If my year had a soundtrack, without a doubt, "Clean" from Taylor Swift's 1989 (Taylor's Version) would be its centerpiece. This song resonates with me on a deeply personal level, reflecting a journey of healing and transformation that mirrored my own experiences. Taylor Swift explains in an interview that this song was inspired by a metaphor of being in a drought ridden house, sensing an impending storm, and choosing to embrace the storm rather than hide away. She sings, "When the flowers that we'd grown together died of thirst," capturing the heartrending moment when something cherished withers away due to neglect or circumstance. In my life, this year marked the end of significant relationships and the beginning of new chapters, particularly as I embarked on my college journey. Losing a relationship and a friendship in quick succession left me grappling with a sense of loss and nostalgia, often replaying memories and wondering about alternate outcomes. Taylor's lyrics encapsulate this sentiment beautifully: "Rain came pouring down when I was drowning / That's when I could finally breathe." This line vividly portrays the cathartic release that accompanies letting go of emotional burdens. For me, "Clean" became a source of solace. It articulated the process of shedding old pain and embracing a fresh start. As Taylor sings, "The drought was the very worst / When the flowers that we'd grown together died of thirst," I felt a pang of recognition, understanding the rawness of seeing something once vibrant, fade away. The song's chorus became a hymn of renewal: "Rain came pouring down / I think I am finally clean." These lyrics capture the essence of reclaiming one's emotional clarity and moving forward unconstrained by past heartaches. Each verse painting a picture of resilience and growth, reminding me that healing isn't linear but a journey of confronting and facing change. In the bridge, Taylor sings, "I think I am finally clean." This declaration of emotional purification encapsulates the moment of clarity and peace that comes with accepting closure and beginning anew. It mirrored my own realization that despite the pain of endings, they opened doors to oppurtunites for new beginnings. As I navigated the challenges of starting college, "Clean" served as both a lighthouse and consolation. Its evocative lyrics and haunting melody provided a soundtrack to my own journey of self-discovery and adaptation. It reminded me that vulnerability and resilience are intertwined, and that facing storms ahead often lead to unexpected growth. "Clean" captures the essence of transformation and renewal that defined my year. It's more than a song; its a testament to the power of embracing change, shaking off the past, and stepping bravely into the future. As Taylor's metaphorical storm washed away my doubts and fears, I found myself ready to embark on a new chapter, stronger and more resilient than before.

My journey through life has been a turbulent adventure shaped by the impact of mental health challenges. From my earliest memories, I was confined in the intense grip of my birth mother's severe mental health issues. For the first seven years of my life, her struggles overshadowed my childhood, impairing her ability to provide the stability and care every child needs and deserves. This instability ultimately led to my placement into foster care and, at the age of ten, into the arms of my second foster family who eventually adopted me. The journey from foster care to adoption was fraught with emotional earthquakes. Losing contact with my birth mother and sisters, and not being adopted by my first foster mom who I had already imagined a life with in such a short time, left deep emotional scars that I only began to confront in therapy. It was during my first year in college, grappling with the pressures of academics, financial stress, and the emotions of a breakup and losing my best friend, that I hit a breaking point. My attempt on my own life was a wake-up call, a moment that forced me to confront my own neglected mental health. Through therapy, I have begun to unravel the web of emotions that I had suppressed for so long. I realized that I had been carrying unresolved trauma and deep-rooted abandonment issues from my childhood. The feeling of being uprooted and the constant longing for stability in my relationships and career choices became apparent. Therapy became my safe place, a place where I could explore the past events that had shaped my present struggles and begin to heal. My journey with mental health has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. It has taught me the importance of self-awareness, self-compassion, and seeking help when needed. I have come to understand that mental health is not just a fleeting concern but a fundamental aspect of my well-being that requires continuous nurturing. In my quest for stability and healing, I am driven to build a career in forensic toxicology, a field that demands precision, analytical thinking, and a commitment to uncovering truth. Beyond the scientific allure, this career path represents my aspiration for stability and justice, a way to create a stable foundation that I yearned for at a young age. Moreover, my experiences have reshaped my relationships. I am learning to navigate the complexities of human connection with greater empathy and understanding. I have come to recognize and address my tendencies to project abandonment fears onto my relationships, striving to create healthier, more resilient connections. Looking forward, I am committed to deepening my understanding of myself and my emotions. I am dedicated to continuing my therapeutic journey, embracing vulnerability, and fostering resilience. Through introspection and personal growth, I aspire to break free from the shadows of my past and forge a future filled with purpose, compassion, and authentic connections. My journey with mental health is evidence of resilience and the power of self-discovery. It has shaped my goals by guiding me towards a career that not only provides me stability, but a career that I'm passionate about and provides me a purpose. It has enriched my relationships by teaching me the importance of empathy and authenticity. Most importantly, it has deepened my understanding of the world, reinforcing the vital importance of mental health awareness and advocacy, as well as the healing journey that each of us must embark upon to thrive.

