opportunities for women in the workforce- in addition to funding research, community service projects, and one day starting a non-profit with scholarships for girls in STEM pursue their dreams.

In my sophomore year of high school, I dealt with a mental health crisis so crippling I thought I would never see the other side. Within months, I lived in the shadow of diagnoses that have since affected every aspect of my life. OCD, Clinical Depression, and Generalized Anxiety with Panic Disorder make tasks necessary as a student- like standardized testing, presenting in front of a class, and group discussion- huge hurdles. Additionally, I deal with fibromyalgia at a very young age, which comes with an aching body, insomnia, and bone-deep exhaustion. Things like going up stairs and the mobility required to navigate a large campus- let alone participating in sports, can be a big challenge. Frequent migraines, panic attacks, struggling to sleep, and something as small as wearing a backpack causing pain is just a glimpse of daily life with my mental and physical disabilities. But my struggles were not without their silver lining- it's my personal experience with the rapidly growing mental health epidemic that caused my interest in social science, psychology, and neurobiology to bloom, and my battle to have my voice heard that fostered my present-day passion for advocacy. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology at Harvard University while participating in undergraduate biomedical research and working at Massachusetts General Hospital. After graduation from college, I plan to pursue a Master's Degree in Medicine at George Washington University and hope to become a PA in Pediatric Oncology. Treating kids going through the most challenging time of their lives, I hope to be not just my patients' doctor- but also their support person, number one fan, and best friend. Oncology has been a career of interest for me for as long as I can remember. I've lost three family members to cancer, two close relatives are both survivors and two loved ones are fighting their own battles today. Everyone in my family has the perfect genetic soup to be at risk, and I've grown up knowing that even though I want to be an oncologist, it's likely I'll battle cancer myself one day. Seeing so many loved ones suffering from a disease of which we know so little has driven my desire to be a part of the constantly evolving oncological community. To prepare for college and the career beyond, I currently take the most challenging courses available, volunteer weekly, and participate in numerous clubs and school organizations. I'll graduate high school with over fifteen classes for college credit, completion of the PLTW Biomedical Science program, and the seal of Biliteracy for my fluency in English and Spanish. I'm also currently learning ASL in hopes of better serving my patients and the medical community in the future. I've been Class President for all of high school, have accumulated over 350 service hours in the past three years, and am a two-time Cason Scholar. I'm also a member of NHS, the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, and the National Youth Leadership Forum. I'm an avid activist, passionate about serving my community, and constantly chasing my dreams. Being a PA in Oncology at Children's National Hospital has been my dream since I could talk, but the road to get there is expensive and full of bumps along the way. My parents' income bracket qualifies me for little to no financial aid, but I'm expected to pay for college almost entirely on my own. This scholarship will help me fund my education, continue to grow my love of medicine, and enable me to make an impact on a field close to my heart.

Ever since I was little, I've always wanted to change the world. By the age of 10 or so, I realized that perhaps dreaming of being president or finding the cure for cancer wasn't the most realistic of ambitions. But even so, I was determined to leave my mark, and regardless, each day I am determined to change the world, one small step at a time. My ambition to make the world a better place is reflected in every aspect of my life, particularly my extracurriculars and the ways that I spend my free time. I'm a member of my high school's chapter of the National Honor Society, am Class President- as I have been the past three years- and so lead my class' Student Council each week and additionally am a member of an advocacy club called The Divine Feminine focused on feminism, social justice, and enacting change through advocacy for our rights. I serve at my church each week, volunteer within my community through organizations like Project Echo and Farming for Hunger, work on a case-by-case basis at Thrive Primary Care- a medical practice focused on equity and serving the community- and volunteer at a local charity serving our local law enforcement called Honor the Blue. I've volunteered at community events to foster connections within our society, to support those in need, and to better the environment around us. I've sewed blankets that I donated to Calvert Health, the local hospital, I've run food drives and clothing drives for Project Echo, the local homeless shelter, I've run many service projects at our school, fostering community within our students and giving a voice to those who previously had none, and I've fought for my beliefs through social advocacy on issues like student rights and climate change. I'm a fiercely passionate individual and am fully dedicated to every project I put my mind to and every cause I serve, and I devote myself each day to helping in any way I can. I love serving others in my community, helping those less fortunate than myself, I love leading my peers in efforts to improve life for our fellow students, teachers, and citizens of our community, and I love knowing that each day- each time I accomplish a goal I set for myself to better my school and my community- that in my small way, I'm making a difference. Each time I help to bring in food and clothes for the needy, I'm helping someone less fortunate than myself, sharing the blessings I've been privileged to have. Each time I stand up for those who feel as if they don't have a voice, I'm taking a small step toward bringing about lasting change for all those who are underrepresented and unheard. Each time I run community events, serve with local charities and organizations, and bring people together in the name of a cause I'm passionate about, I'm introducing people to others they may never have met otherwise, I'm creating connections that in some small way, one day, could be life-changing, and I'm doing my small part each day to change the world. I'm not afraid to fight for what I believe in, not afraid to be passionate about the things I care about, and not afraid to stand up for those who can't stand for themselves. I'm a fighter, and I'm proud of that. I fight each day to do my small part to enact lasting change. I fight each day to do my small part to change the world.

