Mental health is the cornerstone of everything we do, especially during our early years in college. I feel that caring for my mental health is as important to academic success. Without a strong feeling of mental well-being, it is difficult to thrive in other aspects of life, such as the classroom, relationships, or personal development. Starting college was an exciting moment for me, but it also presented obstacles. The pressure to succeed academically, maintain social relationships, and determine my direction frequently left me feeling overwhelmed. I immediately recognized that unless I prioritized my mental health, everything else would suffer. It's easy to get caught up in the responsibilities of college life, but I've discovered that taking a step back to care for my mind is essential to my overall well-being and success. To maintain my mental health, I've developed a few habits that keep me grounded. First and foremost, I schedule time for self-care, even during busy weeks. Taking tiny breaks, such as writing, going for a walk, or spending time with friends, helps me manage stress and recharge. I've also learned to create boundaries, so I don't take on too much at once. Learning to say "no" when necessary has helped me maintain a good mix of schoolwork and personal time. Another important aspect of maintaining my mental health is seeking support when I need it. Whether it's talking to a trusted friend or talking to a family member, I've learned that reaching out isn't a show of weakness, but of strength. It's easy to feel like you have to handle everything on your own in college, but I've discovered that relying on my support system has helped me stay psychologically strong. For me, mental health is more than just managing stress and worry; it's about being in the appropriate frame of mind to achieve my objectives and ambitions. Taking care of my mental health enables me to remain motivated, focused, and resilient even when things are difficult. It serves as the foundation for my academic and personal life, allowing me to confidently traverse the highs and lows of college. I feel that mental health is essential for having a healthy and fulfilled life, particularly at college. Maintaining my mental health has helped me focus on my goals, handle stress, and build a supporting network. As I continue on my journey, I am confident that prioritizing my mental health will remain an important aspect in my capacity to achieve and grow academically and personally.

Heart disease has been a constant presence in my life, not because I have directly experienced it, but because my mother has suffered from atrial fibrillation (AFib) for as long as I can remember. Her fight with this cardiac issue began when she was pregnant with me, so it was a part of my life story from the beginning. Watching my mom overcome this issue has affected who I am and how I handle problems in my own life. Growing up, I witnessed my mother battle with episodes of AFib that disrupted her daily life. She couldn't do simple things like walk up the stairs or engage in strenuous activities without her heart going out of rhythm. When her heart raced or beat erratically, she frequently needed to be shocked to bring it back into a normal rhythm. It was terrifying for her and our family. As a child, I couldn't understand why my mother couldn't run around with me or simply go on a stroll without being exhausted. Heart illness affected not only her, but our entire family. The hardest part of living with a parent who has heart disease is the feeling of helplessness. I couldn't do much to heal her heart or relieve her pain, but I could help her in little ways. I took on additional tasks at home, helped around the house, and tried to have a cheerful attitude during her hospital trips. I gained the value of empathy and resilience from a young age, and I realized that while certain circumstances are beyond our control, how we respond to them makes all the difference. Recently, my mom underwent ablation surgery, and it has truly been life-changing for her and our family. Prior to surgery, she couldn't exercise or even walk up the stairs without having an AFib episode. For the first time in years, she can engage in physical activities without worry of her heart going out of sync. It's been nothing short of a miracle to see her finally enjoying life, being active and healthy. This experience with my mother's heart issue has taught me not to take my own or my loved ones' health for granted. It's also shown me how crucial it is to persevere in difficult situations. I've grown to be adaptable, to cope with stress, and to remain strong even when circumstances seem overwhelming. My mother's strength during her battle with AFib has been my biggest source of inspiration, and it serves as a reminder that even in the face of misfortune, there is always hope for brighter days ahead. As I continue my education, I carry these lessons with me. Watching my mother face the hardships of heart disease has inspired me to work harder, stay focused, and achieve my objectives, regardless of the obstacles that may arise. This scholarship would not only alleviate the financial strain of attending school, but it would also honor my mother's courage and our shared struggle through her heart condition. My mother's experience with atrial fibrillation impacted my outlook on life and gave me the strength to conquer obstacles in my own journey. Her amazing recovery demonstrates the power of persistence, hope, and modern medicine. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and to continue pushing forward in honor of her perseverance.

