For DonorsFor Applicants
user profile avatar

Naiya Dyson

855

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

My ambition is to become a lawyer, setting an example as the first college educated grandchild in my family and bringing pride to my loved ones.

Education

Stephen F Austin State University

Bachelor's degree program
2024 - 2028
  • Majors:
    • Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
  • Minors:
    • Psychology, General

Mountain View College

Associate's degree program
2020 - 2021

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
    • Psychology, General
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Law Practice

    • Dream career goals:

      Sports

      Tennis

      Varsity
      2021 – 20232 years

      Volleyball

      Junior Varsity
      2020 – 20211 year

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Feed My Starving Children — voulenteer
        2023 – 2024

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Volunteering

      Philanthropy

      Entrepreneurship

      “The Office” Obsessed! Fan Scholarship
      The lovable misfits of "The Office"! While I admire Michael Scott's well-intentioned but misguided leadership, I resonate most with Jim Halpert's witty humor, relatable everyman perspective, and endearing pranks on Dwight. Jim's character resonates with me because he embodies the perfect blend of sarcasm, humor, and heart. His deadpan reactions to Michael's antics and his playful teasing of Dwight never fail to make me laugh. But what I admire most about Jim is his empathy and kindness towards his coworkers, particularly Pam Beesly. His quiet strength and loyalty are traits I aspire to emulate in my own life. "The Office" has significantly shaped my sense of humor, teaching me to find humor in even the most mundane situations. The show's masterful blend of cringe-worthy moments, witty one-liners, and physical comedy has helped me develop a more irreverent and playful approach to humor. I've learned to laugh at myself and find the absurdity in life's everyday moments. The show has also influenced my perspective on workplace dynamics, highlighting the importance of building genuine relationships with coworkers and finding ways to make even the most tedious tasks enjoyable. The characters' quirks and flaws make them relatable and human, reminding me that we all have our own strengths and weaknesses. Moreover, "The Office" has taught me the value of satire and social commentary. The show's clever writing and character development cleverly critique modern workplace culture, highlighting issues like toxic leadership, office politics, and the blurred lines between personal and professional relationships. Ultimately, "The Office" has left an indelible mark on my sense of humor and perspective on workplace dynamics. Jim Halpert's character, in particular, has inspired me to embrace my own wit, empathy, and humor. The show's enduring legacy continues to make me laugh, think, and appreciate the beauty in the mundane.
      Fall Favs: A Starbucks Stan Scholarship
      The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) from Starbucks - a drink that warms my heart and transports me back to cherished memories with my grandma. Our fall tradition began when I was just 8 years old, and she took me to Starbucks for the first time. Little did I know, that moment would be the start of a lifelong love affair with the PSL and a special bonding experience with my grandma. I vividly remember walking into the cozy Starbucks store, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods enveloping us. My grandma asked me what I wanted, and I shyly pointed to the PSL on the menu board. She smiled and ordered us two PSLs and a green tea frappe to share, along with a few cheese danishes. As we settled into the car with our treats, I felt like I was in for a real treat. Sipping that first PSL was like a revelation - the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, with the comforting warmth of the latte. My grandma laughed at my delighted expression and told me it was her favorite fall drink too. In that moment, we connected over our shared love of the PSL, and it became a special part of our fall tradition. As the years passed, our annual Starbucks trip became a highlight of my fall season. We'd sit in the car, sipping our PSLs and frappe, munching on cheese danishes, and talking about life. My grandma would share stories about her childhood, her travels, and her dreams. I'd share mine, and we'd laugh and giggle together. Those moments were pure magic, just the two of us enjoying each other's company. The PSL became a character in our fall narrative, symbolizing the love and connection we shared. Every sip transported us to a cozy world of our own, where time stood still, and all that mattered was our time together. Even as I grew older and our lives got busier, our Starbucks tradition remained a constant, a reminder of the importance of slowing down and cherishing time with loved ones. Now, whenever the autumn leaves begin to fall, I crave the familiar taste of the PSL, transporting me back to those precious moments with my grandma. Our Starbucks tradition has become an integral part of my fall story, a testament to the power of love and the simple pleasures that bring us closer together.