In the past three years, I’ve worked through the loss of my grandmother (with whom I was as close as best friends), the grief following the passing of two beloved pets, and being bitten by a copperhead snake one summer, which put me in the ICU for a week and unable to walk again for six months. Sophomore year of high school, I battled a mental health crisis so crippling I thought I would never see the other side. In the past few years, I’ve received diagnoses that affect every aspect of my life- Fibromyalgia, chronic migraines, OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Clinical Depression, Panic Disorder, Body Dysmorphia... In the first few years of high school, panic was a constant companion- a pounding heart, frequent nausea, a worry that stalked me like a lone wolf in the dark of night. When I was stressed, it felt like I was drowning. I worried about the most insignificant things, the smallest mistakes sent me spiraling, and minute inconveniences had me in a panic. Slowly, exhausted, I started to give in, barely hanging on by a thread. But somewhere deep inside of me, at some point during that tremulous time, throughout all the struggles life had thrown at me- I found the belief that I was stronger than this. I found deep inside my tortured heart a fighter, a survivor, a young woman who was stronger than anything life could throw at her. After admitting that it was okay to not be okay, after finally realizing that being imperfect is more beautiful than perfection could ever be, I'm free. I found that “me” isn’t the girl everyone else perceived or thought I was, but rather the girl I was chasing- the girl I am. Slowly, I found myself. Instead of carrying the weight of those burdens solely on my shoulders, I'm now confident in the strengths of love and friendship, bonds that can survive even the toughest of life's circumstances. Love isn't despite your flaws but because of them. Your uniquenesses- your scars, your jagged edges, and all your broken parts- they're what make you beautiful. I never understood that until now. It was my struggles and experiences with the rapidly growing mental health epidemic that caused my interest in social science, psychology, and neurobiology to bloom. The matters of the mind have always interested me, but even in the depths of my crisis, I found the complexity of our brains (and the ways and reasons things go wrong) fascinating. I wanted to know the genetics behind anxiety and depression running in the family, the social and behavioral science of these mental health disorders, and how the infrastructure of society fosters these crises. I discovered what works for me, worked to understand my conditions and the treatments available, and healed myself from the inside out. I had to work to show my heart and mind the grace I gave to others, but since then, mental health advocacy has been a fierce passion. I'm not shy about sharing my story and telling others what I wish I had known myself. My mission in life is now to become the stranger in the coffee shop who asks if you're alright, or the shoulder to cry on when you feel you can't go to anyone with what you're going through. I want to share my story with the world and give the advice I wish I had received- that you are loved, you are enough, and your flaws and scars are the most beautiful parts of who you are.

"The universe bursts into existence from life, not the other way around as we have been taught. For each life, there is a universe, its own universe. We generate spheres of reality, individual bubbles of existence. Our universe is comprised of billions of spheres of reality, generated by each individual human." - Robert Lanza There has never been a greater mystery than that of the universe and the question of humanity's reason for existence. Why are we here? How did we get here? Are we the only living things in this vast, immeasurable universe? Humanity's two greatest questions are often asked- and answered- hand in hand. The beautiful, marvelous complexity of being human is found mirrored in that same majestic mystery of our universe. How can a thing be so large, so vast? The human mind cannot fathom how minuscule we are in the grand scheme of all existence. Humanity is nothing besides a blip in time, a single grain of sand in an endless ocean. But despite how small our existence- compared to an infinitely expanding universe- we are still not insignificant. Imagine an infinite library, with a never-ending number of aisles. In each aisle, an endless number of shelves. Each shelf has an infinite number of books and each book contains endless pages. Each page holds a never-ending number of sentences, each sentence infinite words, each word endless letters. In this infinite universal library, we are but one character in this vast, immeasurable existence. Perhaps a letter, but better described as a semicolon- an ending, yes, but also a beginning; a story not yet over, an idea yet to be discovered. Despite our inconsequence in the grand scheme of all existence, we still matter. I still matter. You still matter. Just like we are just one letter in one book in that never-ending library, one thought, one idea, one spark- so minuscule compared to the vastness of the human mind- that one thought can still change the world. One idea, one push for change, one person standing up for what they believe is right- you can create ripples, those ripples make waves, and those waves comprise oceans of change. And perhaps these oceans are even part of a larger picture- a universal picture- a scale of influence humanity has yet to discover. Infinity is one of the most interesting and perplexing concepts ever birthed from the human mind. The vastness of consciousness, the depth of curiosity, and the endless desire to learn- these things know no limits. Matters of the heart and the mind- emotion, ethics, philosophy, psychology, the imagination- are never-ending. There will always be more to explore, and this drive, this constant craving to expand one's knowledge, to ceaselessly gain an understanding of oneself and the world around you- is the most important characteristic of being human. The magic of this most complex characteristic of humanity will never be fully understood. An infinite imagination, an unconscious drive, and a constant craving for knowledge- it makes us human, and it makes us so much more. Infinity is an idea that goes on forever, with no beginning and no end, something that has always -been-. It's no wonder that the universe is so difficult to comprehend. Yet, even within the vastness of our infinite universe, humanity still matters, and you can still make a difference. The universe is infinitely expanding in infinite directions- imagine a balloon that always has room for more air. In an endless expanse that goes on forever, any one point in that vastness is its center, because the expanse goes on forever in every direction. And because this space is infinite, it can also hold an innumerable number of points- so in an infinite space, there are an infinite number of "middles," and every point in that expanse is at its never-ending center. This, in a nutshell, is a long-winded, complex explanation as to how you- and every person on this planet, wonderfully unique as we all are- are the center of the universe. And that is a profoundly beautiful thing. As humanity moves forward, technology becoming ever more prevalent, we must not allow modern society to hamper our individuality and intellect. When artificial intelligence is readily available, why should we continue to exercise our minds, expand our knowledge, and harness our intellect? An increasingly concerning number of people are disconnecting from the most important aspects of being human as society becomes increasingly modernized. Self-reflection, individual intelligence, and emotional awareness are critical to supporting humanity as it continues to thrive. Despite the growing number of distractions from traditionally valued qualities, such as creativity, individuality, thoughtfulness, empathy, and self-reflection, the quest to understand our world is something that we cannot let be swept away in the tides of AI, changing societal standards, and the significance placed on sameness in modern culture. No matter what the internet may tell you, thoughtful introspection, philosophical debate, and the constant conquest to expand one's knowledge are still crucial. You cannot succeed in this world without understanding yourself, and you will fail to understand yourself if you cannot comprehend the nature of the world we live in. As humans, curiosity is one of our greatest assets. Scientifically, the definition of being human is our ability to walk on two feet, make and use tools, and communicate through a spoken language. Philosophically, we're human because of empathy, responsibility, motivation, introspection, emotional awareness, judgment, and forethought. At the center of human existence is the mind, and since the very beginning of time, that same human mind has been driven by curiosity and imagination. Some describe the imagination as an intellectual means of transportation. Some credit it as what gave birth to evolution. The imagination has been compared to a lightbulb, a spark, the sudden and violent strike of lightning- all of these have one thing in common: Light. Much like the fire that launched our transformation from early humans to the thriving society we are today, the imagination is a light in our dark world. It brings hope into otherwise hopeless places, fuels creation and invention, and sheds light on the inner workings of our minds. The imagination provides a spark that can quickly grow into a blazing fire of passion, expression, and self-discovery. Without the imagination, we would not be human. Furthermore, it is through imagination that we thirst for knowledge of the world around us. Constantly, we delve into the depths of the universe, exploring the vast expanse to which we belong, an endless puzzle to which we are a minute- yet crucial- piece. Through scientific and philosophical exploration, we not only learn about the nature of our world but also the nature of ourselves. As we explore the stars and chart the night sky, we discover humanity's appreciation for the beauty of the unknown. As we delve into the depths of space, we are awe-inspired by how we can be so small and insignificant but still have such an impact. The universe and humanity's imagination are one and the same- vast, endless expanses that we can never fully comprehend, yet we still constantly long to discover. The beautiful complexity of the universe empowers our desire to understand the world around us, and in turn, drives us to delve into our hearts and minds to better understand ourselves. We metamorphosis through our quests to better understand our universe, and it is on the tattered wings of a transformed butterfly persevering through the trials of life that humanity can begin to soar. The infinitely beautiful universe to which we belong perpetually inspires the imagination of the human mind- and it is this imagination that gives us the power to define what it means to be human.