The pursuit of understanding the nature of our universe is not merely an intellectual endeavor but a fundamental quest that defines our existence and shapes our future. As a biochemistry major deeply rooted in STEM, my journey in science has been driven by curiosity to unravel the mysteries of our world and contribute to our knowledge as humans. From a young age, science has captivated me with its ability to challenge my knowledge and ignite my passion to discover. Whether deciphering the mechanisms of biology or exploring the complexities of forensic toxicology, I am drawn to how science enables us to question, investigate, and comprehend the unknown. This pursuit of knowledge fuels my ambition to become a forensic toxicologist, an aspiration that combines scientific inquiry with a commitment to justice and truth. Beyond my career goals, my fascination with understanding the universe extends to broader questions about our existence. As an agnostic, I do not adhere to any specific religion, yet I acknowledge the vastness of the universe and the mysteries it holds. Science, with its methods and approaches, offers a pathway to explore these mysteries. One of the fundamental reasons why it is crucial to deepen our understanding of the universe is to gain insights into our origins, our place in this world, and our future as humans. Science serves as a beacon of reason that guides us through the complexity of this world and provides us with the tools to innovate, solve global challenges, and make informed decisions. In my pursuit of scientific understanding, I am inspired by several key ideas and concepts. Firstly, the scientific method forms the pillar of my exploration. Its emphasis on observation, hypothesis testing, experimentation, and peer review ensures that our quest for knowledge is supported by evidence and reproducibility. This framework fosters reliability but also encourages continuous reflection of our understanding. Secondly, comprehensive collaboration is essential when tackling complex scientific questions. By integrating perspectives from fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, and philosophy, we can foster innovative solutions and gain a better understanding of the universe. As I embark on my journey in biochemistry and forensic toxicology, I am committed to applying these principles to deepen our understanding of the universe. Whether unraveling the biochemical pathways of toxicity or exploring the origins of life, I aim to contribute to scientific knowledge that breaks the boundaries and addresses fundamental questions about our existence. The quest to better understand the nature of our universe is a profound and enduring endeavor that transcends individual disciplines and ideologies. It is through science, grounded in curiosity and collaboration, that we can highlight the unknown, challenge assumptions, and pave a path for a future that is enriched by knowledge and discovery. As I continue to pursue my passion for science, I am driven by a sense of wonder and responsibility to contribute meaningfully to our understanding of the universe and our place in it.

My life has been shaped by adversity, yet I refuse to let my past define my future. As an African American woman who has personally felt the impact of substance abuse, my journey has been marked by resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of justice. These experiences have not only fueled my ambition but have also ignited a passion to use my higher education to make meaningful changes in the lives of others who face similar challenges. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of substance abuse as my mother struggled with addiction and severe mental health issues. This disorderly environment eventually led to me officially becoming a ward of the state in 2014, separated from my older sisters who navigated their path with paternal family members that were not mine. The instability and uncertainty of those years left an irreversible mark on me, shaping my determination to break the cycle of substance abuse and advocate for those who are affected by it. Despite the hardships, I was fortunate to be adopted by a loving family in 2016, which provided stability and opened doors to higher education. Stevenson University has become my beacon of hope, a place where I can pursue my passion for forensic science, or more specifically forensic toxicology. The specialized program offered here not only aligns with my career aspirations but also provides a platform to integrate scientific studies with legal justice, ensuring that the truth prevails in the face of adversity. My decision to pursue forensic toxicology is deeply rooted in my love for science and the belief that scientific evidence can play a crucial role in uncovering truths and delivering justice. Through analysis of substances and their impact on the human body, forensic toxicologists contribute essential evidence in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. This field holds the promise of not only solving crimes but also shedding light on the complexities of substance abuse and its effects on individuals and communities. Looking ahead, my higher education at Stevenson University equips me with the knowledge and skills to address systematic issues in care, coordination, and communication surrounding substance abuse, particularly among African American women. I am committed to utilizing my education to advocate for improved support systems, equal access to mental health services, and culturally effective interventions that empower individuals and families affected by substance abuse. As I embark on this journey, I am driven by a sense of responsibility to advocate for systematic change and to amplify the voices of those who are often marginalized and underserved. My experiences have taught me the importance of resilience, empathy, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Through education, I aspire to become a catalyst for positive change, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential. My journey from foster care to a stable environment, to higher education is a testament to my unwavering commitment to transform personal adversity into empowerment. Stevenson University has not only provided me with academic excellence but also instilled in me a sense of purpose to use my knowledge and skills to advocate for systematic reforms that will improve the outcomes for African American women impacted by substance abuse. I am determined to contribute to building a future where every individual receives the care, support, and justice they deserve.

