Both my parents pursued higher education; my mother earned her BA as a triple major. My father, however, encountered obstacles during college and chose to discontinue his studies without a degree. He was later diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, shedding light on the difficulties he experienced. The limitations of the 1990s education system, which failed to adapt to his needs, haunted my father. Despite his success in other areas, the absence of a college degree has impacted him professionally. Therefore, he has long stressed the importance of completing college and earning a degree. I've been fortunate not to have the same challenges my father had growing up (I graduated 7th out of 306 students in my class, earned a 4.184 weighted GPA, was named Kiwanis Student of the Month, formally recognized as an Idaho Top Scholar, and received our area’s coveted “Strength of Character Award” amidst hundreds of applicants). Yet I, too, discovered that life's obstacles can serve as catalysts for necessary change. My dad's obstacle was his ADHD and learning disability; mine was a mysterious injury disrupting a carefully outlined plan for college: to attend university with a combination of athletic and academic scholarships, graduate debt-free, and travel the world. As expected, my injury required me to take time off to recover. The resulting hiatus became an unexpected opportunity to branch out and explore my identity beyond my sport. Unfortunately, recovery didn't go as planned; my injury was career-ending. Since athletic dollars are no longer available, I must capitalize on my academic achievements and leadership skills to help with the cost of my education. Stepping away from swimming shifted my plans significantly. While it hasn't been easy, I resolve to break free from my comfort zone and make decisions aligned with dreams outside the sport I love. And, while the allure of a one-way ticket to a mesmerizing beach on the other side of the planet is strong, I recognize the need to take steps to secure a prosperous future to make my passions a reality. Besides its tropical location, I chose the University of Hawaii at Manoa for several reasons. Among them, its diversity. Having one's eyes open to different cultures, ways of life, and outlooks on the natural world lends to more understanding and an open mindset. Frankly, well-traveled people are better world citizens. Furthermore, at UH Manoa, I can pursue my love for water through surfing and paddleboarding while working towards a degree in Marketing with a minor in Marine Biology. I chose marketing because it aligns with my personal skill set and the flexibility it offers for remote work, and marine biology because of my love of all things water-related. In truth, my injury became a blessing in disguise, leading to a profound and much-needed physical and mental reset. The journey from a swim-centered existence to one driven by a desire for a fulfilling career and world travel has been transformative, proving that obstacles, even in disguise, can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths.

I cannot express how excited I was to discover this scholarship on Bold.org! I have always dreamt of traveling the world, and for my senior project this past year, I researched the numerous benefits of global travel. If this essay allowed for up to 2,100 words (including works cited), I would simply copy and paste my project into the submission box and be done. Since I can't do that, however, I will include some excerpts. If the committee would like to read the entire piece (which I dedicated my entire senior year to and am quite proud of), I am more than happy to share a Google Doc with you. Here we go: In a society plagued by overworked, underpaid staff, mentally troubled youth, and families clawing to make ends meet, the significance of traveling extends far beyond the allure of picturesque landscapes and exotic locales. Traveling offers a sense of mental well-being. It is a transformative catalyst for personal growth, impacting various facets of our lives. Scientifically proven to reduce stress and enhance peace of mind, travel provides a sanctuary for relaxation and disconnection from the demands of daily life (MHA*). Exploring unfamiliar environments fosters curiosity in new cultures, languages, and customs and naturally stimulates creativity and imagination while nurturing cognitive flexibility and integrative thinking (Centaur*). Travel is hugely beneficial in helping to further personal growth. Exploration through visiting new landscapes, cultures, and languages is a fantastic way to boost creativity and imagination (Zingbus*). Often, travel revolves around finding time to relax and disconnect, which is scientifically proven to decrease cortisol levels, the body's stress hormone, which helps reduce stress and promote peace of mind (Zingbus*). A study conducted in 2013 by the MHA* indicated that 80% of respondents said travel improves their general mood, and 75% said travel helps them reduce stress. My passion for global travel, instilled in me by my mother, who has worked remotely for most of my life, has significantly influenced my career choice. She has shared aspects of her work that align with my interests, and I discovered that a career in marketing could allow me to work and travel simultaneously. With encouragement from both my parents, I am excited to start at the University of Hawaii at Manoa this fall. At UH Manoa, I plan to study marketing along with marine biology. This unique combination will equip me with the skills to promote environmental stewardship and sustainable marine practices from anywhere in the world. Hawaii's strategic location between East and West provides an excellent gateway to nearly any destination, making it an ideal starting point for pursuing a career that combines remote work with my passion for marine conservation. In conclusion, I hope the scholarship committee recognizes not only my readiness to discuss how exposure to different cultures, perspectives, and environments fosters personal growth and development but also my concrete steps toward achieving precisely that. Thank you for your consideration. *Works cited are available upon request.

