Recovery means there is a solution and the solution is a Higher Power, the Steps, and the fellowship. Before recovery, my life was unmanageable because I thought I had to figure out the solution to all my problems, I was utterly overwhelmed, and I couldn't bear the thought of living without the comfort of my addiction. Today I accept that understanding is overrated, there is no serenity in trying to figure something out. Peace is in surrendering, once I admitted I could not control my addiction and I needed help I was on a journey of transformation. The road to recovery means life to me. Before recovery, my world was so small I kept myself isolated. Now, I do things afraid because I know the fear that I am not enough is a lie. My Higher Power is ever present and always available. It is a source of strength that flows through me in my greatest times of need. All I have to do is suit up and show up. Now I can do anything clean and sober. Last year I traveled to London, Paris, and Rome. This year, I went away to college, I live on my own, I meet new people, and I socialize. I host my own radio station, and I write, film, act, and direct sketch comedies. I go to parties and dance and sing. My life is happy, joyous, and free.

I have been in more than 14 plays and musicals and only had a lead role in four of them. As a member of the ensemble, I do my best to make the show a success and allow the leads to shine. I ask not what a situation can do for me but what I can bring to the situation to improve conditions. All this acting experience has honed my eye as a director and developed my interest in all types of media production. I want to be a storyteller. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others, I can change the world. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to combine my passion for helping people with my love of doing something I will never tire of. It’s important for me to feel creative. I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career to which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope for our society. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. The social issue that would be the focus of my efforts to effect change would be implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion and fear about the future use of AI. The writers' strike is just one example that perhaps justifiably begs the question of what role should AI play in our future. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this topic being discussed at a UN event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice. The discussion convened a panel of experts such as UN Ambassadors, AI scholars, the CEO of AI for Good Foundation, and a representative from the International Telecommunication Union. The message I gleaned from these public servants was a hopeful one. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, gender equality, clean energy, sustainability, climate action, peace, and justice. This is the potential legacy of my generation. It could be the last time a child dies of hunger. We can stop climate change. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is a true crossroad. The precipice of an opportunity to correct immortal practices, even the scales of justice, and share resources equitably. This can be done if thoughtful, deliberate, and explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this vehicle of positive change. I am fascinated to have the opportunity to use my craft to effect change in the world. The world’s atrocities were the product of dehumanizing groups of people through propaganda and misinformation. Conversely, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity and leads to empathy. That is why I want to use the camera as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can evolve as a global community. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling.

I'm always spinning tales, I'm a storyteller studying Media Production. My love of writing was born through media consumption. I'm obsessed with Stranger Things. My connection with the characters has me creating their next adventure. Here's a sample. What beast slouches towards the underside of the unsuspecting town of Hawkins, Indiana to be born? (“The Second Coming,” by W.B. Yeats) It’s El’s multiverse alter-ego, confident, unfaltering, and unscrupulous; unbeatable? Not for my dream team of Dustin, Hopper, and Eleven, who will have to battle inner demons, interpersonal connections, and the evil forces of the upside-down. How do you fight yourself, your friend, and your daughter? It will take awareness, acceptance, and action to fight Nevele, as Dustin calls, her. Awareness is Dustin’s strength, he will put all the pieces together and hash up the battle plan. Can Hopper accept himself, never mind a plan that spells the demise of his daughter’s doppelganger? And what about El? Can she fight her insecurities and reclaim the powers Nevele is draining from her? I will work with this team to heal their traumas and gently guide them to break from their chrysalises as transformed versions of themselves. El must merge with the demon facing her greatest fear that she is the demon. Hopper must be willing to do something he has never done before surrender; surrender El to the Upsidedown and abandon the fight. His struggle will be to sit on his hand and do absolutely nothing. We begin to wonder which side is the Upsidedown in this world of paradoxes. What makes me qualified to join this dream team? I’ve had experience surrendering to win and leading my team to acceptance. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidant/ Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It’s an eating disorder I’ve had practically all my life. My parents tried to help in their way but they only made it worse. My father is very much like Hopper. He is strong and courageous mentally and physically. But ARFID can’t be overpowered by someone else’s strong will. My mother is like Dustin. She wants to figure things out, make a million phone calls, and devise a plan. But with ARFID understanding it is overrated. Surrender, acceptance, and action are the solutions. And the solution had to come from me. It was my journey of transformation and recovery. It has been a slow journey but I’m going in the right direction. The first step was recognizing that I was powerless over my abnormal reaction to food and willpower alone was not going to make me a normal eater. It was from this awareness I could move forward and accept the tools of recovery. Today I am in counseling and feeding therapy on an intensive schedule. It is not easy to balance this schedule with all my homework and extracurricular activities but it’s necessary. It is a paradox that recovery starts with surrender and although facing our inner demons is an inside job we never do it alone. For me, my dream team is my loving family and supportive therapists and counselors. To save Hawkins, my dream team would be El, Hopper, and Dustin because they remind me of myself and my family. My vision for my future is a healthy, confident version of myself. My vision of the future El is a confident, powerful person who knows she's kind and isn't afraid of her true nature. Hopper will not have to fear his past, he is no longer a person with nothing to lose yet, it doesn’t terrify him to be in a relationship. And Dustin can be Dustin.