The summer before I started seventh grade, at the age of thirteen, I was bitten by a copperhead snake. We arrived at the hospital while my breath was ripping through me, my chest aching as my lungs struggled to pull in oxygen, tears burning in the back of my throat. After having- looking back- what was probably my first panic attack, I was wheeled on a stretcher into a helicopter and flown with my mom to the ICU at Children’s National Hospital in DC. By the time a week had passed from the original incident, I was discharged with pain meds and crutches for the drive home and then was on the long, slow, painful road to recovery. In ninth grade, the panic I had felt after that copperhead bite two years past was a constant companion. Nervous energy presented itself in fidgeting, frequent migraines, chronic nausea, and a worry that stalked me like a lone wolf through black woods in the dark of night. When I was stressed, it felt like I was drowning. I worried about the most insignificant things, the smallest mistakes sent me spiraling, and minute inconveniences had me in a panic. Anxiety attacks and crying myself to sleep at night were so common I seemed to forget that what I was experiencing wasn't normal. I could never focus, I constantly had a million voices at war in my mind, sweaty palms and shaking hands, gasps of breath, and a pounding heart- they haunted me day and night, no matter the circumstances. Every time I looked in the mirror I was filled with nothing but disgust, desperate to break free from the prison of my body, trapped by the cavern of torture that was my mind. Slowly, I wasted away, nothing but a shell of my former self, barely hanging on by a thread. But somewhere deep inside of me, I found the belief that I was stronger than this. By the start of eleventh grade, I had a new haircut, a new backpack, and the same old smile- but with a new light behind it. Still the "smart girl," still class president, still dating the boy I met the first day of freshman year, still gunning for admission to Harvard. For the most part, I looked the same, I acted the same, I seemed the same. But I was also changed. The monsters under my bed finally had names: clinical depression, anxiety and panic disorder, OCD, body dysmorphia...But after I came to terms with the pill that I was terrified to take- the medicine that doesn't strip me of my control over my mind, but rather empowers me to take control of the demons I had locked up in the closet- I'm finally free. After admitting that it was okay to not be ok- after a year of therapy teaching me that being imperfect is more beautiful than perfection could ever be, I'm free. I found that me isn't who everyone else saw me as, but rather the girl I was chasing, the girl I wished to go back to but thought had been lost- the girl I am. For the first time in a long time, for the first time since the carefree days stuffed animal tea parties and one plus one equals two, I'm free. I choose to excel rather than feeling I must because that's what's expected of me. I choose to wear makeup because I think I'm beautiful, not because I think I'm not. I choose to trust, realizing that any guy would be lucky to have me- instead of living in a constant state of distrust, reservation, and uncertainty, constantly petrified that no one will love me and I'll never be enough. I choose to embrace the faith that got me through one of the hardest times in my life instead of wondering if that God is even there. And I choose to advocate for those in similar situations as me, to be the voice for those who have none, to stand up for those too scared to stand up for themselves. For the first time in a long time, I feel happy without waiting for the storm following the sunshine. I've found my people, I've found the places where I feel at home, but most importantly- I've found myself.

I've always been an acquired taste. Not going to lie, I can be a lot. I'm headstrong, determined, and fiercely passionate about what I believe in, and I'm not scared to voice my opinion or fight for what I know is right. My dream has always been to change the world in my own way, standing for those who can't stand for themselves. I'm a go-getter, all or nothing, and throw myself into every goal I set. Success is not a matter of if- it's a matter of when. I'm insatiably ambitious, with a laundry list of achievements and successes included in my bucket list- I'm always working on my next project, my next business venture, my next academic competition- the next step towards one of my long-term goals, the next item on my checklist for self-improvement, the next piece of my mission to change the world one small step at a time. My days are far from lackluster- my schedule is always jam-packed between school, clubs, my business ventures, volunteering, work, and my personal life. I'm a successful small business owner at the age of sixteen, Class President, and a member of my school's chapter of NHS, dedicated to serving my community. I also participate in an advocacy club at my school focused on human rights and social justice issues, and am participating in the PLTW biomedical program- running labs and working with equipment many don't have access to until medical school. I'm fascinated with matters of the body and mind, spending my free time exploring things like neuroscience research, philosophical debates, and the latest medical discoveries. Upon graduating high school, I hope to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University- subsequently continuing my education to get my Master's in Medicine at Georgetown University. My dream is to be a PA in Pediatric Oncology, not only supporting my patients medically, but emotionally and spiritually as well- fighting for every child who cannot fight for themselves. Medicine, and oncology in particular, has always been a field close to my heart. I hope to inspire all the girls dreaming of being doctors, scientists, and engineers in male-dominated fields to embrace the badass powerhouses they are and not be scared to go for their dreams. I want to work with kids and help raise the next generation, supporting them and cheering them on as they grow into the beautiful young adults I know they will become. Throughout my life, my advocacy work, community service, and volunteering have shaped my hopes and dreams for the future, shown me all that I have to be grateful for, and changed my outlook on humanity. I would not be the person that I am today without the things I have done for others, and I hope that as I grow up, I go on to serve others and do my small part to change the world- one person and one small act of kindness at a time. I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it and help to be the change I wish to create, one small step at a time. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, but the road to get there is an expensive one. In this day and age, college is costly, and scholarships are sometimes the only thing between an enthusiastic learner and an ocean of student debt. Between my undergraduate and graduate education, I'm looking at anywhere from $100,000 to $350,000 of debt. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals, hopes, and dreams for the future by aiding to fund my higher education. I'm fiercely passionate about learning and have an insatiable thirst for knowledge- this scholarship would allow me to continue that passion and allow my education to reach new heights.