In the past few years, #BookTok has transformed my reading habits and introduced me to an incredible range of stories that I may not have discovered otherwise. The platform has not only brought books to the forefront, but it has also created a community of readers who discuss their love of reading, analyze character arcs, and make recommendations. For me, #BookTok has been an inspiration, helping me to engage with stories on a deeper level and get new views. "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller The Song of Achilles was one of the first novels I discovered through #BookTok. This modern rendition of the Greek myth of Achilles and Patroclus struck an emotional connection with me. Miller's ability to create a timeless love story through the perspective of war, fate, and sacrifice resonated not only with its emotional depth but also with its investigation of relationships. Readers shared their emotional reactions, resulting in a surge of enthusiasm for the book's portrayal of vulnerability and love in a heroic environment. The Song of Achilles spurred numerous debates on #BookTok about tragic heroes and the complexity of love and fate and the enduring power of storytelling. "It Ends with Us" by Colleen Hoover Colleen Hoover's It Ends with Us explores issues such as love, resilience, and personal growth. The book’s raw and honest portrayal of difficult relationships resonated with many readers, sparking important conversations on the platform about emotional abuse and the cycle of toxic love. Hoover's writing is engaging and approachable, and her characters are terribly flawed but relatable, allowing readers to see ourselves in their challenges. It Ends with Us had a significant impact on #BookTok because of its ability to tackle sensitive topics with care, leading readers to consider their own limits and emotional well-being. This book has a permanent position on my bookshelf for its capacity to elicit such strong emotions and raise awareness about topics that are often hard to talk about. "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab The story of a lady cursed to live eternally but never be remembered captivated people. The novel's themes of legacy, loneliness, and the yearning to be noticed connected with many readers. I was particularly intrigued by Addie's perseverance and her ability to negotiate centuries of existence while always seeking to leave her imprint on a world that constantly forgets her. On #BookTok, people engaged in intense conversations about the book's philosophical topics and devastating ending, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon. Addie LaRue embodies the beauty of literature and how it can take you to different periods and locations while simultaneously making you reflect on your own life and relationships. "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas ACOTAR is more than just an adventure novel; it is also about Feyre's inner growth and empowerment. #BookTok has elevated this series to new heights, with fans generating fan art and discussion videos. What struck me the most about this series was its study of pain and healing. Readers are taught through Feyre's character that healing from past wounds is not a linear process and that vulnerability can lead to strength. ACOTAR's popularity on #BookTok shows how fantasy can still contain emotional depth, and it's a must-have on my bookshelves since it skillfully balances escapism. These four novels are the foundation of my dream #BookTok-inspired bookshelf since they all spoke to me on a personal level while also having a huge impact on the #BookTok community. These books, whether they depict love, resilience, or self-discovery, have sparked valuable discussions both online and offline.

