Have you ever imagined not seeing your parents for three years? That is the story of my life. My parents immigrated from Ghana to the United States. Five years later, I was born. Between working full-time jobs, going to school, and taking care of me life was a taxing juggling act for my parents. Eventually, they found it necessary to send me to live with my grandparents in Ghana at the age of four. Being in a foreign place, unaccustomed to the culture, did not make assimilating any easier. It was a bewildering experience making sense of my new surroundings, where everything felt unfamiliar. Making friends with the local kids proved challenging, as I was an outsider in this close-knit community. The only solace I found was in the books my parents had thoughtfully packed for me. Books like "Almost Impossible Thing" by Basak Agaoglu, "Violent Pilot" by Steve Breen, and "What Do You Do with an Idea" by Kobi Yamada became my refuge. I developed a deep and abiding love for reading, a habit that would stay with me throughout my life. Those books allowed me to escape into new worlds and expand my horizons, fostering creativity and curiosity in my young mind. The lessons I learned during those years were irreplaceable. Living in a foreign country, separated from my parents, I had to learn to be self-reliant, persistent, and independent. These were not just words; they became the guiding principles of my life. I learned to adapt and be creative in finding solutions to problems, no matter how daunting they seemed. Responsibility became a part of my identity as I helped my grandparents with daily tasks. These experiences transfigured me into a determined and resourceful individual, ready to face life's challenges head-on. Three years later, my parents came for me as their situation had improved. Returning to America, I had to readjust to the American school system. English, once a distant language, was now my primary mode of communication, yet a challenge. I was placed in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program to help me bridge the language gap. Understanding my teachers and peers took time, but my persistence and determination to succeed drove me forward. Through the skills I cultivated during my years in Ghana, I not only adapted to my new academic environment but also thrived. In the following years, I embraced a new role as an older sibling of three. My responsibilities grew bigger as I helped my mother while my father worked night shifts. These included changing diapers, feeding my younger siblings, and gently putting them to sleep. This experience strengthened the lessons of responsibility, empathy, and adaptability that I had learned during my years in Ghana. A few years later, at the beginning of high school, my fascination with engineering blossomed, through my participation in STEM groups and a growing engagement with science and mathematics. Engineering, to me, represented a path to solve some of the world's most pressing problems. I recognized that through the application of science, mathematics, and the creative building process, I could contribute to meaningful solutions that could improve lives and society at large. My parents have heavily influenced the person I am today. Their ability to overcome struggles every day has taught me the values of determination, empathy, and resourcefulness, qualities that allowed me to surpass any challenges that approached me at such a tender age. These past experiences have not only prepared me for the obstacles college may present but have also created a profound desire to contribute to my community and learn continually.

During my fourth-grade career day at elementary school, I was fortunate enough to hear a speech by Mrs. Crocker about the vital role that engineers play in society. Her inspiring words left a profound impact on me and instilled in me a desire to become an agent of change in society through engineering. Ever since that day, I have developed a flickering interest into a strong aspiration, to pursue a career in engineering, particularly in the field of mechanical engineering. My engagement in STEM activities such as robotics, 3D printing, CAD programs, and mathematics and science has only furthered my desire to pursue engineering in the future. In the next five years, my career goal started to grow into becoming a highly skilled and knowledgeable Mechanical Engineer. After graduating from high school, I plan to attend a four-year university to pursue a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. My interest in STEM activities, combined with my proficiency in mathematics and science, has further motivated me to pursue my passion for engineering. As a responsible member of my community, I believe in giving back to society. I had the opportunity to volunteer for the Summer Meals Program at my local community, where I learned the value and impact of contributing to society. I find it important to be an active member of society and make a positive change in the world. As a first generation African American, English was not my first language; Twi. I was born in the US but raised in Ghana for Pre-K. Ghana is the African country my parents grew up in. I can only recall a little time there, but I knew my speech was proficient. At age five, my dad, younger brother Kingston, and I returned to the US. I remember having an accent and always