      Netflix and Scholarships!
      As a self-proclaimed Netflix enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for my next binge-watching adventure. And, let me tell you, I've found some absolute gems that I just can't stop talking about! If you're anything like me, you're always searching for that perfect show or movie to get lost in. Well, search no more! I'm here to share my absolute favorites with you, and why you should clear your weekend to binge-watch them. First up, if you're a fan of young love and fantasy like I am, then you have to check out the "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" trilogy. These movies are the perfect blend of sweet romance, humor, and heart. The story follows Lara Jean, a high school girl whose secret love letters get sent to her crushes, leading to unexpected romantic entanglements and self-discovery. Trust me, you'll fall head over heels for Peter Kavinsky and the charming cast of characters. And, as a bonus, the spinoff show "XO, Kitty" is a delightful continuation of the story, following Lara Jean's little sister Kitty as she navigates her own path. But, if mystery and thrills are more your thing, then you have to check out "Riverdale". This show is like nothing else on Netflix - it's dark, twisty, and utterly addictive. The story follows Archie and his friends as they unravel the secrets and lies in their small town, and let me tell you, it's a wild ride. With its intricate plotlines, complex characters, and jaw-dropping reveals, "Riverdale" will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you speechless. So, what makes these shows so special? For starters, the characters are relatable, flawed, and utterly lovable. You'll find yourself rooting for them, crying with them, and cheering them on. The storylines are engaging, unpredictable, and expertly crafted to keep you guessing. And let's be real, the romance is swoon-worthy! But what really sets these shows apart is their ability to transport you to another world. Whether it's the charming town of Riverdale or the whimsical world of "To All the Boys", you'll be fully immersed in the story from start to finish. And, with their short episode lengths and binge-worthy format, you'll be able to devour them in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Clear your weekend, grab some snacks, and settle in for a binge-watching marathon! Whether you're in the mood for young love and fantasy or mystery and thrills, Netflix has got you covered. Trust me, you won't regret it! In conclusion, my Netflix obsession is real, and I'm not ashamed to admit it! "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" and "Riverdale" are must-watches for anyone looking for a great story, memorable characters, and a serious dose of escapism. So, go ahead, give them a try, and let me know what you think! Happy binge-watching!
      Disney Channel Rewind Scholarship
      Episode Title: "Magical Backstage Mayhem" Act 1: The episode starts with Hannah Montana (Miley Stewart) arriving at the iconic Waverly Place Theater for her sold-out concert. As she's getting ready in her dressing room, she accidentally triggers a magical trap set by a mischievous wizard. The door locks, and Hannah is stuck! Meanwhile, Alex Russo (Wizards of Waverly Place) and her brother Justin are exploring the theater's backstage area, searching for a rare magical artifact. They stumble upon Hannah's frantic cries for help and decide to assist. Act 2: Alex and Justin use their wizarding skills to try and open the dressing room door, but the magical trap proves too strong. They soon realize that the only way to release Hannah is to find the artifact they were searching for - a magical amulet that can neutralize the trap. As they race against time to find the amulet, they encounter a series of hilarious obstacles, including a runaway stage curtain, a malfunctioning pyrotechnic system, and a group of overzealous backup dancers. Act 3: With the amulet in hand, Alex and Justin return to the dressing room and use its magic to free Hannah. Relieved and grateful, Hannah thanks the siblings and invites them to watch her concert from backstage. As the show begins, Alex and Justin are amazed by Hannah's performance, and they even get to join in on the fun, using their magic to enhance the special effects. Act 4: After the concert, Hannah thanks Alex and Justin again, and they all share a laugh about their wild adventure. As a token of appreciation, Hannah gives them a special backstage pass, allowing them to attend any of her future shows. As the episode ends, Alex and Justin reflect on their exciting encounter with Hannah Montana, realizing that even in the world of magic, unexpected friendships can make all the difference. Act 5: Alex and Justin burst through the door, eager to share their incredible adventure with their family. "Mom, Dad, you won't believe what just happened!" Alex exclaims. Their parents, Jerry and Theresa, look up from their dinner preparations, curious. "Try us," Jerry says with a smile. "Magical Backstage Mayhem" is a heartwarming crossover episode that combines the zany humor of Wizards of Waverly Place with the superstar excitement of Hannah Montana. The episode's lighthearted tone and comedic misadventures make for an entertaining adventure that will leave viewers smiling.