As a college student, I have realized that leadership frequently involves stepping up in difficult situations, especially when things don't go as expected. One of the most significant opportunities for me to take on a leadership position came during a group assignment this past year. The project was for a marketing course, and we were to create a full marketing strategy for a fictional corporation. While I was enthusiastic about the project, it immediately became clear that my group members were not as committed. From the start, communication within the group was difficult. After creating a group chat and scheduling frequent meetings, responses were slow and participation was poor. Deadlines came and went with little progress, and it became obvious that the majority of my group members waited until the last minute to complete any tasks. As someone who values structure and quick execution, this lack of initiative was aggravating, and I recognized that unless I took the initiative, our project would fail. I decided to step up and take on the role of being the team leader. The first thing I did was contact each group member individually, asking about their availability and project-related concerns. I wanted to know whether there were any underlying difficulties driving the delay in participation. Some felt overwhelmed by other assignments, while others simply lost interest in the project. Understanding the circumstances allowed me to modify my strategy to motivate the team. I then took the initiative to divide the job into smaller, more manageable chunks and created specific dates for each component. I assigned responsibilities based on each member's abilities and interests, guaranteeing that everyone had a job that was suitable to their skills. To keep everyone accountable, I set up a progress monitoring system that allowed us to see who was in charge of each task and its status. This openness increased accountability because no one wanted to be perceived as the person holding up the group. I also made sure to keep communication open and consistent. I organized regular check-ins, to discuss progress and resolve any concerns that occurred. These sessions were important in keeping progress and getting everyone on the same page. I established smaller sub-deadlines leading up to the final submission date, which helped to avoid the last-minute rush that troubled us previously. Despite the initial obstacles our group began to come together. As the deadline arrived, everybody became more involved and invested in the project. The structure and clarity I provided helped to ease the tension of the approaching deadline, and the project began to progress much more smoothly. By the time we presented our marketing plan, we had completed a well-researched and unified effort that earned us a high score. Reflecting on this project, I realized that leadership is more than just taking command; it's also about recognizing your team's needs and concerns. By listening to my group members, having clear expectations, and holding everyone accountable, I was able to transform a potentially disastrous project into a success. This event taught me the importance of proactive leadership. In my future career, I plan to apply these leadership skills to create organized, motivated teams that can tackle challenges head-on. I feel that the capacity to lead in less-than-ideal conditions is an important skill, and I intend to use my knowledge to advise and inspire people in whatever field I choose to pursue.

As a 22-year-old college student, I've grown up watching Sabrina Carpenter evolve from the witty, adorable Maya Hart from "Girl Meets World" to a versatile artist who has made a special mark on both the music and film industries. Sabrina's rise from Disney Channel star to a popular voice in pop culture has been nothing short of remarkable, and I'm honored to have the opportunity to explain how she has influenced my life. Sabrina Carpenter first caught my attention with her role as Maya on "Girl Meets World." As a young girl, I connected so strongly with her character—Maya was the friend we all wanted to be or have, full of sass and confidence while still dealing with her own anxieties and issues. Watching Sabrina bring Maya to life gave me more confidence during my own teenage years, reminding me that it's alright to be a little rebellious, to challenge the status quo, and to stand up for what you believe in. But Sabrina's influence did not end there. As she moved from acting to music, I was amazed by her ability to reinvent herself while being loyal to herself. Songs like "Please, Please, Please" and "Espresso" were the soundtrack to my college years, with each track focusing on different parts of growing up and discovering one's identity. What I enjoy most about Sabrina's music is how genuine and relatable it is. She is not afraid to confront life's complications, such as loss, self-doubt, and the pressure to succeed. Instead, she embraces everything and turns it into work that speaks to so many people, including me. One of the things that impresses me about Sabrina Carpenter is her genuineness. In an industry where it's easy to get lost in the glitz and glamour, Sabrina stays grounded and uses her platform to speak out on important topics. She isn't hesitant to discuss mental health, self-acceptance, and the necessity of being kind to others in her lyrics, interviews, or on social media. As someone who has dealt with anxiety, watching Sabrina openly describe her own struggles has been helpful. It reminds me that even people who appear to have it all together face their own struggles, and that's okay. Sabrina's growth as an artist has been a constant source of inspiration for me. She has taught me that it is possible to grow and evolve while remaining true to yourself, and that success is more than simply fame or money—it is about making a difference, no matter how big or small. Watching her balance acting and singing has inspired me to pursue my own passions with the same passion and commitment. In many ways, Sabrina Carpenter has served as an inspiration to me as I navigate my twenties. Her path taught me that it's okay to take risks, fail, and continue even when things go bad. She has taught me that success isn't only about what you achieve, but how you make others feel along the way. The "Sabrina Carpenter Superfan Scholarship" is more than simply a way for me to show my love for Sabrina; it's also an opportunity for me to reflect on how her work has influenced me. As I continue my path through college and beyond, I carry the lessons Sabrina has taught me through her music and acting. She is a constant reminder that with a little desire, determination, and heart, we, too, can make a difference in the world, just as she has.

