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Makayla Gaskin

1,185

Bold Points

2x

Finalist

Bio

Some of my life goals are personal development, career fulfillment, and community involvement. All of these goals are good to have because, without personal development, you cannot open your mind to learn new things. This means that your career will not be fulfilled to its potential. If your career is not fulfilled, then you cannot be involved in and serve your community effectively. These goals are important to me because I am most passionate about becoming a psychologist. I want to make an impact on the world in the best way I know how, which is starting with the youth. By teaching children the proper skills to navigate life's obstacles, you set them up to be better-equipped adults. I am also passionate about learning, and with psychology being an ever-evolving career path, I can never get bored and will always have something new to learn. I will make a great candidate because I have a strong sense of self and a drive to help others. I am committed to becoming an exceptional psychologist to better my community and, most importantly, to better the world.

Education

The University of West Florida

Bachelor's degree program
2024 - 2024

Lake Weir High School

High School
2021 - 2024

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Mental Health Care

    • Dream career goals:

      Psychologist

      Sports

      Soccer

      Junior Varsity
      2021 – 20232 years

      Arts

      • Lake weir choir

        Music
        concerts
        2023 – 2024

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Little Mexico sub division — Volunteer
        2023 – 2024

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Volunteering

      Disney Channel Rewind Scholarship
      Episode Title: Summer of Trouble Opening scene: On their way to see the city, Phineas and Ferb drop their family off at the Tipton Hotel. They can't wait to investigate the hotel and its surrounds. Zack and Cody, meanwhile, are coping with their own summertime boredom and trying to find new hobbies. Plot Development: 1. Meeting the Twins: In the hotel lobby, Phineas and Ferb run across Zack and Cody. Following a brief introduction, the four boys immediately become close since they all enjoy chaos and adventure. 2. The Grand Plan: To spice up the Tipton Hotel, Phineas proposes that they organize a spectacular summertime event. The boys lean on each other and use Zack and Cody's in-depth knowledge of the hotel and Phineas and Ferb's engineering prowess to construct a gigantic indoor water park in the hotel's lobby and adjacent areas. 3. Engineering the Fun: The boys go to work transforming the hotel with Zack and Cody's slyness and Phineas and Ferb's cutting-edge technology. Being the tattletale, Candace tries to inform Mr. Moseby, the hotel manager, about the trouble, but Perry the Platypus, who is on his own undercover mission to stop Dr. Doofenshmirtz, who happens to be staying at the hotel, with his latest wicked creation, keeps diverting his attention. 4. Doofenshmirtz’s Plan: In his most recent scheme, Dr. Doofenshmirtz plans to deploy a "Chaos-inator" to spread mayhem across the hotel in the hopes of seizing control and utilizing it as his new headquarters. To stop him, Perry the Platypus has to navigate the water park and the hotel's many playful activities. 5. The Grand Opening: The water park has been a big hit. Visitors travel from all across the city to take in the amazing creation. Maddie Fitzpatrick, and Zack, Cody's friend London Tipton, all join in on the fun as Perry and Dr. Doofenshmirtz's fight comes to a humorous conclusion inside the water park. 6. Resolution: Perry deactivates the Chaos-inator in time to see Mr. Moseby and the mother of Phineas and Ferb head back to the hotel. One of Ferb's clever creations causes all traces of the water park to vanish. Candace is once again left unable to prove the lads' antics, while Mr. Moseby is confused but relieved to discover the hotel in perfect condition. 7. Closing Scene: The boys said goodbye and agreed to get together again soon for more adventures. After Zack and Cody express gratitude to Phineas and Ferb for the most amazing summer, Phineas remarks, "I know what we're going to do tomorrow!" In conclusion, “Summer of Trouble” creates an incredible crossover that fans of both programs will adore by skillfully fusing the imaginative energy of "Phineas and Ferb" with the cheeky appeal of "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody." The episode is a highlight of both seasons because it highlights the characters' ingenuity and inventiveness as well as the joy of summertime activities.
      Once Upon a #BookTok Scholarship