I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others, I can change the world. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to combine my passion for helping people with my love of doing something I will never tire of. Many nurturing teachers have built my self-esteem. I have transformed from a quiet boy who couldn’t write a sentence to a college-bound student ready to major in Film. I am grateful to my creative and intelligent film teacher. She is extremely knowledgeable about film. Her passion is infectious. I also enjoyed building a close relationship with her and my classmates during this two-year course. We all have a family-like bond, especially because we spend time outside of class filming together. Ms. K encourages us to learn all the roles of film making like writing, directing, filming, and editing. It’s important for me to feel creative. I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career to which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope for our society. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. The social issue that would be the focus of my efforts to effect change would be implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion and fear about the future use of AI. The writers' strike is just one example that perhaps justifiably begs the question of what role should AI play in our future. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this topic being discussed at a UN event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice. The discussion convened a panel of experts such as UN Ambassadors, AI scholars, the CEO of AI for Good Foundation, and a representative from the International Telecommunication Union. The message I gleaned from these public servants was a hopeful one. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, gender equality, clean energy, sustainability, climate action, peace, and justice. This is the potential legacy of my generation. It could be the last time a child dies of hunger. We can stop climate change. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is a true crossroad. The precipice of an opportunity to correct immortal practices, even the scales of justice, and share resources equitably. This can be done if thoughtful, deliberate, and explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this vehicle of positive change. I am fascinated to have the opportunity to use my craft to effect change in the world. The world’s atrocities were the product of dehumanizing groups of people through propaganda and misinformation. Conversely, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity and leads to empathy. That is why I want to use the camera as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can evolve as a global community. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling.

To say video games are an integral part of my life is an understate. Video gaming is my life and I am not embarrassed to say it! They have made me social, communicative, empathic, charitable, goal-oriented, and successful. They have created a realm for my personal growth, social connection, and creative expression. By far the most profound impact of video gaming is the deep friendships I have made. The nights spent laughing and connecting through online multiplayer games have created bonds that extend beyond the virtual realm. These connections have provided a sense of belonging and support, particularly during times of loneliness or isolation. Some people don’t understand that these are real friendships. I have friends from five states in every corner of the country. In 2021 we planned an in-person meet-up. It was the most rich and gratifying experience of my life. These truly are my best friends we have comfort and joy in each other’s company. Now, we gather as much as is economically feasible. For those who can afford it, we all chip in and pay their way. We function as a cohesive group. The time spent virtually working together on a common goal easily translates into helping each other. We have perfected the art of communication and crowd-sourcing, a skill the generations that preceded us continue to struggle to achieve. Beyond social connections, video games have also offered a sense of purpose and motivation. The challenges presented within games, whether overcoming a difficult battle or completing a complex puzzle, have instilled a sense of accomplishment and motivation. I bring these skills into real-life situations. I learned life-long character traits such as perseverance and the importance of setting and achieving goals. Video games have also honed my hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. The fast-paced action and strategic thinking required in many games have sharpened my reflexes and analytical abilities. I use these skills to multitask, meet deadlines, and accomplish tasks efficiently. One of the greatest attributes of playing video games creative and immersive nature of the games. The open-ended nature of many games allows for boundless imagination and self-expression. Whether it's designing intricate structures in a building game or crafting unique stories within a role-playing game, video games have provided a canvas for my creativity to flourish. My "why" is storytelling. I want to be a storyteller. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Telling stories through digital design excites me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never tire of doing. Video games have transformed my life. I would not be the person I am today without them and for that I am grateful. They have given me a social life, instilled a sense of purpose, sharpened my skills, and sparked my creativity. The positive impact of video games on my life is a testament to their power to entertain, educate, and inspire. The positive impact on the future of communication and achieving collective goals have yet to be appreciated but is certain to materialize.

Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home last summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories is a process and I can get so absorbed that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

Climate change is an existential crisis affecting all of humanity and the quality of life on Earth. Storms and natural disasters' impacts are felt globally, and environmental policies enacted in one country affect all countries. We're at the tipping point. The time to act is now. It must be a worldwide effort. I am passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. I am an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, salamanders, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth! To live my message I participate in environmental clean-ups and reduce my carbon footprint. I have spent most of my vacation time camping and hiking, so I am familiar with the concept of leaving no trace. But that doesn't go far enough I leave the space cleaner than when I arrived. As someone who spends time in nature, I find it impossible not to notice how tiny plastic pieces are everywhere. I could spend an hour in one square foot of sand at the beach and pick up hundreds of plastic pieces. This is why I never use single-use plastic bottles. I pack my lunch in a cloth sack and wrap my sandwiches in reusable wax paper. This may be a small gesture but if every person on the planet participated it would have a huge impact. Another way I intend to help the earth is to showcase its majestic beauty as a filmmaker. Movies have always evoked deep emotions and moved me into action. My earliest memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of caring for our planet a message that stays with me. If I can stir passion in others I can change the world. Telling the story of the planet, its beauty, and its fragility can inspire others to work toward sustainability. My vision is an advertising campaign, "Humanity for sustainability, we are the solution." The campaign is a film montage of people being empowered to reduce their carbon footprint by buying electric cars, eating plant-based diets, having solar panels on homes, planting trees, and replacing cattle ranches with farms. This is a way to bring my passion for filming and the environment together with helping people.

Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow mental health to hold me back from my dreams. My struggles with mental health in the past have held me back. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidance Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It impacts my daily life in many ways. It not only negatively affects my overall health but greatly devastates my mental health. I avoid all social social situations and have great anxiety because of my fear of food. It came to the point where my world became so small I needed help. I remembered how my aunt didn't give up on life even when she was so close to death. Today I am in intensive treatment for my eating disorder and my anxiety and little by little I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home last summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. In the past ARFID would have stolen these experiences from me. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. My future dream is to start a film production company. I am working hard to support myself and pay off my student loans so I can use my gifts to help others. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

I want to share my passions through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in the field of filmmaking because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Going to college is important to me in pursuing my dream of becoming a filmmaker. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people. Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow mental health to hold me back from my dreams. My struggles with mental health in the past have held me back. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidance Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It impacts my daily life in many ways. It not only negatively affects my overall health but greatly devastates my mental health. I avoid all social social situations and have great anxiety because of my fear of food. It came to the point where my world became so small I needed help. I remembered how my aunt didn't give up on life even when she was so close to death. Today I am in intensive treatment for my eating disorder and my anxiety and little by little I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home last summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. In the past ARFID would have stolen these experiences from me. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

The message I heard in church is "God is Love." This is the truth, and because I have the spark of the divine in me, recognition of truth is innate. This is a feeling, not a thought. I know this to my core and from this knowing I found myself questioning the dogma of the church. If God IS Love as 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 says, Love "keeps no record of wrongs" then I am not judged by my Higher Power. From an early age, this began my personal journey with God. Going to church has helped me learn the Bible and listening to the context and interpretation from others is enlightening and fills my spirit. I never doubted God until one time I witnessed the near death of my father. He was in a coma for days and when he awoke the nightmare began. His mind was not right, he was hallucinating scenes from Hell. The doctors told us it was his brain chemistry. Driving home from the hospital that night was my "Dark Night of the Soul", the night I hung from the cross and had to ask myself if I have nothing else is the Love of God enough? For the first time, I was having an existential crisis, I wondered if the doctors were right. Is our consciousness the result of chemicals in our brains? Does anything exist? Do I see what you see? Is there a God? Then I looked at the gray January sky and what I saw was inexplicitly beautiful. My next thought was, God is truth. If all you have in this moment is the Love of God is that enough to sustain you? The answer was yes! God gave me the Grace I needed in that moment as He does in every moment. God is strength so I am lifted when I am weak. God is truth so I am shown the clarity of the situation when I dwell in darkness or uncertainty. I knew in that moment God was with me and of myself I was nothing the Father doeth the works. My life felt out of control and I felt utterly unable to accept my father's illness and the pain of losing him or him losing his mind. The truth is my life is connected to a greater whole. That I have "A Life or My Life", that I am separate from, is a lie, the truth is God is the center and we are all connected. I knew the truth in that moment was to trust God and have faith that I would have the strength to face the outcome but only through God. This was the turning point of my life. It did not magically change the circumstances of my father's slow recovery and I am grateful to report he did make a full recovery which is an incredible gift. But again during the painfully slow path of his recovery, God's grace was with us in every step. That January night in the car I turned on the car's radio and heard: Isiah 43:1-4 "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name: you are mine. When you pass through waters, I will be with you; through rivers, you shall not be swept away. When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, nor will flames consume you. For I, the Lord, am your (personal) God, the Holy One of Israel, your savior.... Because you are precious in my eyes and honored, and I love you," It brought me to tears...

I'm always spinning tales, I'm a storyteller studying Media Production. My love of writing was born through media consumption. I'm obsessed with Stranger Things. My connection with the characters has me creating their next adventure. Here's a sample. What beast slouches towards the underside of the unsuspecting town of Hawkins, Indiana to be born? (“The Second Coming,” by W.B. Yeats) It’s El’s multiverse alter-ego, confident, unfaltering, and unscrupulous; unbeatable? Not for my dream team of Dustin, Hopper, and Eleven, who will have to battle inner demons, interpersonal connections, and the evil forces of the upside-down. How do you fight yourself, your friend, and your daughter? It will take awareness, acceptance, and action to fight Nevele, as Dustin calls, her. Awareness is Dustin’s strength, he will put all the pieces together and hash up the battle plan. Can Hopper accept himself, never mind a plan that spells the demise of his daughter’s doppelganger? And what about El? Can she fight her insecurities and reclaim the powers Nevele is draining from her? I will work with this team to heal their traumas and gently guide them to break from their chrysalises as transformed versions of themselves. El must merge with the demon facing her greatest fear that she is the demon. Hopper must be willing to do something he has never done before surrender; surrender El to the Upsidedown and abandon the fight. His struggle will be to sit on his hand and do absolutely nothing. We begin to wonder which side is the Upsidedown in this world of paradoxes. What makes me qualified to join this dream team? I’ve had experience surrendering to win and leading my team to acceptance. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidant/ Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It’s an eating disorder I’ve had practically all my life. My parents tried to help in their way but they only made it worse. My father is very much like Hopper. He is strong and courageous mentally and physically. But ARFID can’t be overpowered by someone else’s strong will. My mother is like Dustin. She wants to figure things out, make a million phone calls, and devise a plan. But with ARFID understanding it is overrated. Surrender, acceptance, and action are the solutions. And the solution had to come from me. It was my journey of transformation and recovery. It has been a slow journey but I’m going in the right direction. The first step was recognizing that I was powerless over my abnormal reaction to food and willpower alone was not going to make me a normal eater. It was from this awareness I could move forward and accept the tools of recovery. Today I am in counseling and feeding therapy on an intensive schedule. It is not easy to balance this schedule with all my homework and extracurricular activities but it’s necessary. It is a paradox that recovery starts with surrender and although facing our inner demons is an inside job we never do it alone. For me, my dream team is my loving family and supportive therapists and counselors. To save Hawkins, my dream team would be El, Hopper, and Dustin because they remind me of myself and my family. My vision for my future is a healthy, confident version of myself. My vision of the future El is a confident, powerful person who knows she's kind and isn't afraid of her true nature. Hopper will not have to fear his past, he is no longer a person with nothing to lose yet, it doesn’t terrify him to be in a relationship. And Dustin can be Dustin.