"Love Island" has won the hearts of people all around the world with its perfect blend of romance, drama, and challenges. As a fan of the show, I frequently find myself wondering about new ways to keep the islanders on their toes while entertaining viewers. With that in mind, I've created a creative challenge that I feel will add a new dimension to the program, enhancing both the emotional relationships and the strategic gaming. I call it the "Love Connection Challenge." The "Love Connection Challenge" is designed to test couples' compatibility and communication skills, but with a twist. Unlike other challenges that encourage physical or mental abilities, this one is all about emotional intelligence and the couples' ability to fully connect with each other's thoughts and feelings. The goal is to see which couples have the strongest bonds and can collaborate as a team, even when the stakes are high. The Rules and Objectives: Pairing Up: The task begins with the couples teaming up as normal, but this time they are separated into rooms where they cannot see or hear each other. Each room includes a pleasant lounge space where islanders can unwind and concentrate on the task at hand. The Questions: In each chamber, the islanders are asked a variety of personal and relationship-related questions. These questions can range from lighthearted to very personal, such as "What is your partner's biggest fear?" or "Describe your ideal date together." The key is that the responses must forecast not only what the individual will say but also what their partner will say. The Matching Process: Once the islanders have written down their responses, they are brought back together to assess how closely they match. For each question, the couples will take turns revealing their responses. The more their responses match, the more points they gain. The Decider: To add another element of stress, the final question is a "make or break" choice. Couples will be asked to answer a difficult or controversial issue about their relationship, and they must debate and agree on their response before revealing it to the group. This final question is worth double points, so any couple can win the challenge with the correct solution. The "Love Connection Challenge" adds a new dimension to "Love Island" by addressing the emotional connections that create or break relationships. It's easy to get caught up in the physical attraction and strategic moves, but this challenge encourages the islanders to dig deeper and get to know their partners on a more personal level. Viewers enjoy seeing true connections form, and this challenge would offer a fresh method for showing the strength of those bonds—or expose flaws in the foundation. The challenge provides a feeling of surprise and excitement, since couples who appear strong on the surface may crumble under the pressure of genuinely knowing each other. It's more than just winning a game; it's about proving that their bond is genuine and can withstand the test of time, both within and outside of the villa. The "Love Connection Challenge" would be an excellent addition to "Love Island," bringing out the best (and perhaps the worst) in couples as they navigate the complexity of their relationships. It's a task that blends romance, drama, and strategic thinking—all of which have contributed to "Love Island"'s current global sensation. This task would create amazing moments by challenging the couples' emotional depth, which viewers would discuss for seasons to come. I'm thrilled to share this concept with other "Love Island" fans and celebrate the creativity and passion that this show sparks in all of us.

When I think of Team USA, one name immediately comes to mind: Simone Biles. As a former gymnast, I've long admired the sport's blend of grace, strength, and precision. Simone Biles, on the other hand, pushed those elements to a degree beyond my wildest imagination. She is more than simply my favorite athlete on Team USA; she is someone who has had an impact on me. Simone Biles' name has become a symbol of gymnastics greatness. From her record-breaking performances to her difficulty level, Biles has consistently pushed the limits of the sport. Her ability to perform techniques that no one else would dare to attempt, such as the Yurchenko double pike vault, defines her not only as an athlete, but also as a pioneer. Every time she gets onto the mat, she does more than just compete; she also redefines the sport. But it isn't just Simone's athleticism that makes her stand out to me. It's her unrelenting bravery and tenacity. Simone was under enormous pressure at the Tokyo Olympics, which few of us could have imagined. When she chose to prioritize her mental health and withdraw from multiple competitions, she sent an enormous message to the world: athletes are human beings first, and self-care is the highest form of strength. This decision was, in my opinion, equally important as any of her gold medals. It taught me that true greatness is found not only in physical accomplishments, but also in the ability to stand up for what you believe in, even in the face of overwhelming expectations. As someone who once aspired to be a gymnast, watching Simone Biles perform is like seeing all of my childhood dreams come true. Beyond her abilities, it is her personality that has left a lasting