In my community, food insecurity is a pervasive issue that affects many families, leading to poor nutrition and adverse health outcomes. I believe that a creative and sustainable solution to this problem is the implementation of urban agriculture initiatives. By transforming vacant lots and underutilized spaces into community gardens, we can provide fresh, nutritious produce to those in need, while also fostering a sense of community and promoting environmental sustainability. Urban agriculture offers numerous benefits beyond just providing food. It can serve as an educational tool, teaching community members about healthy eating, agriculture, and sustainability. It also creates green spaces that improve mental health and well-being, reduce urban heat islands, and promote biodiversity. Most importantly, it empowers individuals by giving them the skills and knowledge to grow their own food, thus reducing their dependence on external food sources. To implement this solution, I propose the following steps: 1. Identify Suitable Locations: Collaborate with local government and community organizations to identify vacant lots, rooftops, and other underutilized spaces that can be converted into community gardens. These locations should be easily accessible to residents, particularly those in low-income neighborhoods where food insecurity is most prevalent. 2. Engage the Community: Organize community meetings and workshops to gather input and generate support for the initiative. This will ensure that the project reflects the needs and preferences of the community and fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among participants. 3. Secure Funding and Resources: Apply for grants, seek donations, and partner with local businesses and organizations to secure the necessary funding, tools, and materials for the gardens. This includes seeds, soil, gardening tools, and infrastructure such as raised beds and irrigation systems. 4. Provide Education and Training: Offer workshops and training sessions on topics such as gardening techniques, composting, and nutrition. Partner with local schools, universities, and agricultural experts to provide ongoing support and mentorship to community members. 5. Establish a Management and Maintenance Plan: Develop a plan for the long-term management and maintenance of the gardens. This can include forming a garden committee, scheduling regular workdays, and implementing a crop rotation plan to ensure soil health and productivity. One of the key strengths of urban agriculture is its ability to bring people together and build stronger, more resilient communities. By working collectively to grow food, residents can forge new relationships, share knowledge and resources, and create a support network that extends beyond the garden. This sense of community is essential for addressing the root causes of food insecurity and promoting long-term, sustainable change. In addition to addressing food insecurity, urban agriculture can also have a positive impact on the local economy. By creating opportunities for entrepreneurship and job training, community gardens can help residents develop new skills and generate income. For example, surplus produce can be sold at local farmers' markets or through community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, providing a source of fresh, affordable food for the wider community and supporting local farmers. In conclusion, urban agriculture is a creative and sustainable solution to the pervasive issue of food insecurity in my community. By transforming vacant spaces into thriving community gardens, we can provide fresh produce to those in need, promote health and well-being, and foster a sense of community and empowerment. With the support of this scholarship, I am eager to bring this vision to life and make a lasting impact on my community.

"I want to be just like Daddy someday." These innocent words echoed from my childhood, painting a picture of admiration for my father. He was my hero, the epitome of what I aspired to become. His ability to provide for our family and his charismatic work ethic left an indelible mark on my young mind, shaping my dreams of having a big family and making a difference in the world just like him. However, life has a way of presenting challenges that force us to reassess our ideals. At the tender age of eleven, my world was shaken when my father chose to leave, leaving my mom to shoulder the responsibility of caring for four children. The man I once looked up to wanted nothing to do with our family. For some, this revelation might have been a devastating blow, but in the midst of adversity, I discovered a gift – the gift of resilience. Rather than succumbing to bitterness or despair, I viewed this unexpected turn of events as a challenge to be better, not bitter. His choices were his own, and I realized they did not define me. In the face of abandonment, I made a conscious decision to commit to what truly matters – to be there for my family, to pursue my dreams with unwavering determination, and to rise above the shadows cast by my father's choices. While fathers are expected to be role models, I came to understand that the role need not be confined to biological ties or earthly connections. In my quest for an exemplary figure, I found inspiration in Jesus Christ. The unconditional love that He offers to those who trust in Him became a guiding light in my life. Unlike my earthly father, Jesus embodies a commitment that never wavers; He never walks away from those He loves. The biblical analogy of a shepherd losing one sheep and tirelessly searching until it is found resonated deeply with me. This unwavering commitment and love became the blueprint for the man I aspired to be. Choosing to emulate Jesus became my anchor, providing me with a sense of purpose and direction. This commitment extended beyond familial ties and personal ambitions; it became a guiding principle for every aspect of my life. I envisioned myself as the person who stays committed to what truly matters – family, faith, and the pursuit of a meaningful and purposeful life. Reflecting on my past desire to be like my earthly dad, I've experienced a profound shift. Now, I declare with conviction, "I want to be just like my Dad. I want to be like Jesus." This transformation is not a rejection of my father's legacy but an evolution of my identity. It's a testament to the resilience I've developed, choosing to transcend the challenges and emerge stronger. In conclusion, my journey from childhood admiration to facing the harsh realities of my father's choices has shaped me into a person committed to values that endure. The abandonment I experienced became a catalyst for resilience, leading me to redefine my aspirations and values. Embracing the example set by Jesus, I've discovered a path to unwavering commitment, unconditional love, and resilience, defining the man I strive to become. As I navigate life's journey, I am guided by the belief that one's character is not defined by circumstances but by the choices made in response to them.

In honor of an extraordinary individual who valued selflessness and dedicated her life to helping others reach their potential, this scholarship aims to support students demonstrating a commitment to these generous values. I am excited to share my journey, marked by the development of skills and a passionate commitment to empowering those around me. My story begins with a profound belief in the transformative power of encouragement and support. Growing up, I became aware of the positive impact that guidance and assistance can have on individuals facing challenges. This awareness fueled my determination to overcome obstacles and contribute to the growth of those around me. Academically, my pursuit of knowledge and my desire to share that enthusiasm have been integral to my journey. As a student engaged in subjects like physics, chemistry, and genetics, I recognized the need for fostering resilience and perseverance among my peers who might find these topics challenging. I have actively encouraged them to embrace the idea that success often lies on the other side of challenges, promoting a spirit of practice and persistence. Moreover, I've discovered that I, too, learn invaluable lessons when I take on the role of a teacher. Teaching has a unique way of solidifying one's understanding of a subject. When I explain concepts or demonstrate techniques to my peers, I deepen my own comprehension and gain fresh insights. This process of teaching and learning has not only enhanced my academic journey but also has hopefully enriched my ability to convey complex ideas effectively. Beyond the academic realm, my passion for helping others has extended into the world of sports, particularly swimming. As a dedicated team member, I not only strive for personal excellence but also uplift my teammates. The pool becomes a metaphorical classroom, where the principles of resilience, discipline, and continuous improvement are taught through the strokes and laps. During swim meets, I am focused not only on my own performance but also on motivating my teammates, sharing strategies, and ensuring that each member of the team feels empowered to give their best. Volunteering has become an essential part of my commitment to helping others. From studying with others to team activities, I actively seek opportunities to share my knowledge and skills with those who may want extra support. Witnessing the moment when someone grasps a challenging concept or achieves a personal milestone is incredibly rewarding – a testament to the power of encouragement and assistance. In conclusion, my journey is marked by a deep-seated commitment to fostering growth and helping others be their best. Whether it's within the academic arena, the swimming pool, or the community, I have dedicated myself to instilling the values of resilience, encouragement, and continuous improvement. This scholarship holds immense significance for me, as it aligns perfectly with my life's purpose and passion – empowering others to unlock their true potential. I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this scholarship, which will further fuel my mission of making a positive impact on those around me.

Growing up without my dad has been an unexpected journey, especially with our family's encounter with substance abuse due to his struggles and eventual departure. However, contrary to common narratives, it hasn't been a constant struggle for me. My dad's exit, combined with his personal struggles with substances and legal issues, left my mom to navigate life with four kids. While money became tighter, it didn't add an overwhelming burden to our lives. Challenges have a way of building resilience, and that's been the theme of my story. Substance abuse's effects on an individual can be profound, affecting not just the person but also those around them. In my case, his struggles led me to reevaluate my goals. The realization that dad wasn't a role model I wanted to look up to made me lean on a steadier source of inspiration – my faith in Jesus Christ. The "My Father" essay captures the innocence of childhood dreams, but life's twists expanded my idea of role models. My biological dad's exit became an opportunity to reshape my goals, finding comfort in the example set by Jesus – a figure showing unconditional love, commitment, and resilience. Through the unpredictable times, my family evolved positively. My dad's absence brought my siblings and me closer, turning us into an unbreakable support system for our mom. We learned to lean on each other, emphasizing the importance of family bonds and mutual support. Reflecting on my career dreams, a connection emerges between my past and my goals. Our family's encounter with substance abuse sparked a passion for a career that aligns with my interests and helps others. With a love for animals, I aim to be a large animal researcher, geneticist, or nutrition expert. The challenges of my past fuel a desire to contribute to the well-being of animals, mirroring the care and resilience cultivated within my family. Beyond scientific pursuits, my interest in advocacy stems from our family's journey. Witnessing the impact of addiction on my loved ones has spurred a commitment to raising awareness on important issues. I envision engaging in advocacy efforts, contributing to a broader conversation on tough topics for our world today. In conclusion, my personal experience with my dad's struggles with substance abuse and eventual departure has not been a constant struggle for my family, but it has built resilience and influenced my career aspirations. These challenges prompted me to reshape my values, draw inspiration from positive role models, and turn my experiences into a passion for helping others. This scholarship isn't just financial aid; it's a recognition of my unique journey and a testament to my resilience in the face of unexpected twists. I'm committed to using this opportunity to further my education and make meaningful contributions to the field.

In the tapestry of my life, woven with threads of resilience and determination, the most influential person stands as a beacon of unwavering strength and boundless love — my mother. While the traditional choice might often be a father, it is my mother who has shaped my worldview and imparted invaluable lessons through her indomitable spirit in the face of adversity. Six years ago, our family faced a seismic shift when my father left, leaving my mom to shoulder the responsibility of caring for four children, ranging from 13 to as young as 5. This abrupt departure thrust us into financial uncertainty, navigating life with only one car and a myriad of challenges. In the midst of this upheaval, my mother emerged as the anchor that steadied our ship, a pillar of strength on which our family leaned for support. Financial hardship became a constant companion, casting shadows of doubt on the pursuit of higher education for my sister and me. The prospect of college seemed like an insurmountable mountain, but my mother, with her unwavering determination, became our guiding light. She taught us that challenges, though formidable, are not insurmountable barriers; they are opportunities for growth, resilience, and an unwavering pursuit of a better future. Through her actions, my mother instilled in us the importance of perseverance. Despite the financial constraints, she worked tirelessly to ensure that we had the essentials — a roof over our heads, food on the table, and the opportunity for education. Her sacrifices were not just a means to an end; they were a testament to the boundless love that propels a mother to go to extraordinary lengths for the well-being of her children. The experiences my mother provided were not only about survival; they were profound lessons in resilience, empathy, and optimism. She taught us that laughter can be a healing force, that joy can be found in the simplest of moments, and that every challenge is an opportunity to showcase our strength. The difficult decisions she faced, often alone, illuminated the path we now tread, teaching us the importance of independence and the ability to make choices that shape our destiny. In the tapestry of our family life, my mother wove a narrative of everyday adventure. Despite the hardships, she infused our lives with a sense of joy and wonder, demonstrating that the strength to overcome adversity lies not just in enduring it but in finding joy along the way. As I navigate the complex terrain of higher education, my mother's influence remains an unwavering source of inspiration. Her resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering optimism have become the foundation upon which I build my ambitions. The lessons learned from her experiences fuel my drive to pursue higher education not just as a personal goal but as a tribute to the sacrifices she made and the lessons she imparted. In conclusion, my mother's influence on my life is immeasurable. Through financial hardships, emotional struggles, and everyday triumphs, she has been the embodiment of strength and love. As I embark on the journey of higher education, I carry with me the indomitable spirit she cultivated, transforming challenges into stepping stones and adversity into opportunities for growth. The Ventana Scholarship represents not only a chance to alleviate the financial burden but a recognition of the perseverance and ambition instilled in me by the most influential person in my life — my extraordinary mother.

The rhythmic cadence of the ocean's waves has always held a profound allure for me, a melody that intertwines with the very essence of my being. As I stand on the shorelines of my passion for ocean conservation, the Ventana Ocean Conservation Scholarship beckons as an opportunity to transform my heartfelt concern for our oceans into tangible and impactful action. My journey into the realm of ocean conservation is not merely an academic pursuit; it's a calling that resonates with the core of my identity. The oceans, vast and teeming with life, are not just bodies of water but intricate ecosystems that sustain life on Earth. Witnessing the escalating threats posed by pollution, climate change, and overexploitation has fueled my commitment to be a steward of the seas. The mission of Ventana Surfboards & Supplies aligns seamlessly with my values. Their dedication to being the most environmentally responsible surf company on the planet resonates deeply with my belief that collective responsibility is paramount in safeguarding our oceans. As a future custodian of marine ecosystems, I share Ventana's commitment to mitigating the impact of human activities on the ocean, ensuring its vitality for generations to come. The decision to pursue a major related to ocean conservation, specifically marine biology, is driven by a profound desire to unravel the mysteries of the ocean and contribute to its preservation. Through my academic journey, I aim to delve into the intricate relationships within marine ecosystems, understanding the delicate balance that sustains the rich biodiversity of our oceans. Armed with knowledge, my goal is to champion evidence-based conservation strategies that address the pressing issues threatening our marine environments. The ocean, to me, is not just a subject of academic curiosity; it is a source of inspiration, wonder, and solace. My passion extends beyond textbooks and classrooms, finding expression in hands-on experiences such as beach clean-ups, marine life monitoring, and community outreach initiatives. These experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and a realization that protecting our oceans requires a multifaceted approach that combines scientific expertise with community engagement. Upon completing my degree in marine biology, I envision a future where I actively contribute to ocean conservation efforts. Whether it's researching endangered species, implementing community-based conservation projects, or advocating for sustainable policies, I aim to be a catalyst for positive change. Through collaboration with organizations like Ventana Surfboards & Supplies, I aspire to bridge the gap between scientific research and on-the-ground conservation initiatives, creating a ripple effect of awareness and action. In conclusion, the Ventana Ocean Conservation Scholarship is not just a financial support mechanism; it is a beacon guiding me toward a future where my academic pursuits translate into meaningful contributions to the preservation of our oceans. I care deeply about protecting our oceans because they embody the resilience, beauty, and interconnectedness of our planet. With my degree as a compass, I am poised to embark on a lifelong journey of ocean advocacy, inspired by the waves that carry the hopes of generations yet to come.