      Motivated by suggestions from #BookTok, my dream bookcase would be a veritable gold mine of varied genres, engrossing stories, and inciting subjects. Book lovers now have a strong platform to share their favorite books on #BookTok, which has helped create a lot of must-have books that have had a big impact on the community. These are some must-have books that I think every bookcase should have, along with an explanation of how they impacted #BookTok. 1. “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller This work, which narrates the Iliad from Patroclus' point of view, has received a great deal of recognition for its exquisite language and nuanced emotional content. Numerous readers have shared their emotional journeys through the story of Achilles and Patroclus, which has had a profound impact on #BookTok. Because of its universally relatable examination of love, honor, and destiny, it is a mainstay on many bookshelves that are inspired by #BookTok. 2. “Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo This fantasy book centers on a group of misfits going on a robbery and is set in the Grishaverse. The #BookTok community has been enthralled with it because to its rich world-building, intriguing plot, and characters. Talks about inclusivity in fantasy fiction have been spurred by the cast's diversity and representation. It's a must-have because of its popularity, which has given rise to a ton of fan art, cosplay, and analysis videos. 3. “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab The protagonist of this book is a girl who has been cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets—that is, until she meets someone who remembers her. Its moving examination of love, identity, and memory has touched many #BookTok users. Addie's journey has inspired many people to add personal insights, making the book a treasured part of the community. 4. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig This book has struck a deep chord with readers because it explores regret, decisions, and parallel lives in a thought-provoking manner. Many readers have shared their personal tales and how the book has changed their perceptions on #BookTok, where its themes of mental health and self-discovery have inspired thought-provoking discussions. 5. “Circe” by Madeline Miller "Circe," another gem by Madeline Miller, is a retelling of the life of the Greek mythological enchantress. It's become a favorite on #BookTok thanks to its lyrical language and feminist themes. Its uplifting story has won praise from readers, who have also commented how it encouraged them to read more mythical retellings. 6. “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston This book, which tells the endearing tale of a lovely relationship between a British royal and the First Son of the United States, has received praise for its representation. Its humorous dialogue and upbeat atmosphere have won it over at #BookTok, where it is regularly recommended. 7. “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon An epic high fantasy novel with a strong feminist message, it has received praise for its rich world-building and varied cast of characters. Readers of #BookTok value its intricacy and the representation it provides within the fantasy genre. Along with being entertaining, these books have helped #BookTok members feel like a community and share a common experience. Important topics like representation, identity, love, and mental health have all been discussed as a result of them. In a nutshell a carefully chosen assortment of well-known and cherished books would make up my perfect bookshelf, as inspired by #BookTok. These novels have influenced many readers like myself personally in addition to adding to the vibrant and encouraging atmosphere that #BookTok embodies.
      Simon Strong Scholarship
      Being an ADHD child has had its share of difficulties and trying times, but it has also made me a resilient and adaptable person. Along with giving me priceless lessons, this trip has given me insights that I hope to share with others in similar situations. During my high school years, when the strains of extracurricular activities and academics were at their highest, there was one particularly noteworthy moment of struggle. It was hard to focus, keep organized, and efficiently manage time while I had ADHD. I frequently struggled to meet deadlines and felt overburdened by the volume of work. This made me feel as though my efforts fell short of my actual capacity, which caused me to become frustrated and self-conscious. In order to get beyond these obstacles, I had to take a comprehensive strategy: I acquired the ability to use coping mechanisms that worked for me. This involved dividing work into smaller, more doable chunks, staying organized with planners and digital tools, and establishing a routine to reduce distractions. I also surrounded myself with supportive, accountable, and understanding friends and family. Their support and faith in my potential gave me more self-assurance and motivated me. Lastly, I changed my attention to my hobbies and strengths, which gave me more drive and improved my sense of self. By doing things I was enthusiastic about, I was able to realize my potential and feel proud of myself. My life has been greatly impacted by my experience confronting and conquering difficulties while having ADHD. It helped me learn patience, fortitude, and the value of standing up for myself. I've come to accept and even benefit from my distinct style of thinking. My drive to assist and encourage others has been fueled by this journey, which has also given me a profound sense of empathy for others going through similar struggles. I have the following advice for anyone in a similar situation: Never be afraid to seek for assistance. Having a support system, whether it comes from loved ones, therapists, or instructors, can be quite beneficial. Discover what suits you the most. Try out a variety of study methods, routines, and organizing tools until you find ones that work best for you. Acknowledge and develop your passions and areas of strength. You'll feel accomplished and more confident as a result of this. Treat yourself with kindness. Recognize that your ADHD is an inherent aspect of who you are rather than a constraint. Honor all of your accomplishments, no matter how tiny, and don't be too hard on yourself when you make mistakes. In conclusion, overcoming ADHD has required personal development and self-discovery. I've become more resilient, sympathetic, and driven as a result of overcoming the related difficulties. I've figured out how to effectively traverse difficulties by looking for help, creating useful methods, and concentrating on my talents. By sharing my knowledge and counsel, I wish to assist those who are struggling to find their way to achievement and self-acceptance.
      Eras Tour Farewell Fan Scholarship
      Taylor Swift's music has been essential in helping me explore and comprehend new facets of who I am, especially during her Eras Tour. She has shown several phases of development, emotion, and introspection throughout her career, each of which has served as a soundtrack for special occasions in my life and has given me deep insights into my own path. I've been able to explore a wide spectrum of emotions because to Taylor Swift's music's different themes. I found myself really relating with her songs, from the romance and youthful exuberance of her early albums to the thoughtful and mature insights in her later work. I've found that songs like "Cardigan" and "All Too Well" have made it easier for me to appreciate the nuances of love and loss and to digest prior relationships. I have developed a deeper emotional awareness and self-acceptance as a result of her music's encouragement to face my own emotions and embrace my vulnerabilities. Seeing Taylor Swift's development as a musician and person has been tremendously motivating. Her graceful and resilient handling of both personal and professional obstacles has taught me the value of remaining true to oneself. Her journey and the lessons she has learnt along the way were particularly well-represented by the Eras Tour. This has inspired me to consider how I've changed and to acknowledge my resiliency and strength. Her songs have evolved to serve as a constant reminder that it's good to change and that every stage of life offers worthwhile experiences and lessons. My own identity has also been explored and strengthened by Taylor Swift's songs. Her readiness to open up about her experiences and to support self-empowerment has inspired me to follow suit. Songs like "Shake It Off" and "The Man" have emphasized the value of having self-assurance and advocating for oneself. I now know more about who I am and what I stand for because to her music, which has given me the confidence to be more genuine and outspoken in both my personal and professional life. Meeting other Swifties and going to the Eras Tour has been an incredible experience. A feeling of community and belonging has been cultivated as a result of her live performances, which bring her fans delight and excitement. This shared experience has strengthened my belief that music can be a potent tool for understanding and connection, making me feel closer to both myself and other people. In short, I’ve learned and understood new facets of myself thanks in large part to Taylor Swift's music, especially during the Eras Tour. My own journey of self-discovery has been accompanied by her strong messages, personal growth, and emotional honesty. I've become more resilient, self-aware, and confident thanks to her music, and I also feel like I'm a part of a larger, encouraging group of people.
      Chappell Roan Superfan Scholarship
      The music of Chappell Roan has had a significant influence on me, striking a deep chord with my feelings and experiences. Her distinctive tone and poignant lyrics have served as a source of inspiration and solace for many going through difficult situations. I find Chappell Roan's approach to communicating genuineness and vulnerability in her songs to be both accessible and empowering. Many of the emotions I've had in my own life are reflected in her songs, which frequently explore themes of love, sorrow, and self-discovery. My relationship with her music has given me comfort and empathy, reducing my sense of isolation from my problems. Her songs' unvarnished honesty has inspired me to face my emotions and accept who I really am, which has promoted personal development and healing. The tenacity and inventiveness of Chappell Roan's artistic path are great sources of inspiration for me. Seeing her grow and stick to her creative vision in spite of obstacles inspires me to work hard and be sincere in pursuing my own objectives. Her capacity to turn suffering into exquisite artwork is proof of the strength of perseverance and passion. In addition to the personal influence Chappell Roan's music has had on me, I also support her career because I think she has skill and a message to share. She offers the music business a new and creative viewpoint, and her work merits respect and admiration. I want to help her succeed in the future and inspire her to keep making music that resonates with people by supporting her career. Participating with Chappell Roan's fan club has also been beneficial. It has helped me get in touch with people who appreciate her music and artistic talent as much as I do. This sense of friendship has been uplifting, offering an environment for mutual support and experience sharing. To sum up, Chappell Roan's music has had a significant emotional impact on me by providing a sense of empowerment, motivation, and emotional connection. I encourage her to pursue what she loves because I think she has skill, I value the sincerity of her work, and I want to see her succeed and motivate others. In addition to enhancing my life, her music creates unity and a sense of shared experience among listeners.
      Marie Jean Baptiste Memorial Scholarship
      Confronting the trauma I experienced as a child has played a crucial role in shaping my life. I experienced hardships as a child that deeply wounded my mental health. But with perseverance, counseling, and family support, I was able to turn these experiences into sources of inspiration and strength. After going through this journey, I have a deeper appreciation for the value of mental health and the strength of community support, which has motivated me to give back and have a positive influence on people around me. Being involved with my family and community has taken on a central role in my life. I try to be a rock of encouragement and support for my family. Whether it's offering emotional support at trying times, helping with home chores, or supporting siblings academically, my goal is to foster a loving and encouraging environment. I can now genuinely help my family members because of the lessons I've learned from my experiences about the importance of empathy and active listening. I've taken part in a number of community-based projects that try to promote unity and support. I donate my time to help those in need by volunteering at nearby shelters. In addition, I have planned community gatherings like workshops on mental health awareness to encourage candid conversations about mental health and lessen the stigma attached to it. My conviction that a robust, encouraging community may greatly improve its members' quality of life is what motivates me to pursue these initiatives. As I move from college to the working world, I will never waver in my dedication to getting involved in the community. I intend to use my training and experiences to my advantage in a number of ways to leave a lasting impression: I plan to keep pushing for assistance and awareness of mental health issues. My goal is to create programs that offer easily available mental health resources and education by collaborating with nearby organizations and educational institutions. This includes setting up places where people feel confident telling their tales and asking for assistance without fear of rejection. In addition, I want to actively participate in community development initiatives that tackle a range of social challenges. Whether it is via planning food drives, educational seminars, or leisure pursuits, my goal is to improve and develop my community. Finally I intend to incorporate community involvement into my professional life as I seek a career in psychology. This includes working with nearby organizations to give mental health support, providing pro bono counseling services, and taking part in community-based research projects. In summary, overcoming the trauma I experienced as a kid has made me a resilient, sympathetic person who is devoted to my family and community. My motivation to give back is fueled by my past experiences, and I'm committed to maintaining this dedication beyond graduation through professional integration, community development, mentoring, and lobbying. My goal in doing this is to positively and enduringly influence other people's lives.
      Combined Worlds Scholarship
      Exposure to diverse cultures, viewpoints, and situations can provide individuals with a singular opportunity for personal growth and development, making travel a profoundly transformative experience. The travel experience has several important components that contribute to its transforming power. People immerse themselves in cultures other than their own when they visit new areas. One's perspective of the world might be expanded and preconceived beliefs can be challenged by this cultural immersion. For example, exposure to many cultures, languages, and practices can promote more empathy and a broader understanding of cultural diversity. It enables visitors to see past preconceptions and gain a more complex understanding of world affairs. Seeking life through new eyes is a benefit of visiting other places. Experiencing diverse lifestyles, mindsets, and problem-solving techniques can stimulate novel concepts and methods. For those who have spent the majority of their lives in a setting that is comparatively homogeneous, this expanded viewpoint can be extremely transforming. Through interactions with individuals from many origins, visitors might acquire insights into alternative lifestyles and beliefs, so augmenting their critical and creative thinking abilities. People are frequently forced out of their comfort zones by travel, which exposes them to strange and perhaps difficult circumstances. Resilience and adaptability are necessary for navigating unfamiliar cities, adjusting to new cultures, and overcoming language hurdles. These encounters might increase one's self-assurance and independence. Traveling can also be a voyage of self-discovery, giving one the time and space to reflect on oneself. Travelers can focus on their values, objectives, and priorities away from the daily grind and expectations, which promotes increased self-awareness and personal clarity. Diverse natural settings can also have a transforming effect. Experiences like the breathtaking splendor of a mountain range, the peace of a remote beach, or the energetic energy of a busy city can strengthen one's bond with the earth and instill a sense of duty for environmental preservation. Observing the effects of climate change and other environmental problems in various regions of the world might inspire people to conduct personal environmental protection actions. Meeting and mingling with a range of people—from locals to other travelers—occurs frequently when traveling. These exchanges can build a worldwide network of friendships and improve social skills. Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds can enhance one's communication abilities and cultural acuity, which are crucial attributes in a world growing more interconnected by the day. Traveling is really about broadening one's perspectives, pushing oneself to the maximum, and developing a greater understanding of both the world and oneself. It is not only about seeing new locations. Travel has the transforming effect because it opens people's eyes to new cultures, broadens their viewpoints, promotes personal development, increases environmental consciousness, and improves interpersonal skills. By seizing these chances, tourists can bring back to their homes not just mementos and images but also a more knowledgeable, compassionate, and insightful perspective on life.
      ADHDAdvisor's Mental Health Advocate Scholarship for Health Students
      My life's work has been centered around helping others with their mental health; this has been motivated by both personal experience and a strong sense of empathy for people facing comparable difficulties. I've taken an active part in a number of campaigns to raise awareness and offer assistance for mental health concerns in my neighborhood. I help people with mental health issues by providing peer support and counseling in neighborhood community centers. I assist them in navigating their challenges, expressing their emotions, and coming up with workable solutions by providing a secure and accepting environment. Support groups for people coping with addiction, bereavement, and other mental health concerns are also led by me. Participants in these groups get a sense of belonging and support from one another, which makes them feel less alone and more understood. I'm gaining a greater grasp of mental health illnesses, therapeutic procedures, and successful intervention tactics through my continuous psychology studies. Having this information will improve my capacity to provide individuals in need with expert, fact-based assistance. I want to work as a licensed psychologist or counselor after receiving my degree. My objective is to become a specialist in trauma and addiction treatment, where I can use my own experiences to help clients heal by forming a deep connection with them. Creating and implementing all-encompassing mental health initiatives that are specifically designed to meet the needs of lower-class communities is my goal. These initiatives will address both individual and institutional barriers to mental health care, with a focus on prevention, early intervention, and continuous support. My goal is to promote improved mental health laws, more financing for mental health programs, and more accessibility to care. Working with legislators and local authorities, I want to achieve long-lasting improvements that enhance the mental health of marginalized communities. In the ever-evolving field of mental health, I'm dedicated to lifelong learning and modifying my approaches to take into account the most recent findings and recommended techniques. This will guarantee that the assistance I offer is consistently pertinent and efficient. In conclusion, my present initiatives and my future goals are closely related because they are both based on a dedication to comprehending, empowering, and assisting individuals who are dealing with mental health issues. I want to help people emotionally, encourage resilience, and push for systemic reforms that will enhance mental health services for everyone through my education and future work.
      Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
      My bipolar disease experience has had a dramatic impact on my relationships, ambitions, and worldview in a number of important ways. My experience with bipolar disease has motivated me to work toward causes that emphasize advocacy and public understanding of mental health. It has really stoked my ambition to work as a psychologist, especially assisting those with mental health problems. Having firsthand experience with the difficulties associated with managing a mental health illness has inspired me to work toward eliminating the stigma associated with mental health issues and to help others who are in need of assistance. Furthermore, my own experience has reaffirmed the significance of resilience and self-care. My objectives are focused on striking a healthy balance between my personal and professional goals. This entails seeking out opportunities for ongoing personal growth, participating in pursuits that enhance mental and emotional well-being, and aiming for a profession that not only fulfills me but also enables me to positively influence the lives of others. My relationships have been greatly impacted by bipolar disorder, both favorably and badly. On the one hand, it has helped me appreciate the need of understanding, empathy, and candid communication. I've been able to create deeper and more lasting connections by being more sensitive to the emotional needs of others as a result of navigating the highs and lows of bipolar disease. It has also made it easier for me to recognize people who are genuinely sympathetic and helpful, which has improved my relationships with them. However, maintaining relationships has also been difficult as a result of treating bipolar disease. My relationships with friends and family have occasionally suffered as a result of my mood swings and emotional instability. These encounters have brought to light the value of open communication and asking for assistance when necessary, though. I've been able to forge better, more resilient connections by being honest about my illness and striving to manage it well. My perspective of the world has been significantly impacted by having bipolar disease; I am now more conscious of the difficulties associated with mental health and the value of compassion. It has emphasized how everyone has challenges of their own, many of which are concealed. This insight has led to a strong feeling of empathy and a dedication to raising mental health awareness. My personal experience has also brought attention to the structural problems and inequalities in mental health services. I am now painfully aware of the difficulties that many people—especially those from underprivileged communities—face in getting access to high-quality mental health services. This knowledge has increased my enthusiasm for promoting a more inclusive and equitable mental health care system where everyone has access to the tools and assistance they require. In summary, my experience with bipolar disease has greatly influenced my relationships, objectives, and worldview. It has motivated me to seek a career in psychology, give advocacy for mental health first priority, and strike a balance between my personal and professional goals. Additionally, it has strengthened my relationships and encouraged a commitment to open communication and support by deepening my empathy and understanding of others. Finally, it has made me more conscious of the structural issues with mental health care, which inspires me to strive toward creating a system that is more equal and inclusive. I now have a deep understanding of the significance of mental health and how it affects all facets of life as a result of these experiences.
      West Family Scholarship
      It takes a diversified approach to address addiction in lower-class areas, involving advocacy, education, support, and direct intervention. My personal experience with addiction in my family has had a significant impact on my dedication to addressing this problem locally, emphasizing the particular difficulties these communities face. Education and awareness initiatives are among my main methods of addressing addiction in lower-class neighborhoods. Many often, stigma and false information around addiction keep people from getting the treatment they require. I educate people on the nature of addiction, its causes, and the resources available for treatment and support by holding workshops and seminars in local organizations, community centers, and schools. These seminars are intended to be approachable and relatable, breaking down difficult concepts with simple language and real-world examples. In order to assist people and families afflicted by addiction, support groups and counseling programs are essential. I work with community-based mental health providers and organizations to create safe spaces for people to come to share stories, get guidance, and feel comforted without fear of being judged. These groups are specifically designed to meet the requirements of lower-class populations, taking into account things like accessibility concerns, cultural differences, and budgetary limitations. Another important part of my job is advocating for changes to local and state policies. Poorer-class neighborhoods frequently lack access to high-quality medical care and addiction treatment programs. Along with advocacy groups, I seek to advance legislation that will improve access to mental health care, expand Medicaid coverage for addiction services, and fund addiction treatment programs. I want to implement systemic changes that tackle the underlying causes of addiction and offer long-term support to individuals in need by interacting with legislators and community leaders. Establishing a robust support network requires teamwork. I collaborate with neighborhood associations, medical professionals, and non-profits to create and carry out initiatives that approach addiction from several perspectives. By guaranteeing that people have access to a variety of resources, including housing aid and medical care, these collaborations contribute to the development of a more unified and well-coordinated approach to addiction treatment and prevention. When it comes to treating addiction, prevention is essential, especially in lower-class areas where youth are more vulnerable. I collaborate with youth organizations and schools to put preventative programs into place that teach coping mechanisms, inform adolescents about the risks of substance misuse, and offer healthy alternatives to drug and alcohol use. These initiatives aim to provide young people with the information and resources they need to make wise decisions and stay away from the dangers of addiction. Last but not least, my efforts are greatly aided by my empathy and personal participation. I can relate to people more deeply because I have direct experience with the effects of addiction, and I can provide them with hope and understanding. I tell my story to encourage people and show that healing and a better life are achievable. I have a strong personal as well as professional commitment to treating addiction, which motivates me to significantly improve the lives of those who are battling addiction in lower-class neighborhoods. In conclusion, treating addiction in impoverished areas necessitates a thorough and considerate strategy. I'm committed to having a significant influence and supporting people and families in overcoming the obstacles posed by addiction via involvement, education, support, advocacy, teamwork, and personal involvement. My actions are an homage to my father's legacy and proof of the ability to use one's own suffering as motivation for progress.
      Sparkle and Succeed Scholarship
      I can't help but notice the challenges having ADHD has given me throughout my life. The diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, which frequently feels like a burden attached to my ankle, has influenced my life in ways that are both illuminating and irritating. ADHD has permeated every aspect of my life, from the classroom to interpersonal connections, occasionally acting as a barrier and eventually presenting chances for development and resiliency.   ADHD appears in a classroom context as an unforgiving foe that clouds even the easiest of tasks. Distractions beckon at every corner, making concentration a transient mirage that dances just out of reach. I can't even begin to count how many times I've found myself staring aimlessly at a textbook as my mind was racing from one idea to the next and I couldn't seem to focus. I frequently felt defeated before I had started because of the aggravating feeling of inadequacy combined with the growing expectation to achieve.   But I've come to learn that acceptance and understanding are the first steps towards overcoming ADHD obstacles. I saw my challenges for years as a weakness, as something one should be ashamed of. I didn't start to realize my own power until I accepted my diagnosis as a part of who I am and not something to be conquered. Acceptance made it possible for me to develop self-compassion and realize that my value is not determined by how productive I am or how well I fit in with society.   Navigating the maze of ADHD issues has been made easier by the development of coping mechanisms. Creating structure and habits offers a way to navigate the turmoil of everyday living. I have regained control over my surroundings by dividing things into smaller, more manageable chunks and allocating specific times for work and relaxation. I've learned to rely on organization tools like calendars, planners, and to-do lists to keep me focused despite the distracting currents that constantly swirl about me.   In addition, mindfulness exercises have shone brightly in the shadow of impulsivity and hyperactivity. Through the practice of deep breathing exercises, I have been able to establish inner peace even in the middle of a storm. I've learned to take a moment, breathe, and consider my response before behaving impulsively in response to outside stimuli.   Getting help has also been a crucial part of my journey to overcome the challenges posed by ADHD. I've made connections with a group of people who have gone through similar things through matters, and I take comfort in the knowledge that I'm not traveling this path alone.   Medication has been helpful in controlling my symptoms of ADHD as well, acting as a calming factor in the midst of my mental turmoil. Medication has helped balance the playing field, enabling me to capitalize on my skills and deal with life's obstacles more easily—even though it's not a solution.   Even if ADHD has its drawbacks, I now regard it as a driving force behind personal development and evolution. It has given me the ability to be resilient in the face of difficulty, humble in the face of my limits, and compassionate in the face of my fellow humans' struggles. While it may play a role in who I am, ADHD does not define who I am. Through accepting my abilities, looking for help, and developing a resilient mindset, I've learned that even the most difficult challenges can be conquered. I have a greater feeling of purpose and resolve as I continue to make my way through the maze of life.
      Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship
      My bipolar disease experience has had a dramatic impact on my relationships, ambitions, and worldview in a number of important ways. My experience with bipolar disease has motivated me to work toward causes that emphasize advocacy and public understanding of mental health. It has really stoked my ambition to work as a psychologist, especially assisting those with mental health problems. Having firsthand experience with the difficulties associated with managing a mental health illness has inspired me to work toward eliminating the stigma associated with mental health issues and to help others who are in need of assistance. Furthermore, my own experience has reaffirmed the significance of resilience and self-care. My objectives are focused on striking a healthy balance between my personal and professional goals. This entails seeking out opportunities for ongoing personal growth, participating in pursuits that enhance mental and emotional well-being, and aiming for a profession that not only fulfills me but also enables me to positively influence the lives of others. My relationships have been greatly impacted by bipolar disorder, both favorably and badly. On the one hand, it has helped me appreciate the need of understanding, empathy, and candid communication. I've been able to create deeper and more lasting connections by being more sensitive to the emotional needs of others as a result of navigating the highs and lows of bipolar disease. It has also made it easier for me to recognize people who are genuinely sympathetic and helpful, which has improved my relationships with them. However, maintaining relationships has also been difficult as a result of treating bipolar disease. My relationships with friends and family have occasionally suffered as a result of my mood swings and emotional instability. These encounters have brought to light the value of open communication and asking for assistance when necessary, though. I've been able to forge better, more resilient connections by being honest about my illness and striving to manage it well. My perspective of the world has been significantly impacted by having bipolar disease; I am now more conscious of the difficulties associated with mental health and the value of compassion. It has emphasized how everyone has challenges of their own, many of which are concealed. This insight has led to a strong feeling of empathy and a dedication to raising mental health awareness. My personal experience has also brought attention to the structural problems and inequalities in mental health services. I am now painfully aware of the difficulties that many people—especially those from underprivileged communities—face in getting access to high-quality mental health services. This knowledge has increased my enthusiasm for promoting a more inclusive and equitable mental health care system where everyone has access to the tools and assistance they require. In summary, my experience with bipolar disease has greatly influenced my relationships, objectives, and worldview. It has motivated me to seek a career in psychology, give advocacy for mental health first priority, and strike a balance between my personal and professional goals. Additionally, it has strengthened my relationships and encouraged a commitment to open communication and support by deepening my empathy and understanding of others. Finally, it has made me more conscious of the structural issues with mental health care, which inspires me to strive toward creating a system that is more equal and inclusive. I now have a deep understanding of the significance of mental health and how it affects all facets of life as a result of these experiences.
      CEW IV Foundation Scholarship Program
      Racial equality, mental health accessibility, and educational equity are social justice topics that I find very meaningful. Addressing these concerns is essential to creating a just and inclusive society since they all have a significant impact on people's lives. In order to encourage systemic change and guarantee that everyone has the chance to prosper, I think it is imperative to become involved in these areas. One crucial social justice issue that needs immediate action is racial equality. Racial inequities still exist in a number of fields, including criminal justice, employment, healthcare, and education, despite advancements throughout time. Because of these differences, marginalized people experience systemic prejudice and have fewer opportunity to grow in society. I believe that everyone should have equal rights, opportunities, and treatment regardless of their color or ethnicity, which is why I support racial equality. Participating in the movement to advance racial equality is crucial because it contributes to the eradication of systematic racism and creates a more welcoming community. We can build a society where everyone has an equal chance to thrive by supporting racial justice organizations, lobbying for laws that address racial disparities, and teaching people about the value of diversity and inclusion. Accessibility to mental health services is another important social justice concern. Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from mental health illnesses, but many still have limited access to mental health services, particularly those who live in marginalized regions. Socioeconomic hurdles, lack of finances, and stigma frequently keep people from getting the assistance they require. Since mental health is a crucial component of total wellbeing, it is imperative to ensure accessibility for mental health. No one should be denied access to mental health care because of their financial situation or history. Resolving this issue benefits not only the life of the individual but also the productivity and health of the community. Participating in this cause can take many different forms, such as promoting improved financing and policies for mental health, lending support to regional mental health groups, and spreading awareness of the significance of mental health treatment. A key component of social justice is educational equity. It guarantees that every student has access to a top-notch education regardless of their socioeconomic background, race, or place of residence. A person can break the cycle of poverty and realize their full potential with the help of education. However, differences in opportunity, funding, and resources still make educational equity difficult. Since education establishes a person's destiny, fighting for educational justice is essential. Access to high-quality education for all people opens doors to increased earning potential, greater career options, and overall enhanced quality of life. We can contribute to closing the achievement gap and building a more equitable society by supporting inclusive educational policies, equal funding, and underfunded schools. In conclusion, I feel strongly about social justice concerns such as education parity, mental health accessibility, and racial equality. Participating in these initiatives is essential to eliminating inequality, advancing structural change, and creating a society that is more inclusive and just. We can make the world a better place for everyone if we act.