I am living proof of the life-changing power of opportunity and determination. Adopted at the age of 10, I began a journey marked by resilience, curiosity, and the appreciation of the chance to pursue my passions. Now, as I navigate my academic path at Stevenson University, I am driven by the goal of beginning a career in forensic science to make a meaningful impact on our justice system and society as a whole. From a young age, science has captivated me with its ability to unravel mysteries and provide answers. The appeal of forensic science, in particular, lies in its application of science to law. I envision myself as a forensic toxicologist, utilizing my expertise to assist law enforcement and courts in determining the presence of substances that could be the altering factor of legal outcomes. This role not only aligns with my fascination for problem-solving and analytical thinking but also resonates deeply with my desire to contribute to justice and public safety. Stevenson University has been crucial in nurturing my academic ambitions. Its specialized program in forensic science, offering a seamless and quicker transition from a bachelor's to a master's degree, provides me with a comprehensive education and hands-on experience which is essential for my career that I struggled to find from other universities within the state of Maryland. Despite the challenges posed by its private institution status and the financial burden it entails, the intimate learning environment has allowed me to for meaningful connections with faculty and peers which is necessary when beginning a career. These relationships have not only enhanced my educational experience but also opened doors to mentorship and better professional opportunities. As I progress through my studies, I am acutely aware of the impact I hope to achieve. Beyond mastering scientific techniques, I am driven by a sense of responsibility to positively contribute to society. Whether it's through uncovering critical evidence in criminal investigations or providing expert testimony in court, I aspire to play a role in upholding justice and ensuring that the truth prevails. My journey as a student of STEAM is structured by a commitment to excellence and a passion for continuous learning. The boundless nature of STEAM fields not only challenges me intellectually but also empowers me to think innovatively and approach problems from multiple perspectives. In forensic science, this approach is valuable as it demands proficiency in scientific principles and ethical considerations. Looking forward, I am eager to leverage my education and experiences to contribute to advancements in forensic science and to make an impact on our legal system. My journey from adoption to pursuing a specialized education in forensic science is a testament to my unwavering determination and passion for making a difference. Stevenson University has not only provided me with an academic foundation but also a supportive community that encourage growth and achievement. As I embark on my career as a forensic toxicologist, I am committed to utilizing my education to uphold justice, advance in scientific studies, and be one of the many determined women to leave a lasting impact on the world of STEAM.