Ever since I was little, I've always wanted to change the world. By the age of 10 or so, I realized that perhaps dreaming of being president or finding the cure for cancer wasn't the most realistic of ambitions. But even so, I was determined to leave my mark, and regardless, each day I am determined to change the world, one small step at a time. My ambition to make the world a better place is reflected in every aspect of my life, particularly my extracurriculars and the ways that I spend my free time. I'm a member of my high school's chapter of the National Honor Society, am Class President- as I have been the past three years- and so lead my class' Student Council each week and additionally am a member of an advocacy club called The Divine Feminine focused on feminism, social justice, and enacting change through advocacy for our rights. I serve at my church each week, volunteer within my community through organizations like Project Echo and Farming for Hunger, work on a case-by-case basis at Thrive Primary Care- a medical practice focused on equity and serving the community- and volunteer at a local charity serving our local law enforcement called Honor the Blue. I've volunteered at community events to foster connections within our society, to support those in need, and to better the environment around us. I've sewed blankets that I donated to Calvert Health, the local hospital, I've run food drives and clothing drives for Project Echo, the local homeless shelter, I've run many service projects at our school, fostering community within our students and giving a voice to those who previously had none, and I've fought for my beliefs through social advocacy on issues like student rights and climate change. I'm a fiercely passionate individual and am fully dedicated to every project I put my mind to and every cause I serve, and I devote myself each day to helping in any way I can. I love serving others in my community, helping those less fortunate than myself, I love leading my peers in efforts to improve life for our fellow students, teachers, and citizens of our community, and I love knowing that each day- each time I accomplish a goal I set for myself to better my school and my community- that in my small way, I'm making a difference. Each time I help to bring in food and clothes for the needy, I'm helping someone less fortunate than myself, sharing the blessings I've been privileged to have. Each time I stand up for those who feel as if they don't have a voice, I'm taking a small step toward bringing about lasting change for all those who are underrepresented and unheard. Each time I run community events, serve with local charities and organizations, and bring people together in the name of a cause I'm passionate about, I'm introducing people to others they may never have met otherwise, I'm creating connections that in some small way, one day, could be life-changing, and I'm doing my small part each day to change the world. I'm not afraid to fight for what I believe in, not afraid to be passionate about the things I care about, and not afraid to stand up for those who can't stand for themselves. I'm a fighter, and I'm proud of that. I fight each day to do my small part to enact lasting change. I fight each day to do my small part to change the world.

The summer before I started seventh grade, at the age of thirteen, I was bitten by a copperhead snake. We arrived at the hospital while my breath was ripping through me, my chest aching as my lungs struggled to pull in oxygen, tears burning in the back of my throat. After having- looking back- what was probably my first panic attack, I was wheeled on a stretcher into a helicopter and flown with my mom to the ICU at Children’s National Hospital in DC. By the time a week had passed from the original incident, I was discharged with pain meds and crutches for the drive home and then was on the long, slow, painful road to recovery. In ninth grade, the panic I had felt after that copperhead bite two years past was a constant companion. Nervous energy presented itself in fidgeting, frequent migraines, chronic nausea, and a worry that stalked me like a lone wolf through black woods in the dark of night. When I was stressed, it felt like I was drowning. I worried about the most insignificant things, the smallest mistakes sent me spiraling, and minute inconveniences had me in a panic. Anxiety attacks and crying myself to sleep at night were so common I seemed to forget that what I was experiencing wasn't normal. I could never focus, I constantly had a million voices at war in my mind, sweaty palms and shaking hands, gasps of breath, and a pounding heart- they haunted me day and night, no matter the circumstances. Every time I looked in the mirror I was filled with nothing but disgust, desperate to break free from the prison of my body, trapped by the cavern of torture that was my mind. Slowly, I wasted away, nothing but a shell of my former self, barely hanging on by a thread. But somewhere deep inside of me, I found the belief that I was stronger than this. By the start of eleventh grade, I had a new haircut, a new backpack, and the same old smile- but with a new light behind it. Still the "smart girl," still class president, still gunning for admission to Harvard. For the most part, I looked the same, I acted the same, I seemed the same. But I was also changed. The monsters under my bed finally had names: clinical depression, anxiety and panic disorder, OCD, body dysmorphia...But after I came to terms with the pill that I was terrified to take- the medicine that doesn't strip me of my control over my mind, but rather empowers me to take control of the demons I had locked up in the closet- I'm finally free. After admitting that it was okay to not be okay- after a year of therapy teaching me that being imperfect is more beautiful than perfection could ever be, I'm free. I found that "me" isn't who everyone else perceived me to be, but rather the girl I was chasing, the girl I wished to go back to but thought had been lost- the girl I am. For the first time in a long time, for the first time since the carefree days of stuffed animal tea parties and one plus one equals two, I'm free. I choose to excel rather than feel I must because that's what's expected of me. I choose to wear makeup because I think I'm beautiful, not because I think I'm not. And for the first time in a long time, I feel happy without waiting for the storm following the sunshine. I've found myself. My friends tell me I seem happier than I've been in years. I can finally look at the world through those rose-colored glasses I hear everybody talking about. My glass is a lot closer to glass half full than it used to be. My dreams of being admitted into Harvard as a pre-med biology and psychology double major now seem a lot more feasible. It's no longer a far-off dream I feel like I'm breaking myself apart to hold on to, it's a goal with a realistic path forward and a map leading me the way to get there. Getting through two years of graduate school to get my Master's in Medicine and my PA license- while also wanting to get married, start a family, and have kids young- no longer makes me anxious at the mere thought; now that's something I trust I'll figure out when I get there. Instead of carrying the weight of this secret burden solely on my shoulders, fearful I would lose my friends and family if they found out who I really am, I'm now confident in the strength of love and friendship, bonds that can survive even the toughest of life's circumstances. Love isn't despite your flaws, but because of them. Your uniquenesses- your scars, your flaws, your jagged edges, and all your broken parts- they're what make you beautiful. I never understood that until now.