Recently, I had the great fortune to travel to London, Paris, and Rome. Seeing the works of DaVinci, VanVogh, Monet, Degas, and many other artists, including the ancient Romans, made it evident that as long as humans have populated the earth, art has had a positive impact on the collective psyche. Art nourishes the spirit just as food and water sustain the body and societies could not flourish without it. Humans have an innate need to express their stories. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories is a process and I can get so absorbed that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich.

Watching my aunt battle breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow mental health to hold me back from my dreams. My struggles with mental health in the past have held me back. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidance Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It impacts my daily life in many ways. It not only negatively affects my overall health but greatly devastates my mental health. I avoid all social social situations and have great anxiety because of my fear of food. It came to the point where my world became so small I needed help. I remembered how my aunt didn't give up on life even when she was so close to death. Today, I am in intensive treatment for my eating disorder and my anxiety, and little by little I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home last summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. In the past ARFID would have stolen these experiences from me. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. Going to college is important to me to pursue my dream of becoming a filmmaker. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions in others I can change the world. Telling stories through any method: filming, drawing, or digital design excites me. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people. Some have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like economic insecurity, food insecurity, and racial discrimination. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness. The issues my generation and I have had a front-row seat to have been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved communication is the essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. There are many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. Attached are screenshots from a film I made, I was responsible for editing and directing.

Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home last summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories is a process and I can get so absorbed that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

I want to share my passions through storytelling. I aspire to be a filmmaker because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people. Watching my aunt battle breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow mental health to hold me back from my dreams. My struggles with mental health in the past have held me back. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidance Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It impacts my daily life in many ways. It not only negatively affects my overall health but greatly devastates my mental health. I avoid all social social situations and have great anxiety because of my fear of food. It came to the point where my world became so small I needed help. I remembered how my aunt didn't give up on life even when she was so close to death. Today, I am in intensive treatment for my eating disorder and my anxiety, and little by little I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home last summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. In the past ARFID would have stolen these experiences from me. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. Going to college is important to me to pursue my dream of becoming a filmmaker. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

Recently, I had the great fortune to travel to London, Paris, and Rome. Seeing the works of DaVinci, VanVogh, Monet, Degas, and many other artists, including the ancient Romans, made it evident that as long as humans have populated the earth, art has had a positive impact on the collective psyche. Art nourishes the spirit just as food and water sustain the body and societies could not flourish without it. Humans have an innate need to express their stories. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories is a process and I can get so absorbed that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich.

Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow mental health to hold me back from my dreams. My struggles with mental health in the past have held me back. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidance Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It impacts my daily life in many ways. It not only negatively affects my overall health but greatly devastates my mental health. I avoid all social social situations and have great anxiety because of my fear of food. It came to the point where my world became so small I needed help. I remembered how my aunt didn't give up on life even when she was so close to death. Today I am in intensive treatment for my eating disorder and my anxiety and little by little I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home last summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. In the past ARFID would have stolen these experiences from me. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. Going to college is important to me to pursue my dream of becoming a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow mental health to hold me back from my dreams. My struggles with mental heaIth in the past have held me back. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidance Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It impacts my daily life in many ways. It not only negatively affects my overall health but greatly devastates my mental health. I avoid all social social situations and have great anxiety because of my fear of food. It came to the point where my world became so small I needed help. I remembered how my aunt didn't give up on life even when she was so close to death. Today I am in intensive treatment for my eating disorder and my anxiety and little by little I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home last summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I traveled to Europe with my AP Government class. In the past ARFID would have stolen these experiences from me. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. My future dream is to start a film production company. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

My "why" is storytelling. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design excites me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never tire of doing. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope for our society. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I accept the challenge. The social issue that would be the focus of my efforts to effect change would be implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion and fear about the future use of AI. The current writers' strike is just one example that perhaps justifiably begs the question of what role should AI play in our future. Gen Zers should be critically examining this question. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this very topic being discussed at a UN special event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice, recorded on April 14, 2023. The discussion convened a panel of experts such as UN Ambassadors from India and Singapore, an AI scholar from Johns Hopkins, the CEO of AI for Good Foundation, a representative from the W.H.O., and a representative from the UN’s International Telecommunication Union. The message I gleaned from these distinguished public servants was a hopeful one. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals of the UN. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities, climate action, peace, justice, and strong institutions. This is the potential legacy of Gen Z. Z-not end of the line, but rather, the last time a child dies of hunger or our last chance to slow down climate change. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is a true crossroad. The precipice of an opportunity to correct immortal practices, even the scales of justice, and share resources equitably. This can be done if thoughtful, deliberate, and explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this vehicle of positive change. I am fascinated to have the opportunity to study this issue in depth and use my craft to effect change in the world. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, gender bias, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is the essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience?

Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home this summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I will travel to Europe with my AP Government class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories is a process and I can get so absorbed that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience?

Thank you, Mrs. Zappia The summer before I started High School I was studying for a big test. My district had a final determining whether I got into the honors program. Tests made me nervous. Last year I studied for months and when the day came for the test I choked. All the ideas ran from my head. My pencil was frozen. It was as though I came completely unprepared. I was ashamed to go home I knew my family would be disappointed. Now I had to face my nemesis again. This was a problem too big to face alone. I raised my hand for help and Mrs. Zappia answered the call. I met with her after school she was always willing to stay late to help students. She also chaperoned most of my field trips, and my brother's tennis matches, and you always saw her around town helping out in her free time. In our meetings after school, she not only taught me the material but also modeled how to stay calm under pressure. She always focused on my strengths. She taught me my mistakes were opportunities to correct misconceptions and not something to be ashamed of or avoided but something to learn from. It has changed the way I approach mistakes and learning. This has changed my entire mindset about learning and facing challenges. When it came time for the test I felt calm. I felt Mrs. Zappia's influence was running through me. I had a new confidence. It was her faith in me and her giving spirit that changed me that day. From that day forward when I sit for a test I think of Mrs. Zappia. During all my Regents Exams, the SATs, my AP exams, and every midterm and final Mrs. Zappia is with me. I'm not alone. I share any successes I have had with Mrs. Zappia. This scholarship has inspired me to show gratitude to the teacher who greatly impacted my life. Some people suffer from test anxiety for their entire lives. This can have a domino effect and result in poor outcomes not only academically but also on their self-esteem. Overcoming this obstacle has changed the trajectory of my life. How do you thank someone who has had such a positive effect on your life? It’s impossible to do but I think gratitude is a start. I have nominated Mrs. Zappia for New York State Teacher of the Year.

Climate change is an existential crisis affecting all of humanity and the quality of life on Earth. The impacts of storms and natural disasters are felt globally. The environmental policies enacted in one country affect all countries. We're at the tipping point. The time to act is now. It must be a worldwide effort. I am passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. I am an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, salamanders, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth! To live my message not only do I participate in environmental clean-ups I try to reduce my carbon footprint. I have spent most of my vacation time camping and hiking, so I am very familiar with the concept of leaving no trace. But that doesn't go far enough I also leave the space cleaner than when I arrived. As someone who spends time in nature, it's impossible not to notice how tiny plastic pieces are everywhere. I could spend an hour in one square foot of sand at the beach and pick up hundreds of plastic pieces. This is why I never use single-use plastic bottles. I pack my lunch in a cloth sack and wrap my sandwiches in reusable wax paper. This may be a small gesture but if every person on the planet participated it would have a huge impact. Another way I intend to help the earth is to showcase its majestic beauty as a filmmaker. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wallie in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of caring for our planet and that message stays with me today. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Telling the story of the planet, its beauty, and its fragility can influence environmental change and inspire others to work toward sustainability. My vision is an advertising campaign, "Humanity for sustainability, we are the solution." The campaign is a film montage of people being empowered to reduce their carbon footprint by buying electric cars, eating plant-based diets, having solar panels on homes, planting trees, and replacing cattle ranches with farms. This is a way to bring my passion for filming and the environment together with helping people.

I recently saw an inspirational quote by Jac Vanek: "You are the books you read, the films you watch ... You are a collective of every experience you have had in your life." I think everyone should watch the movie, "The Life of Pi" because if humanity kept its message in their hearts we would have peace on earth. This story of survival is so fantastic I was moved by the hero’s resilience. But what I found surprising was the delightfully simple message that a story with God is the better story. The character, Pi was on fire with his love of God. When Pi is confronted by the men with whom he has been studying religion; a priest, an imam, and a pandit. The holy men are arguing and pointing out faults in each other’s faith and Pi says, “I just want to love God.” then his father settles the argument by saying, “I suppose that’s what we’re all trying to do love God.” Reading this book has broadened my perspective. It has reframed the way I look at the world. As I listen to the sad news of war in Gaza, I think not which side is right or wrong but I think of the simple wisdom of the parable of The Life of Pi and I pray for peace and I pray for the hearts of people filled with hate to be healed, and for the ones in power to be blessed divine wisdom. This is the loving spirit of my faith that I will use to create a better world. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people. People have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, gender bias, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation has had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is essential to increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better.

One of my jobs is promotions for my community's local professional baseball team. Since I was a Little League player I've loved everything about baseball. I have the greatest job and the best work atmosphere. It's heartwarming to see the families enjoying a day at the ballpark. It isn't easy to manage two jobs with my classwork but this is the valuable lesson being involved in sports at an early age has taught me; time management and perseverance. I have always challenged myself to take the most rigorous courses my school offers. I am an honor roll, high school senior enrolled in two IB classes, two AP classes, Honors Physics, and I am taking a Marketing class at a community college. In my junior year, I applied and was accepted to the Early College Program where I earned 16 credits with a 3.5 GPA. IB Film is my passion. Last summer I participated in a two-week pre-college Media Production Academy. I am a school newspaper, esports, and robotics club member. But I am most dedicated to drama club. I have had lead and supporting roles in 14 high school productions because my 4th-grade choir teacher nominated me to start my acting career early. I have gained membership in the International Thespian Society. I received The Director's Choice Award for my role in Les Miserable and Best Actor in a minor role for Chorus Line. I spend my free time volunteering and helping my grandmother who suffered a stroke in 2015. I help out in my church during August and Easter with school supply drives and Easter Baskets. I also am part of the Sandwich Ministry, making lunches for the homeless. Before my grandmother had her stroke, I was her trusty champion volunteering at numerous Lion's Club Events. We still help out during holidays but her health concerns made her give up her leadership role so I help her after school and on weekends by taking her to appointments and caring for her pets. I am an avid hiker, my favorite trail is Angels Landing in Zion National Park. I am also passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. My strength is my kindness and caring for others. The award I treasure most is the Parent-Faculty's Citizenship Award. It is important for me to do service with my talents. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design excites me. I get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career to which I can stay committed. Even the editing process is something I can stay up all night doing to see the final product match my vision. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing.

Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home this summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I will travel to Europe with my AP Government class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. I want to public service by being a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories is a process and I can get so absorbed that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience?

I am touched by Kalia's living, loving, laughing, and learning legacy. At the end of my days, if people can say I left a small portion of the mark Kalia left in her short time it will be a life well spent. I am honored to be considered for this scholarship and appreciate the generosity of the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship. I am trying to contribute to paying for my education by working two jobs. One of my jobs is promotions for my community's local professional baseball team. Since I was a Little League player I've loved everything about baseball. I have the greatest job and the best work atmosphere. It's heartwarming to see the families enjoying a day at the ballpark. But it is difficult to manage two jobs with my classwork. I have always challenged myself to take the most rigorous courses my school offers. I am an honor roll, high school senior enrolled in two IB classes, two AP classes, Honors Physics, and I am taking a Marketing class at a community college. In my junior year, I applied and was accepted to the Early College Program where I earned 16 credits with a 3.5 GPA. IB Film is my passion. Last summer I participated in a two-week pre-college Media Production Academy. I am a school newspaper, esports, and robotics club member. But I am most dedicated to drama club. I have had lead and supporting roles in 14 high school productions because my 4th-grade choir teacher nominated me to start my acting career early. I have gained membership in the International Thespian Society. I received The Director's Choice Award for my role in Les Miserable and Best Actor in a minor role for Chorus Line. I spend my free time volunteering and helping my grandmother who suffered a stroke in 2015. I help out in my church during August and Easter with school supply drives and Easter Baskets. I also am part of the Sandwich Ministry, making lunches for the homeless. Before my grandmother had her stroke, I was her trusty champion volunteering at numerous Lion's Club Events. We still help out during holidays but her health concerns made her give up her leadership role so I help her after school and on weekends by taking her to appointments and caring for her pets. I am an avid hiker, my favorite trail is Angels Landing in Zion National Park. I am also passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. My strength is my kindness and caring for others. The award I treasure most is the Parent-Faculty's Citizenship Award. It is important for me to do service with my talents. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design excites me. I get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career to which I can stay committed. Even the editing process is something I can stay up all night doing to see the final product match my vision. Creating an original story that people can enjoy or learn from is gratifying. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing.

Leadership not only means charging the way it also means being passionate, dedicated, and engaged. I have always challenged myself to take the most rigorous courses offered by my school. I am an honor roll, high school senior enrolled in two IB classes, two AP classes, Honors Physics, and I am taking a Marketing class at a community college. In my junior year, I applied and was accepted to the Early College Program where I earned 16 credits with a 3.5 GPA. IB Film is my passion. This summer I participated in a two-week pre-college Media Production Academy. I am a member of the school newspaper, esports, and robotics club. But I am most dedicated to drama club. I have had lead and supporting roles in 14 high school productions because I was nominated by my 4th-grade choir teacher to start my acting career early. I have gained membership in the International Thespian Society. I received The Director's Choice Award for my role in Les Miserable and Best Actor in a minor role for A Chorus Line. I spend my free time volunteering and helping my grandmother who suffered a stroke in 2015. I help out in my church during August and Easter with school supply drives and Easter Baskets. I also am part of the Sandwich Ministry, making lunches for the homeless. Before my grandmother had her stroke, I was her trusty champion volunteering at numerous Lion's Club Events. We still help out during holidays but her health concerns made her give up her leadership role so I help her after school and on weekends by taking her to appointments and taking care of her pets. I am an avid hiker, my favorite trail is Angels Landing in Zion National Park. I am also passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful where I regularly participate in community clean-up events. My strength is my kindness and caring for others. The award I treasure most is the 2020 Parent-Faculty's Citizenship Award. It is important for me to do service with my talents. I may not lead in the usual sense of the word by being in charge of the organizations to which I belong but I can be counted on to show up and do the work and leadership also needs membership.

I have embodied selflessness with my kindness and support of the members of the drama club. We have uniquely talented individuals in this club, yet many of them struggle to find acceptance despite their gift for acting and singing. They all have a friend in me, one who not only respects their individuality but also their humanity. Not only would I never participate in teasing or gossip but in my quiet way I reveal their humanity by enabling them to share their gifts with others. I have been in more than 15 plays and musicals and only had a lead role in four of them. As a member of the ensemble, I do my best to make the show a success and allow the leads to shine. I ask not what a situation can do for me but what I can bring to the situation to improve conditions. That is what being an upstander means to me. If I was granted this scholarship that is the attitude I would bring to my college career and into my professional career. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I am an upstander because I use the power of communication for positive change. A social issue that I am interested in correcting to help others is implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion about the use of AI. The current writers' strike is just one example that, perhaps justifiably, begs the question of what role should AI play in our future. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this topic being discussed at a UN event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice, recorded on April 14, 2023. The discussion convened a panel of UN Ambassadors, AI scholars, the CEO of AI for Good Foundation, and a representative from the UN’s International Telecommunication Union. The message I gleaned was hopeful. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals of the UN. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, climate action, peace, justice, and strong institutions. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is an opportunity to correct immortal practices and even the scales of justice. This can be done if thoughtful and explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this positive change. I am eager to have the opportunity to study this issue in depth and use my craft to effect change in the world. I aspire to have a career in communications because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others, I can change the world. This is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people.

Who am I, what is my purpose, and who or what created the universe are the existential questions ingrained into the DNA of humanity. I think curiosity is the mother of exploration and innovation. It is critical to explore the nature of the universe to understand we are caretakers of one another and our earth. These deep issues inspire me to cultivate my human relations and be a good steward of the earth. That is why I aspire to be an environmental filmmaker and want to go to college to study communications. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I strive to use the power of communication for positive change. One social issue that would be the focus of my efforts to effect change would be implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion about the use of AI. The current writers' strike is just one example that, perhaps justifiably, begs the question of what role should AI play in our future. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this topic being discussed at a UN event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice, recorded on April 14, 2023. The discussion convened a panel of UN Ambassadors, AI scholars, the CEO of AI for Good Foundation, and a representative from the UN’s International Telecommunication Union. The message I gleaned was hopeful. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals of the UN. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, climate action, peace, justice, and strong institutions. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is an opportunity to correct immortal practices and even the scales of justice. This can be done if thoughtful and explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this positive change. I am eager to have the opportunity to study this issue in depth and use my craft to effect change in the world. Another issue I am concerned about is the environment. The biggest threat to our planet is apathy and denial. Global warming is a fact. The use of fossil fuels pours greenhouse gases into our atmosphere. This is an existential crisis for humanity. I am passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. Not only do I participate in environmental clean-ups I also try to reduce my carbon footprint. I have spent the majority of my vacation time camping and hiking so I am very familiar with the concept of leave no trace. But that doesn't go far enough I also leave the space cleaner than when I arrived. As someone who spends a lot of time in nature, it's impossible not to notice how tiny plastic pieces are everywhere. I could spend an hour in one square foot of sand at the beach and pick up hundreds of plastic pieces. This is why I never use single-use plastic bottles. I pack my lunch in a cloth sack and I wrap my sandwiches in reusable wax paper. This may be a small gesture but if every person on the planet participated it would have a huge impact. Another way I intend to help the earth is to showcase its majestic beauty as a filmmaker. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling the story of the planet, its beauty, and its fragility can influence environmental change and inspire others to work toward sustainability. I believe this is a way to bring my passion together with helping people.

I have loving relationships with my family. I am sensitive and empathetic. I strive to help others and be a good caretaker of the earth by engaging in environmental clean-up events. All of that is enriching and should have a positive influence on my emotions. Yet, at times none of those outward activities fill my feelings of emptiness or anxiety. Unfortunately, I have always struggled with my food choices and during the pandemic, it has developed into an obsession. My family has tried to help me but they don't understand. How can they understand when I can't understand it myself? All day long I have obsessive thoughts of having chicken tenders and french fries for dinner. It is an addiction. I know my food choices are harming my health but I can't stop. When I think today is the day I will try something new or healthy I get depressed and overwhelmed. Then I think one more time and this will be the last time. Tomorrow I will eat something healthy. But tomorrow never comes. Some people have an obsession with drugs or alcohol but for me, it is this one meal. I have eaten it every day for at least three years or more. If my family serves a different meal I won't eat it. When I know I won't be able to have this meal I will order Door Dash when no one is around. I've tried to save money for college; however, I spend most of my savings on sneaking fast food. I am scared and I know I need help. I finally confessed my problem to my parents and admitted I needed help. I talked with a counselor. She diagnosed me with an eating disorder called ARFID, Avoidance Resisted Food Intake Disorder. I am terrified yet hopeful. I desperately want to change. I want to free myself of this obsession so I can be healthy. I want to go away to college, make new friends, and engage in the world. Right now I feel dragged down by this obsession. It's like being a spectator on the sidelines of my own life. It's robbing me of my dreams. I want to be a filmmaker. In my wildest fantasies, I’m the next George Lucas writing and directing next summer’s blockbuster. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. But I need to be free of this obsession so I can have the mental wellness to pursue my dreams. Problems grow in the dark so I thank the committee for encouraging me to talk openly about mental health. I know I have appreciated the opportunity, to be honest and admit I have a problem. I believe this is the first step on my journey of transformation and recovery.

I demonstrate my kindness and support to the members of the drama club. They are talented individuals, yet many struggle to find acceptance. They all have a friend in me, one who not only respects their individuality but also their humanity. I reveal their humanity by enabling them to share their gifts with others. I have been in more than 15 musicals and only had a handful of lead roles. As a member of the ensemble, I do my best to make the show a success and allow the leads to shine. I ask not what a situation can do for me but what I can bring to the situation to improve conditions. If I were granted this scholarship that is the attitude I would bring to my college and professional careers. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media and use it as a lens to learn how we can improve as a global community. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I will use the power of communication for positive change. A social issue that I am interested in is implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion about the use of AI. The writers' strike is just one example that, perhaps justifiably, begs the question of what role should AI play. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this being discussed at a UN event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice. The message I gleaned was hopeful. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals of the UN. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, climate action, peace, and justice. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is an opportunity to correct immortal practices. This can be done if explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this positive change. I am eager to have the opportunity to study this issue in depth and use my craft to effect change in the world. I aspire to have a career in communications because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others, I can change the world. This is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people.