From the time I was 10 years old, I've gradually become more intrigued by things that I didn't know. Curiosity inspired my love for science, the kind of magic that is real. The feeling of being on the edge of my seat, the exploration of the unknown, and the trial and error that occurs to gain more knowledge keep me engaged in my studies. I believe in breaking the limits that we set for ourselves because science has always prevailed and with patience, you can do the impossible. I am a student attending a comprehensive high school, enrolled in the program of Biomedical Science. The program consists of units that allow me to explore topics such as disease, DNA analysis, public health, and patient care. I have gained experience with state-of-the-art tools and learned techniques that many science majors don't learn until their freshmen year of college. The reason I am telling you about this amazing school is that it was one of my biggest decisions to apply and attend a new high school to ensure I gained the advanced knowledge, experience, and unforgettable memories that make me who I am today. While I am intrigued by all aspects of science, the area that keeps me the most infatuated is forensics. Forensic science was one of the first units I completed at my school and I immediately fell in love. Besotted by the things that may seem insignificant from a bottlefly to a pattern left behind from the oils on our fingers, have kept me engaged during school. I hold great gratitude to have the ability to perform ELISA tests, analyze DNA bands produced by gel electrophoresis, and create case studies with an abounding amount of information that I discovered. Forensic science is a field that I strive to work in every day, uncovering the kind of mysteries that you would only imagine to be in books. With science, I can work in a field that keeps me enveloped in its complex systems. I will use this scholarship to assist me in paying for my higher education. I long to gain more knowledge and a degree that will allow me to work in the field that I love. Knowledge is priceless and to unfold the knowledge necessary for my degree, I am willing to pay thousands of dollars to attend a college full of students who are dedicated workers like me. With the aid and guidance of people such as my parents, teachers, and scholarship donors, I am able to afford the education I wish to pursue. Contributing to the community that has helped me achieve my goals is important to me. With the opportunities that my school has granted me, I pay it forward by inspiring young students like I was to apply to our school. I volunteer my time to get them involved, introduce them to our program, and spark potential love for science the way mine was. I hope to encourage many students to join our program to give them astounding opportunities so they can put forth a contribution to society while engaging in a field that they find themselves passionate about.

Courage /'kerij/ noun the ability to do something that frightens one. Courage is what I value most. Courage is me beginning the essay as if it were an Oxford Dictionary. Courage is me choosing to take a leap and write this for people to judge. Courage is my choice to apply to my dream college. I can say courage is something I see on day-to-day bases as I build relationships, make life-changing decisions, and live a life that has unpredictable chapters. Courage is utilized more often than you would think, even the smallest of things take courage. So yeah, I think it's an underrated quality that I value most in myself. There are too many ways that courage has helped me to type out. It's a quality that will continue to help me on my journey, the next time being officially deciding which college to attend. And after that, probably which jobs to apply to or choosing to purchase a house or apartment. One of the moments I can recall that took the most courage but benefitted me in ways I never dreamed possible was when I was applying to attend a comprehensive high school. This high school consists of 17 career and technology programs that give students the ability to finish the last two years of school in a career-oriented work environment. You might think, “How has this taken the most courage?” Well, it's more than merely applying to a high school. I had to make the decision to leave familiarity behind, closing the chapter of a good book that I had already started. I made the decision to leave my home school to give myself greater opportunities and advancements regardless of the “losses” I would face. To decide to attend this school is one thing, but finally applying is another. I had to then choose two programs to apply to, one being a safety net if I didn’t get into the first one. But there wasn’t a safety net for if I was rejected from the second. So then what? It was a waiting game that oftentimes had me itching for an answer, even if it wasn’t one that would leave a smile on my face. The anticipation was worth my acceptance into my first choice program, The Academy of Biomedical Science, which I was later informed is the most competitive program every year. That was an ego boost in itself. It took courage to decide to apply, it took courage to create an application with writing that will never fully encapture who I am as a person, student, and peer, and it took courage to start this brand new journey in my life. I've been dedicated, hard-working, and self-motivated to get to where I am today. Those characteristics, the most important being the quality, of courage, allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, discover my love for science, and continue to strive to be the best of my abilities. The next time you or I feel discouraged, we must think of the steps we took to get to where we are today and what quality has impacted us the most throughout our story.

At 7 years old, playing tag with my sister and the neighbors, stirring up trouble in the street of Muskogee, Oklahoma, I would have never anticipated for my life to change in the ways it did. For others, they could see it coming from miles away. But, I guess that's the thing about your childlike innocence, you live in a world where the things you see on TV would never become reality unless it was convincing your mom to buy the delectable (or so I thought at the time) "Kid Cuisine" you always saw in commercials. As a child, I wasn't even aware that the foster system was a thing. Years later, 20 hours away, and in an hour difference in a time zone, I was adopted on August 16th of 2016. My name is Laticia Grove and I am one of the fortunate few foster kids who have the opportunity to be adopted by a loving family. It feels belittling to call myself "fortunate" because there was nothing fortunate about moving home to home, missing my mom and sisters, or having my childlike hope crushed when my mom didn't show up for the one visitation she was required to per week. But I am fortunate, thousands of children grow out of the system or experience abuse in the homes that were supposed to be their salvation. There are people out there who make selfish decisions that negatively impact a child's entire life without a second thought. I like to think that those selfish decisions result in persistence, independence, and determination. At least it did for me. I have found myself flourishing regardless of the circumstances. Foster care has taught me to love myself, hold people accountable, and always give back. The "butterfly effect" is an idea that was created when it was suggested that the flap of a butterfly's wings could cause a tornado. Like butterflies, we can all make a huge impact on this world, it's up to us to choose whether it will be harmful or beneficial to those around us. A butterfly flapped its wings and surely created a tornado of my life as a child, but as I've grown and matured, I realized that it only guided me to be the person I am today. I am inspired by my past to create a stable life for myself, gain newfound independence, and pursue something I love that will benefit those around me. Life wouldn't be as thrilling without challenges and I will continue to persevere with my wings spread wide and my mind open.