In the intricate tapestry of life, certain individuals leave an indelible mark, their dreams and aspirations echoing through the corridors of time. Christina Taylese Singh was one such soul, an aspiring occupational therapist whose journey was tragically cut short while pursuing her passion. Now, as I navigate my path in the realm of healthcare and medicine, I find inspiration in Christina's memory, seeking to honor her legacy through my endeavors. My journey into the world of healthcare is not just a career choice; it's a calling fueled by a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. My academic pursuit has been guided by a genuine passion for understanding the intricacies of the human body and a commitment to fostering wellness in the community. Currently maintaining a GPA of 4.0, I recognize the importance of academic excellence as a foundation for the impactful work that lies ahead. The field of healthcare and medicine is vast, encompassing a myriad of specialties, each with its unique challenges and opportunities. As I reflect on my journey, I am drawn to the field of occupational therapy, a discipline that resonates with the compassion and empathy embedded in Christina Taylese Singh's legacy. The transformative power of occupational therapy in enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing physical, mental, or emotional challenges aligns seamlessly with my values. Occupational therapy, to me, is not just a profession; it's a bridge to empowerment and independence for those navigating the complexities of life with various health conditions. The prospect of assisting individuals in regaining the ability to engage in meaningful daily activities, fostering resilience and self-efficacy, is a calling that resonates deeply with my sense of purpose. I aspire to walk in Christina's footsteps, using my skills and knowledge to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Volunteering has been a cornerstone of my journey, providing me with invaluable insights into the challenges faced by individuals in diverse healthcare settings. Whether it's spending time with elderly residents in assisted living facilities or assisting in therapeutic programs for children with developmental disorders, these experiences have reinforced my commitment to a career that goes beyond the confines of a clinic or hospital. The scholarship honoring Christina Taylese Singh holds a special place in my heart, not only because it provides financial support for my educational pursuits but because it symbolizes a shared commitment to the principles she held dear. Christina's untimely departure serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the urgency with which we must pursue our dreams. In conclusion, as I embark on this journey in healthcare and medicine, I carry with me the spirit of Christina Taylese Singh — a spirit characterized by compassion, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to the well-being of others. Through the pursuit of occupational therapy, I hope to contribute to a legacy of healing, empowerment, and service, honoring Christina's memory in every life I touch.

In the mosaic of my life, every piece carries the imprint of determination, family bonds, and a profound love for both education and athletics. As a homeschooler since kindergarten, my academic journey has been unique, shaped by my commitment to discipline, perseverance, and a passion for learning. Now a sophomore at NC State, I find myself standing at the intersection of past experiences and future aspirations, ready to share my story with the essence of Stephan Laurence Wolley's principles deeply embedded in my narrative. My homeschooling background laid the foundation for my academic pursuits, fostering an environment where curiosity thrived, and self-discipline became second nature. The decision to homeschool was driven by the belief that education is not confined to the four walls of a classroom but is a holistic experience that permeates every aspect of life. In this supportive environment, I developed the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of academia, laying the groundwork for my current pursuit of a dual major in Biological Sciences and Animal Science at NC State. As I reflect on my journey, family emerges as a central theme, an unwavering support system that has been both my anchor and my source of inspiration. The dynamics of my family changed significantly when my father left when I was eleven. The financial strain became a reality, and my mother, a beacon of strength, took on the responsibility of raising four children single-handedly. Despite the challenges, our family unit has grown stronger, and the bond between my siblings and me has deepened. This experience has instilled in me a profound appreciation for resilience and a commitment to overcoming obstacles with grace and determination. Athletics have been a constant companion in my life, shaping not only my physical well-being but also my character. While I did not play football, my involvement in soccer and basketball during my formative years laid the groundwork for a lifelong love of sports. Swimming, in particular, has been a steadfast presence, teaching me discipline, time management, and the importance of physical and mental well-being. As a current member of NC State's Club Swim team, I continue to embrace the values instilled in me by sports – teamwork, dedication, and a drive for excellence. My collegiate journey at NC State is a testament to my ambition and dedication to academic and athletic pursuits. Majoring in Biological Sciences and Animal Science, I am driven by a passion for large animal research and reproduction. My vision extends beyond the classroom, as I aspire to attain a Master's and Ph.D., delving into the realms of animal nutrition and genetics. My goal is to become a researcher and reproduction specialist, contributing to advancements in livestock and horse science. In conclusion, my journey encapsulates the essence of Stephan Laurence Wolley's principles – a commitment to family, faith, and competition. My homeschooling background, family dynamics, athletic endeavors, and academic aspirations converge to form a narrative of resilience, ambition, and a deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact in the world of animal sciences. The scholarship would not only support my educational journey but also serve as a recognition of the values I hold dear – values that mirror the spirit of Stephan Laurence Wolley and the enduring pursuit of excellence in both academics and athletics.

In the intricate tapestry of life, there are moments that shape our character, test our resilience, and define our purpose. For me, the impact of kidney disease has been a profound and transformative force, weaving its threads through the fabric of my existence and leaving an indelible mark on my journey. My connection to kidney disease is not merely academic or observational; it is deeply personal, intertwined with the narratives of two remarkable individuals: Carrie Lee Williams and Carrie Silvania. Through their stories, I have come to understand the profound implications of kidney disorders, both in the face of adversity and the triumph of the human spirit. The first chapter of this narrative introduces the late Carrie Lee Williams, a woman whose life was tragically cut short by the clutches of kidney disease. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the insidious nature of this condition, a reminder that kidney disease does not discriminate and can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. Witnessing the toll it took on Carrie Lee's precious life has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to raising awareness about this silent but devastating affliction. Carrie Silvania, on the other hand, embodies resilience and triumph over adversity. Afflicted by a kidney disorder as an infant, her journey has been a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Today, as a thriving high school athlete and honor roll student, she stands as a beacon of hope for those grappling with the uncertainties of kidney disease. Her determination to not let the shadows of illness define her future has left an indomitable impression on my own perspective, inspiring me to confront challenges with courage and tenacity. The impact of kidney disease extends beyond the individual diagnosed; it casts a wide net that envelops families, friends, and communities. In my case, the diagnosis of a close family friend illuminated the interconnectedness of our lives and the shared burden of navigating the complexities of healthcare. The emotional toll of witnessing a loved one's struggle with kidney disease has fueled my desire to contribute to the field of healthcare, with a particular focus on renal care and support. As I reflect on how kidney disease has touched my life, I am aware of the need for greater advocacy and understanding. The ripple effects of this condition are far-reaching, affecting not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. It has motivated me to become an active participant in the fight against kidney disease, whether through volunteering at local health clinics or engaging in community outreach initiatives. Applying for the Caring 4 Carrie (C4C) Kidney Advocacy Scholarship is not just a pursuit of financial support; it is a testament to my commitment to turning adversity into advocacy. My ambition to make a difference in the lives of those affected by kidney disease is fueled by the resilience of individuals like Carrie Silvania and the memory of Carrie Lee Williams. I aspire to honor their legacies by pursuing a career in Nursing. Concluding, the impact of kidney disease has been a catalyst for personal growth, empathy, and a sense of purpose. It has taught me that adversity can be a powerful motivator for positive change and that, in the face of challenges, the human spirit can emerge stronger and more resilient than ever. The C4C Kidney Advocacy Scholarship represents not just a financial opportunity but a platform to amplify the voices of those affected by kidney disease, fostering a community dedicated to raising awareness and supporting one another on the journey to triumph over adversity.

As I lace up my cleats and step onto the field, I am reminded of the profound impact soccer has had on my life—a journey filled with highs, lows, and invaluable life lessons. Much like Nasser Seconi, whose passion for the game and commitment to helping others left an indelible mark, I too have experienced the transformative power of soccer. This scholarship is not just an opportunity; it is a chance to honor Nasser's legacy by supporting individuals who share his love for soccer and his dedication to uplifting others. My soccer journey began with the excitement and nerves of a young player stepping onto the field for the first time. The highs were pure joy—the adrenaline rush of scoring my first goal, the camaraderie with teammates, and the sense of accomplishment after grueling practices. Yet, with the highs came inevitable lows—the sting of defeat, the frustration of missed opportunities, and the physical and mental toll of pushing my limits. These experiences, both uplifting and challenging, shaped me into the player and person I am today. One particular low in my soccer career stands out—a season marked by losses and personal setbacks. Instead of succumbing to defeat, I channeled Nasser's determination and perseverance. I sought guidance from coaches, worked tirelessly on refining my skills, and leaned on the support of my teammates. In the face of adversity, I discovered the true essence of teamwork and resilience. It was not about avoiding failure but learning to rise stronger after each setback. The highs and lows of my soccer journey have been instrumental in my personal growth. I have learned the importance of discipline, time management, and teamwork. Soccer has taught me to embrace challenges, cultivate a positive mindset, and celebrate both victories and defeats as stepping stones toward improvement. These invaluable lessons extend beyond the field, influencing my academic pursuits and community involvement. In alignment with Nasser's legacy, I am not only passionate about soccer but also committed to making a positive impact on those around me. Off the field, I have volunteered as a coach for youth soccer programs, sharing my love for the game and instilling the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. The joy of seeing young players develop their skills and confidence mirrors Nasser's commitment to helping others improve. Receiving the Nasser Seconi Scholarship would be a pivotal moment in my journey. It would provide the financial support needed to pursue higher education and continue my involvement in soccer. As a recipient, I am dedicated to honoring Nasser's memory by embodying his spirit—working hard, staying positive, and uplifting others. This scholarship represents more than a financial opportunity; it is a connection to a legacy that inspires and motivates. In conclusion, my soccer journey has been a tapestry of highs and lows, each thread weaving a story of growth, resilience, and passion. Nasser Seconi's legacy serves as a beacon, guiding aspiring individuals like me toward excellence on and off the field. This scholarship is not just a means to an end; it is an affirmation of the values Nasser embodied, and I am eager to carry his spirit forward, making a lasting impact on the soccer community and beyond.

My name is Nathan Hall, and I am a 16-year-old, high school senior, graduating a year early after skipping the tenth grade, and being dual-enrolled for two years. I am a prospective college freshman for Fall 2023 at my dream school. NC State University. I have practically grown up on campus. My mom graduated from State and loved showing us around. We would go to the pool at the gym to swim every weekend, Friday to Sunday. Then we would top it all off with an ice cream sundae at the Student Union (humorously defeating the purpose!). I have gone to NC State swim meets, tennis matches, football, and basketball games. I love NC State and wanted it to be my school one day. With the help of this scholarship, my dream will become reality. What would I study though? As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me—my mom. The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she would say, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed. My mom also majored in math at NC State. She loved it and could not help but teach with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond. It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. This then led to my interest in science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love natural sciences. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but the most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation. STEM consists of various mathematical-based disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Many unique majors are enveloped in these subjects. Ever since I studied advanced biology (human anatomy) in eighth grade, I knew science was what I wanted to learn and practice for the rest of my life. In my freshman through junior high school years, I studied biology, chemistry, and physics. Not one of these sciences failed to excite me. I never considered a path other than science. Ultimately, I determined that biology was my favorite of these subjects. I am now pursuing a degree in biological sciences. I find the subject fascinating because it shows that even the smallest, yet most complex, structures that fabricate some of the most minute units of life, ultimately point to the intelligence of our Creator, God. It was my mom who inspired me to pursue STEM, by simply practicing math concepts until I could understand them and write them out. And it was STEM that allowed me to see God's greatness even more clearly.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that affects 30,000 people in the United States alone. This rare neurological disease affects one’s control over voluntary muscle movements. ALS is a fatal disease and cannot be paused or reversed. It begins to affect a person's muscles that control their facial muscles for speech or swallowing, or it will take effect in a person's limbs, from their hands and arms to their legs and feet. "Unfortunate" is an understatement when the disease is purely tragic. 30,000 of over 3 million people in the United States are affected with ALS, with approximately 5000 new cases each year, which may not seem like a large number to some. However, it is just the opposite. If there are 30,000 individuals who contract ALS and are given--quite frankly--a death sentence, how many more individuals are indirectly hurt by the disease. Nearly every person who is diagnosed with ALS has a family. They have spouses, children, grandchildren, and friends who all care deeply about them. The diagnosed will leave behind loved ones. Imagine for a moment, if one of your loved ones was diagnosed with ALS and was suddenly taken from you. Or imagine yourself being diagnosed with ALS and leaving behind so many loved ones. All loved ones of an ALS-infected individual will experience pain and hurt when they no longer can talk to, see, or call one who has died from this disease. ALS affects those diagnosed with the disease and their loved ones. Additionally, ALS comes with major expenses. Those who are diagnosed with ALS require much medical attention and their finances or their loved ones'/care takers' financial security could be impacted by the unexpected expenses. I have personally been blessed to not be impacted by ALS, be it a family member or friend diagnosed. I may not truly know how it feels to know someone who has been diagnosed or has died from ALS. But, I can sympathize because I have experienced the loss of loved ones too. While ALS has not impacted me personally, whether emotionally or financially, there are potential ways in which my career plan can be beneficial to ALS. I desire to pursue Biological Sciences with a concentration in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pay tuition expenses at school and I will be able to receive an education in Biology. I will then be able to start a career built on my Biology education and may be able to have a career in vaccine research and development, pharmaceuticals, or disease research and cure development. With any of these occupations, I will be blessed to play a small part in the advancement of research and, hopefully, the eventual curing of ALS. ALS is a tragic disease that affects not only 30,000+ who are diagnosed with the disease, but also their family, friends, and other loved ones who are impacted by the emotional hurt of the loss of a loved one and also major financial effects, whether expected or unexpected, are a real hit to the stomach. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pursue further education in the Biological Sciences which I can apply to a career in which I may be able to help research and develop a cure for ALS. Even if my endeavors are unsuccessful, I will be blessed to play a part in the future of ALS, hoping to eliminate all the heartbreak and other hardships that ALS causes thousands of people in the United States and around the world. Everyone deserves better, and I want to help.