      ADHDAdvisor's Mental Health Advocate Scholarship for Health Students
      I've always been the go-to person for friends and family seeking advice or a listening ear. However, it was my experience with my best friend in middle school that deepened my understanding of mental health's importance. She struggled with self-harm and suicidal thoughts, leaving me feeling helpless but determined to support her. Together, we got her the professional help she needed, and realized the impact I could have on someone's life. This experience sparked my passion for psychology, driving me to understand the human brain and behavior. I aim to use my studies to help others struggling with mental health issues, providing emotional support and resources to those in need. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for others to open up about their struggles, providing guidance and support to help them heal and grow. By understanding the human brain and behavior, I hope to make a positive impact on mental health and empower others to do the same.
      John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
      I've chosen to pursue a career in law because of my passion for helping other and seeking justice. Growing up, I was fascinated by legal dreams like Law and Order, which sparked a desire to make a real difference in people's lives. My grandmother, who shared my enthusiasm, encouraged me to become a lawyer and make her proud. Although she's no longer with me, her words continue to motivate me to succeed. Throughout my life, I've been drawn to situations where I can support and advocate for others. I believe that every individual deserves access to justice, and I want to be a part of making that a reality. My goal is to become a successful lawyer, using my skills to champion marginalized communities and fight for those who need a voice. Personally, I strive to honor my grandmother's memory by achieving my dreams. Her unwavering belief in me has instilled a sense of purpose, driving me to work tirelessly towards my goals. I aim to create a lasting impact in the legal profession, inspiring others to follow in my footsteps and continuing my grandmother's legacy of love and support. Through my career, I hope to: - Provide pro bono services to those in need - Advocate for social justice and equality - Empower marginalized communities - Make my grandmother proud By pursuing my passion for law, I aim to create meaningful impact, honor my grandmother's memory, and continue her legacy of love and support.
      Rossi and Ferguson Memorial Scholarship
      It was supposed to be the ultimate senior prank – a masterpiece of mischief that would etch their names in the annals of school history. But, as the old adage goes, "Pride comes before a fall." The plan was to sneak into the school at midnight, switch the principal's chair with a whoopee cushion, and fill the hallways with balloons. Simple, yet genius. Or so they thought. As they snuck in, their flashlights casting eerie shadows on the walls, they couldn't contain their excitement. But, in their haste, they overlooked a crucial detail – the school's new state-of-the-art security system. The alarm blared to life, and the once-empty hallways were suddenly swarming with police and faculty. The pranksters froze, caught in the act. But that was only the beginning. In the chaos that ensued, a mysterious figure slipped into the shadows, unnoticed by the authorities. This enigmatic presence began to manipulate the school's technology, wreaking havoc on the system. Computers crashed, lights flickered, and the school's secrets began to spill out. It was as if the very fabric of the institution was unraveling before their eyes. As the students were hauled away, they realized that their prank had unleashed a chain reaction of events that threatened to expose the school's darkest secrets. The mystery deepened, and the students found themselves at the center of a thrilling whodunit. With the help of an unlikely ally – the school's tech-savvy librarian – they embarked on a quest to uncover the truth behind the sabotage. Along the way, they discovered hidden agendas, surprising alliances, and a web of deceit that went all the way to the top. In the end, the prank that was meant to be a harmless joke had become a catalyst for change, exposing the school's flaws and bringing about a new era of transparency and accountability. As they graduated, the students looked back on their misadventure with a mix of humor and humility, realizing that sometimes, even the best-laid plans can go awry – and that's when the real adventure begins. After graduation, the pranksters thought they had left the chaos behind, but the consequences of their actions continued to haunt them. Strange things began to happen - mysterious messages on their social media accounts, eerie pranks on their cars, and unsettling encounters in public places. It became clear that the enigmatic figure from the school's security system had become a constant presence in their lives, seeking revenge for the chaos they had unleashed. The group realized they needed to make amends and put an end to the haunting once and for all. They reunited and embarked on a mission to track down the mysterious figure, determined to apologize and make things right. After