After the untimely death of a very close friend, I've come to realize just how crucial mental health is in our lives. Life is not just about grades, extracurriculars, or college applications — it's about feeling good mentally and emotionally so that we can handle all the challenges life throws at us. For me, maintaining good mental health starts with journaling. It's my way of processing thoughts and emotions, sorting through what's on my mind, and gaining clarity. Whether it's jotting down thoughts on a tough day or expressing gratitude for the good things in my life, journaling helps me stay organized with my thoughts and grounded in life. Nature also plays a massive role in my mental well-being. I live in a beautiful part of the country, seemingly handcrafted by Mother Nature herself. Being outdoors helps me immensely in maintaining a healthy mental balance. Hiking trails (particularly those on Tubbs Hill near my home in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho) and surrounded by trees and fresh air allow me to disconnect from troubles and connect with myself. I love finding a quiet spot to read a book while sitting in my hammock and watching the sun go down — it's my little oasis where I can unwind and recharge. But it's not just about what I do for myself. I've learned the importance of being there for others, too. I had a very strong support group when my friend Adam passed away. To pay back those who supported me, I try to be a sounding board, offering support and encouragement to my friends. If someone is facing challenges beyond my ability to assist, I've recommended they speak with a mental health professional. Seeking help when necessary is nothing to be ashamed of — I've sought support in the past when I've felt overwhelmed. Understanding and prioritizing mental health is crucial because it affects every aspect of our lives. When we neglect our mental well-being, stress can overwhelm us, impacting our academic performance, relationships, and overall happiness. Recognizing the importance of mental health prepares us for the challenges ahead, equipping us with the tools to navigate life's ups and downs more effectively. In our busy lives as young adults, it's easy to overlook mental health. Yet, it's the foundation that supports everything else we do. By taking care of our mental well-being and helping others do the same, we create a healthier and more compassionate community. As young adults preparing for the future, we must remember that a healthy mind is as important as anything else on our to-do list.

Viewed from an outsider's perspective, my life might appear flawless. I am fortunate to be the daughter of loving parents, residing in a picturesque town handcrafted by Mother Nature herself. Coeur d'Alene boasts stunning sunsets, tranquil lakes, and majestic snow-capped mountains. Within this scenic backdrop lies my high school, Lake City Timberwolves, where I graduated 7th among my class of 306 students with a 4.19 weighted GPA. Achieving this ranking amid the demanding life of a student-athlete and clinching multiple state titles is no small feat. You could build a rollercoaster from the ups and downs I have navigated during my ten years as a competitive swimmer. My team is my family, my home away from home, my safe place. However, we are a family bonded together because we share a mutual trauma. Adam England, though two years older than me, was one of my best friends and fellow teammates. Adam was sixteen years old when he died as the victim of a car crash. I wrote the following the day he died: "I want everyone to remember that life is a precious thing. Some people in our lives enter for a little while and then leave. Others walk across our hearts and leave footprints. I know for a fact that Adam England was one of those people. He was one of the strongest people I've ever had the privilege of knowing. He impacted so many hearts and brought so much light into my world. Adam was always so full of laughter, joy, and fun-loving energy that will be terribly missed. He will forever be loved in the hearts of those who had the opportunity to know him. Heaven gained a beautiful soul today." A ceaseless cloud of rage and sorrow loomed over my teammates and me in the months following Adam's death. We used each other as crutches to help shoulder the pain. Eventually, the progression of time eased the pain and transitioned from sorrow felt in the pits of my soul to a dull ache to a cherished memory. Even now, multiple years later, I think of Adam and how I was blessed to have formed a friendship with such an exceptional person. I wish I could say my swimming career has been smooth sailing since Adam's passing, but a curveball was thrown my way when I had to take time off to recover from a shoulder injury. The resulting hiatus became an unexpected opportunity to branch out and explore my identity beyond the pool. Unfortunately, recovery did not go as planned, as my injury was career-ending. It has been a difficult path. I walked away from two NCAA Division I scholarships and grieved the loss of childhood dreams, dreams I shared with Adam. When swimming ended, it was like grieving for Adam all over again. However, by discovering new hobbies and finding joy in activities like reading by the lake, listening to podcasts while walking my dog, and taking