As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me—my mom. The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she says, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed. A big reason math was so important in my education was that my mom majored in math. She loved it and could not help but teach math with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a problem very quickly, but not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond. It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. This then leading my interest in science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with my math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love science. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but the most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation. All this complexity was spoken into existence by a single word. I can use math in every aspect of my life. Currently, a possibility of a future career consists of research. Researchers often must make specific and exact measurements and be good at statistics to accurately consider their data. As a swimmer, I use math from strategizing a 50Y swim in a longer race as a percentage of my overall race, counting laps for long-distance, or making consecutive times and knowing when to leave the wall. In school, physics, chemistry, and statistics are required for my major. Being dual-enrolled in community college, taking College Physics 1 + 2, has taught me that math is vital for success in science. Everywhere in life, I see math being used.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that affects 30,000 people in the United States alone. This rare neurological disease affects one’s control over voluntary muscle movements. ALS is a fatal disease and cannot be paused or reversed. It begins to affect a person's muscles that control their facial muscles for speech or swallowing, or it will take effect in a person's limbs, from their hands and arms to their legs and feet. "Unfortunate" is an understatement when the disease is purely tragic. 30,000 of over 3 million people in the United States are affected with ALS, with approximately 5000 new cases each year, which may not seem like a large number to some. However, it is just the opposite. If there are 30,000 individuals who contract ALS and are given--quite frankly--a death sentence, how many more individuals are indirectly hurt by the disease. Nearly every person who is diagnosed with ALS has a family. They have spouses, children, grandchildren, and friends who all care deeply about them. The diagnosed will leave behind loved ones. Imagine for a moment, if one of your loved ones was diagnosed with ALS and was suddenly taken from you. Or imagine yourself being diagnosed with ALS and leaving behind so many loved ones. All loved ones of an ALS-infected individual will experience pain and hurt when they no longer can talk to, see, or call one who has died from this disease. ALS affects those diagnosed with the disease and their loved ones. Additionally, ALS comes with major expenses. Those who are diagnosed with ALS require much medical attention and their finances or their loved ones'/care takers' financial security could be impacted by the unexpected expenses. I have personally been blessed to not be impacted by ALS, be it a family member or friend diagnosed. I may not truly know how it feels to know someone who has been diagnosed or has died from ALS. But, I can sympathize because I have experienced the loss of loved ones too. While ALS has not impacted me personally, whether emotionally or financially, there are potential ways in which my career plan can be beneficial to ALS. I desire to pursue Biological Sciences with a concentration in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pay tuition expenses at school and I will be able to receive an education in Biology. I will then be able to start a career built on my Biology education and may be able to have a career in vaccine research and development, pharmaceuticals, or disease research and cure development. With any of these occupations, I will be blessed to play a small part in the advancement of research and, hopefully, the eventual curing of ALS. ALS is a tragic disease that affects not only 30,000+ who are diagnosed with the disease, but also their family, friends, and other loved ones who are impacted by the emotional hurt of the loss of a loved one and also major financial effects, whether expected or unexpected, are a real hit to the stomach. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pursue further education in the Biological Sciences which I can apply to a career in which I may be able to help research and develop a cure for ALS. Even if my endeavors are unsuccessful, I will be blessed to play a part in the future of ALS, hoping to eliminate all the heartbreak and other hardships that ALS causes thousands of people in the United States and around the world. Everyone deserves better, and I want to help.

As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me—my mom.      The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she says, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed.      A big reason math was so important in my education was that my mom majored in math. She loved it and could not help but teach math with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a problem very quickly, but not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond.      It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. This then leading my interest in science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with my math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love science. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but the most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation. All this complexity was spoken into existence by a single word.      I can use math in every aspect of my life. Currently, a possibility of a future career consists of research. Researchers often must make specific and exact measurements and be good at statistics to accurately consider their data. As a swimmer, I use math from strategizing a 50Y swim in a longer race as a percentage of my overall race, counting laps for long-distance, or making consecutive times and knowing when to leave the wall. In school, physics, chemistry, and statistics are required for my major. Being dual-enrolled in community college, taking College Physics 1 + 2, has taught me that math is vital for success in science. Everywhere in life, I see math being used.

Chills tingle down my spine as the muffled voice announces, “Swimmers, step in.” Black cap tightly pressed against my fastened goggles, I hop in. The crystal-clear water is bone-chillingly cold. I reach my slightly shivering hands up and grasp the bar. I only hope my hands do not slip when I pull up to dive. “Take your marks.” I pull my body up out of the water in a seemingly fetal position, every muscle in my body tense. BEEP! I launch myself away from the wall and slice through the water's surface. After I dolphin underwater halfway, I commence backstroke. Without the slightest turn of my head, I see the violent splashes of my competitors on either side of me. I am approaching the wall to flip. Heart pounding, I summersault underwater and rapidly begin my second lap. I breathlessly sprint to the wall, barely able to feel my unceasingly kicking legs. Ten yards remaining. Three. I throw my arm behind me and powerfully hit the wall. I finished! Splash! My teammate begins the second leg of the race, breaststroke. This is a relay. Many people don’t think relays are important because they do not represent a swimmer’s individual performance. But every swimmer has potential and something to offer to the relay. The coach sees their potential and places them where they will most positively impact the team’s time and increase their likelihood of winning. The coach believes each swimmer earned their spot on the relay team. All that’s left is teamwork. I have discovered that this sort of teamwork has inherent parallels in everyday life. When I took physics, my teacher paired up lab groups himself. I was nervous because, while I took on the role of lab group leader, I had to depend upon two other students for my grade. However, the purpose of the lab, I realized, was not to exhibit my personal abilities, but to practice teamwork. This is a lot like a relay race in a few ways. First, my lab partners and I all earned our spots on the “team”, just like each swimmer earns their spot on the relay. We had the same prerequisites completed, so we had the same foundational knowledge for the course. I was not in a group with elementary students but placed with students at my specific academic level. Next, our teacher was the “coach”, putting a relay together that he thought would succeed. Our teacher paired us up specifically, believing that with good teamwork, we would be successful. He knew we were well-equipped to tackle the subject matter as a team. Finally, the most important key to success is that everyone gives their all in their “leg of the race”. Each member of a team must share in the work. After completing the lab, we would split up the write-up work equally. All that was left to do was to trust in each other. Once I did my part to the best of my ability, all I could do was trust that everyone else would give one hundred and ten percent to their share of the work, to their “leg of the race”. I have found the importance of teamwork in many aspects of everyday life, from swimming in a relay race to a shared contribution in a physics lab group. Because my lab group practiced this teamwork, it paid off in our grades. In this world of “me, me, me” and “every man for himself”, it is more important than ever for us to practice teamwork. After all, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”

Chills tingle down my spine as the muffled voice announces, “Swimmers, step in.” Black cap tightly pressed against my fastened goggles, I hop in. The crystal-clear water is bone-chillingly cold. I reach my slightly shivering hands up and grasp the bar. I only hope my hands do not slip when I pull up to dive. “Take your marks.” I pull my body up out of the water in a seemingly fetal position, every muscle in my body tense. BEEP! I launch myself away from the wall and slice through the water's surface. After I dolphin underwater halfway, I commence backstroke. Without the slightest turn of my head, I see the violent splashes of my competitors on either side of me. I am approaching the wall to flip. Heart pounding, I summersault underwater and rapidly begin my second lap. I breathlessly sprint to the wall, barely able to feel my unceasingly kicking legs. Ten yards remaining. Three. I throw my arm behind me and powerfully hit the wall. I finished! Splash! My teammate begins the second leg of the race, breaststroke. This is a relay. Many people don’t think relays are important because they do not represent a swimmer’s individual performance. But every swimmer has potential and something to offer to the relay. The coach sees their potential and places them where they will most positively impact the team’s time and increase their likelihood of winning. The coach believes each swimmer earned their spot on the relay team. All that’s left is teamwork. I have discovered that this sort of teamwork has inherent parallels in everyday life. When I took physics, my teacher paired up lab groups himself. I was nervous because, while I took on the role of lab group leader, I had to depend upon two other students for my grade. However, the purpose of the lab, I realized, was not to exhibit my personal abilities, but to practice teamwork. This is a lot like a relay race in a few ways. First, my lab partners and I all earned our spots on the “team”, just like each swimmer earns their spot on the relay. We had the same prerequisites completed, so we had the same foundational knowledge for the course. I was not in a group with elementary students but placed with students at my specific academic level. Next, our teacher was the “coach”, putting a relay together that he thought would succeed. Our teacher paired us up specifically, believing that with good teamwork, we would be successful. He knew we were well-equipped to tackle the subject matter as a team. Finally, the most important key to success is that everyone gives their all in their “leg of the race”. Each member of a team must share in the work. After completing the lab, we would split up the write-up work equally. All that was left to do was to trust in each other. Once I did my part to the best of my ability, all I could do was trust that everyone else would give one hundred and ten percent to their share of the work, to their “leg of the race”. I have found the importance of teamwork in many aspects of everyday life, from swimming in a relay race to a shared contribution in a physics lab group. Because my lab group practiced this teamwork, it paid off in our grades. In this world of “me, me, me” and “every man for himself”, it is more important than ever for us to practice teamwork. After all, “Teamwork makes the dream work.” Chills tingle down my spine as the muffled voice announces, “Swimmers, step in.” Black cap tightly pressed against my fastened goggles, I hop in. The crystal-clear water is bone-chillingly cold. I reach my slightly shivering hands up and grasp the bar. I only hope my hands do not slip when I pull up to dive. “Take your marks.” I pull my body up out of the water in a seemingly fetal position, every muscle in my body tense. BEEP! I launch myself away from the wall and slice through the water's surface. After I dolphin underwater halfway, I commence backstroke. Without the slightest turn of my head, I see the violent splashes of my competitors on either side of me. I am approaching the wall to flip. Heart pounding, I summersault underwater and rapidly begin my second lap. I breathlessly sprint to the wall, barely able to feel my unceasingly kicking legs. Ten yards remaining. Three. I throw my arm behind me and powerfully hit the wall. I finished! Splash! My teammate begins the second leg of the race, breaststroke. This is a relay.

As a high school, student leader in AWANA, I have watched children in kindergarten grow into fifth graders, maturing in their Biblical knowledge and in their faith. My role is to facilitate a fun and energetic environment for the kids. They say their Bible verses to me, tell me about school and soccer games, and run around playing freeze tag or cross the ocean with me. I enjoyed volunteering with the same kids as they grew older, volunteering in Kindergarten and moving up to 5th grade. I remember one boy that I had from K-5th grade and he was a wiggler. He was incredibly intelligent, but his energy made him rowdy. While the rest of the volunteer leaders were busy listening to other kids say their verses, I would hang out with this one boy. When I was with him, he wasn’t running around the room, making the rest of the kids wild, but he was calm and quiet. I would give him my wristwatch and let him mess around with it, pushing buttons and using the stopwatch feature. He needed something to touch and play with from my watch to my shoe laces or cinch sack. When he reached 3rd through 5th grade, he was very calm and didn’t need someone to occupy him as much, so I got to hang out with him during small group time and play in the gym with him. It was rewarding to see him mature in the way he did, and I wouldn’t have witnessed it if I was not serving. What this child and others have taught me in my community service is a few things. Yes, I am serving the community by taking these children off their parents’ hands and providing an afternoon care for them. But, I also learn about these kids; I get to hang out and have fun with them. The most rewarding aspect of community service in AWANA, is that I get to watch kids mature physically and spiritually, from becoming less wiggly to memorizing verses of the Bible and learning about Jesus every week. Volunteering in my community has displayed its value in my life. I may be serving the community, but it doesn’t feel like community service. It feels like I’m a little kid again, being silly and having fun with these children. Sometimes seeing the world through a child’s perspective can make the biggest difference in a community. I have been volunteering since I was in 6th grade, and I plan on continuing as far out as I can see, meeting new kids and watching them grow up in age and grow up in faith.