weeks of searching, they finally traced the culprit to an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of town. With hearts pounding, they confronted the figure, who revealed himself to be the school's former tech expert, seeking revenge for being wrongly accused and fired after the prank. The group listened to his story, acknowledged their role in the injustice, and offered a genuine apology. Moved by their sincerity, the tech expert accepted their apology and agreed to cease the haunting. As a symbol of closure, he handed them a small device that would restore the school's security system to its original state, erasing all traces of the prank. With the curse lifted, the group breathed a collective sigh of relief. They had finally made things right and could move on with their lives, wiser and more grateful for the lessons learned from their wild and unforgettable senior prank. The story concludes with the group going their separate ways, each carrying a valuable lesson about responsibility, accountability, and the power of forgiveness. The school, too, had learned a valuable lesson, implementing new policies and procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The legacy of the prank lived on, a cautionary tale about the importance of considering the consequences of one's actions.
      Lotus Scholarship
      Growing up in a single-mother household, I witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication and selflessness of my mother. Despite the financial struggles, she worked tirelessly to provide for my brother and me, to ensure her bachelor's degree while working full-time was a testament to her unrelenting drive and ambition. My mother's sacrifices had a profound impact on my life. I saw how she went without meals to ensure we didn't go hungry, how she worked overtime to make ends meet, and how she still managed to make our childhood fun and memorable despite the challenges. Her resilience and strength instilled in me a strong sense of determination and a drive to succeed. As I grew older, I realized that my mother's struggles were not unique to our household. Many families face similar challenges, and it fueled my ambition to make a positive impact on the world. I plan to use my education and skills to advocate for policies and programs that support low-income families, particularly single-mother households. My goal is to create a ripple effect of positivity, inspiring others to pay it forward and make a difference in their communities. Witnessing my mother's unrelenting determination to raise my brother and me alone, despite the countless challenges she faced, has been a humbling experience that has instilled in me an unshakeable mental and emotional strength. I am in awe of her remarkable achievements, earning her degree while providing a stable home and happy childhood for us. I admire her. My mother's strength has taught me to confront obstacles head-on, to remain steadfast in the face of adversity, and to never give up on my goals and dreams. I am proud to be her child, I hope to make her proud by living up to the values she has instilled in me.
      Kim Moon Bae Underrepresented Students Scholarship
      As a mixed-race female with African American and Mexican heritage, my identity has been shaped by the intersection of my races, gender, and experiences. Growing up in a predominantly white church, I often felt like an outsider, struggling to find my place and sense of purpose. Despite the challenges, this experience has fueled mu ambition to create a more inclusive and equitable world. My African American heritage has taught me the importance of resilience, community, and fighting for justice. My Mexican heritage has shown me the value of family, culture, and determination. Together, these identities have instilled in me a drive to empower underrepresented voices and foster a culture of belonging. As a child, I longed to see myself reflected in the stories, images, and leaders around me. I yearned to feel a sense of belonging, to know that my experiences and perspectives mattered. But the lack of representation and understanding led to feelings of isolation and self-doubt. However, these experiences have fueled my ambition to create change, I am determined to use my voice, privilege, and platform to amplify marginalized voices, challenge systems of oppression, and create spaces for inclusive dialogue and growth. Through my work, I aim to: - Develop initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. - Advocate for intersectional feminism and social justice - Empower youth from underrepresented communities to find their voice and purpose - Create platforms for marginalized voices to be heard and celebrated. My identity has shaped my ambition, drive and commitment to creating a more just and inclusive world. I am proud to be a mixed-race female, and I will continue to use my experiences to make a lasting impact, ensuring that everyone has a sense of belonging and purpose. My multifaceted identity as a biracial female has served as the catalyst for my unwavering ambition, unrelenting drive, and steadfast commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. My past has instilled in me a profound understanding of importance of representation, empathy, and empowerment. I am resolute in harnessing my experiences to create a lasting positive impact, ensuring that every individual is afforded the dignity of being seen, heard, and valued. I am a mixed-race woman, driven by a passion for justice, equity, and inclusion. I have overcome challenges and learned from my experiences, and I am now ready to use my skills, knowledge, and voice to empower others and create a more just and compassionate society.