As a sixteen-year-old girl a part of Gen Z, I was born into a nation split apart with hate, a crumbling economy, and the rising mental health epidemic of teens being blatantly ignored. I've witnessed a world racked by global warming and constantly on the edge of another World War. Taxes, inflation, a worldwide pandemic taking the lives of millions- government scandals, corruption, global conflict, oppression- this is not the future that was promised to us. Yet every time we speak up for our future, we are silenced by adults who tell us that they will take care of things, not to worry, just leave it to them. But they are the ones that got us into this mess in the first place- the ones who scorched the surface of the Earth, who sewed the seeds of corruption, who caused the fissures of hate now splitting apart into gaping divides- we were born into this world that they made. Yet, they can't take responsibility or ownership for their actions. They silence us when we try to protest and do our part to reverse this devastating change, and even go to such lengths as to openly deny that there is anything wrong at all. Newborns are found tossed into trashcans in high school bathrooms, there are families in third world countries starving to death while Americans throw away thousands of pounds of food a year, perpetual hate spreading through the world like a disease, and global warming ravaging our planet. Yet, our government still doesn't care enough about any of these problems to initiate change. We, as children, were fascinated with the worlds of the dystopian novels that we read- works of science fiction that seemed so remote yet so compelling, so far from anything that we knew. We read Maze Runner and The Hunger Games and Scythe, wishing we could be like Katniss, Newt, and Citra- but the sick, twisted reality is that these dystopian novels are not far from the truth of the world we live in. Panem and Midmerica and The Glade, the shambles of the Chicago of Divergent and Farenheight 451- the truth is, these war-ravaged, corrupt, broken societies are what our world is becoming. And people are too blind to what's happening around them to see it. World War I was called the 'War to End all Wars,' but then we let the Holocaust happen, and World War II, then the Armenian, Bosnian, and Cambodian genocides, the current battle between Ukraine and Russia, Israel and Gaza...it never ends. Humanity never learns its lesson because humanity refuses to change. Gen Z was born into this broken world while our elders refused to realize the damage that caused, denying the problems and refusing to attempt to fix the rapidly spreading devastation. Even since as young as two, five, and seven, we have carried the burdens of this broken world on our shoulders. We were born into this mess and are now expected to fix it. Our planet is burning, society is crumbling, our nation is being torn apart- humanity is broken. But people are so adamant about admitting to their flaws that humanity can't even see how quickly we're all going down. Our only hope of saving even a scrap of the mess we've been handed is ourselves because we are the only ones to see the problems to begin with. We, as Gen Z, have had to go through way more than anyone should ever have to, let alone the fact that even the oldest of us are only approaching 26. We should be worrying about college, high school boyfriends, and passing our math exams, not about our world breaking apart. It's now not an uncommon sight to see twelve-year-olds protesting on the streets- children around the world are taking a stand for our planet when some of us still haven't had the chance to learn to take a stand for ourselves. In Gen Alpha, some are still learning to stand at all. We inherited this broken world, and though we shouldn't have to, we bear the weight of it on our shoulders like Atlas, an eternal struggle that never seems to end against a challenge in which it seems impossible to win. This is an excerpt of a poem I authored, published in a national anthology: Do what is right, not what is easy, in a world in which life is never pretty The choices that must be made often cause us pain Yet we must preserve our hope and our humanity What legacy do we leave for the future and our posterity? In a world where the sun dims and the nights grow ever darker Where fire engulfs all things of beauty and wonder A world in which hope is a flower surviving in the grit and ash Where dreams and joy can seem like fleeting things of the past In a world where night grows ever longer And the sky no longer lights with each new day Where the ocean is full of waves trying to pull you under And in the blackening sky tempests unceasingly rage In a world where the horizon is drawing ever farther Where all that glitters is not gold, lost are all those who wander A world in which smoke obscures the sky and the sun burns red Where the earth is cracked and time we lack to make amends There are paths that we must take, mountains we must climb There are struggles that we must face, challenges that will arise But through the trials and the fire, through the passion and the pain We are healed, we shine brighter, like a phoenix in the flame But what if we don't heal? What if we aren't reborn, but rather, the ashes grow cold, extinguishing the spark? What if the phoenix doesn't rise again- what if our hope is gone, and this broken world we were born into is all that we have left?

Harry Potter was my childhood. So much of who I identify as is impacted by the stories I grew up with and the characters I loved. Books contained the magical worlds I would run away to when our world- the real world- became too much. I'm part Hermione Granger, part Annabeth Chase, part Katniss Everdeen. I'm an Erudite (the intelligent), an elven maiden (the likes of Arwen and Eowyn), and am a Ravenclaw- wise, competitive, witty, intelligent, and creative through and through. If you know me at all, it would be easy to predict which of the four Houses I would call home. Upon being called by Professor McGonagall- "Mohler, Denali!"- to sit upon that small wooden stool and have the centuries-old tattered hat placed upon my head, I believe the Sorting Hat would deliberate for a bit, perhaps detecting qualities of justice, kindness, and hard work found in Hufflepuffs or the honor and loyalty of Gryffindors. Even the ambition, drive, and resourcefulness of Slytherins are characteristics found beneath the exterior of a seemingly-obvious Ravenclaw. The Sorting Hat would deliberate, musing to itself the way that it does, pondering which qualities overrule others, which House I would best serve, but in the end, in Ravenclaw I would be placed. While my personality and characteristics may be vague, muddying the task of finding where I would live out my years as a Hogwarts student, one could look at my faults- rather than my successes- and see my true colors. Sometimes blindly pursuing a higher goal while ignoring the finer details, my head constantly up in the clouds, I'm always musing and thinking of my future, often missing the here and now. A surefire competitiveness accompanied by a hubris that I not-so-proudly admit to exhibiting is another of the faults that blemishes the Ravenclaw crest. However, like most Ravenclaws, I am wise enough- and on a very infrequent occasion, humble enough- to recognize my shortcomings and work to combat them in the name of the greater good. I may have traits from all the Houses- a clear example of my sometimes contradictory personality- but Ravenclaw is the one House that would also be a home. Left-brained and right-brained, analytical but creative, soft-spoken but fiercely passionate, everywhere all at once. I have multiple clashing traits that I encourage just the same, and I can be portrayed as quite the wishy-washy picture. Nevertheless, if you swirled together the mishappen streaks of color, you would find an underlying blue. The traits that I most treasure are my intelligence, wit, and contemplative nature, creative in the way through which I look at life, and competitive to the last. Just like Harry, offered the option of more than one label, given the opportunity of falling into more than one category, and having the characteristics to call more than one House home, I am offered a choice. I choose Ravenclaw, for knowledge is a weapon, and I intend to be formidably armed.