Chills tingle down my spine as the muffled voice announces, “Swimmers, step in.” Black cap tightly pressed against my fastened goggles, I hop in. The crystal-clear water is bone-chillingly cold. I reach my slightly shivering hands up and grasp the bar. I only hope my hands do not slip when I pull up to dive. “Take your marks.” I pull my body up out of the water in a seemingly fetal position, every muscle in my body tense. BEEP! I launch myself away from the wall and slice through the water's surface. After I dolphin underwater halfway, I commence backstroke. Without the slightest turn of my head, I see the violent splashes of my competitors on either side of me. I am approaching the wall to flip. Heart pounding, I summersault underwater and rapidly begin my second lap. I breathlessly sprint to the wall, barely able to feel my unceasingly kicking legs. Ten yards remaining. Three. I throw my arm behind me and powerfully hit the wall. I finished! Splash! My teammate begins the second leg of the race, breaststroke. This is a relay. Many people don’t think relays are important because they do not represent a swimmer’s individual performance. But every swimmer has potential and something to offer to the relay. The coach sees their potential and places them where they will most positively impact the team’s time and increase their likelihood of winning. The coach believes each swimmer earned their spot on the relay team. All that’s left is teamwork. I have discovered that this sort of teamwork has inherent parallels in everyday life. When I took physics, my teacher paired up lab groups himself. I was nervous because, while I took on the role of lab group leader, I had to depend upon two other students for my grade. However, the purpose of the lab, I realized, was not to exhibit my personal abilities, but to practice teamwork. This is a lot like a relay race in a few ways. First, my lab partners and I all earned our spots on the “team”, just like each swimmer earns their spot on the relay. We had the same prerequisites completed, so we had the same foundational knowledge for the course. I was not in a group with elementary students but placed with students at my specific academic level. Next, our teacher was the “coach”, putting a relay together that he thought would succeed. Our teacher paired us up specifically, believing that with good teamwork, we would be successful. He knew we were well-equipped to tackle the subject matter as a team. Finally, the most important key to success is that everyone gives their all in their “leg of the race”. Each member of a team must share in the work. After completing the lab, we would split up the write-up work equally. All that was left to do was to trust in each other. Once I did my part to the best of my ability, all I could do was trust that everyone else would give one hundred and ten percent to their share of the work, to their “leg of the race”. I have found the importance of teamwork in many aspects of everyday life, from swimming in a relay race to a shared contribution in a physics lab group. Because my lab group practiced this teamwork, it paid off in our grades. In this world of “me, me, me” and “every man for himself”, it is more important than ever for us to practice teamwork. After all, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”

Chills tingle down my spine as the muffled voice announces, “Swimmers, step in.” Black cap tightly pressed against my fastened goggles, I hop in. The crystal-clear water is bone-chillingly cold. I reach my slightly shivering hands up and grasp the bar. I only hope my hands do not slip when I pull up to dive. “Take your marks.” I pull my body up out of the water in a seemingly fetal position, every muscle in my body tense. BEEP! I launch myself away from the wall and slice through the water's surface. After I dolphin underwater halfway, I commence backstroke. Without the slightest turn of my head, I see the violent splashes of my competitors on either side of me. I am approaching the wall to flip. Heart pounding, I summersault underwater and rapidly begin my second lap. I breathlessly sprint to the wall, barely able to feel my unceasingly kicking legs. Ten yards remaining. Three. I throw my arm behind me and powerfully hit the wall. I finished! Splash! My teammate begins the second leg of the race, breaststroke. This is a relay. Many people don’t think relays are important because they do not represent a swimmer’s individual performance. But every swimmer has potential and something to offer to the relay. The coach sees their potential and places them where they will most positively impact the team’s time and increase their likelihood of winning. The coach believes each swimmer earned their spot on the relay team. All that’s left is teamwork. I have discovered that this sort of teamwork has inherent parallels in everyday life. When I took physics, my teacher paired up lab groups himself. I was nervous because, while I took on the role of lab group leader, I had to depend upon two other students for my grade. However, the purpose of the lab, I realized, was not to exhibit my personal abilities, but to practice teamwork. This is a lot like a relay race in a few ways. First, my lab partners and I all earned our spots on the “team”, just like each swimmer earns their spot on the relay. We had the same prerequisites completed, so we had the same foundational knowledge for the course. I was not in a group with elementary students but placed with students at my specific academic level. Next, our teacher was the “coach”, putting a relay together that he thought would succeed. Our teacher paired us up specifically, believing that with good teamwork, we would be successful. He knew we were well-equipped to tackle the subject matter as a team. Finally, the most important key to success is that everyone gives their all in their “leg of the race”. Each member of a team must share in the work. After completing the lab, we would split up the write-up work equally. All that was left to do was to trust in each other. Once I did my part to the best of my ability, all I could do was trust that everyone else would give one hundred and ten percent to their share of the work, to their “leg of the race”. I have found the importance of teamwork in many aspects of everyday life, from swimming in a relay race to a shared contribution in a physics lab group. Because my lab group practiced this teamwork, it paid off in our grades. In this world of “me, me, me” and “every man for himself”, it is more important than ever for us to practice teamwork. After all, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”

Chills tingle down my spine as the muffled voice announces, “Swimmers, step in.” Black cap tightly pressed against my fastened goggles, I hop in. The crystal-clear water is bone-chillingly cold. I reach my slightly shivering hands up and grasp the bar. I only hope my hands do not slip when I pull up to dive. “Take your marks.” I pull my body up out of the water in a seemingly fetal position, every muscle in my body tense. BEEP! I launch myself away from the wall and slice through the water's surface. After I dolphin underwater halfway, I commence backstroke. Without the slightest turn of my head, I see the violent splashes of my competitors on either side of me. I am approaching the wall to flip. Heart pounding, I summersault underwater and rapidly begin my second lap. I breathlessly sprint to the wall, barely able to feel my unceasingly kicking legs. Ten yards remaining. Three. I throw my arm behind me and powerfully hit the wall. I finished! Splash! My teammate begins the second leg of the race, breaststroke. This is a relay. Many people don’t think relays are important because they do not represent a swimmer’s individual performance. But every swimmer has potential and something to offer to the relay. The coach sees their potential and places them where they will most positively impact the team’s time and increase their likelihood of winning. The coach believes each swimmer earned their spot on the relay team. All that’s left is teamwork. I have discovered that this sort of teamwork has inherent parallels in everyday life. When I took physics, my teacher paired up lab groups himself. I was nervous because, while I took on the role of lab group leader, I had to depend upon two other students for my grade. However, the purpose of the lab, I realized, was not to exhibit my personal abilities, but to practice teamwork. This is a lot like a relay race in a few ways. First, my lab partners and I all earned our spots on the “team”, just like each swimmer earns their spot on the relay. We had the same prerequisites completed, so we had the same foundational knowledge for the course. I was not in a group with elementary students but placed with students at my specific academic level. Next, our teacher was the “coach”, putting a relay together that he thought would succeed. Our teacher paired us up specifically, believing that with good teamwork, we would be successful. He knew we were well-equipped to tackle the subject matter as a team. Finally, the most important key to success is that everyone gives their all in their “leg of the race”. Each member of a team must share in the work. After completing the lab, we would split up the write-up work equally. All that was left to do was to trust in each other. Once I did my part to the best of my ability, all I could do was trust that everyone else would give one hundred and ten percent to their share of the work, to their “leg of the race”. I have found the importance of teamwork in many aspects of everyday life, from swimming in a relay race to a shared contribution in a physics lab group. Because my lab group practiced this teamwork, it paid off in our grades. In this world of “me, me, me” and “every man for himself”, it is more important than ever for us to practice teamwork. After all, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”

Chills tingle down my spine as the muffled voice announces, “Swimmers, step in.” Black cap tightly pressed against my fastened goggles, I hop in. The crystal-clear water is bone-chillingly cold. I reach my slightly shivering hands up and grasp the bar. I only hope my hands do not slip when I pull up to dive. “Take your marks.” I pull my body up out of the water in a seemingly fetal position, every muscle in my body tense. BEEP! I launch myself away from the wall and slice through the water's surface. After I dolphin underwater halfway, I commence backstroke. Without the slightest turn of my head, I see the violent splashes of my competitors on either side of me. I am approaching the wall to flip. Heart pounding, I summersault underwater and rapidly begin my second lap. I breathlessly sprint to the wall, barely able to feel my unceasingly kicking legs. Ten yards remaining. Three. I throw my arm behind me and powerfully hit the wall. I finished! Splash! My teammate begins the second leg of the race, breaststroke. This is a relay. Many people don’t think relays are important because they do not represent a swimmer’s individual performance. But every swimmer has potential and something to offer to the relay. The coach sees their potential and places them where they will most positively impact the team’s time and increase their likelihood of winning. The coach believes each swimmer earned their spot on the relay team. All that’s left is teamwork. I have discovered that this sort of teamwork has inherent parallels in everyday life. When I took physics, my teacher paired up lab groups himself. I was nervous because, while I took on the role of lab group leader, I had to depend upon two other students for my grade. However, the purpose of the lab, I realized, was not to exhibit my personal abilities, but to practice teamwork. This is a lot like a relay race in a few ways. First, my lab partners and I all earned our spots on the “team”, just like each swimmer earns their spot on the relay. We had the same prerequisites completed, so we had the same foundational knowledge for the course. I was not in a group with elementary students but placed with students at my specific academic level. Next, our teacher was the “coach”, putting a relay together that he thought would succeed. Our teacher paired us up specifically, believing that with good teamwork, we would be successful. He knew we were well-equipped to tackle the subject matter as a team. Finally, the most important key to success is that everyone gives their all in their “leg of the race”. Each member of a team must share in the work. After completing the lab, we would split up the write-up work equally. All that was left to do was to trust in each other. Once I did my part to the best of my ability, all I could do was trust that everyone else would give one hundred and ten percent to their share of the work, to their “leg of the race”. I have found the importance of teamwork in many aspects of everyday life, from swimming in a relay race to a shared contribution in a physics lab group. Because my lab group practiced this teamwork, it paid off in our grades. In this world of “me, me, me” and “every man for himself”, it is more important than ever for us to practice teamwork. After all, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”

As a high school, a student leader in AWANA, I have watched children in kindergarten grow into fifth graders, maturing in their Biblical knowledge and in their faith. My role is to facilitate a fun and energetic environment for the kids. They say their Bible verses to me, tell me about school and soccer games, and run around playing freeze tag or cross the ocean with me. I enjoyed volunteering with the same kids as they grew older, volunteering in Kindergarten and moving up to 5th grade. I remember one boy that I had from K-5th grade and he was a wiggler. He was incredibly intelligent, but his energy made him rowdy. While the rest of the volunteer leaders were busy listening to other kids say their verses, I would hang out with this one boy. When I was with him, he wasn’t running around the room, making the rest of the kids wild, but he was calm and quiet. I would give him my wristwatch and let him mess around with it, pushing buttons and using the stopwatch feature. He needed something to touch and play with from my watch to my shoelaces or cinch sack. When he reached 3rd through 5th grade, he was very calm and didn’t need someone to occupy him as much, so I got to hang out with him during small group time and play in the gym with him. It was rewarding to see him mature in the way he did, and I wouldn’t have witnessed it if I was not serving. What this child and others have taught me in my community service are a few things. Yes, I am serving the community by taking these children off their parents’ hands and providing afternoon care for them. But, I also learn about these kids; I get to hang out and have fun with them. The most rewarding aspect of community service in AWANA is that I get to watch kids mature physically and spiritually, from becoming less wiggly to memorizing verses of the Bible and learning about Jesus every week. Volunteering in my community has displayed its value in my life. I may be serving the community, but it doesn’t feel like community service. It feels like I’m a little kid again, being silly and having fun with these children. Sometimes seeing the world through a child’s perspective can make the biggest difference in a community. I have been volunteering since I was in 6th grade, and I plan on continuing as far out as I can see, meeting new kids and watching them grow up in age and grow up in the faith. Hanging out with and teaching kids is fun and exciting for me. While I may not be going to school for something related to AWANA and volunteering with kids, I can see myself teaching students, just like them one day. My scholarly passion is for the biological sciences, and I am going to university for Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology as an undergrad, then to get my Master's and Ph.D. I would consider it an honor if I ended up teaching kids to become fascinated with the subject I have grown to love. If I receive this scholarship, I will be able to cover some of the looming costs of tuition rather than get a loan and I would be able to continue my education financially stress-free, so that I can learn what I love, practice what I love, soon to teach what I love to those I love.

My name is Nathan Hall, and I am a 16-year-old, high school senior, graduating a year early after skipping the tenth grade, and being dual-enrolled for two years. I am a prospective college freshman for Fall 2023 at my dream school. NC State University. I have practically grown up on campus. My mom graduated from State and loved showing us around. We would go to the pool at the gym to swim every weekend, Friday to Sunday. Then we would top it all off with an ice cream sundae at the Student Union (humorously defeating the purpose!). I have gone to NC State swim meets, tennis matches, football, and basketball games. I love NC State and wanted it to be my school one day. With the help of this scholarship, my dream will become reality. What would I study though? As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me—my mom. The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she would say, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed. My mom also majored in math at NC State. She loved it and could not help but teach with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond. It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. This then led to my interest in science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love natural sciences. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but the most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation. STEM consists of various mathematical-based disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Many unique majors are enveloped in these subjects. Ever since I studied advanced biology (human anatomy) in eighth grade, I knew science was what I wanted to learn and practice for the rest of my life. In my freshman through junior high school years, I studied biology, chemistry, and physics. Not one of these sciences failed to excite me. I never considered a path other than science. Ultimately, I determined that biology was my favorite of these subjects. I am now pursuing a degree in biological sciences. I find the subject fascinating because it shows that even the smallest, yet most complex, structures that fabricate some of the most minute units of life, ultimately point to the intelligence of our Creator, God. It was my mom who inspired me to pursue STEM, by simply practicing math concepts until I could understand them and write them out. And it was STEM that allowed me to see God's greatness even more clearly.

My name is Nathan Hall, and I am a 16-year-old, high school senior, graduating a year early after skipping the tenth grade, and being dual-enrolled for two years. I am a prospective college freshman for Fall 2023 at my dream school. NC State University. I have practically grown up on campus. My mom graduated from State and loved showing us around. We would go to the pool at the gym to swim every weekend, Friday to Sunday. Then we would top it all off with an ice cream sundae at the Student Union (humorously defeating the purpose!). I have gone to NC State swim meets, tennis matches, football, and basketball games. I love NC State and wanted it to be my school one day. With the help of this scholarship, my dream will become reality. What would I study though?      As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me—my mom.      The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she would say, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed.      My mom also majored in math at NC State. She loved it and could not help but teach with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond.      It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. This then led to my interest in science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love natural sciences. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but the most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation.       STEM consists of various mathematical-based disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Many unique majors are enveloped in these subjects. Ever since I studied advanced biology (human anatomy) in eighth grade, I knew science was what I wanted to learn and practice for the rest of my life. In my freshman through junior high school years, I studied biology, chemistry, and physics. Not one of these sciences failed to excite me. I never considered a path other than science. Ultimately, I determined that biology was my favorite of these subjects. I am now pursuing a degree in biological sciences. I find the subject fascinating because it shows that even the smallest, yet most complex, structures that fabricate some of the most minute units of life, ultimately point to the intelligence of our Creator, God.      It was my mom who inspired me to pursue STEM, by simply practicing math concepts until I could understand them and write them out. And it was STEM that allowed me to see God's greatness even more clearly.

As a high school, student leader in AWANA, I have watched children in kindergarten grow into fifth graders, maturing in their Biblical knowledge and in their faith. My role is to facilitate a fun and energetic environment for the kids. They say their Bible verses to me, tell me about school and soccer games, and run around playing freeze tag or cross the ocean with me. I enjoyed volunteering with the same kids as they grew older, volunteering in Kindergarten and moving up to 5th grade. I remember one boy that I had from K-5th grade and he was a wiggler. He was incredibly intelligent, but his energy made him rowdy. While the rest of the volunteer leaders were busy listening to other kids say their verses, I would hang out with this one boy. When I was with him, he wasn’t running around the room, making the rest of the kids wild, but he was calm and quiet. I would give him my wristwatch and let him mess around with it, pushing buttons and using the stopwatch feature. He needed something to touch and play with from my watch to my shoelaces or cinch sack. When he reached 3rd through 5th grade, he was very calm and didn’t need someone to occupy him as much, so I got to hang out with him during small group time and play in the gym with him. It was rewarding to see him mature in the way he did, and I wouldn’t have witnessed it if I was not serving. What this child and others have taught me in my community service are a few things. Yes, I am serving the community by taking these children off their parents’ hands and providing afternoon care for them. But, I also learn about these kids; I get to hang out and have fun with them. The most rewarding aspect of community service in AWANA is that I get to watch kids mature physically and spiritually, from becoming less wiggly to memorizing verses of the Bible and learning about Jesus every week. Volunteering in my community has displayed its value in my life. I may be serving the community, but it doesn’t feel like community service. It feels like I’m a little kid again, being silly and having fun with these children. Sometimes seeing the world through a child’s perspective can make the biggest difference in a community. I have been volunteering since I was in 6th grade, and I plan on continuing as far out as I can see, meeting new kids and watching them grow up in age and grow up in the faith. Hanging out with and teaching kids is fun and exciting for me. While I may not be going to school for something related to AWANA and volunteering with kids, I can see myself teaching students, just like them one day. My scholarly passion is for the biological sciences, and I am going to university for Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology as an undergrad, then to get my Master's and Ph.D. I would consider it an honor if I ended up teaching kids to become fascinated with the subject I have grown to love. If I receive this scholarship, I will be able to cover some of the looming costs of tuition rather than get a loan and I would be able to continue my education financially stress-free, so that I can learn what I love, practice what I love, soon to teach what I love to those I love.

As a high school, student leader in AWANA, I have watched children in kindergarten grow into fifth graders, maturing in their Biblical knowledge and in their faith. My role is to facilitate a fun and energetic environment for the kids. They say their Bible verses to me, tell me about school and soccer games, and run around playing freeze tag or cross the ocean with me. I enjoyed volunteering with the same kids as they grew older, volunteering in Kindergarten and moving up to 5th grade. I remember one boy that I had from K-5th grade and he was a wiggler. He was incredibly intelligent, but his energy made him rowdy. While the rest of the volunteer leaders were busy listening to other kids say their verses, I would hang out with this one boy. When I was with him, he wasn’t running around the room, making the rest of the kids wild, but he was calm and quiet. I would give him my wristwatch and let him mess around with it, pushing buttons and using the stopwatch feature. He needed something to touch and play with from my watch to my shoelaces or cinch sack. When he reached 3rd through 5th grade, he was very calm and didn’t need someone to occupy him as much, so I got to hang out with him during small group time and play in the gym with him. It was rewarding to see him mature in the way he did, and I wouldn’t have witnessed it if I was not serving. What this child and others have taught me in my community service are a few things. Yes, I am serving the community by taking these children off their parents’ hands and providing afternoon care for them. But, I also learn about these kids; I get to hang out and have fun with them. The most rewarding aspect of community service in AWANA is that I get to watch kids mature physically and spiritually, from becoming less wiggly to memorizing verses of the Bible and learning about Jesus every week. Volunteering in my community has displayed its value in my life. I may be serving the community, but it doesn’t feel like community service. It feels like I’m a little kid again, being silly and having fun with these children. Sometimes seeing the world through a child’s perspective can make the biggest difference in a community. I have been volunteering since I was in 6th grade, and I plan on continuing as far out as I can see, meeting new kids and watching them grow up in age and grow up in the faith. Hanging out with and teaching kids is fun and exciting for me. While I may not be going to school for something related to AWANA and volunteering with kids, I can see myself teaching students, just like them one day. My scholarly passion is for the biological sciences, and I am going to university for Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology as an undergrad, then to get my Master's and Ph.D. I would consider it an honor if I ended up teaching kids to become fascinated with the subject I have grown to love. If I receive this scholarship, I will be able to cover some of the looming costs of tuition rather than get a loan and I would be able to continue my education financially stress-free, so that I can learn what I love, practice what I love, soon to teach what I love to those I love.

In the Bible, once God had created man, Genesis 1:28 says, "God blessed [Adam and Eve] and said to them, 'Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.'" (NIV) God gave humans dominion over nature. We are to do with it that which benefits our race and the world. This requires an understanding of nature. Two major ways to acquire this understanding are through first understanding the natural sciences and social sciences. When I look at a person, animal, or even leaves on a tree, I am simply enthralled that they are all living, functioning for their survival. It is amazing that all these everyday things were created as functional beings. It is even more fascinating that there are these small living entities called cells, hundreds of thousands of times smaller than any person, floating about and performing life-supplying tasks for all living creatures. I realized, when taking chemistry in high school and when taking physics when I was dual-enrolled at community college, that I love the natural sciences. I am intrigued by how the natural world works. I found out how the elements work together to create some of the most incredible things, from water and rust to heat and explosions! I discovered the applications of Newton’s laws and the importance of mass m, in the physical world. However, biology intrigued me the most, first when I took General Biology in middle school, then Advanced (Human) Bio in high school, and finally two courses of Biology at community college (Molecular and Cellular Biology and Evolution, Ecology, and Biodiversity). Biology, simply but surely, is the study of "bio", the study of life. It is concerned with the most complex organisms so small that they can only be seen with a powerful microscope, yet they are the basis of all life and allow organisms to live and operate like well-oiled machines. Biology captivated me from a minute, cellular, life-giving level all throughout my middle-, high school, and dual-enrolled education. Being a Christian and taking Evolution/Ecology at community college challenged me to research the topic more thoroughly. A high school senior, Class of 2023, I am currently researching for and writing a 15-page Thesis and preparing a defense to be held live on Zoom at my online school, on the topic of Natural Selection being designed by God during Creation in Genesis. I was captivated by biology and dared to challenge common-held truths by the public. I uncovered a passion for biology. Being curious and learning about the natural sciences, from physiology, chemical reactions, and electrical fields, people will be able to understand the literal nature of the universe better. Second, understanding the nature of the universe requires a knowledge of the social world around us. People live life. They come across hundreds of people a day. From going to the grocery store, work, family and friends, doctor appointments, and strangers on the greenway, people are interacting with other people. We were created as social beings, and whether introverted or extroverted, we all need human interactions every once and a while. Sometimes our interactions can be irrational, however. After all, humans are sinful and prone to their human nature. God made us the same, but we are all so different. Isn’t that amazing? Our bodies work the same, and we experience emotions like joy and grief similarly, but no one looks the same, and people identify in so many ways. Tragically, the world abuses the fact that we are all different, allowing racism and sexism to become rampant in society.         To many, being “different” may seem like a curse, but it should not. In the United States, many different cultures, races, ethnicities, and identities gather together. The beautiful thing is that everyone brings unique experiences to share with others. We can learn from each other’s struggles and support each other when we need it. We need to learn to accept and be kind to everyone. Is there a quarrel about race, religion, political party, or identified gender? If so, we as people need to be civil and walk in each other’s shoes. We must not judge others, but examine our differences, learning about each other’s unique points of view, especially when everyone needs some encouragement. I noticed the state of society decline rapidly at the start of COVID. Immediate cut-off from society started protests, peaceful at the start. However, they progressed. Humans tend to want to rebel, and when masks were a mandatory apparel item in public, more protests turned into riots. People were highly on-edge and thus when cruel murders like George Floyd’s occurred, more peaceful protests became riots, which devolved into vandalism, assaults, and arsonism. When we cannot get along, we act irrationally. We need to stand up for those who are being treated unjustly and give a voice to those who feel they lost theirs, but peacefully, with an open mind. It is not right for anyone to simply watch others be discriminated against for any reason. Everyone is human, and treating someone otherwise is wrong and must be stopped. If we stand up for the abused and uphold justice, our communities will become stronger and the world a better place. One cannot stand alone without the support of the rest; as the famed quote goes, “The strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.” Understanding the nature of our universe requires an understanding of science. Biology and physics reveal the laws of nature for us to better understand nature itself, but understanding society and being an ear for those who are hurting is just as important for us to understand how the world functions and do our part to encourage peace around the globe.

Since I reached middle school, I have been a volunteer leader at my church in several different ways. I served as a leader in Sunday School, was a member of the planning committee, and volunteer leader for missionary events like The Great Adventure and Vacation Bible School, and I have served in AWANA, a club for elementary children every Sunday night. Serving in AWANA, however, has truly been the most fun and rewarding for me. As a high school, student leader in AWANA, I have watched children in kindergarten grow into fifth graders, maturing in their Biblical knowledge and in their faith. My role is to facilitate a fun and energetic environment for the kids. They say their Bible verses to me, tell me about their school subjects, and their soccer game scores, and we run around playing freeze tag, duck-duck-goose, or cross the ocean together. When I “graduated” from fifth grade and became a middle schooler, I was finally able to be a student leader. I went to help in Sparks, K-2 grades to be with my younger brother, moving up with him each year. I realized that I loved serving with the same kids as they grew older because I got to watch them grow. I remember one boy that I had throughout his elementary years and he was a wiggler (to put it lightly). He was incredibly intelligent, but his energy made him rowdy. While the rest of the volunteer leaders were busy listening to other kids say their verses, or whenever he got bored of an activity currently going on, I would hang out with this one boy. When I was with him, he eventually stopped running around the room, making the rest of the kids wild, but he was calm and quiet. I would give him my wristwatch and let him press the buttons and use the stopwatch and timer features. He needed something to touch and play with from my watch to my shoelaces or cinch sack. When he reached grades three through five, he was very calm and didn’t need someone to occupy him as much, so I got to hang out with him during small group time and play in the gym with him. It was rewarding to see him mature the way he did, and I wouldn’t have witnessed it if I was not continuously serving. What this child and others have taught me through community service are a few things. Yes, I am serving the community by taking these children off their parents’ hands and providing afternoon care for them. And the kids have a great time playing games and learning Bible verses during club. But, I also learn about these kids; I get to hang out and have fun with them. The most rewarding aspect of community service in AWANA is I get to watch kids mature physically and spiritually. Volunteering in my community has displayed its value in my life. I may be serving the community, but it doesn’t feel like community service. It feels like I’m a little kid again, being silly and having fun with these children. Sometimes seeing the world from a child’s perspective can make the biggest difference in a community. I have been volunteering since I was in 6th grade, and I plan on continuing as far out as I can see, meeting new kids and watching them grow up in age and grow up in the faith. If you invest in me and other's with my same vision, the world will become a better place through our volunteer service.

God made us the same, but we are all so different. Isn’t that amazing? Our bodies work the same, and we experience emotions like joy and grief similarly, but no one looks the same, and people identify in so many ways. Tragically, the world abuses the fact that we are all different, allowing racism and sexism to become rampant in society.

         To many, being “different” may seem like a curse, but it should not. The world is full of different cultures, races, ethnicities, and identities. The beautiful thing is that everyone brings unique experiences to share with others. We can learn from each other’s differences and support each other when needed.         We should accept everyone in kindness. We must not judge others, but examine our differences, learning about each other’s points of view. We need to stand up for those who are being treated unjustly and give a voice to those who lost theirs. It is not right for anyone to simply watch others be discriminated against for any reason. Everyone is human, and treating someone otherwise is wrong and must be stopped.