mark on me. Her struggle has taught me the value of strength, not just in sports but in life. I've encountered disappointments and been overwhelmed by the expectations placed on me, but thinking about Simone's story has given me the strength to keep trying. Her focus and determination are qualities I strive to emulate in my own life. Simone's focus and determination inspire me to stay committed to my academics, pursue my goals, and overcome personal problems. She shows what it is to work hard, stay focused, and never accept anything less than your best. Simone Biles' contributions to Team USA extend beyond her outstanding medal total. She has become a role model for young athletes everywhere, proving that it is possible to be a champion while also advocating for mental health. Her impact goes far beyond the gym, as she continues to spark conversations on mental health, self-care, and the value of helping one another. Simone Biles, in my opinion, represents the best of what it means to be a member of Team USA. She represents the strength of perseverance, the value of mental health, and the influence one person can have on the world. She is more than just an athlete; she is a leader, an innovator, and an inspiration to millions of others, including me. As I explore the attributes that make Simone Biles my favorite athlete, I find she symbolizes everything I admire: strength, resilience, courage, and an unshakable devotion to being true to yourself. Her path has encouraged me to be as determined as Simone in pursuing my own goals and to remember that I, too, have the ability to overcome any hurdle. Being a fan of Team USA is more than just rooting for the athletes; it also involves being motivated by them to become the greatest version of yourself.

"The Bear" is more than just a show; it's a story about family, ambition, and life's problems. Each character has their challenges and victories. As a devoted fan, picturing the right finish to this series is both exciting and daunting. However, in my opinion, the conclusion of "The Bear" should acknowledge the characters' development while leaving viewers with a feeling of hope and fulfillment. Carmen "Carmy" has been the heart and soul of "The Bear," and his path from top chef in New York to taking over his family's sandwich store has been filled with conflict and mental chaos. In the perfect ending, I picture Carmy finally achieving the balance he's been looking for throughout the series. After battling with the responsibility of keeping his family's tradition while at the same time forging his own path, Carmy decided to build a successful new restaurant that pays tribute to his roots while also allowing him to show off his originality and talent. This restaurant would be a cross between gourmet dining and the popular sandwich shop, symbolizing Carmy's acceptance of both his past and future. Sydney, Carmy's sous-chef, has always been motivated by ambition and the need to prove herself. In a perfect ending, I imagine Sydney taking on a leadership role, perhaps even becoming a partner in the new restaurant. Her unique ideas and love for the culinary arts would earn her the respect she deserves. This conclusion would also show Sydney training future cooks, passing on the skills she's learned on her journey, and making sure the restaurant becomes a hub for creativity and diversity. For Sydney, the ending represents both career accomplishment and personal fulfillment. She will gain confidence in her skills and no longer question her worth or position in the kitchen. This story would be extremely fulfilling since it would bring out Sydney's tenacity and ability to forge her own path in a world that frequently ignores young, smart women. Richie Jerimovich, Carmy's cousin, has been one of the most complicated and flawed characters in "The Bear." Richie's issues with identity and purpose have frequently resulted in disagreements, but I believe he will find atonement. He would play an important position in the new restaurant, either managing the front of house or overseeing the financial side, finally finding a way to contribute meaningfully to the family legacy. Richie's story would be one of the most gratifying, as he could heal his shattered connections with his family, particularly his daughter. He would become a more present and supportive parent, realizing that his worth is not solely dependent on the restaurant, but also on the people he loves. The ending would be rewarding because it would demonstrate that even the most troubled characters can make their way back, sending a message of hope and forgiveness. The perfect ending to "The Bear" would see all the characters finding their places in the world, united by the restaurant that has brought them together. The series would end with a gala opening night at the new restaurant, with the team working perfectly and the environment filled with the excitement of fresh beginnings. As the final picture pans out, we see the restaurant filled with activity, showing not just the conclusion of their work but also the beginning of something permanent. This ending would give fans a feeling of closure by making sure the characters we've grown to love are on paths that represent their growth and strength. "The Bear" has been a story of hardship, redemption, and the endless quest of passion.