If I could have everyone in the world read just one book, it would be The Hunger Games. Entertaining, fun to read, and appealing to a wide audience- it entices those who love science fiction, dystopia, and romance alike. However, while the book can serve as mere entertainment, political commentary is woven throughout the entire narrative. The Hunger Games, beneath the surface, contains many messages about our society and what we fear it could become. The parallels between our current government and the themes of dystopian novels are striking. For years there have been mass shootings, terrorizing the country for days at a time. Eventually, the calls for action fade to whispers. Are the people who stand by and let this occur different from The Hunger Games President Snow, who "reaped" dozens of children annually to placate the masses? The Hunger Games offers a broad anti-capitalist critique of Western society- in the infamous scoring scene where Katniss shoots the apple out of the mouth of the pig, the apple is decorative, a means of dressing up and desensitizing the reality of death to consumers. The use of the roasted hog alludes to Orwell’s Animal Farm, an allegory in which farm pigs replace humans in reflecting humanity’s inclination towards abusive and dictatorial societies. Another critique of society hidden in the book is found in the state of the nation where the story takes place. Before the establishment of Panem, the world of The Hunger Games experienced rising sea levels, natural disasters, and nuclear devastation. Droughts, fires, storms, and other extreme weather ravaged North America, and chaos ensued as survivors battled for the remaining resources. In America, such anxiety about the environment and the future has spawned a dystopian genre devoted to fears of the future. The Hunger Games depicts the things that we as humans most fear and are exhibiting in greater and greater numbers. It criticizes American society through themes of fear, oppression, and revolution. While the book offers a clear critique of the exploitation, consumerism, and violence of capitalist society, those unwilling to understand the critical elements of the novel can consume it instead as a nullifying spectacle. But for those able to see the parallels, The Hunger Games has the potential to wake us to our planet’s trajectory toward the point of devastation, to the evils of the world around us, and to exactly what humanity is becoming.

My name is Denali Mohler, I'm sixteen years old, and I'm currently a junior in high school. I take the most challenging courses available- I'll graduate high school having taken over fifteen classes for college credit, being a completer of the PLTW Biomedical Science program, and being awarded the seal of Biliteracy. I have been Class President for the past three years and am currently a member of my school’s chapter of NHS with over 250 service hours. I also founded a jewelry business, am a publisher poet, and have been featured in showcases at art museums. Additionally, I'm a Carson Scholar and a member of the Congress of Future Medical Leaders. I'm an avid activist, constantly fighting for those who can't fight for themselves, and a member of an activism club at my school focused on social justice and human rights. I'm passionate about serving my community and volunteer multiple hours each week, trying to use my blessings to benefit those less fortunate than I am. I'm a go-getter constantly chasing my dreams, am intrinsically motivated, and fully devoted to everything I put my mind to. Upon graduating high school, I plan to double major in Cellular Biology and Psychology with a minor in Bioethics at Harvard University and get my Master's Degree in Medicine at George Washington University. I hope to become a PA in Pediatric Oncology, treating kids going through the most difficult times of their lives, capable of not only being there for them medically but also emotionally and spiritually. I hope to leave the world a better place than I found it and help to be the change I wish to create, one small step at a time. Being an Oncological PA and working at Children's National Hospital has been my dream for the past seven years, but the road to get there is an expensive one. Additionally, despite my passion, hard work, and aspirations for the future, my path has never been easy, and it will continue to be a struggle every day of my life. In my sophomore year of high school, I dealt with a mental health crisis so crippling I thought I would never see the other side. Within a month, I was labeled with numerous life-long diagnoses that have since affected every aspect of my life- OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Clinical Depression, Panic Disorder, Body Dysmorphia...There are some days that it's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning, and standardized testing is a large part of high school education and college admissions, but with anxiety and panic disorder those tests are a nightmare. I've grown stronger because of my struggles, but I have to fight for my dreams of the future. I additionally deal with fibromyalgia, an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic widespread pain, insomnia, and constant fatigue and exhaustion. Living a life in which every day means pain and bone-deep exhaustion sucks, especially when I'm a go-getter wanting to be 100% into life all the time. My struggles are an obstacle between me and my dreams for the future, but I'm too passionate and have come too far to quit now. An additional foreseen hurdle is that scholarships are sometimes the only thing between an enthusiastic learner and an ocean of student debt. Between my undergraduate and graduate education, I'm looking at anywhere from $100,000 to $350,000 throughout those six years. However, this scholarship can help me achieve my goals for the future by helping to fund my higher education and continue to overcome life's barriers on the way to achieving my dreams.

The pumpkin spice latte embodies everything to be loved about fall- the warmth of snuggling up in a comfy sweater, the gorgeous changing colors of nature, leaves turning amber and rust and crimson, gold and crisp orange and vermillion, the food- baked apples, pumpkin pie, all the warm spices that chase out the chilliness of the crisp weather. Wrapped up in a blanket by the fire, golden light thrown onto the walls by the flickering flames, a warm slice of apple pie and a toasty latte in your hand, the crackling of the fire set against the faint whishing of the wind outside...The pumpkin spice latte is the epitome of nostalgia, of comfort, of memories like a cozy blanket keeping you safe and warm. There's not a single fall that goes by without the pumpkin spice latte emptying my wallet, such a quintessential part of the autumn experience. The nutty brew- in my opinion best accentuated with a caramel drizzle- topped with light and airy foam, creamy and topped with spices reminiscent of your grandma's pumpkin pie- just one sip can ease the worst worries of the coming winter, warming your heart and reminding you of home. The pumpkin spice latte is my fall best friend, a loyal and trustworthy companion through thick and thin, soothing all stress and bringing you back to the old family kitchen when you were young, surrounded by the sights and smells of a Thanksgiving feast cooked with love on your grandma's stove, your eyes much larger than your little stomach, although your stubborn self always makes room for dessert even when it feels as if you can't eat another bite. The pumpkin spice latte embodies everything celebrated about fall- it's the epitome of nostalgia, as comforting as a warm hug, and is as familiar as the smell of the family heirloom recipe for pumpkin pie. Through thick and thin, the pumpkin spice latte is always by your side, warding off the nippiness of the fall wind, protecting you from the autumn chill, and giving you the inner peace to appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons outside your frosted window. The pumpkin spice latte is like a best friend, always there for you, year after year, never tiring, never losing loyalty...no matter the season of your life that you are in, the pumpkin spice latte will always be there, through thick and through thin.