         If we stand up for the abused and uphold justice, our communities and the world as a whole will become a better place. One cannot stand alone without the support of the entire pack; as the famed quote goes, “The strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.”         Diversity is important in the community and in any field of work. One cannot succeed without others cheering on and supporting him/her. Today, we see the race for healthcare in a big area of medicine: COVID vaccines. Many companies are competing to develop the best vaccination first. This sort of competition is good because it challenges the medical field to improve what exists so the rest of the world can enjoy or benefit from it. But what if they put their highly intelligent minds together? What if they could collaborate and produce something amazing?         I have learned the value of collaboration in my own life.         When taking college physics at community college, my professor paired up lab groups himself. I was nervous because, while I took on the role of lab group leader, I had to depend upon two other students for good grades. However, the purpose of the lab, I realized, was not to exhibit my personal abilities. They would be a representation of our teamwork. 
        First, my lab partners and I all had the same prerequisites completed, so we had the same foundational knowledge for the course. I was not in a group with elementary students but placed with students at my academic level, so we were well-equipped to tackle the labs together. 
        Next, our teacher paired us up specifically, believing that with good teamwork, we would be successful. He knew we were well-equipped to tackle the subject matter as a team.
 
        Finally, the most important key to success is that each member of a team must share in the work. After completing the lab, we would split up the write-up work equally. All that was left to do was to trust in each other. Once I did my part to the best of my ability, all I could do was trust that everyone else would give one hundred and ten percent to their share of the work. 
        I have found the importance of teamwork in many aspects of everyday life, Because my lab group practiced this collaboration, it paid off in our grades. 
        Collaboration and cooperation can work wonders, be it in a physics class or in medicine.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that affects 30,000 people in the United States alone. This rare neurological disease affects one’s control over voluntary muscle movements. ALS is a fatal disease and cannot be paused or reversed. It begins to affect a person's muscles that control their facial muscles for speech or swallowing, or it will take effect in a person's limbs, from their hands and arms to their legs and feet. "Unfortunate" is an understatement when the disease is purely tragic. 30,000 of over 3 million people in the United States are affected with ALS, with approximately 5000 new cases each year, which may not seem like a large number to some. However, it is just the opposite. If there are 30,000 individuals who contract ALS and are given--quite frankly--a death sentence, how many more individuals are indirectly hurt by the disease. Nearly every person who is diagnosed with ALS has a family. They have spouses, children, grandchildren, and friends who all care deeply about them. The diagnosed will leave behind loved ones. Imagine for a moment, if one of your loved ones was diagnosed with ALS and was suddenly taken from you. Or imagine yourself being diagnosed with ALS and leaving behind so many loved ones. All loved ones of an ALS-infected individual will experience pain and hurt when they no longer can talk to, see, or call one who has died from this disease. ALS affects those diagnosed with the disease and their loved ones. Additionally, ALS comes with major expenses. Those who are diagnosed with ALS require much medical attention and their finances or their loved ones'/care takers' financial security could be impacted by the unexpected expenses. I have personally been blessed to not be impacted by ALS, be it a family member or friend diagnosed. I may not truly know how it feels to know someone who has been diagnosed or has died from ALS. But, I can sympathize because I have experienced the loss of loved ones too. While ALS has not impacted me personally, whether emotionally or financially, there are potential ways in which my career plan can be beneficial to ALS. I desire to pursue Biological Sciences with a concentration in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pay tuition expenses at school and I will be able to receive an education in Biology. I will then be able to start a career built on my Biology education and may be able to have a career in vaccine research and development, pharmaceuticals, or disease research and cure development. With any of these occupations, I will be blessed to play a small part in the advancement of research and, hopefully, the eventual curing of ALS. ALS is a tragic disease that affects not only 30,000+ who are diagnosed with the disease, but also their family, friends, and other loved ones who are impacted by the emotional hurt of the loss of a loved one and also major financial effects, whether expected or unexpected, are a real hit to the stomach. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pursue further education in the Biological Sciences which I can apply to a career in which I may be able to help research and develop a cure for ALS. Even if my endeavors are unsuccessful, I will be blessed to play a part in the future of ALS, hoping to eliminate all the heartbreak and other hardships that ALS causes thousands of people in the United States and around the world. Everyone deserves better, and I want to help.

“I want to be just like Daddy someday,” I remember saying to my mom when I was little. I thought my dad was the best. When I grew up, I wanted to have a big family and make money at work every day just like him. I saw my dad as an example of the man I should be. A few years later, when I was eleven, things changed. He left my mom to take care of four kids by herself. He wanted nothing to do with our family. To some, this might come as a blow. But God gifted me with resilience. I took the hit as a challenge to be better than him and commit to what matters. His choices were his own, not mine. Fathers are supposed to be an example to their sons. And although mine walked out, I agree. However, the father does not need to be biological or even on Earth. I find my example of a man in Jesus Christ. Jesus has unconditional love for those who trust in Him. He would never walk away from those He loves. When He loses one sheep, Jesus tirelessly searches until it is found, although He has ninety-nine others. This is the man that I will be, one who stays committed to what matters. I once wanted to be just like my earthly dad. And even now, I say, “I want to be just like my Dad. I want to be like Jesus.” I began to see God's handiwork in everything I saw. When I look at a person, animal, or even a tree, I am enthralled that they are truly living, and functioning for survival. Even more fascinating is that there are these small living entities called cells, hundreds of thousands of times smaller than any person, floating about and performing life-giving tasks. This truth captivated me when I took biology. With one spoken word, God created the most complex organisms so small that they are only visible through microscopes, yet they are the basis of all life! I became fascinated with organisms and structures at the microscopic level, discovering my passion for studying the life sciences. in college, focusing on these fantastic microscopic organisms. While I know what I love, I do not know precisely what to do with it. I love science. I have decided to pursue the life sciences, specifically, Biological Sciences: Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, and am eager to discover opportunities this offers. I have received so much encouragement from my family. She helped me find what I love. She got me excited about math and science, furthering my interest to pursue the life sciences in college. But, it was God who gave me her as my mom. I owe all my thanks to God for ultimately guiding me on this path. He has a plan for my life, and I am excited to see where He takes me.

Since I reached middle school, I have been a volunteer leader at my church in several different ways. I served as a leader in Sunday School, was a member of the planning committee, and volunteer leader for missionary events like The Great Adventure and Vacation Bible School, and I have served in AWANA, a club for elementary children every Sunday night. Serving in AWANA, however, has truly been the most fun and rewarding for me. As a high school, a student leader in AWANA, I have watched children in kindergarten grow into fifth graders, maturing in their Biblical knowledge and in their faith. My role is to facilitate a fun and energetic environment for the kids. They say their Bible verses to me, tell me about their school subjects, and their soccer game scores, and we run around playing freeze tag, duck-duck-goose, or cross the ocean together. When I “graduated” from fifth grade and became a middle schooler, I was finally able to be a student leader. I went to help in Sparks, K-2 grades to be with my younger brother, moving up with him each year. I realized that I loved serving with the same kids as they grew older because I got to watch them grow. I remember one boy that I had throughout his elementary years and he was a wiggler (to put it lightly). He was incredibly intelligent, but his energy made him rowdy. While the rest of the volunteer leaders were busy listening to other kids say their verses, or whenever he got bored of an activity currently going on, I would hang out with this one boy. When I was with him, he eventually stopped running around the room, making the rest of the kids wild, but he was calm and quiet. I would give him my wristwatch and let him press the buttons and use the stopwatch and timer features. He needed something to touch and play with from my watch to my shoelaces or cinch sack. When he reached grades three through five, he was very calm and didn’t need someone to occupy him as much, so I got to hang out with him during small group time and play in the gym with him. It was rewarding to see him mature the way he did, and I wouldn’t have witnessed it if I was not continuously serving. What this child and others have taught me through community service are a few things. Yes, I am serving the community by taking these children off their parents’ hands and providing afternoon care for them. And the kids have a great time during club, playing games and learning Bible verses. But, I also learn about these kids; I get to hang out and have fun with them. The most rewarding aspect of community service in AWANA is I get to watch kids mature physically and spiritually. Volunteering in my community has displayed its value in my life. I may be serving the community, but it doesn’t feel like community service. It feels like I’m a little kid again, being silly and having fun with these children. Sometimes seeing the world from a child’s perspective can make the biggest difference in a community. I have been volunteering since I was in 6th grade, and I plan on continuing as far out as I can see, meeting new kids and watching them grow up in age and grow up in the faith. If you invest in me, I vow to continue to teach others to value community service as much as I have learned to do.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that affects 30,000 people in the United States alone. This rare neurological disease affects one’s control over voluntary muscle movements. ALS is a fatal disease and cannot be paused or reversed. It begins to affect a person's muscles that control their facial muscles for speech or swallowing, or it will take effect in a person's limbs, from their hands and arms to their legs and feet. "Unfortunate" is an understatement when the disease is purely tragic. 30,000 of over 3 million people in the United States being affected with ALS, with approximately 5000 new cases each year, may not seem like a large number to some. However, it is just the opposite. If there are 30,000 individuals who contract ALS and are given--quite frankly--a death sentence, how many more individuals are indirectly hurt by the disease. Nearly every person who is diagnosed with ALS has a family. They have spouses, children, grandchildren, and friends who all care deeply about them. The diagnosed will leave behind loved ones. Imagine for a moment, if one of your loved ones was diagnosed with ALS and was suddenly taken from you. Or imagine yourself being diagnosed with ALS and leaving behind so many loved ones. All loved ones of an ALS-infected individual will experience pain and hurt when they no longer can talk to, see, or call one who has died from this disease. ALS affects those diagnosed with the disease and their loved ones. Additionally, ALS comes with major expenses. Those who are diagnosed with ALS require much medical attention and their finances or their loved ones'/care takers' financial security could be impacted by the unexpected expenses. I have personally been blessed to not be impacted by ALS, be it a family member or friend diagnosed. I may not truly know how it feels to know someone who has been diagnosed or has died from ALS. But, I can sympathize because I have experienced the loss of loved ones too. While ALS has not impacted me personally, whether emotionally or financially, there are potential ways in which my career plan can be beneficial to ALS. I desire to pursue Biological Sciences with a concentration in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pay tuition expenses at school and I will be able to receive an education in Biology. I will then be able to start a career built on my Biology education and may be able to have a career in vaccine research and development, pharmaceuticals, or disease research and cure development. With any of these occupations, I will be blessed to play a small part in the advancement of research and, hopefully, the eventual curing of ALS. ALS is a tragic disease that affects not only 30,000+ who are diagnosed with the disease, but also their family, friends, and other loved ones who are impacted by the emotional hurt of the loss of a loved one and also major financial effects, whether expected or unexpected, are a real hit to the stomach. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pursue further education in the Biological Sciences which I can apply to a career in which I may be able to help research and develop a cure for ALS. Even if my endeavors are unsuccessful, I will be blessed to play a part in the future of ALS, hoping to eliminate all the heartbreak and other hardships that ALS causes thousands of people in the United States and around the world. Everyone deserves better, and I want to help.

My name is Nathan Hall, and I am a 16-year-old, high school senior, graduating a year early after skipping the tenth grade. I am dually enrolled in two community colleges along with being homeschooled and taking online classes through a classical online school. I also absolutely love swimming and cannot imagine not having the physical ability to swim every day. I am a prospective college freshman for Fall 2023 at my dream school. NC State University. I have practically grown up on campus. My mom graduated from State and loved showing us around. We would go to the pool at the gym to swim every weekend, Friday to Sunday. Then we would go to the Talley Student Union and get an ice cream sundae (seemingly defeating the purpose!). We have gone to NC State swim meets, tennis matches, football, and basketball games. We love NC State and I wanted it to be my school one day. And now that I have begun my college applications, my dream may become reality. I love the natural sciences, biology, and chemistry. But, I have also found myself interested in engineering and architecture. After going to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, I was fascinated with architecture. I only wanted lego sets with complicated designs. It was amazing to see the precision and detail that each new building from the Eiffel Tower to the White House had to offer. Even now, I display these lego sets on my desk. I even had architecture kits with which I would build houses, towers, and bridges with intricate detail. Engineering also intrigued me. I would work on engineering kits where I had to make dogs out of soda cans or salt-water and solar-powered robots. I had fun engineering with these kits. I even considered becoming a biomedical engineer, putting my fascination with biology and interest in engineering together. Over the years, I have enjoyed and appreciated architecture and engineering. This scholarship will help me make my dreams a reality. I will be able to put the money toward my education at NC State in biology and even allow me to decide if I will also pursue biomedical engineering or architectural design. The scholarship will be used specifically for tuition expenses and textbooks. I am Nathan Hall, an early-rising high school senior with aspirations of higher education at NC State. I am excited to see where I will end up. Studying biology, architecture, or engineering (perhaps a mix of them!) will be rewarding and fun for me. I am excited to see where I end up. But, it is not the destination that matters so much as the journey.