Billie Eilish's music has been a friend for me, helping me get through some of life's most difficult times. Her lyrics, which are packed with honest passion, speak to me on a deep level. Of all her incredible songs, the three that stand out most to me are "When the Party's Over," "What Was I Made For," and "Come Out and Play." Each of these songs speak to me in a unique way, giving comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging when I need it the most. "When the Party's Over" is a hauntingly beautiful song that shows the experience of letting go and moving on, even if it hurts. This song gave me peace during a terrible point in my life when I had to make the difficult decision to end a toxic friendship. The sorrowful music and Billie's sensitive vocals echoed my pain, but the words also reminded me that leaving sometimes is important for one's own well-being. This song gave me the strength to prioritize my mental health, even if it meant making difficult decisions. It taught me that it's acceptable to say goodbye and that there's strength in admitting when something no longer serves you. "What Was I Made For" speaks to the existential questions I've frequently questioned myself, particularly as I navigate the challenges of growing up. There are times when I feel lost, uncertain about my purpose, and overwhelmed by the expectations placed on me. This song portrays the feeling of searching for purpose and figuring out where one belongs in the world. Billie's lyrics reflect my own thoughts, but they also give me comfort in knowing that I'm not alone in feeling this way. This song has encouraged me to follow the road of self-discovery, even when the way is not obvious. It reminds me that it's acceptable not to have all the answers and that figuring things out is part of the journey. "Come Out and Play" is a song that has inspired me to get out of my comfort zone and express my genuine self to the world. I've always suffered with self-doubt and fear of being judged. Billie's sweet yet powerful message in this song, telling listeners not to hide away but to let their light shine, touches an emotional connection with me. It inspires me to start putting myself out there, whether through participating in new things or sharing my creative talents. This song has had a major impact on my confidence, reminding me that I have something valuable to offer and that I should not be frightened to show it. Billie’s music has given me an emotional outlet while also helping me grow as a person. Her songs have helped me navigate the complicated world of relationships, issues with a sense of self and the challenge of conquering fear. Billie's bold authenticity and openness to explore unpleasant feelings in her music have pushed me to embrace my own vulnerability and be shameless about it. Her music has served as a reminder that it is okay to feel strongly, question the world around you, and pursue your own path. Billie Eilish's influence on my life extends beyond simply being a fan; her music has shaped how I approach my own life, relationships, and goals. The connection I have with her songs and the influence they've had on me represent music's ability to heal, inspire, and transform. This scholarship allows me to discuss how Billie's music has been a guiding influence in my life and celebrate how it has helped shape who I am today.

My name is Elizabeth Hoving, and I am a college student who is inspired by the values instilled in me by my family, particularly those who served in the military. My grandfather was an engineer in the Air Force, and I have a few uncles that served. They have taught me the value of discipline, resilience, and selflessness. These beliefs have affected who I am and how I approach my education, professional goals, and leadership roles. Leadership involves being a source of guidance and inspiration for others, and effective communication is essential to this. As a leader I've learned the value of listening to others, communicating ideas, and making everyone feel valued. For example, when leading a school project, I schedule meetings and create a supportive environment in which team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas. This experience shows me that strong leadership is not about establishing power, but rather about bringing out the best in people through communication and empathy. My experiences have relied heavily on resilience. Balancing school and owning my own business has not always been simple, but these challenges have only fueled my motivation. There are times when I feel overwhelmed, but I am learning to endure by focusing on my long-term goals. Whether it's recovering from a difficult exam or having to work, I've created a mindset that views problems as opportunities. This resilience has made me more adaptive and ready for anything. I believe that true success is defined not just by personal accomplishments, but also by the positive impact we make on others. I attempt to be selfless in my actions, whether it's assisting a classmate with an assignment or working extra hours. My relatives' stories of duty have taught me that putting others' needs ahead of your own demonstrates great strength. I keep this lesson with me every day, knowing that the small things we do for others can have a great impact. My academic and personal success is driven by focus and determination. I've always set expectations for myself and remain devoted to meeting them. This is seen in my academic performances, where I always strive for greatness. I am motivated to make the most of my college experience, not just for my own benefit, but also to honor the legacy of my family members who have served our country. Their passion for their jobs inspires me to keep working toward my goals, no matter what hurdles appear. A strong work ethic is something I am really proud of. Whether contributing to group projects or working I always give my all. My grandfather often stressed the value of hard work, and those values have stayed with me. I tackle each task with the idea that nothing worthwhile is simple. This has helped me maintain excellent academic standards and persevere even in the most difficult times. I'm seeking a degree in Marketing because I want to contribute meaningfully to society, like my family members who have served in the military. Leadership means employing my skills and knowledge to guide and encourage others on their journeys. Leadership, resilience, selflessness, focus, and a strong work ethic are more than just attributes I strive for; they are the guiding principles in my daily existence. Inspired by my family and my desire to make a positive difference, I am committed to fulfilling my goals and making a contribution to society. This scholarship will not only help me continue my education but also honor the legacy of Antonie “Tony” Bernard Thomas, a man whose values resonate deeply with my own.