practicing twice my English with my parents to prepare for Kindergarten. To adapt to the American lifestyle, I would have to practice my English every day, and my parents would have us wear a uniform to school, even though it was a public elementary school. I was frightened but excited at the thought that my parents would not be with my brother and me for eight hours. It was a new environment I was entering into. Adapting at a young age to American life was complicated. My mother, later on in life, nurtured two more siblings. My responsibilities stem from being a firstborn child with three younger siblings who look up to me. As the eldest child, I had many duties, including cooking meals and ensuring my siblings were awake when my parents were away at work, washing the dishes, sweeping and mopping the floors, and checking the mail. My parents came to America to work full-time jobs to support this family of six. We faced many challenges and had to overcome them; my dad had to overwork himself and take a pause on college because of his role. My mother tirelessly worked hard to put food on the table almost every day for twelve months! Regardless of these struggles my parents and I face, we find the strength to move forward and support ourselves. My strength falls into extracurricular activities I enjoy doing. With this being said, learning a new skill requires patience and persistence. I have had many unique opportunities that have helped deepen my personality. As well as a passion to help my community and others in need. Earning a degree in mechanical engineering will help to pursue this dream. I believe not only attending a prestigious 4-year college will help strengthen my skills but also the lessons my parents have taught me of perseverance, diligence, empathy, and diligence will carry forward with me to rebuilding a better community. A few years later, at the beginning of high school, my fascination with engineering blossomed, through my participation in STEM groups and a growing engagement with science and mathematics. Engineering, to me, represented a path to solve some of the world's most pressing problems. I recognized that through the application of science, mathematics, and the creative building process, I could contribute to meaningful solutions that could improve lives and society at large. My parents have heavily influenced the person I am today. Their ability to overcome struggles every day has shaped me to be a resilient and adaptable individual. They taught me the values of determination, empathy, and resourcefulness, qualities that allowed me to surpass any challenges that approached me at such a tender age. These past experiences have not only prepared me for the obstacles college may present but have also created a profound desire to contribute to my community and learn continually. As I embark on the next chapter of my academic journey, I carry these lessons with me, ready to face whatever the future may hold.

The question of who has inspired me has led me to options, nonetheless, the person who has had the most profound impact on my life and has inspired me is my mother. She has inspired me to achieve my goals; as an African American, English was not my first language; Twi. I was born in the US but raised in Ghana for Pre-K. Ghana is the African country my parents grew up in. I can only recall a little time there, but I knew my speech was proficient. At age five, my dad, younger brother Kingston, and I returned to the US. I remember having an accent and always practicing twice my English with my parents to prepare for Kindergarten. To adapt to the American lifestyle, I would have to practice my English every day, and my parents would have us wear a uniform to school, even though it was a public elementary school. I was frightened but excited at the thought that my parents would not be with my brother and me for eight hours. It was a new environment I was entering into. Adapting at a young age to American life was complicated. My mother, later on in life, nurtured two more siblings. My responsibilities stem from being a firstborn child with three younger siblings who look up to me. As the eldest child, I had many duties, including cooking meals and ensuring my siblings were awake when my parents were away at work, washing the dishes, sweeping and mopping the floors, and checking the mail. My parents came to America to work full-time jobs to support this family of six. We faced many challenges and had to overcome them; my dad had to overwork himself and take a pause on college because of his role. My mother tirelessly worked hard to put food on the table almost every day for twelve months! Regardless of these struggles my parents and I face, we find the strength to move forward and support ourselves. My strength falls into extracurricular activities I enjoy doing. With this being said, learning a new skill requires patience and persistence. I have had many unique opportunities that have helped deepen my personality. As well as a passion to help my community and others in need. Earning a degree in mechanical engineering will help to pursue this dream. I believe not only attending a prestigious 4-year college will help strengthen my skills but also the lessons my parents have taught me of perseverance, diligence, empathy, and diligence will carry forward with me to rebuilding a better community.