“I want to be just like Daddy someday,” I remember saying to my mom when I was little. I thought my dad was the best. When I grew up, I wanted to have a big family and make money at work every day just like him. I saw my dad as an example of the man I should be. A few years later, when I was eleven, things changed. He left my mom to take care of four kids by herself. He wanted nothing to do with our family. To some, this might come as a blow. But God gifted me with resilience. I took the hit as a challenge to be better than him and commit to what matters. His choices were his own, not mine. Fathers are supposed to be an example to their sons. And although mine walked out, I agree. However, the father does not need to be biological or even on Earth. I find my example of a man in Jesus Christ. Jesus has unconditional love for those who trust in Him. He would never walk away from those He loves. When He loses one sheep, Jesus tirelessly searches until it is found, although He has ninety-nine others. This is the man that I will be, one who stays committed to what matters. I once wanted to be just like my earthly dad. And even now, I say, “I want to be just like my Dad. I want to be like Jesus.” I began to see God's handiwork in everything I saw. When I look at a person, animal, or even a tree, I am enthralled that they are truly living, and functioning for survival. Even more fascinating is that there are these small living entities called cells, hundreds of thousands of times smaller than any person, floating about and performing life-giving tasks. This truth captivated me when I took biology. With one spoken word, God created the most complex organisms so small that they are only visible through microscopes, yet they are the basis of all life! I became fascinated with organisms and structures at the microscopic level, discovering my passion for studying the life sciences. in college, focusing on these fantastic microscopic organisms. While I know what I love, I do not know precisely what to do with it. I love science. I have decided to pursue the life sciences, specifically, Biological Sciences: Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, and am eager to discover opportunities this offers. I have received so much encouragement from my family. She helped me find what I love. She got me excited about math and science, furthering my interest to pursue the life sciences in college. But, it was God who gave me her as my mom. I owe all my thanks to God for ultimately guiding me on this path. He has a plan for my life, and I am excited to see where He takes me.

Chills tingle down my spine as the muffled voice announces, “Swimmers, step in.” Black cap tightly pressed against my fastened goggles, I hop in. The crystal-clear water is bone-chillingly cold. I reach my slightly shivering hands up and grasp the bar. I only hope my hands do not slip when I pull up to dive. “Take your marks.” I pull my body up out of the water in a seemingly fetal position, every muscle in my body tense. BEEP! I launch myself away from the wall and slice through the water's surface. After I dolphin underwater halfway, I commence backstroke. Without the slightest turn of my head, I see the violent splashes of my competitors on either side of me. I am approaching the wall to flip. Heart pounding, I summersault underwater and rapidly begin my second lap. I breathlessly sprint to the wall, barely able to feel my unceasingly kicking legs. Ten yards remaining. Three. I throw my arm behind me and powerfully hit the wall. I finished! Splash! My teammate begins the second leg of the race, breaststroke. This is a relay. Many people don’t think relays are important because they do not represent a swimmer’s individual performance. But every swimmer has potential and something to offer to the relay. The coach sees their potential and places them where they will most positively impact the team’s time and increase their likelihood of winning. The coach believes each swimmer earned their spot on the relay team. All that’s left is teamwork. I have discovered that this sort of teamwork has inherent parallels in everyday life. When I took physics, my teacher paired up lab groups himself. I was nervous because, while I took on the role of lab group leader, I had to depend upon two other students for my grade. However, the purpose of the lab, I realized, was not to exhibit my personal abilities, but to practice teamwork. This is a lot like a relay race in a few ways. First, my lab partners and I all earned our spots on the “team”, just like each swimmer earns their spot on the relay. We had the same prerequisites completed, so we had the same foundational knowledge for the course. I was not in a group with elementary students but placed with students at my specific academic level. Next, our teacher was the “coach”, putting a relay together that he thought would succeed. Our teacher paired us up specifically, believing that with good teamwork, we would be successful. He knew we were well-equipped to tackle the subject matter as a team. Finally, the most important key to success is that everyone gives their all in their “leg of the race”. Each member of a team must share in the work. After completing the lab, we would split up the write-up work equally. All that was left to do was to trust in each other. Once I did my part to the best of my ability, all I could do was trust that everyone else would give one hundred and ten percent to their share of the work, to their “leg of the race”. I have found the importance of teamwork in many aspects of everyday life, from swimming in a relay race to a shared contribution in a physics lab group. Because my lab group practiced this teamwork, it paid off in our grades. In this world of “me, me, me” and “every man for himself”, it is more important than ever for us to practice teamwork. After all, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”

Many people like to think that change is all around us. But is it for the better? When COVID hit in early 2020, people in the United States began "peaceful" protests, regarding their disapproval of masks and quarantine, which started out as marches with signs. In North Carolina and other states as well, these protests quickly required the US military to get involved in keeping order. Police officers and military troops armed with weapons and ballistic shields are scary things to watch on TV. Then, when George Floyd was tragically murdered by several police officers in March of 2020, the country threw itself into more protests for the Black Lives Matter movement. This also quickly moved from peaceful protests to vandalizing, property damage, thievery, starting fires, and even illegally tearing down historical statues. Do a Google search on "January 6, 2021", and the very first headline description reads, "January 6 United States Capitol attack." No matter the alleged reason for the riot on January 6, the US Capitol was attacked. People became criminals. It is the end of the year 2022. COVID and BLM protests/riots and the January 6 attack all occurred in the last two and a half years. In all three events, the country went from free to fools. These all became excuses to commit crimes. People became vandals, thieves, trespassers, and arsonists. The country became separated. Everything changed. Change is all around us and it is not for the better. I want to see us become united once more. The world has turned on itself; wars have broken out, like Russia's persistent attacks on Ukraine. The country turned on itself; protests have easily become riots and an excuse for crimes. And our communities have turned on each other; those who wear masks or are of different ethnicities are bullied. This is not how North Carolina, America, or the world should be. We need to be united again. And it starts with the youth. It is no lie that adults are stubborn. Maybe they only want to buy a specific yogurt brand and are wary of trying new ones, or they will get every vaccine available, no vaccines at all, or try home remedies. Whatever the case may be, people are set in their ways, and it takes a lot of work for them to change. When adults were kids themselves, they were raised to acquire certain beliefs and values. Children in elementary school are in a very important stage in their life for developing their values and worldview. This sets a foundation for the person they become in high school, college, and beyond. Children are the future. If we can lead children on the right path, they will have strong foundations for their adult lives and will be able to lead the country, be judges, doctors, or regular citizens that make a difference and make the world better. The world will become more united if our future is secured in the hands of great people with solid values and common goals of a united community. As a high school, student-leader in AWANA, I have watched children in kindergarten grow into fifth graders, maturing in their Biblical knowledge and in their faith. My role is to facilitate a fun and energetic environment for the kids. They say their Bible verses to me, tell me about school and soccer games, and run around playing freeze tag or cross the ocean with me. I enjoyed volunteering with the same kids as they grew older, volunteering in Kindergarten and moving up to 5th grade. I remember one boy that I had from K-5th grade and he was a wiggler. He was incredibly intelligent, but his energy made him rowdy. While the rest of the volunteer leaders were busy listening to other kids say their verses, I would hang out with this one boy. When I was with him, he wasn’t running around the room, making the rest of the kids wild, but he was calm and quiet. I would give him my wristwatch and let him mess around with it, pushing buttons and using the stopwatch feature. He needed something to touch and play with from my watch to my shoelaces or cinch sack. When he reached 3rd through 5th grade, he was very calm and didn’t need someone to occupy him as much, so I got to hang out with him during small group time and play in the gym with him. It was rewarding to see him mature in the way he did, and I wouldn’t have witnessed it if I was not serving. What this child and others have taught me in my community service are a few things. Yes, I am serving the community by taking these children off their parents’ hands and providing afternoon care for them. But, I also learn about these kids; I get to hang out and have fun with them. The most rewarding aspect of community service in AWANA is that I get to watch kids mature physically and spiritually, from becoming less wiggly to memorizing verses of the Bible and learning about Jesus every week. Volunteering in my community has displayed its value in my life. Sometimes seeing the world through a child’s perspective can make the biggest difference in a community. I have been volunteering since I was in 6th grade, and I plan on continuing as far out as I can see, meeting new kids and watching them grow up in age and grow up in the faith, learning how to see the world and their neighbors through a clear, undistorted lens. Through volunteering with children, I have learned that the Biblical worldview these children are acquiring through AWANA, is vital for a strong future community. Our country, even the Pledge of Allegiance, was founded on Biblical truths. If we continue equipping our future with these values, our country will be united once more, our communities will be strong again, and the world will be a better place.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that affects 30,000 people in the United States alone. This rare neurological disease affects one’s control over voluntary muscle movements. ALS is a fatal disease and cannot be paused or reversed. It begins to affect a person's muscles that control their facial muscles for speech or swallowing, or it will take effect in a person's limbs, from their hands and arms to their legs and feet. "Unfortunate" is an understatement when the disease is purely tragic. 30,000 of over 3 million people in the United States being affected with ALS, with approximately 5000 new cases each year, may not seem like a large number to some. However, it is just the opposite. If there are 30,000 individuals who contract ALS and are given--quite frankly--a death sentence, how many more individuals are indirectly hurt by the disease. Nearly every person who is diagnosed with ALS has a family. They have spouses, children, grandchildren, and friends who all care deeply about them. The diagnosed will leave behind loved ones. Imagine for a moment, if one of your loved ones was diagnosed with ALS and was suddenly taken from you. Or imagine yourself being diagnosed with ALS and leaving behind so many loved ones. All loved ones of an ALS-infected individual will experience pain and hurt when they no longer can talk to, see, or call one who has died from this disease. ALS affects those diagnosed with the disease and their loved ones. Additionally, ALS comes with major expenses. Those who are diagnosed with ALS require much medical attention and their finances or their loved ones'/care takers' financial security could be impacted by the unexpected expenses. I have personally been blessed to not be impacted by ALS, be it a family member or friend diagnosed. I may not truly know how it feels to know someone who has been diagnosed or has died from ALS. But, I can sympathize because I have experienced the loss of loved ones too. While ALS has not impacted me personally, whether emotionally or financially, there are potential ways in which my career plan can be beneficial to ALS. I desire to pursue Biological Sciences with a concentration in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pay tuition expenses at school and I will be able to receive an education in Biology. I will then be able to start a career built on my Biology education, and may be able to have a career in vaccine research and developement, pharmacuticals, or disease research and cure development. With any of these occupations, I will be blessed to play a small part in the advancement of research and, hopefully, the eventual curing of ALS. ALS is a tragic disease that affects not only 30,000+ who are diagnosed with the disease, but also their family, friends, and other loved ones who are impacted by the emotional hurt of the loss of a loved one and also major financial effects, whether expected or unexpected, are a real hit to the stomach. The ALS Family Scholarship will help me pursue further education in the Biological Sciences which I can apply to a career in which I may be able to help research and develop a cure for ALS. Even if my endeavors are unsuccessful, I will be blessed to play a part in the future of ALS, hoping to eliminate all the heartbreak and other hardships that ALS causes thousands of people in the United States and around the world. Everyone deserves better, and I want to help.

School is starting! To the learners out there, this is so exciting. Finally, though the fun of the summer holidays are over, we can go back to school and learn. Some others are not excited at all, dreading school, given the loads of homework and stress of term projects and exams. But we should all go in with a good attitude! We are going to school to equip ourselves for higher education and our future careers. My tip is that we need to work on our school like its our job. Unpaid? Yes, it is an unpaid job. And many of us already have a job to stress about, so why add another? Well, at a job, we essentially work to impress our employers, hoping to make more money. The same goes for school. We are working to improve our college, med/vet/law school, internship, and job applications. But most importantly, we are setting ourselves up for success for our future careers in the long run. We are learning! It is so important to take our education seriously, like a job. We will become more responsible, look better for applications and employers, and actually learn! That's my tip. Who's with me?

The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education because it is the basis for all things. From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful images in art, math is employed. However, when I was given a math problem, my brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, I practiced writing every step out, proving useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond. A tolerance of math soon grew into an enjoyment. I began to see math in science; chemistry and physics are especially math-based. I was prepared and excited about these sciences with my foundation in math. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, most complex unit of life, the cell, I grew to love science and stand in awe at God’s creation. I am now passionate about and will pursue STEM at NC State University. And STEM has shown me even more of the greatness of God. Pursuing any degree is good, but it is not of the most important in the workplace. We need to be inclusive, allowing for diversity in the workplace. But we need to truly be inclusive and accepting to others. God made us the same, but we are all so different. Isn’t that amazing? Our bodies work the same, and we experience emotions like joy and grief similarly, but no one looks the same, and people identify in so many ways. Tragically, the world abuses the fact that we are all different, allowing racism and sexism to become rampant in society and in the workplace. To many, being “different” may seem like a curse, but it should not. In the United States, many different cultures, races, ethnicities, and identities gather together. The beautiful thing is that everyone brings unique experiences to share with others. We can learn from each other’s struggles and support each other when we need it. We should accept and be kind to everyone. We must not judge others, but kindly accept our differences, learning about each other’s unique points of view. We need to stand up for those who are being treated unjustly and give a voice to those who feel they lost theirs. It is not right for anyone to simply watch others be discriminated against for any reason. Everyone is human, and treating someone otherwise is wrong and must be stopped. If we stand up for the abused and uphold justice, the workplace will become a better community, and the world will become a better place. One cannot stand alone without the support of the entire pack. As the saying goes, “The strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.” I have stated what I will do to accept diversity in the workplace and in the world. Now, it is your turn. What are you going to do to stop discrimination?

     As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me—my mom.      The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she says, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed.      The primary reason math was so important in my education was that my mom majored in math. She loved it and could not help but teach math with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond.      It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. This then leading my interest in science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with my math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love science. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but the most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation. All this complexity was spoken into existence by a single word.      It was my mom who inspired me to pursue STEM, by simply practicing math concepts until I could understand them and write them out. And it was STEM that allowed me to see God's greatness even more clearly. That is why STEM is so important; it is the foundation for life and we can see the wonder of God through it.      STEM consists of various mathematical-based disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. So many majors are enveloped in these broad subjects. As a rising senior, the summertime is my time to decide what I want to study and expectedly practice for the rest of my life, until retirement. Ever since I studied advanced biology (human anatomy) in eighth grade, I knew science was what I wanted to learn and practice for the rest of my life. In my freshman through junior high school years, I studied biology, chemistry, and physics. Not one of these sciences failed to excite me. Not once did I think science was not the avenue I wanted to take in college. The question then became which major to choose. Sometimes researching majors can be overwhelming. However, I am never discouraged in my research. I love science. I have decided to pursue the life sciences, particularly biology and chemistry at NC State University. I will pursue a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate in the biological sciences. I have received so much encouragement from my family, but primarily from my mom. She taught me. She got me excited about math, leading to my excitement about science, and furthering my interest to pursue the life sciences in college. But, it was God who gave me her as my mom. Ultimately, He guided me on this path. He has a plan for my life, and I am excited to see where He takes me.