In high school, I had the opportunity to participate in a class called "Gone Boarding," where we learned how to make surfboards, skis, longboards, etc.. We took an unforgettable trip to visit the iconic Burton headquarters in Vermont. Stepping into the heart of this well-known snowboarding brand was like entering a world where creativity and innovation coexisted. As we strolled through the different offices, each with its own narrative of adventure, I became fascinated by the spirit that filled the facility. However, it was the marketing team that left a lasting impression on me. Meeting Burton's marketing team was an influential moment. I saw the demanding planning and strategic creativity that goes into every campaign. It was exciting to see how they integrated creativity and analytics to create storylines that engaged with people on a deeper level. The experience inspired me to get a degree in marketing. I realized I wanted to be a part of a world where I could use creativity to make a difference in the world. When I returned home, I was gripped by a fresh sense of purpose. The visit to Burton sparked a desire in me to get lost in the world of marketing, to be a part of something with the potential to inspire and impact people. Throughout my academic career, I have welcomed every opportunity to learn and improve, knowing that each class puts me one step closer to my ultimate goal of creating a name for myself in the profession of marketing. My enthusiasm for marketing stems from my belief that storytelling and creativity have the ability to impact perceptions, build relationships, and drive change. I hope to obtain more practical experience throughout my classes, allowing me to apply what I've learned in the real-world. I have continued my education by obtaining certificates in analytics, and I plan on getting certified in digital marketing and more! These credentials will not only broaden my skill set but also position me as a contender in the employment market. I am committed to continual learning because I feel that remaining current with the newest marketing trends plays an important role in success. My ultimate goal is to work in an environment where I can contribute to creating campaigns that connect on a personal level with consumers. I am passionate about assisting brands in telling their stories in ways that are not only effective, but also ethical and socially responsible. I believe that marketing can be a force for good, and I am determined to be a part of that positive change. As I stand on the verge of my future, I am filled with excitement and anticipation about what lies ahead. My visit to Burton was a breakthrough moment that influenced my decision to pursue a career in marketing. With determination and a strong passion for storytelling and creativity, I am ready to start the next chapter of my journey, achieve my goals, and leave a lasting impression in the world of marketing.