      Iliana Arie Scholarship
      Growing up in a single-mother household, I witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication and selflessness of my mother. Despite the financial struggles, she worked tirelessly to provide for my brother and me, often sacrificing her own needs to ensure her bachelor's degree while working full-time was a testament to her unrelenting drive and ambition. My mother's sacrifices had a profound impact on my life. I saw how she went without meals to ensure we didn't go hungry, how she worked overtime to make ends meet, and how she still managed to make our childhood fun and memorable despite the challenges. Her resilience and strength instilled in me a strong sense of determination and a drive to succeed. As I grew older, I realized that my mother's struggles were not unique to our household. Many families face similar challenges, and it fueled my ambition to make a positive impact on the world. I plan to use my education and skills to advocate for policies and programs that support low-income families, particularly single-mother households, My goal is to create a ripple effect of positivity, inspiring others to pay it forward and make a difference in their communities. Through my work, I hope to honor my mother's sacrifices and create a lasting impact that benefits generations to become. My mother is the epitome of strength and resilience, a trait she inherited from her own mother, my loving grandmother. Thier unwavering fortitude in the face of adversity is a constant source of inspiration for me. Witnessing my mother's unrelenting determination to raise my brother and me alone, despite the countless challenges she faced, has been a humbling experience that has instilled in me an unshakeable mental and emotional strength. Her ability to preserve, even when the odds were stacked against her, is a testament to her unbreakable spirit. I am in awe of her remarkable achievements, earning her degree while providing a stable home and happy childhood for us. I admire and aspire to emulate. My mother's strength has taught me to confront obstacles head-on, to remain steadfast in the face of adversity, and to never give up on my goals and dreams. Her example has shown me that with determination, hard work, and a refusal to accept defeat, I can overcome and challenge that comes my way. I am proud to be her child, and I hope to make her proud by living up to the values she has instilled in me.
      Public Service Scholarship
      My drive towards a career in public service stems from a deep-seated passion to make a positive impact on people's lives. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of marginalized communities and felt compelled to be their voice. Through volunteering, I discovered the power if amplifying the voices of the voiceless. My ambition is to use my education to create systemic change, addressing the root causes of inequality and injustice, I hope to work in policy development, advocacy, and community organizing, empowering marginalized communities and promoting social justice. With my education, I aim to: - Develop innovative solutions to address pressing social issues - Collaborate with community leaders to amplify their voices - Advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusivity - Inspire and mentor future generations of public service leaders My drive is fueled by my passion for helping others and my unwavering commitment to creating a more just and equitable society. I believe that education is a powerful took for change, and I am eager to harness its potential to make a lasting impact on my community and the world. I am driven by a profound desire to empower those who have lost hope, to reignite the spark within them, and guide them towards a brighter future. I aspire to be a beacon of light in the darkness, helping individuals discover their inner strength and resilience. My passion is to witness transformation in people's lives, as they gain confidence, strive for excellence, and achieve success. But what brings me even greater joy is seeing individuals remain humble and grounded despite their accomplishments. I believe that true greatness is not just about achieving success, but also about staying true to oneself and using one's talents to uplift others. Through my work, I hope to inspire a sense of purpose and direction in those who feel lost, and to help them develop the skills and mindset necessary to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. I am committed to being a catalyst for positive change, and to helping others discover their own path to success and fulfillment. My passion for public service is rooted in my unwavering belief in the potential of individuals and communities to overcome adversity and achieve greatness, I aim to be a source of hope, inspiration, and guidance for those seeking a brighter future, I am committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity, equity, and social justice, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