As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the “foundation” subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me. My mom. The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she says, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful images in art, math is employed. My mom loved math, and she could not help but teach math with the most enthusiasm. However, when I was given a problem, my brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, we practiced writing every step out, proving useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond. A tolerance of math soon grew into an enjoyment. I began to see math in science; chemistry and physics are especially math-based. I was prepared and excited about these sciences with my foundation in math. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, most complex unit of life, the cell, I grew to love science and stand in awe at God’s creation. My mom inspired me to pursue STEM, by simply drilling math concepts until I could write out the steps. And STEM revealed to me, even more, the greatness of God.

My name is Nathan Hall, and I am a 16-year-old, high school senior, graduating a year early after skipping the tenth grade. I am dually enrolled in two community colleges along with being homeschooled and taking online classes through a classical online school. I also absolutely love swimming and cannot imagine not having the physical ability to swim every day. I am a prospective college freshman for Fall 2023 at my dream school. NC State University. I have practically grown up on campus. My mom graduated from State and loved showing us around. We would go to the pool at the gym to swim every weekend, Friday to Sunday. Then we would go to the Talley Student Union and get an ice cream sundae (seemingly defeating the purpose!). We have gone to NC State swim meets, tennis matches, football, and basketball games. We love NC State and I wanted it to be my school one day. And now that I have begun my college applications, my dream may become reality. I love the natural sciences, biology and chemistry. But, I have also found myself interested in engineering and architecture. After going to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, I was fascinated with architecture. I only wanted lego sets with complicated designs. It was amazing to see the precision and detail that each new building from the Eiffel Tower to the White House had to offer. Even now, I display these lego sets on my desk. I even had architecture kits with which I would build houses, towers, and bridges with intricate detail. Engineering also intrigued me. I would work on engineering kits where I had to make dogs out of soda cans or salt-water and solar-powered robots. I had fun engineering with these kits. I even considered becoming a biomedical engineer, putting my fascination with biology and interest in engineering together. Over the years, I have enjoyed and appreciated architecture and engineering. This scholarship will help me make my dreams a reality. I will be able to put the money toward my education at NC State in biology and even allow me to decide if I will also pursue biomedical engineering or architectural design. The scholarship will be used specifically for tuition expenses and textbooks. I am Nathan Hall, an early-rising high school senior with aspirations of higher education at NC State. I am excited to see where I will end up. Studying biology, architecture, or engineering (perhaps a mix of them!) will be rewarding and fun for me. I am excited to see where I end up. But, it is not the destination that matters so much as the journey.

Applying for scholarships is easy. Winning them… is a bit harder. Scholarships are important. Wide-eyed, excited children think about the days when they finish high school and move on to college. What they don’t fully comprehend at the moment is that college is expensive! I will be paying for my school, and the fact of financing my future hit me when I began moving closer to twelfth grade. As a rising high school junior, it was time to start getting some scholarships under my belt. It seemed easy. Find a scholarship, write a short essay, wait a few months, and boom! Free money! Sure, I knew I would not win them all, but maybe I would win 20% of my applications, give or take. While 20% might be an attainable goal and other people may be able to win that many, it has not been my experience. In fact, winning 1% of my applications has not even been a reality for me. But I am not complaining. I have learned a lot, especially the importance of discipline and perseverance. Discipline is key. There are thousands of scholarships every month. Is it possible to apply for them all? Most likely not. There had to be a way to manage my time and still apply for a good amount of scholarships, a way to have exceptional organization. So, my sister and I put together two documents. One: a document where we listed the scholarships and their deadlines above. The other: a spreadsheet. The spreadsheet lists scholarships I have applied to, when I applied, the date due, how much money, and if I won. This organization changed everything. I can keep track of how many scholarships I apply to. I can log if I am a finalist or winner. But most of all, I can feel accomplished at my work. This is important to me. Applying for scholarships, many times, is not easy. It takes time. But seeing how much I have accomplished is a good motivator. It may discourage others when they have not won, but it shows how willing I am to work for what I want. That is discipline. Discipline is important. Without it, I would get nowhere in my scholarship applications. I would have no chance of winning any free tuition money. But perseverance is another key component of the scholarship search. I log in to my Bold profile every day, looking for new ways to increase my Bold points. I check my standing on the leaderboards every time. Currently, I stand second for North Carolina high schoolers, eighth for all high schoolers, and fifth for all North Carolinians. This took time, over a year of logging into Bold every day and now I finally made it to the top ten’s. Without my perseverance, I would have given up when I started at the bottom. Many students feel overwhelmed at their ranking and do not think investing any time into scholarships is worth it. Will they ever make it to the top? The answer is yes if they persevere and persist. If they consistently apply for scholarships, constantly search for new ways to improve their Bold points, create new ways to become more organized, and never stop persevering, that discipline will get them where they want to go. They may not win any scholarships in a month, maybe not in a year. I haven’t, but I am not discouraged. I know my discipline and perseverance will pay off in the end. I know it will. And it can for you too.

     As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me—my mom.      The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she says, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed.      A big reason math was so important in my education was that my mom majored in math. She loved it and could not help but teach math with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond.      It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. This then leading my interest in science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with my math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love science. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but the most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation. All this complexity was spoken into existence by a single word.      It was my mom who inspired me to pursue STEM, by simply practicing math concepts until I could understand them and write them out. And it was STEM that allowed me to see God's greatness even more clearly.      STEM consists of various mathematical-based disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Many unique majors are enveloped in these subjects. Ever since I studied advanced biology (human anatomy) in eighth grade, I knew science was what I wanted to learn and practice for the rest of my life. In my freshman through junior high school years, I studied biology, chemistry, and physics. Not one of these sciences failed to excite me. I never considered a path other than science. Ultimately, I determined that biology was my favorite of these subjects. I am now pursuing a degree in biological sciences. I find the subject fascinating because it shows that even the smallest, yet complex, structures that fabricate some of the most minute units of life, ultimately point to the intelligence of our Creator, God. I will continue to research careers. I will get involved in student research programs at my university. I will search for opportunities in my field. And I will have fun studying the most fascinating subject.

     As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me—my mom.      The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she says, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed.      The primary reason math was so important in my education was that my mom majored in math. She loved it and could not help but teach math with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So, my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond.      It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. This then leading my interest in science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with my math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love science. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but the most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation. All this complexity was spoken into existence by a single word.      It was my mom who inspired me to pursue STEM, by simply practicing math concepts until I could understand them and write them out. And it was STEM that allowed me to see God's greatness even more clearly.      STEM consists of various mathematical-based disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. So many majors are enveloped in these broad subjects. As a rising senior, the summertime is my time to decide what I want to study and expectedly practice for the rest of my life, until retirement. Ever since I studied advanced biology (human anatomy) in eighth grade, I knew science was what I wanted to learn and practice for the rest of my life. In my freshman through junior high school years, I studied biology, chemistry, and physics. Not one of these sciences failed to excite me. Not once did I think science was not the avenue I wanted to take in college. I have received so much encouragement from my family, but primarily from my mom. She taught me. She got me excited about math, leading to my excitement about science, and furthering my interest to pursue the life sciences in college. She has truly been the greatest driving force in my life. But, it was God who gave me her as my mom. I owe all my thanks to God for ultimately guiding me on this path. He has a plan for my life, and I am excited to see where He takes me.

As a homeschooler, I had one teacher in elementary school. It is in these grades one through five that a student learns the basics of the primary subjects, and this one teacher taught them to me. My mom. The subject of math was primarily emphasized in my education, because, as she says, “Math is the basis for all things.” From the rhythmic patterns in music to the delicate and beautiful, but complex, images in art, math is employed. The primary reason math was so important in my education was because my mom majored in math. She loved it and could not help but teach math with the most excitement. But another reason we practiced so much was for me. My brain could find the answer to a word problem as fast as the snap of a finger, but I could not so easily write down the equation, much less explain the process I thought through to arrive at my answer. So my mom and I practiced writing every step out, which proved useful in algebra, geometry, and beyond. It was my mom’s love of math that allowed me to enjoy math. It was this enjoyment of math that allowed me to enjoy learning science. Math is everywhere in science, as I came to realize in high school. Chemistry and physics are especially math-based. Because my mom helped me with my math, I was well-prepared and excited about these sciences. I came to love science. And it was this enjoyment of science that made me wonder at the greatness of God. From the perfect structure of a skeleton in anatomy to the smallest, but most complex unit of life, the cell, I can stand in awe at God’s creation. All this complexity was spoken into existence by a single word. It was my mom who inspired me to pursue STEM, by simply practicing math concepts until I could understand them and write them out. And it was STEM that allowed me to see God's greatness even more.

Most boys are crazy and wild, needing to expend much pent-up energy, and I was no different at that age. At seven years old, I would run around the basement for no apparent reason. But what most other boys do not do is stop, after running around for a minute or two, winded, totally out of breath. Soccer games were no different. Twenty little kids all running towards the kid with the ball, but I would suddenly stop, breathless. It felt like I couldn’t get the air in my lungs that I needed. My caring mother took me to the doctor. They said it was asthma. An idea to help with it was to try swimming. My mom quickly found a man who gave me swimming lessons, maybe it would help my asthma. When we arrived, I began my lesson. There were other kids too. Some older than others, but all newbies to swimming. Quickly, I advanced from floating on my back and stomach to kicking. From kicking, I advanced to vague, rather butchered, representations of the strokes. But I quickly went from knowing absolutely nothing of swimming to swimming free, back, and breast, slowly but surely. By this time, I was advanced enough to join the team. There were four levels: white, blue, silver, and platinum. All the fast kids were on higher teams, but I was ecstatic to have made the first team in the chain. Not long after making the team, it was summer. I decided I wanted to try summer meets out, and although I was slow, racing bigger kids (it seemed), I loved these meets. Over the course of four years, I had advanced from white to blue and had just reached silver. But to get to these levels was quite a challenge. It took much effort and determination. Everyone congratulated those who reached a new “team”, for it was a great accomplishment. Platinum was the only obstacle ahead. I was so close to reaching it. But, disaster struck! Enter COVID-19. The virus ruined everything. After ten weeks, when I finally got back to a pool, my times had drastically decreased; I thought I would never be at the same level for at least a year. And, not only did the coronavirus destroy my times, but it tore the team apart. Those of us who were wary and careful not to get the virus decided not to return until safer. So, I resorted to a small pool at a local gym. However, this was a blessing in disguise. Sure enough, I could make platinum team times within a matter of months. Now, I am content with the level I have reached, and am faster than ever. This obstacle of the coronavirus taught me something. Competitive swimming does not mean being the best, fastest, or on the highest level; it means pushing and challenging myself to be the best I can be, with those I love supporting me all the way.

Most boys are crazy and wild, needing to expend much pent-up energy, and I was no different at that age. At seven years old, I would run around the basement for no apparent reason. But what most other boys do not do is stop, after running around for a minute or two, winded, totally out of breath. Soccer games were no different. Twenty little kids all running towards the kid with the ball, but I would suddenly stop, breathless. It felt like I couldn’t get the air in my lungs that I needed. My caring mother took me to the doctor. They said it was asthma. An idea to help with it was to try swimming. My mom quickly found a man who gave me swimming lessons, anything to help my asthma. When we arrived, I began my lesson. There were other kids too. Some older than others, but all newbies to swimming. Quickly, I advanced from floating on my back and stomach to kicking, with my mom's encouragement. From kicking, I advanced to vague, rather butchered, representations of the strokes. But I quickly went from knowing absolutely nothing of swimming to swimming free, back, and breast, slowly but surely. By this time, I was advanced enough to join the team. There were four levels: white, blue, silver, and platinum. All the fast kids were on higher teams, but I was ecstatic to have made the first team in the chain. Not long after making the team, it was summer. My mom supported me when I decided I wanted to try summer meets out, and although I was slow, racing bigger kids (it seemed), I loved meets. My mom would get the swimmers' times. But if she wasn't timing, she would be cheering the loudest of all the coaches, parents, and teammates. Over the course of four years, I had advanced from white to blue and had just reached silver. But to get to these levels was quite a challenge. It took much effort and determination. Everyone congratulated those who reached a new “team”, for it was a great accomplishment. But, my mom did most. Platinum was the only obstacle ahead. I was so close to reaching it. But, disaster struck! Enter COVID-19. The virus ruined everything. After ten weeks, when I finally got back to a pool, my times had drastically decreased; I thought I would never be at the same level for at least a year. And, not only did the coronavirus destroy my times, but it tore the team apart. Those of us who were wary and careful not to get the virus decided not to return until safer. So, I resorted to a small pool at a local gym. However, this was a blessing in disguise. My mom believed I could get back up to my original level in no time, regardless of what I thought. Sure enough, I could make platinum team times within a matter of months. Now, I am content with the level I have reached, and am faster than ever. All because of my mom's encouragement. It taught me something. Competitive swimming does not mean being the best, fastest, or on the highest level; it means pushing and challenging myself to be the best I can be, with those I love supporting me all the way.