The calmness of the early morning water and the anticipation of a catch have always been a part of my summers. Fishing with my father taught me patience and perseverance, which have defined my personality. From these fishing excursions to leading my all-star cheerleading squad, I have consistently displayed character, sportsmanship, and a strong work ethic, both on the water and in my community. These experiences have prepared me to make a positive contribution to your program. Character in Cheerleading As captain of my all-star cheerleading team, I had to deal with a number of problems that put my character to the test. During my freshman year, a girl from one of our other teams got seriously injured just one week before a major competition. I was asked to fill in for her so I took it upon myself to learn the routine so that everyone felt secure and prepared. My ability to remain calm and focused under pressure not only helped us succeed, but also strengthened my confidence in the value of integrity and resilience. Another situation that put my character to the test was when we were dealing with internal team conflicts. Sportsmanship in Cheerleading Sportsmanship was at the heart of my cheerleading experience. In one memorable competition, our key competitors performed a flawless routine. Instead of feeling defeated, I led my team to congratulate them. This show of respect and appreciation for their efforts built a sense of community and mutual respect among our teams. It reminded me that true sportsmanship is acknowledging and appreciating the efforts and achievements of others. Additionally, during practices, I always encouraged my teammates to support each other, whether by cheering on someone struggling with a new skill or celebrating each small victory, which created a positive and motivating environment. Character and Sportsmanship in Fishing Fishing with my dad has always been more than a hobby; it's a way of life that has instilled important values in me. Spending hours on the water taught me patience and respect for the environment. I recall one summer when the fish weren't biting, but my father and I used the opportunity to talk about life and the value of persistence. These experiences impacted my character, training me to be patient and steady in all of my undertakings. Fishing has also taught me humility; even when you do your best, things don't always go as planned, but it's crucial to learn from each experience and keep trying. Work Ethic in Fishing Every summer, I go fishing on a daily basis, perfecting my tactics and learning new skills. This passion for fishing reflects my excellent work ethic. Whether I wake up at dawn or remain out late, I am dedicated to developing and enjoying every moment on the water. This similar work ethic extends to my academic and extracurricular pursuits, where I strive for excellence and constructive contributions to my community. Conclusion Through my experiences in cheerleading and fishing, I have developed a strong sense of character, sportsmanship, and work ethic. As team captain, I led with integrity and respect, and my time fishing with my father taught me patience and endurance. These characteristics have shaped who I am today and will continue to lead me in the future. I am convinced that by combining my cheerleading leadership skills with the principles I gained while fishing, I will be able to make a significant effect and inspire others in our community. With these experiences and principles guiding me, I am eager to take on new challenges and continue evolving. Thank you for considering my application.

As a high school student, I had the great opportunity to participate in a one-of-a-kind class called "Gone Boarding," where we learned about the art and craft of making surfboards, skis, longboards, snowboards, and more. Little did I know that this class would take me on a journey that would alter my future in ways I had never imagined. One crisp morning, our class set out on a transformative journey to Vermont, where we got the opportunity to see the iconic Burton headquarters. Stepping into the heart of this renowned snowboarding firm felt like joining a world where creativity and innovation coexisted. Amidst the excitement, I found myself lost in a world of limitless possibilities. As we walked through the corridors decked with a variety of snowboards, each with its own story of adventure and excitement, I was mesmerized by the spirit that permeated the entire place. It was here, among the hustle and bustle of Burton's operations, that I met the marketing team, the foundation of their success. I was captivated from the moment I walked into the marketing department. I personally saw the rigorous planning and strategic brilliance that went into each campaign. It was remarkable to watch how they flawlessly integrated creativity and data, creating storylines that spoke to viewers on a deeper level. The experience left an unforgettable impression on me. It was a pivotal moment for me, sparking a desire to work in marketing. I was fascinated by how Burton's marketing team brought their vision to life, capturing audiences and establishing connections that went beyond the simple exchange of products. Upon returning home, I was consumed by a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The visit to Burton's headquarters lit a fire in me—a fire fed by a desire to lose myself in the world of marketing, to be a part of something with the potential to inspire and influence on a large scale. With unrelenting motivation, I began on a path to obtain a degree in marketing. Each class, assignment, and project serves as a stepping stone toward my goal of building a name for myself in the field of marketing. I embrace every opportunity to learn and improve, knowing that each one moves me one step closer to achieving my goals. Today, as I stand at the brink of my future, I am filled with excitement and expectation for what is to come. My path from the corridors of Burton's headquarters to pursuing a marketing degree has been nothing short of transformational. I am excited to apply my passion, creativity, and strategic thinking to a rewarding position where I can make an impact and contribute to the success of a marketing business. The "Gone Boarding" class and visit to Burton's headquarters influenced my decision to pursue a career in marketing. I am grateful for the events that have shaped me, as well as the opportunities that lay ahead. With devotion, determination, and a profound passion for storytelling and creativity, I am ready to begin the next chapter of my journey.