long hikes at sunset, I realized my happiness extended beyond swimming. I set out to find new goals and fight to make them happen. Adam's death at such a young age has taught me many things, but above all, that life is too short. Therefore, I resolve to break free from my comfort zone and make decisions aligned with dreams outside the sport I love. Foremost among those dreams is my aspiration to travel the world and uncover its many treasures. I envision a life that allows flexibility for exploration well into adulthood. While the allure of a one-way ticket to a mesmerizing beach on the other side of the planet is strong, I recognize the need to take steps to secure a prosperous future. Besides its fantastic location and tropical setting, I chose the University of Hawaii at Manoa for several reasons. First, its diversity. Having one's eyes open to different cultures, ways of life, and outlooks on the natural world lends to more understanding and an open mindset. Furthermore, at UH Manoa, I can pursue my love for water through surfing and paddleboarding while working towards a degree in Marketing and a certification in Marine Biology. The choice of marketing is rooted in the alignment of my personal skill set and the flexibility it offers for remote work and marine biology because of my love of all things water-related. My journey through life's highs and lows has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, empathy, the pursuit of lasting joy, and the determination to fight to make my dreams a reality. The tragic loss of my friend Adam served as a catalyst for profound self-discovery. While I miss my friend, I have learned that life's obstacles don't always have to come with regret but can serve as catalysts for necessary and exciting change.

How to complete your dream when things don't go as planned. Both my parents pursued higher education; my mother earned her BA as a triple major. My father, however, encountered obstacles during college and chose to discontinue his studies without a degree. He was later diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, shedding light on the difficulties he experienced. The limitations of the 1990s education system, which failed to adapt to his needs, haunted my father. Despite his success in other areas, the absence of a college degree has impacted him professionally. Therefore, he has long stressed the importance of completing college and earning a degree. I've been fortunate not to have the same challenges my father had growing up (I'm ranked 6th out of 319 students in my class at Lake City High School in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, carry a 4.175 weighted GPA, was named Kiwanis Student of the Month, and formally recognized as an Idaho Top Scholar). Yet I, too, discovered that life's obstacles can serve as catalysts for necessary change. My dad's obstacle was his ADHD and learning disability; mine was a mysterious injury disrupting a carefully outlined plan for college: to attend university with a combination of athletic and academic scholarships, graduate debt-free, and travel the world. As anticipated, my injury required me to take time off to recover. The resulting hiatus became an unexpected opportunity to branch out and explore my identity beyond my sport. Unfortunately, recovery didn't go as planned, and my injury was career-ending. Since athletic dollars are no longer available (I had to turn down two NCAA Division I scholarships), I must capitalize on my academic achievements and leadership skills to help with the cost of my education and complete my dream. Stepping away from swimming shifted my plans significantly. While it hasn't been easy, I resolve to break free from my comfort zone and make decisions aligned with dreams outside the sport I love. And, while the allure of a one-way ticket to a mesmerizing beach on the other side of the planet is strong, I recognize the need to take steps to secure a prosperous future to make my dream a reality. Besides its tropical location, I chose the University of Hawaii at Manoa for several reasons. Among them, its diversity. Having one's eyes open to different cultures, ways of life, and outlooks on the natural world lends to more understanding and an open mindset. Frankly, well-traveled people are better world citizens. Furthermore, at UH Manoa, I can pursue my love for water through surfing and paddleboarding while working towards a degree in Marketing with a minor in Marine Biology. I chose marketing because it aligns with my personal skill set and the flexibility it offers for remote work, and marine biology because of my love of all things water-related. My mother has worked remotely most of my life and is significantly more present as a parent and mentor than my peers experience within their families. She adores her career as a corporate marketer and has shared aspects of her work with me that align with my interests, which would make it possible to work and travel simultaneously. In truth, my injury became a blessing in disguise, leading to a profound and much-needed physical and mental reset. The journey from a swim-centered existence to one driven by a desire for a fulfilling career and world travel has been transformative, proving that obstacles, even in disguise, can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths.