What Empowerment Means to Me and How It Affects My Life To me, empowerment is the ability to recognize my own strength, believe in my potential, and take control of my future. It is about having the confidence, support, and motivation to push through challenges, stand up for myself and others, and create meaningful change. True empowerment is not just about self-growth; it is also about lifting others, ensuring that they, too, feel strong, capable, and valued. Throughout my life, empowerment has been a driving force behind my actions, decisions, and aspirations. It has given me the courage to overcome obstacles and the resilience to keep going, even in the most difficult times. When my father was in the hospital after a life-threatening accident, I had to take on more responsibilities than most people my age. I helped care for my younger brother, managed my schoolwork, and tried to keep life as normal as possible despite the uncertainty surrounding my family. It was an overwhelming time, but through it, I discovered the power of perseverance and self-belief. I realized that, even in the hardest moments, I was capable of rising to the occasion. That realization was empowering. Empowerment is also deeply connected to leadership, and I have embraced that role in many aspects of my life. As a section leader in my school’s band, I have had the opportunity to encourage and support younger musicians, helping them build their confidence and skills. I have also taken on leadership roles in my community, such as assisting with a nonprofit prom dress giveaway and volunteering to help those in need. Each of these experiences has reinforced the idea that true empowerment comes not only from personal success but also from helping others realize their potential. One of the biggest influences on my understanding of empowerment has been my mother, who is a teacher. Watching her guide and inspire her students has shown me how much a teacher’s support and encouragement can shape a child’s future. Her ability to uplift her students and give them the confidence to succeed has had a profound impact on me. It is one of the reasons I am passionate about becoming a special education teacher. I want to empower students the way my mother has and help them recognize their strengths, no matter the challenges they face. Empowerment is not just a mindset, it is a way of living. It has shaped my past, continues to guide my present, and will define my future as I work toward my goals. Whether in my education, my leadership roles, or my future career, I will always strive to empower both myself and those around me, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to realize their worth and potential.

The Opening Scene: The screen fades in from black to a quiet, dimly lit band room. The tune of blazing lights buzzes softly in the background. A lone tuba sits upright in the center of the room, catching the golden glow of the setting sun filtering through the windows. The camera lingers for a moment before footsteps echo in the empty space. A pair of hands gently lifts the instrument, fingers tracing the familiar chilled brass. A deep breath. Then, a single, rich note fills the silence. It starts soft, uncertain, but grows steadier, fuller. The camera then tilts up, slowly revealing a young woman, focused, determined. Next, the scene shifts. All of a sudden, the music fades into the background, replaced by the disorganized sounds of an early morning. The clatter of dishes, hurried footsteps on the hardwood floor. A kitchen, dimly lit by the glow of the stove. The same young woman, now in a school hoodie, is multitasking, packing her younger brother’s lunch while skimming through a psychology textbook propped open by a cereal box. The clock on the microwave flashes: 7:13 AM, she's running late again. She lets out a sharp, tired breath, her shoulders rising and falling with the weight of the morning rush. For a brief second, she considers pausing, just long enough to collect her thoughts, but there’s no time. Pushing through the exhaustion, she keeps moving, her hands working swiftly as she finishes packing the lunch, double-checking everything before zipping the bag closed. There’s always more to do, always another task waiting, but she doesn’t let herself slow down. Cut to a hospital waiting room. The hum of distant beeping machines. Her leg bounces anxiously as she stares at the worn-out floor, covered in scratches and scuff marks. Her hands are clenched together, knuckles pale. The weight of responsibility, watching over her brother, keeping things together while her dad fights for his life, settles onto her shoulders. She’s exhausted, but there’s no time for that. The camera lingers on her face, worried, but strong. The scene shifts again. A fast-paced montage begins. She stands in a crowded band room, conducting a group of younger musicians, her voice steady as she gives instructions. She’s no longer just a player, she’s a leader, a mentor. The frame jumps. Rows of colorful prom dresses line a room, and she carefully helps a nervous high schooler zip up a gown, watching as their face lights up in the mirror. Another cut: sitting beside her sister, patiently guiding her through a learning exercise, their laughter filling the room. The moments blur together, giving, leading, persevering. Then, the music slows. Back in the band room. She exhales and plays another note. This time, it’s stronger, confident. The camera zooms in on a nearby music stand where a slightly crumpled college acceptance letter rests. The school’s name is blurred, but one thing is clear: Education Major. She smiles to herself, adjusting her posture, preparing to play again. The screen fades to black. Across the darkness, elegant white letters appear: Resilient Harmony. The music plays on.

Professor Harold Bloom’s statement, “I have learned that the purpose of teaching is to bring the student to his or her sense of his or her presence,” speaks to the core of education, not just imparting knowledge, but helping students recognize their worth, identity, and capabilities. To have a sense of one’s presence means to understand one’s value, to develop confidence in one’s abilities, and to feel seen, heard, and empowered in the world. For special education students, this journey is especially significant, as they often face challenges that can make self-recognition and self-advocacy more difficult. As a future special education teacher, my mission is to ensure that every student I work with experiences this profound sense of presence. I believe that education is about more than just academics; it is about fostering independence, self-confidence, and a belief in one’s potential. Many students with special needs may struggle with self-doubt or feel defined by their challenges, but my goal is to help them see their strengths, recognize their progress, and embrace their unique abilities. To accomplish this, I will focus on creating a supportive, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment where students feel safe to explore, make mistakes, and grow. I will celebrate their achievements, both big and small, and provide them with individualized strategies to help them succeed. By using a strengths-based approach, I will highlight what each student can do, rather than focusing on what they struggle with. Encouraging self-expression, whether through communication, art, music, or hands-on learning, will be a key part of my teaching style, allowing each student to develop their voice. As I become a teacher, I will advocate for my students, making sure that they receive the resources, accommodations, and support they need to thrive. I hope is to work closely with their families, therapists, and other educators to create a community of encouragement around each child. Most importantly, I will teach my students that their presence matters, that they are capable, that they have something valuable to contribute, and that they should never be defined by their limitations. Every student deserves to feel confident about who they are and what they can achieve. My passion for special education comes from my deep belief that all children, regardless of their abilities or what they are going through, have limitless potential. By guiding them to recognize their presence, I hope to help them build a future that will be full of possibilities.

I have always had a passion for helping others, and pursuing a career in teaching, specifically early education and special education, feels like the perfect way to make a meaningful impact. My desire to become a teacher is deeply personal, shaped by my experiences and the people in my life. My mother is a teacher, and growing up, I saw firsthand the dedication and effort she put into her work and the difference she made in her students’ lives. She would spend hours preparing lessons, finding creative ways to engage her students, and supporting them beyond the classroom. Watching her go beyond just teaching curriculum, offering support, encouragement, and guidance, showed me how much a teacher’s influence can contribute to a child’s success. Her example has been a constant reminder that educators don’t just teach, they shape futures. Seeing how her former students still reach out to thank her for the impact she had on their lives solidified my belief that teaching can be one of the most powerful professions. Additionally, my passion for special education comes from my sister, who has Hydrocephalus, which has affected her throughout her life. Growing up with her, I have seen the challenges she faces daily and the unique ways she learns. The support and patience of her teachers have played a major role in her development and success, and their dedication has inspired me to follow in their footsteps. I want to be the kind of teacher who fosters a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every child, regardless of their abilities, feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive. Throughout my own education, I was fortunate to have teachers who changed my life, but one in particular stands out is my band director. She not only taught me music but also instilled in me a strong sense of leadership, perseverance, and confidence. She believed in me even when I doubted myself, encouraging me to take on leadership roles that ultimately helped shape who I am today. Her influence extended far beyond the band room, She taught me life lessons that I will carry with me forever. Her unwavering support and encouragement have inspired me to become the kind of teacher who not only educates but also uplifts and empowers students. Teaching is more than just a career choice for me, it is a calling. I want to be the teacher who makes learning exciting, who believes in students even when they don’t believe in themselves, and who helps children discover their own potential. Every child deserves a teacher who will support them, challenge them, and inspire them to reach for their dreams, and I hope to be that person in my future classroom.

Mental health is incredibly important to me as a student because I’ve personally experienced how stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges can affect both academic performance and overall well-being. As a student, I know firsthand the pressure that comes with balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, social expectations, and personal life. Sometimes, this pressure can become overwhelming, and without proper mental health care, it’s easy to lose focus, motivation, or even joy in the things I once enjoyed. I’ve seen how these struggles can impact my ability to perform in school, affect my relationships with friends and family, and ultimately lead to burnout. This is why I believe that mental health should be treated with the same level of importance as physical health, especially in a school setting. When students’ mental health is prioritized, they are better equipped to handle academic challenges, build positive relationships, and feel more balanced in their daily lives. To advocate for mental health in my community, I focus on raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. At school, I try to lead by example by openly talking about mental health with my peers. I believe that normalizing these conversations encourages others to speak up and seek help when needed. Whether it's discussing stress management techniques or sharing personal experiences, I strive to make mental health a topic that isn’t hidden or ignored. I’ve also participated in school initiatives such as mental health awareness campaigns, workshops, or events aimed at educating students about the importance of mental well-being and the resources available to them. Through these efforts, I hope to create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable talking about their struggles without fear of judgment. At home, I advocate for mental health by supporting my family members and encouraging open communication. I’ve learned that being an active listener is one of the most important ways to help someone who may be struggling emotionally. Whether it's providing emotional support during stressful times or encouraging my family to seek professional help, I try to create a safe space where they feel comfortable sharing their feelings. I also remind them that taking care of mental health is just as important as taking care of physical health, and I encourage healthy coping strategies like relaxation techniques, staying active, and having regular check-ins with mental health professionals if necessary. In this way, I aim to build a supportive atmosphere at home where everyone can prioritize their mental well-being. Additionally, I practice self-care as a way to manage my mental health. Taking time for activities I enjoy, such as playing music, working out, or spending time with loved ones, helps me manage stress and maintain a healthy balance in my life. I’ve learned that making self-care a priority is essential to staying mentally and emotionally healthy, especially during busy or challenging times. By focusing on my mental well-being, I am better able to be there for others and continue advocating for mental health in my community. In the end, advocating for mental health means creating an environment where people feel supported, understood, and empowered to take care of themselves. It’s about raising awareness, breaking down barriers of stigma, and making sure that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive mentally and emotionally. Whether it’s through open conversations, participating in school initiatives, or offering support at home, I am committed to helping create a world where mental health is treated with the care and attention it deserves.

I’m passionate about the extracurricular activities I’m involved in because they help me grow personally and allow me to contribute to my community in different ways. Being in the marching band, concert band, and jazz band has been a huge part of my life. Music brings me a sense of fulfillment and allows me to work with others toward a common goal, whether it's performing at school events or participating in competitions. These experiences have taught me teamwork, discipline, and how to communicate effectively, all of which are valuable in any community setting. Plus, the energy and excitement of live performances help bring people together, making music a powerful way to create unity and joy in the community. Playing lacrosse for four years has also had a major impact on me. Lacrosse taught me how to be a strong team player and how to push myself both physically and mentally. The sport requires quick thinking, endurance, and constant communication with teammates, all of which have made me a more focused and disciplined person. Lacrosse has helped me understand the importance of perseverance, as each season presented new challenges that required hard work and commitment to overcome. It also allowed me to be part of a close-knit team where we supported each other both on and off the field, and that sense of camaraderie is something I carry with me in all aspects of my life. Working at a movie theater has also shaped my perspective, as it’s allowed me to connect with others while providing a service. I enjoy making customers feel welcome and ensuring they have a great experience. This job has taught me the importance of customer service, responsibility, and how to manage my time efficiently. It also allows me to contribute to my local community by offering a space where people can unwind and enjoy entertainment together, helping strengthen community bonds. In addition, I love working out at the gym. It’s an activity that helps me stay healthy both physically and mentally. By focusing on my fitness, I’ve gained confidence, developed resilience, and learned how to set and achieve goals. Staying active is not only good for my well-being but also inspires others to take care of their health. It’s great to be part of a fitness community where people support each other in their journeys to improve. Overall, these extracurricular activities have shaped who I am and how I connect with others. Whether it’s through music, lacrosse, work, or fitness, I’m constantly learning new skills and ways to contribute to my community. Each of these activities has helped me become a more well-rounded, empathetic person, and I’m excited to carry these experiences with me into the future.

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how mental health challenges affect not just individuals but also their families, friends, and communities. These experiences have not only opened my eyes to the importance of mental well-being but have fueled also my desire to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. From a young age, I was exposed to multiple mental health struggles within myself, my family, and friend circle. I saw how anxiety and depression could grip someone’s life, making everyday tasks feel impossible, and how it could strain relationships. I’ve struggled with anxiety for years, often feeling isolated and misunderstood. It was painful for my family to watch as I felt trapped in My mind, and there were times when they weren’t sure how to help. I also witnessed how family members, grappling with their own mental health challenges, often struggled to reach out for help, partly due to the stigma that still surrounds mental health. These experiences shaped my belief that mental health is just as important as physical health. I became passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging open conversations. I began to understand that many people suffer in silence because they are afraid of being judged or misunderstood. This realization led to a strong belief that mental health support should be more accessible and normalized so that people can seek help without fear of shame. I also learned the importance of empathy in relationships. I became more attentive and understanding toward those who were going through tough times, whether they were dealing with mental health challenges or simply navigating difficult circumstances. I realized that offering a listening ear or showing patience can have a huge impact, and I made a conscious effort to be that supportive friend or family member. In addition to strengthening my relationships, these experiences influenced my decision to pursue a career in psychology. I realized that I wanted to be someone who could provide professional support and guidance to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I wanted to be able to offer the help that I struggled to find. I became fascinated by how therapy, counseling, and other mental health interventions could help people regain control over their lives. The more I learned about the power of mental health treatment and the brain the more I felt driven to become a part of that process and helping people not only cope with their struggles but also thrive despite them. The decision to major in psychology is the next step in this journey. I am excited to dive deeper into understanding the human mind, learning how various mental health conditions develop, and discovering the best ways to treat and support individuals. I believe that pursuing a career in psychology will allow me to help people at a critical point in their lives. Whether it's offering therapy, working in schools to support students’ mental health, or advocating for better mental health services in underserved communities. Through this career, I hope to contribute to a world where mental health is prioritized, and where everyone has access to the same support and care they might need. Ultimately, my experiences with mental health have taught me the value of understanding, patience, and empathy. They have also fueled my commitment to making mental health care more accessible, less stigmatized, and more effective for everyone. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned, and I’m determined to use those lessons to help others navigate their own mental health struggles.

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how mental health challenges affect not just individuals but also their families, friends, and communities. These experiences have not only opened my eyes to the importance of mental well-being but have fueled also my desire to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. From a young age, I was exposed to multiple mental health struggles within myself, my family, and friend circle. I saw how anxiety and depression could grip someone’s life, making everyday tasks feel impossible, and how it could strain relationships. I’ve struggled with anxiety for years, often feeling isolated and misunderstood. It was painful for my family to watch as I felt trapped in My mind, and there were times when they weren’t sure how to help. I also witnessed how family members, grappling with their own mental health challenges, often struggled to reach out for help, partly due to the stigma that still surrounds mental health. These experiences shaped my belief that mental health is just as important as physical health. I became passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging open conversations. I began to understand that many people suffer in silence because they are afraid of being judged or misunderstood. This realization led to a strong belief that mental health support should be more accessible and normalized so that people can seek help without fear of shame. I also learned the importance of empathy in relationships. I became more attentive and understanding toward those who were going through tough times, whether they were dealing with mental health challenges or simply navigating difficult circumstances. I realized that offering a listening ear or showing patience can have a huge impact, and I made a conscious effort to be that supportive friend or family member. In addition to strengthening my relationships, these experiences influenced my decision to pursue a career in psychology. I realized that I wanted to be someone who could provide professional support and guidance to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I wanted to be able to offer the help that I struggled to find. I became fascinated by how therapy, counseling, and other mental health interventions could help people regain control over their lives. The more I learned about the power of mental health treatment and the brain the more I felt driven to become a part of that process and helping people not only cope with their struggles but also thrive despite them. The decision to major in psychology is the next step in this journey. I am excited to dive deeper into understanding the human mind, learning how various mental health conditions develop, and discovering the best ways to treat and support individuals. I believe that pursuing a career in psychology will allow me to help people at a critical point in their lives. Whether it's offering therapy, working in schools to support students’ mental health, or advocating for better mental health services in underserved communities. Through this career, I hope to contribute to a world where mental health is prioritized, and where everyone has access to the same support and care they might need. Ultimately, my experiences with mental health have taught me the value of understanding, patience, and empathy. They have also fueled my commitment to making mental health care more accessible, less stigmatized, and more effective for everyone. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned, and I’m determined to use those lessons to help others navigate their own mental health struggles.

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how mental health challenges affect not just individuals but also their families, friends, and communities. These experiences have not only opened my eyes to the importance of mental well-being but have fueled also my desire to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. From a young age, I was exposed to multiple mental health struggles within myself, my family, and friend circle. I saw how anxiety and depression could grip someone’s life, making everyday tasks feel impossible, and how it could strain relationships. I’ve struggled with anxiety for years, often feeling isolated and misunderstood. It was painful for my family to watch as I felt trapped in My mind, and there were times when they weren’t sure how to help. I also witnessed how family members, grappling with their own mental health challenges, often struggled to reach out for help, partly due to the stigma that still surrounds mental health. These experiences shaped my belief that mental health is just as important as physical health. I became passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging open conversations. I began to understand that many people suffer in silence because they are afraid of being judged or misunderstood. This realization led to a strong belief that mental health support should be more accessible and normalized so that people can seek help without fear of shame. I also learned the importance of empathy in relationships. I became more attentive and understanding toward those who were going through tough times, whether they were dealing with mental health challenges or simply navigating difficult circumstances. I realized that offering a listening ear or showing patience can have a huge impact, and I made a conscious effort to be that supportive friend or family member. In addition to strengthening my relationships, these experiences influenced my decision to pursue a career in psychology. I realized that I wanted to be someone who could provide professional support and guidance to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I wanted to be able to offer the help that I struggled to find. I became fascinated by how therapy, counseling, and other mental health interventions could help people regain control over their lives. The more I learned about the power of mental health treatment and the brain the more I felt driven to become a part of that process and helping people not only cope with their struggles but also thrive despite them. The decision to major in psychology is the next step in this journey. I am excited to dive deeper into understanding the human mind, learning how various mental health conditions develop, and discovering the best ways to treat and support individuals. I believe that pursuing a career in psychology will allow me to help people at a critical point in their lives. Whether it's offering therapy, working in schools to support students’ mental health, or advocating for better mental health services in underserved communities. Through this career, I hope to contribute to a world where mental health is prioritized, and where everyone has access to the same support and care they might need. Ultimately, my experiences with mental health have taught me the value of understanding, patience, and empathy. They have also fueled my commitment to making mental health care more accessible, less stigmatized, and more effective for everyone. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned, and I’m determined to use those lessons to help others navigate their own mental health struggles.

Bullying and harassment are major issues in schools, impacting children's mental health and future. I'm passionate about addressing these problems, raising awareness, and ensuring kids have the support they need. This is why I plan to major in psychology. By making schools safer and improving access to mental health resources, we can help students grow into healthier, happier individuals. First, it’s important to raise awareness about how damaging bullying can be. It can lead to serious problems like depression and anxiety which can hurt a student’s ability to do well in school. The more students, teachers, and parents understand the effects of bullying, the better we can prevent it. Schools should have programs that teach students about empathy, kindness, and how to treat others with respect. This happens through workshops, school assemblies, or group discussions where everyone can learn about the harm that bullying causes and how they can help stop it. Teaching kids that their words and actions matter and giving them the tools to stand up against bullying are key steps in reducing it. Another important step is creating effective anti-bullying programs in schools. Programs like peer mediation and restorative justice teach students to handle conflict without aggression, understand their emotions, and relate to others in healthy ways. Peer mediation lets students work together to solve problems, while restorative justice focuses on fixing the harm done and making things right. These programs create a more positive, supportive school environment and make it easier for students to resolve issues peacefully instead of bullying others. It’s important to make sure that students who are affected by bullying have access to mental health support. I believe schools should have counselors and mental health professionals available to students whenever they need help. These professionals can provide individual counseling, group therapy, and emotional support. Peer support groups where students talk about their feelings and struggles can also help students feel less alone. When mental health support is available and easy to access, students are more likely to reach out for help, which can prevent long-term emotional problems. At the same time, I would work to push for stronger policies in schools that make sure bullying is taken seriously. Schools should have more clear rules for reporting bullying, offering protection to victims, and holding bullies accountable for their actions. Having clear policies in place can ensure that all students feel safe at school and that bullying is dealt with effectively. My interest in mental health comes from a desire to help kids who are struggling emotionally. I believe mental health is just as important as physical health, and the earlier we can help the youth the better it will be for them in the long run. That’s why I want to focus on mental health treatment for young adults and make sure they get the help they need. One major issue in mental health care for youth is that the system can be confusing. To make it easier for families, I would push for centralized resources where parents can quickly find information about therapy, support groups, and medication. I’d also encourage better communication between schools, mental health professionals, and families to ensure students get the help they need. Reducing the stigma around mental health is also key, as it helps kids feel more comfortable seeking support. By raising awareness about bullying and providing better access to mental health resources, we can create a healthier environment for students, and with help children and teenagers can grow up more confident, mentally healthy, and ready to succeed in life.

I've always loved helping others and giving back, especially to those who are going through tough times like my family and I have. One of the most important ways I have done this is by volunteering with a nonprofit that gives free prom dresses to girls who can’t afford them. Seeing how happy and excited these girls are when they get the dresses shows me how even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. I’ve also worked with Happy Helpers, making lunches for the homeless and others who need help. These experiences have shown me how important it is to serve and support my community. In school, I’ve taken on leadership roles that let me help my classmates and create a positive environment. As the leader of the low brass and tuba section in my band, I try to make it a place where teamwork is important, and I encourage younger musicians. Being a leader has taught me patience, responsibility, and how valuable it is to mentor others. It’s been hard balancing leadership with my schoolwork, but I’ve worked hard to keep my GPA above 3.0. Outside of school, I’ve also been committed to my job, where I’ve earned multiple promotions thanks to my work ethic. These experiences have shaped me into a hard-working person. Even with everything I’ve done, money has been a huge issue for me and my family. My dad got sick and was in a bad car accident, which left him in the hospital for a long time, and that put a lot of financial stress on us. During this time, I had to take care of my younger brother, which made everything even harder. These challenges have made me stronger, but they've also made things tough financially. As I look ahead to college, I know I need financial help to keep going with my education and not put too much pressure on my family. I’m determined to keep going to school so I can have a better future and help my community. I also care a lot about protecting kids from bullying, both in person and online. In my leadership roles, I make it a point to create a place where everyone feels safe and respected. I encourage younger students to stand up for themselves and others, teaching them the importance of kindness. Online safety matters just as much as in-person bullying, and I want to help educate students on how to spot harmful behavior, set boundaries, and report cyberbullying. It’s important that we create spaces where young people feel comfortable talking about their problems and asking for help. By raising awareness, encouraging open conversations, and leading by example, I hope to make things better for everyone. In the end, I’m committed to making a positive impact through service, leadership, and standing up for others. With financial help, I can continue my education and do even more to give back to my community in the future.