In a world where technology is advancing at a rapid pace, the integration of robotics into different aspects of society presents great opportunities and progress. This science fiction story delves into the balance between innovation and ethical choices in a world where robotics plays a critical role in shaping humanity's destiny. In the bustling city of Bronx, New York, towering skyscrapers and bright traffic lights illuminate the streets, and the presence of robotics has become commonplace in everyday life. From self-driving cars to household assistants and store managers, this city thrives on the promise of technological advancement. The robotic lifestyle has significantly changed the human race's way of living. Robotic advancement to some skeptics might hold ethical issues but helps to enhance performance and tasks in ways we could not, improving the work of others. Dr. Bonsu, a brilliant roboticist committed to pushing the limits of artificial intelligence, is the mastermind behind this technological revolution. Her latest creation, the OmniBot, is a versatile humanoid robot designed to assist with many tasks, from household chores to emergency response operations. As Dr. Bonsu reveals the OmniBot to the world, she is met with both awe and skepticism. While some are in awe of the robot's capabilities and potential to improve efficiency and productivity, others express concerns about the widespread automation of human employment and dignity. Amidst the excitement surrounding the OmniBot’s release, a series of mysterious incidents in the city. Reports surface of OmniBots malfunctioning and causing accidents, raising questions about the reliability and safety of robotic technology. Dr. Bonsu faces a daunting challenge as she races to uncover the cause of the malfunctions and restore public trust in her creation. As she delves deeper into the programming side, she discovers a flaw in its artificial intelligence system, resulting in unpredictable behavior. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Dr. Bonsu is forced to make a difficult decision: halt the production of the OmniBot or risk further harm to society. In the end, she chooses to prioritize the safety and well-being of the public over her ambitions, demonstrating the importance of an ethical approach in the development of robotics. As the city slowly recovers from the turmoil, Dr. Bonsu reflects on the lessons learned from the OmniBot incident. While robotics holds great promise for improving the quality of life in the world, it also brings ethical and societal implications. There comes a time when the struggles of technology must be hindered to further progress in the future. Dr. Bonsu's creation of the Omni was a lesson of the future potential that we as individuals can achieve and overcome any challenges that may face in our path. The technological innovation of the future is in robotics. In the aftermath of the OmniBot situation, Dr. Bonsu redoubles her efforts to ensure that future advancements in robotics are guided by safety and accountability. As she gazes towards the skyline, she envisions a future where robotics and humanity coexist harmoniously, creating a path towards a brighter tomorrow.

In my eighth-grade year of middle school, I decided to join the basketball team. I was in a phase of self-discovery and wanted to explore my options while navigating through the school year. My friends encouraged me to try out with them, and after making it to the end of the season, my team and I reached the final game. During the game, I sat motionless on the bench, intimidated by the voices around me. My heart raced as my face flushed and goosebumps appeared. The opposing team had a score of 35, while our school had a score of 34. Most of the starters were on the brink of exhaustion. Suddenly, my coach approached me and said, "Don't be nervous. You can do this. I believe in you." His words of encouragement instilled newfound confidence in me, and despite my nervousness, I got up and entered the game, which led me to my next performance. As the referee signaled for me to enter the game, the crowd appeared larger than it seemed, bringing back my worries. Amidst the many eyes looking back at me, I spotted my family cheering me on, which put my nerves at ease. The court was alive with sound - the cheerleaders were rallying, and the crowd of spectators roaring with anticipation. With just a few seconds left ticking down, my team and I had reached the peak of this game, and every second would count. It was clear that we needed one more shot to win this game. One of my teammates attempted to make a shot but missed. At that moment, everything was down in slow motion. There it was, the ball, coming down in my direction. I swiftly rebounded the basketball. I realized that to move forward, I must conquer my fear and have faith in my abilities. As I leaped into the air for the final shot, I felt the weight of the ball in my palms and a rush of exhilaration that left me with no worries. In that moment of self-doubt, I sought for courage from family and friends and overcame it with the belief to try, just as my coach had put faith in me. The ball ricocheted off the rim, and the shot that could have led to a victory for my middle school basketball team became a loss. Although we lost the game, it taught me to step out of my comfort zone and strive for improvement. As a result, I was titled the Most Improved Player of the game. I spent most of my summer breaks that year practicing my skills and playing in front of others to prove my abilities. I learned that it is essential to consistently contribute throughout the game, rather than relying on last-minute miracles. It was a defining moment that taught me to believe in myself and not let that courage slip past me. I became determined.

One afternoon, I stood by the window, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face. It was 1 pm in Kumasi, Ghana, while in America it was still morning. As I helped my grandma with the dishes, I couldn't help but wonder what my parents were doing in the land of the free. They had immigrated from Ghana to the United States five years ago, where I was born. It was not easy to adjust to a foreign place where I didn't understand the language or the culture. However, the books that my parents had packed for me brought comfort. Books such as "Almost Impossible Thing" by Basak Agaoglu and "What Do You Do with an Idea" by Kobi Yamada became my escape and helped me develop my creativity and inquisitiveness. With time, I learned to be self-reliant, persistent, and independent. I had to learn how to solve problems creatively and take responsibility for my actions. Four years later, when my parents' situation had improved, they brought me back to the United States. During high school, my passion for engineering grew through participation in STEM groups and an interest in science and math. I want to contribute to society's problems through engineering. These experiences prepared me for college and created a desire to learn and contribute to my community. I have thoroughly enjoyed volunteering for my community over the past three years. Through Gwinnett Parks and Recreational activities, I had the opportunity to participate in the Summer Meals and Beautification Programs. This experience has taught me the importance of giving back to the community and the positive impact it can have on the people I have helped. Contributing to the community has given me a sense of responsibility and purpose that I would like to continue building upon in my future endeavors. Giving back to my community is an essential factor in my goal of making a difference. In conclusion, volunteering and community service are essential to me. It is an opportunity to give back to the society, meet new people, and build relationships. It is about being a responsible member of society and making a positive impact on people's lives. I am grateful for my parents' teachings, which have inspired me to be a part of the change that I want to see in the world. I will continue to serve my community and society in any way that I can, and I will always cherish the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today.

Volunteering and being part of a community are fundamental to me. From my early years, my parents instilled in me the importance of giving back to society. They grew up in poor backgrounds, and they empathize with those who are struggling. Their experiences inspired them to teach me the value of generosity and selflessness, and I deeply appreciate their teachings. I had the opportunity to contribute to my local community through the Summer Meals and Beautification Programs, and it was an incredibly satisfying experience. It was heartening to see how our efforts made a difference in the lives of people in our community. My parents always believed that giving back to the community can make a significant impact, and I witnessed it firsthand through these programs. There are still many areas in our society that need our attention and support, and I couldn't ignore the call to help. My parents' teachings have inspired me to be a part of the change that I want to see in the world. Volunteering was not always easy for me. When I started, it felt more like a chore than a fulfilling experience. However, as time went by, I realized the importance of community service. I learned that it is not just about giving back but also about being a part of something bigger than myself. It is about being a responsible member of society and making a positive impact on people's lives. Through my experiences, I witnessed how community service can bring people together. It is an opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and build relationships. It is about creating a sense of belonging and working towards a common goal. It is a way of building a better community and a better world. I will always cherish the moments of joy and gratitude expressed by the community when handing out their packaged meals and being part of such an agent of change. These experiences have inspired me to continue to serve my community and society in my future endeavors. I believe that volunteering is not just a one-time thing but a way of life. It is about committing ourselves and our communities to create a better world. In conclusion, volunteering and community service are essential to me. It is an opportunity to give back to the society, meet new people, and build relationships. It is about being a responsible member of society and making a positive impact on people's lives. I am grateful for my parents' teachings, which have inspired me to be a part of the change that I want to see in the world. I will continue to serve my community and society in any way that I can, and I will always cherish the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. My primary career goal is to become a mechanical engineer within the next five years. After completing high school, I plan to attend a four-year university to pursue a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering. My involvement in STEM activities and my passion for applying mathematics and science have further fueled my desire to pursue engineering.