Yes My name is Laticia H Grove, previously Laticia S. Hope. I was born and raised in Muskogee, Oklahoma for the first 7 years of my life with my two sisters. Over the years we bounced around from home to home and eventually, I ended up in Maryland, 20 hours away from what I thought was my home. Over the course of time everyone started to go in different directions until eventually, it was just my mom and I. I never felt stability, I was always on the edge of my seat waiting for what would happen next. Little did I know at the time that within a couple of years, I would find my forever home. I won't go into depth about how I ended up in the system because most of it isn't my story to tell. On August 16th of 2016, I was adopted by my family. I adjusted from being the youngest sibling to holding the responsibility of being the oldest. A lot had changed, in ways that I wasn't sure if I'd ever get used to. I tried new things like playing the cello, joining chorus and all-county choir, I played soccer for a few years, and most importantly over time became more and more intrigued by the mystery of science. While my musical days were short-lived, I still find comfort in listening to the art of other singers and of course singing in the shower while no one is home. My interest in science has only flourished as I become more hands-on and independent in my studies. I attend a comprehensive technical high school. I am in the biomedical science program which consists of PLTW courses that have advanced my knowledge further than my homeschool. This program has given me the opportunity to conduct research, experiment, learn more about careers in STEM, and most importantly helped me discover what I am most passionate about, forensic science. A Series of tests and activities including analyzing fingerprint characteristics, performing serology tests such as ELISAs, and examining a follicle of hair under a microscope has only furthered my interest. I found an environment that I thrive in which will also allow me to help others in the future. It has always been important for me to find a well-paying job that I am passionate about to not only provide myself security but also help those in my community. There is so much to discover in the STEM field and I am determined to make a difference. With a career in the field of forensic science, I hope to be able to assist authorities in serving justice as well as giving people the closure they deserve. I'm not sure what interested me in science, to begin with, maybe it was the familiar feeling of being on the edge of my seat, or maybe I just like a very hands-on job, but I can confidently say that I have found my purpose and I plan to make the best of the second chance that I was given by the wonderful people who call me their daughter.

According to Google, "generational wealth" is "any kind of asset that is passed down from one generation to the next." This definition of the term "general wealth" is extremely underwhelming. General wealth is an asset being passed down from one generation to the next but to me, it's the result of hard-working individuals. To me, it's the result of an unemployed single mother who tried her hardest to provide for her daughters. To me, it's the family who took me in as their own even when they weren't the most financially stable, to begin with. To me, it's the blood, sweat, and tears behind providing for those you love so they don't have to endure the extensive labor that is required to simply afford to live. When I think of the word "wealth", I envision an abundance of money. I have never come from a family who could live life so comfortably, a family who didn't have to pay thousands of dollars of debt after obtaining a higher education, a family who was able to chase after their dreams without the fear of falling. But I do come from a family that is loving, determined, and full of compassion and while my family does not have an abundance of money, in some ways they still work to provide me with "generational wealth". I hold so much gratitude for the family that adopted me and everything they continue to do. I plan to work just as hard as the generation before me to provide something for generations after me. I am determined to have the ability to provide guidance, comfort, and assurance as future generations start to discover their purpose. Scholarships are beneficial to those who don't receive "generational wealth" as they pay for higher education. To pursue a career that inspires and encourages you to help others is priceless. Nevertheless, college is not. I plan to obtain enough savings in the future to help not only my own children but others as well, through scholarships and funds just as those who helped me did. As education gets more expensive, those who are not as fortunate to gain full-ride, scholarships, or who are not eligible for the financial aid they need, will need the same pillar of support and I hope to be one of the many charitable people that can provide it. With the funds that are granted to me to help me accomplish my own goals, I too hope to pay it forward in the future.