The summer before I started seventh grade, at the age of thirteen, I was bitten by a copperhead snake. We arrived at the hospital while my breath was ripping through me, my chest aching as my lungs struggled to pull in oxygen, tears burning in the back of my throat. After having- looking back- what was probably my first panic attack, I was wheeled on a stretcher into a helicopter and flown with my mom to the ICU at Children’s National Hospital in DC. By the time a week had passed from the original incident, I was discharged with pain meds and crutches for the drive home and then was on the long, slow, painful road to recovery. In ninth grade, the panic I had felt after that copperhead bite two years past was a constant ocompanion. Nervous energy presented itself in fidgeting, frequent migraines, chronic nausea, and a worry that stalked me like a lone wolf through black woods in the dark of night. When I was stressed, it felt like I was drowning. I worried about the most insignificant things, the smallest mistakes sent me spiraling, and minute inconveniences had me in a panic. Anxiety attacks and crying myself to sleep at night were so common I seemed to forget that what I was experiencing wasn't normal. I could never focus, I constantly had a million voices at war in my mind, sweaty palms and shaking hands, gasps of breath, and a pounding heart- they haunted me day and night, no matter the circumstances. Every time I looked in the mirror I was filled with nothing but disgust, desperate to break free from the prison of my body, trapped by the cavern of torture that was my mind. Slowly, I wasted away, nothing but a shell of my former self, barely hanging on by a thread. But somehwere deep inside of me, I found the belief that I was stronger than this. By the start of eleventh grade, I had a new haircut, a new backpack, and the same old smile- but with a new light behind it. Still the "smart girl," still class president, still gunning for admission to Harvard. For the most part, I looked the same, I acted the same, I seemed the same. But I was also changed. The monsters under my bed finally had names: clinical depression, anxiety and panic disorder, OCD, body dysmorphia...But after I came to terms with the pill that I was terrified to take- the medicine that doesn't strip me of my control over my mind, but rather empowers me to take control of the demons I had locked up in the closet- I'm finally free. After admitting that it was okay to not be ok- after a year of therapy teaching me that being imperfect is more beautiful than perfection could ever be, I'm free. I found that me isn't who everyone else saw me as, but rather the girl I was chasing, the girl I wished to go back to but thought had been lost- the girl I am. For the first time in a long time, for the first time since the carefree days stuffed animal tea parties and one plus one equals two, I'm free. I choose to excel rather than feeling I must because that's what's expected of me. I choose to wear makeup because I think I'm beautiful, not because I think I'm not. And for the first time in a long time, I feel happy without waiting for the storm following the sunshine. I've found myself. And I'm free.

The summer before I started seventh grade, at the age of thirteen, I was bitten by a copperhead snake. We arrived at the hospital while my breath was ripping through me, my chest aching as my lungs struggled to pull in oxygen, tears burning in the back of my throat. After having- looking back- what was probably my first panic attack, I was wheeled on a stretcher into a helicopter and flown with my mom to the ICU at Children’s National Hospital in DC. By the time a week had passed from the original incident, I was discharged with pain meds and crutches for the drive home and then was on the long, slow, painful road to recovery. In ninth grade, the panic I had felt after that copperhead bite two years past was a constant companion. Nervous energy presented itself in fidgeting, frequent migraines, chronic nausea, and a worry that stalked me like a lone wolf through black woods in the dark of night. When I was stressed, it felt like I was drowning. I worried about the most insignificant things, the smallest mistakes sent me spiraling, and minute inconveniences had me in a panic. Anxiety attacks and crying myself to sleep at night were so common I seemed to forget that what I was experiencing wasn't normal. I could never focus, I constantly had a million voices at war in my mind, sweaty palms and shaking hands, gasps of breath, and a pounding heart- they haunted me day and night, no matter the circumstances. Every time I looked in the mirror I was filled with nothing but disgust, desperate to break free from the prison of my body, trapped by the cavern of torture that was my mind. Slowly, I wasted away, nothing but a shell of my former self, barely hanging on by a thread. But somewhere deep inside of me, I found the belief that I was stronger than this. By the start of eleventh grade, I had a new haircut, a new backpack, and the same old smile- but with a new light behind it. Still the "smart girl," still class president, still dating the boy I met the first day of freshman year, still gunning for admission to Harvard. For the most part, I looked the same, I acted the same, I seemed the same. But I was also changed. The monsters under my bed finally had names: clinical depression, anxiety and panic disorder, OCD, body dysmorphia...But after I came to terms with the pill that I was terrified to take- the medicine that doesn't strip me of my control over my mind, but rather empowers me to take control of the demons I had locked up in the closet- I'm finally free. After admitting that it was okay to not be ok- after a year of therapy teaching me that being imperfect is more beautiful than perfection could ever be, I'm free. I found that me isn't who everyone else saw me as, but rather the girl I was chasing, the girl I wished to go back to but thought had been lost- the girl I am. For the first time in a long time, for the first time since the carefree days stuffed animal tea parties and one plus one equals two, I'm free. I choose to excel rather than feeling I must because that's what's expected of me. I choose to wear makeup because I think I'm beautiful, not because I think I'm not. I choose to trust, realizing that any guy would be lucky to have me- instead of living in a constant state of distrust, reservation, and uncertainty, constantly petrified that no one will love me and I'll never be enough. I choose to embrace the faith that got me through one of the hardest times in my life instead of wondering if that God is even there. And I choose to advocate for those in similar situations as me, to be the voice for those who have none, to stand up for those too scared to stand up for themselves. For the first time in a long time, I feel happy without waiting for the storm following the sunshine. I've found my people, I've found the places where I feel at home, but most importantly- I've found myself.

Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a doctor. I want to care for patients and be able to support them and their families when they’re going through rough times. I want to help fund research, to raise awareness for different causes, and to help as many people as I can in the life that I am given. Oncology has been a career of interest for me for as long as I can remember- many people in my family have had cancer- some survivors, some who passed away, and some who are still fighting their battles today. Seeing so many people I love suffering from this disease we know so little about really inspired me to be a part of the constantly evolving push for change in the oncological community. I hope that one day as a PA in Oncology caring for patients, I can contribute to the rapidly expanding medical field, and conduct research in a subject I have come to love. Being able to say that what you do every day is helping people all over the world and is something you love and feel fulfilled doing- not many jobs are like that. That’s why I want to be an Oncologist. In the future, I hope to better serve my community and to do my small part in one day changing the world. I have always loved community service projects- especially through school organizations with my friends and teachers, like NJHS and SGA. Service projects for hospitals and other medical causes have always been close to my heart, and they have been special opportunities for me to feel like I’m making a difference in a field that I'm so passionate about. In 7th Grade, I was a part of a committee that ran a Relay 4 Life fundraiser at our school to raise money for cancer research. We provided pledges and decorated donation stations at the school, and the event itself ran for almost four hours. In the end, we raised hundreds of dollars, and it was amazing to know I was helping doctors around the world come one step closer to a cure for cancer. In 8th Grade, I ran a project as President of NJHS to make Christmas and holiday cards and no-sew blankets to donate to the local Calvert Health hospital at the height of the pandemic. In the end, the eight of us designed and created ninety holiday cards and fifteen blankets that we donated to Calvert Health. Throughout high school, I've both volunteered and worked at Thrive Primary Care, a local medical practice focused on serving the community through things like a traveling doctor's office serving low-income communities and free outpatient care. Volunteering to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves shows you how much you have to be grateful for. Every day I try to appreciate my blessings and use my gifts to better the world because I know there are so many who aren’t as well off as I am. Volunteering and serving others has changed me and inspired me in ways I could never have imagined. Community service and volunteering have shaped my hopes and dreams for the future, shown me all that I have to be grateful for, and changed my outlook on humanity. I would not be the person that I am today without the things I have done for others, and I hope that as I grow up, I go on to serve others and do my small part to change the world- one person and one small act of kindness at a time.

"I'm light as a feather, I'm stiff as a board, I pay attention to things most people ignore / ... / I feel for your every little issue, I know just what you mean / and I make light of the darkness / I've got sun coming out of my pockets, best believe." The irony and sarcasm that drips from these lyrics, parts of the chorus from all american b*tch, resonate with anyone struggling with teen angst, particularly the double standards of society that teenage girls struggle against, and the constant battle with mental health for those 1 in 3 teens affected with things like depression, suicidal ideations, and anxiety. In ninth grade, the panic I had first felt in seventh grade two years past was a constant companion. Nervous energy presented itself in fidgeting, frequent migraines, chronic nausea, and a worry that stalked me like a lone wolf through black woods in the dark of night. When I was stressed, it felt like I was drowning. I worried about the most insignificant things, the smallest mistakes sent me spiraling, and minute inconveniences had me in a panic. Anxiety attacks and crying myself to sleep at night were so common I seemed to forget that what I was experiencing wasn't normal. I could never focus, I constantly had a million voices at war in my mind, sweaty palms and shaking hands, gasps of breath, and a pounding heart- they haunted me day and night, no matter the circumstances. Every time I looked in the mirror I was filled with nothing but disgust, desperate to break free from the prison of my body, trapped by the cavern of torture that was my mind. Slowly, I wasted away, nothing but a shell of my former self, barely hanging on by a thread. While I'm proud to say that I'm now in recovery, a fighter, a survivor of all the demons that had been hiding in my closet and under my bed, one of the few things that could get me through the daily struggle to make it to the next day during the worst of my mental health crisis was music. I sought out genuine, deep, meaningful lyrics buried in the catchy tunes of pop songs, searching for anything that I could relate to, a whisper of anything that seemed that someone understood. Olivia Rodrigo was one of those artists who carried me through those difficult times, reminding me that I wasn't alone and that millions of girls around the world were struggling with the same things I was- and even more, that many of those girls had made it through. Her lyrics reminded me that someone understood, and that was more comfort than anything during a period during which I felt so alone. Sharpie tattoos on my wrist of lyrics that held me together were a commonplace sight during my freshman and sophomore years, I was often tucked in a corner, swamped in a hoodie, AirPods in, trying to retain some semblance of sanity by listening to those lyrics that were one of the few things that I could identify with at the time. Songs like brutal, enough for you, and jealousy, jealousy were my sole comforts during one of the worst times in my life, and looking back now, the lyrics of the songs in GUTS empower me to speak up for those going through the same things I did, to let them know that they are not alone, there is someone there who understands, and that even if it's just in the comfort of a song, there is hope.

Ever since I was little, I've always wanted to change the world. By the age of 10 or so, I realized that perhaps dreaming of being president or finding the cure for cancer wasn't the most realistic of ambitions. But even so, I was determined to leave my mark, and regardless, each day I am determined to change the world, one small step at a time. My ambition to make the world a better place is reflected in every aspect of my life, particularly my extracurriculars and the ways that I spend my free time. I'm a member of my high school's chapter of the National Honor Society, am Class President- as I have been the past three years- and so lead my class' Student Council each week, and am a member of an advocacy club called The Divine Feminine focused on feminism, social justice, and enacting change through advocacy for our rights. I serve at my church each week, volunteer within my community through organizations like Project Echo and Farming for Hunger, work on a case-by-case basis at Thrive Primary Care- a medical practice focused on equity and serving the community- and volunteer at a local charity serving our local law enforcement called Honor the Blue. I've volunteered at community events to foster connections within our society, to support those in need, and to better the environment around us. I've sewed blankets that I donated to Calvert Health, the local hospital, I've run food drives and clothing drives for Project Echo, the local homeless shelter, I've run many service projects at our school, fostering community within our students and giving a voice to those who previously had none, and I've fought for my beliefs through social advocacy on issues like student rights and climate change. I'm a fiercely passionate individual and am fully dedicated to every project I put my mind to and every cause I serve, and I devote myself each day to helping in any way I can. I love serving others in my community, helping those less fortunate than myself, I love leading my peers in efforts to improve life for our fellow students, teachers, and citizens of our community, and I love knowing that each day- each time I accomplish a goal I set for myself to better my school and my community- that in my small way, I'm making a difference. Each time I help to bring in food and clothes for the needy, I'm helping someone less fortunate than myself, sharing the blessings I've been privileged to have. Each time I stand up for those who feel as if they don't have a voice, I'm taking a small step toward bringing about lasting change for all those who are underrepresented and unheard. Each time I run community events, serve with local charities and organizations, and bring people together in the name of a cause I'm passionate about, I'm introducing people to others they may never have met otherwise, I'm creating connections that in some small way, one day, could be life-changing, and I'm doing my small part each day to change the world. I'm not afraid to fight for what I believe in, not afraid to be passionate about the things I care about, and not afraid to stand up for those who can't stand for themselves. I'm a fighter, and I'm proud of that. I fight each day to do my small part to enact lasting change. I fight each day to do my small part to change the world.