The Dark Knight is a classic action-thriller movie that has captured the hearts of many viewers. It is a movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat, with anticipation, adrenaline, and heart-thumping moments as you wonder what will happen next. The plot, emotions, reactions of the characters, and real-world tie-ins make this movie a masterpiece that is still being talked about today. The saying goes, "Everyone likes a good scare every once in a while," and The Dark Knight is a movie that delivers that scare. But what makes a dark show seem good? The answer is simple - the plot. The plot of The Dark Knight is intricate, intense, and well thought out. The movie is filled with mysteries that keep the viewers guessing, surprising deaths that leave you in shock, and a cat-and-mouse chase between the main characters that keeps the adrenaline pumping. The Dark Knight's characters are well-developed, and their emotions and reactions to the situations they find themselves in are realistic. The movie also ties in with real-world crime scene investigation techniques, which makes it even more intriguing. The climax of the movie is nothing short of epic, and it leaves the viewers speechless, wondering what just happened. Bruce Wayne, who is a billionaire, industrialist, and playboy, is the protagonist of the movie. He is a complex character who is struggling to find his place in the world. As the day turns into night, a vigilante rises to fight crime and establish justice in Gotham City. The masked figure is known as the Dark Knight, and he is feared by criminals and revered by the people of Gotham. The mystery of who is behind the mask is one of the intriguing aspects of the movie. Moving on to the psychopathic, narcissistic antagonist of the movie - the Joker. The Joker is a character who is well-known by comic book fans and moviegoers alike. He is a mastermind who is always one step ahead of his opponents and is not afraid to play dirty. His unpredictability and his lack of morals make him a formidable foe for the Dark Knight. The Joker's twisted sense of humor and his love for chaos make him an unforgettable villain. In conclusion, The Dark Knight is a movie that has stood the test of time. It is a masterpiece that is still being talked about today, and it is a movie that every action-thriller fan should watch. The plot, emotions, reactions of the characters, and real-world tie-ins make this movie a classic. Bruce Wayne, the Dark Knight, and the Joker are characters that will forever be etched in our minds as a symbol of good and evil

Have you ever imagined not seeing your parents for three years? That is the story of my life. My parents immigrated from Ghana to the United States. Five years later, I was born. Between working full-time jobs, going to school, and taking care of me life was a taxing juggling act for my parents. Eventually, they found it necessary to send me to live with my grandparents in Ghana at the age of four. Being in a foreign place, not knowing the language, and being unaccustomed to the culture did not make assimilating any easier. It was a bewildering experience making sense of my new surroundings, where everything felt unfamiliar. Making friends and playing with the local kids proved challenging, as I was an outsider in this close-knit community. The only solace I found was in the books my parents had thoughtfully packed for me. Books like "Almost Impossible Thing" by Basak Agaoglu, "Violent Pilot" by Steve Breen, and "What Do You Do with an Idea" by Kobi Yamada became my refuge. I developed a deep and abiding love for reading, a habit that would stay with me throughout my life. Those books allowed me to escape into new worlds and expand my horizons, fostering creativity and curiosity in my young mind. The lessons I learned during those years were irreplaceable. Living in a foreign country, separated from my parents, I had to learn to be self-reliant, persistent, and independent. These were not just words; they became the guiding principles of my life. I learned to adapt and be creative in finding solutions to problems, no matter how daunting they seemed. Responsibility became a part of my identity as I helped my grandparents with daily tasks. These experiences transfigured me into a determined and resourceful individual, ready to face life's challenges head-on. Three years later, my parents came for me as their situation had improved. Returning to America, I had to readjust to the American school system. English, once a distant language, was now my primary mode of communication, yet it remained a challenge. I was placed in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program to help me bridge the language gap. Understanding my teachers and peers took time, but my persistence and determination to succeed drove me forward. Through the skills I cultivated during my years in Ghana, I not only adapted to my new academic environment but also thrived. A few years later, at the beginning of high school, my fascination with engineering blossomed, through my participation in STEM groups and a growing engagement with science and mathematics. Engineering, to me, represented a path to solve some of the world's most pressing problems. I recognized that through the application of science, mathematics, and the creative building process, I could contribute to meaningful solutions that could improve lives and society at large. These past experiences have not only prepared me for the obstacles college may present but have also created a profound desire to contribute to my community and learn continually. As I embark on the next chapter of my academic journey, I carry these lessons with me, ready to face whatever the future may hold.