      Jimmy Cardenas Community Leader Scholarship
      With an insatiable ambition to excel, I sought to play on the volleyball team above my grade level. This bold move meaning leaving behind all my friends and familiar environment, joining a new team where I was the youngest player. Despite facing envy and skepticism from my new teammates, I refused to let obstacles stand in my way. I was plagued by self-doubt and anxiety, thinking to myself 'I can't fail' and 'I can't stand out too much'- fearing that my teammates would resent me if I made mistakes or perceived me as superior. Despite our need to work together, it was challenging feeling the animosity they all shared towards me. I recognized that this opportunity would not only hone my skills but also bridge the gap between my current abilities and my future goals. I needed this challenge to push me beyond my comfort zone and unlock my true potential. As the youngest player, I could have easily felt intimidated or isolated. Instead, I chose to lead by example, demonstrating a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn from my teammates. I respectfully earned their trust and admiration, becoming a valued member of the team. Through my leadership, I showed that ambition and need can drive success. I proved that with determination and hard work, obstacles can be overcome, and that leadership can emerge from unexpected places. In this experience, I demonstrated the ambition to pursue excellence, the need to challenge myself, and the leadership to inspire others. I showed that with courage and perseverance and can overcome adversity and achieve their goals. Ultimately, I transformed the situation into a triumph. I spearheaded a remarkable turnaround, leading my team to a resounding 25-5 victory with an impressive 15 consecutive servers. Through my leadership, we forged a strong bond built on trust, motivation, and teamwork. In huddles, my teammates looked to me for inspiration and encouragement, and I proudly provide the rallying cries that propelled us to dominate the court. This experience was a transformative journey for me, allowing me to cultivate resilience, perseverance, and leadership skills. As I navigated the challenges, I discovered a deeper sense of purpose and developed a stronger sense of myself. My confidence soared as I realized my capabilities and potential, enabling me to embrace new opportunities and take on future challenges with poise and determination. Through this experience, I emerged as a more assured and empowered individual, equipped with the character and confidence to make a meaningful impact in my life and the lives of those around me.
      TJ Crowson Memorial Scholarship
      As a future lawyer, I am driven by an intense passion to use my education to make a profound impact on the world. I am determined to dedicate my career to fighting for justice, advocating the marginalized, and championing human rights. As a driven and ambitious individual, I am eager to leverage education to accomplish my goal of becoming a lawyer. I've always been fascinated by the legal system and its potential to shape society. I realized that the law could be a powerful tool for creating positive change, and I became determined to be a part of it. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of legal aid in my community. I saw how access to quality legal representation could change the trajectory of someone's life, providing a voice for the voiceless and hope for the despairing. This experience instilled in me an unshakeable resolve to pursue a career in law, fueled by a desire to be a catalyst for positive change. My area of focus are gender quality, racial justice, and environmental sustainability. I am deeply troubled by the systemic racism that pervades our criminal justice system, and the devastating impact of human activities on our planet. I am more than determined to use my legal expertise to challenge these injustices, advocating for policies and practices that promote equality, inclusivity, and sustainability. Through my education in law, I plan to develop a robust understanding of the legal frameworks that govern our society. I will hone my skills in research, analysis, and argumentation, enabling me to craft compelling legal arguments that drive meaningful change, I will engage in pro bono work, volunteer at legal clinics, and participate in advocacy campaigns to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. As a lawyer, I plan to specialize in areas that align with my values and interests, such as public interest law, human rights, or environmental law. I aim to use my legal knowledge and skills to advocate for marginalized communities, challenge unjust systems, and promote sustainable development. My ultimate goal is to become a leading legal expert in my field, leveraging my knowledge and expertise to shape policy, influence public opinion, and inspire a new generation of social justice warriors, I am confident that my unwavering passion, unrelenting determination, and unshakeable commitment to justice will enable me to make a lasting impact on the world. I am driven and determined individual who sets clear goals and achieves them, no matter the challenge.