Music is art. Music has helped me in my life when I needed it. My interest began in my sixth grade year of middle school year. I was starting middle school and felt anxious about making friends so I started to look for clubs or something to be part of. For my middle school, you were required to choose a fine arts elective in order to graduate. This was one of those moments where you felt like your life was about to just start. I decided to take Band as my fine arts elective. The class piqued my interest at the time for the diverse genre of music we would get to play. I remember going to open night for band in order to decide what instrument would best fit me. I was hoping to get to play the flute, as an overjoy of excitement passed by. Unfortunately, the flute wasn't the best instrument for me, I was unable to blow enough air into it, to get a sound. That night reminds me of the quote, "Everything happens for a reason." As the flute was not the best instrument choice for me, the drums were! Percussion is an ensemble of various auxiliaries, drums, and xylophones. I was glad to have percussion as my instrument of choice to play in the band. Over the years of playing in band; for about four years till my freshman year of high school, I discovered that music itself is calming to the mind and can become something amazing. Especially when playing with a group of people, like me and my fellow band members. As a percussionist, I would mainly play the drums and xylophone as those were my favorite instruments from the percussion groups. Being a band member meant we would get to have school concerts, field trips, sectionals for our school band, and practicing sheet music, in the band room during and after school hours. This made me feel like I belonged and helped me adjust to school. Music has taught me many things but has shown me how it can have a great impact on a person and teach them different views on the world. Music has been a part of my life even as a past band member, looking back it has shown me that the world is bigger than it seems. Music is like the world, it is creative and endless. From my band experience, I learned to enjoy the present and not worry over little things, life will work itself as the world is vast like songs. Band has opened my eyes to the good and bad of the world and the importance of freedom. Music is an art and an important life factor. I see it as a way to express your feelings and many artists and people use it in the world for that purpose.

Hello there, my name is Nadia and I am a current senior in high school. You reader are entering my persona for fantasy, as I am a big fan of the Disney Production. Disney movies and or shows are a gateway to a magical world or an escape from reality for me. There are many elements that make it speical , but my favorite is how Disney movies and or shows teach viewers lessons and how wonderful the story lines are. The many elements from animation to songs, and adventure when watching such gracious films and or shows are spectacular. I specifically love Disney Princess movies. When watching Disney Princess movies they always brighten my mood. I feel awed by the beauty of the production and wisdom gained. I remember when I was a kid, I would sing almost every Disney Princesses song and memorize each line. This made me feel like a true Princess. Whether it was Cinderella or Frozen playing on tv, I would wear a tiara, a dress, and a smile on my face. It was as if I imagined myself as a Princess living in a fairytale kingdom. I also would like to add how much I admired the Disney Princess Brave movie. It taught me to be fearless, independent, and strong for one's family. The Disney Princess Meredith inspired me so much that I begged my parents to buy me a bow and arrow. Though of course, it would not be a real one since that would be dangerous for a kid my age. I remember on Christmas of 2013, I got a toy bow and arrow and would just shoot around in the house supposedly "practicing on targets". When it comes to the animation of not just Disney Princess movies but most Disney movies such as Lion King or Zootopia they were astounding to appreciate the story and visual appearance of the movies. Both films had important messages about life and society. I was pleased with the character's interaction with one another which led to conflicts and plot twists. Disney Movies are fascinating to watch and make you feel special as I felt growing up. During my childhood, I would turn to Disney Channel and enjoy every minute of films like Descendants and Jessie. Though Jessie is not exactly fantasy it was very comical to watch. I would be engaged with the plots and characters like any other Disney film. With the Descendants movie series, I would sing along every time Mal or any character had a good opening. My favorite song from Descendants was "Rotten To the Core". It served as an introduction song for Mal and her friends to perceive them as bad kids raised by villians. They become good in the end or what is known as "blessings in disguise". Later on, in the movie Mal and her friends learn that they can choose to be who they want to be, rebelling agasint their parents. Disney movies and shows have changed my life past and present. I continue to watch them present day for the diversity, symbolism and lessons, animation and stories that are immersed. These attributes are a reason why I am fascinated by Disney and love their films.