I demonstrate my kindness and support to the members of the drama club. They are talented individuals, yet many struggle to find acceptance. They all have a friend in me, one who not only respects their individuality but also their humanity. I reveal their humanity by enabling them to share their gifts with others. I have been in more than 15 musicals and only had a handful of lead roles. As a member of the ensemble, I do my best to make the show a success and allow the leads to shine. I ask not what a situation can do for me but what I can bring to the situation to improve conditions. If I were granted this scholarship that is the attitude I would bring to my college and professional careers. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media and use it as a lens to learn how we can improve as a global community. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I will use the power of communication for positive change. A social issue that I am interested in is implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion about the use of AI. The writers' strike is just one example that, perhaps justifiably, begs the question of what role should AI play. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this being discussed at a UN event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice. The message I gleaned was hopeful. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals of the UN. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, climate action, peace, and justice. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is an opportunity to correct immortal practices. This can be done if explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this positive change. I am eager to have the opportunity to study this issue in depth and use my craft to effect change in the world. I aspire to have a career in communications because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others, I can change the world. This is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people.

Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I will use the power of communication for positive change. One social issue that would be the focus of my efforts to effect change would be implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion about the use of AI. The current writers' strike is just one example that, perhaps justifiably, begs the question of what role should AI play in our future. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this topic being discussed at a UN event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice, recorded on April 14, 2023. The discussion convened a panel of UN Ambassadors, AI scholars, the CEO of AI for Good Foundation, and a representative from the UN’s International Telecommunication Union. The message I gleaned was hopeful. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals of the UN. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, climate action, peace, justice, and strong institutions. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is an opportunity to correct immortal practices and even the scales of justice. This can be done if thoughtful and explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this positive change. I am eager to have the opportunity to study this issue in depth and use my craft to effect change in the world. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I aspire to have a career in communications because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others, I can change the world. This is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people. I am so excited to have the opportunity to study Communications.

Stranger Things will make you nostalgic for the 80’s whether you lived through them or not. You’ll become obsessed with the irrepressible group of teens and tweens who use their quirky collective genius to save the oblivious citizens of Hawkins, Indiana from a dark multiverse of mystifying monsters spawning just beneath their feet. Season one opens with a scene in Mike’s basement. We see Mike, Will, Dustin, and Lucas erupting exuberantly over the climax of their role-playing game of Dungeons &Dragons. During the game, Will makes the self-sacrificing fatal decision to fight the Demogorgon, and in this moment you’re hooked on the dynamics of the show's complex, flawed, and realistic main characters; Will’s quiet bravery, Mike’s passionate leadership, Dustin’s fevered genius, and Lucus’ buoyant companionship, with most of their flaws tethered to the inexperience of their youth. The traits as they are revealed in the RPG game, are soon tested in the real world as the boys confront the complication to the series' main conflict: Will is abducted by the Demogorgon. The battle is on. Now they’ll have to enlist any available open-mind/ desperate adults to stage a two-fronted attack against the evils of the Upsidedown. Make that a three-fronted as Eleven enters the stage. Head shaved clothed in a hospital gown, a nine-year-old girl materializes in the woods of Hawkins just as Will disappears. Is there a connection and who is this strange girl? Why are government officials searching for her? She escapes from the armed officials and scientists from Hawkins National Laboratory but how? Is she dangerous? Let’s hope not because Mike, Dustin, and Lucas find her and take her in. They soon discover she has telekinetic powers and a mysterious connection to Will. There’s just one problem, she barely speaks. Using the Dungeon and Dragons characters she’s able to tell the boys that Will is hiding in the Upsidedown and being threatened by the Demogorgon. Eleven is not the only one connected to Will and the Upsidedown. Will’s mother Joyce desperate to find her son is receiving disturbing phone calls and illuminating messages from the Upsidedown. Her neighbors think she is crazy but stranger things are happening if you’re paying attention. She’ll enlist the help of the town’s sheriff, Jim Hopper, who is certainly paying attention; as are Will’s brother, Jonathan, and Mike’s sister, Nancy. Now the unlikely team of monster hunters are assembled. Sheer grit, supernatural powers, and MacGyver-like genius are the ingredients that will keep you watching until Will comes home and for the three seasons, as well.

I have demonstrated the actions of an upstander with my kindness and support of the members of the drama club. We have uniquely talented individuals in this club, yet many of them struggle to find acceptance despite their gift for acting and singing. They all have a friend in me, one who not only respects their individuality but also their humanity. Not only would I never participate in teasing or gossip but in my quiet way I reveal their humanity by enabling them to share their gifts with others. I have been in more than 15 plays and musicals and only had a lead role in four of them. As a member of the ensemble, I do my best to make the show a success and allow the leads to shine. I ask not what a situation can do for me but what I can bring to the situation to improve conditions. That is what being an upstander means to me. If I was granted this scholarship that is the attitude I would bring to my college career and into my professional career. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I am an upstander because I use the power of communication for positive change. A social issue that I am interested in being an upstander for is implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion about the use of AI. The current writers' strike is just one example that, perhaps justifiably, begs the question of what role should AI play in our future. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this topic being discussed at a UN event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice, recorded on April 14, 2023. The discussion convened a panel of UN Ambassadors, AI scholars, the CEO of AI for Good Foundation, and a representative from the UN’s International Telecommunication Union. The message I gleaned was hopeful. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals of the UN. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, climate action, peace, justice, and strong institutions. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is an opportunity to correct immortal practices and even the scales of justice. This can be done if thoughtful and explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this positive change. I am eager to have the opportunity to study this issue in depth and use my craft to effect change in the world. I aspire to have a career in communications because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others, I can change the world. This is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people.

I recently saw an inspirational quote by Jac Vanek: "You are the books you read, the films you watch ... You are a collective of every experience you have had in your life." I think everyone should read "The Life of Pi" because if humanity kept its message in their hearts we would have peace on earth. This story of survival is so fantastic I was moved by the hero’s resilience. But what I found surprising was the delightfully simple message that a story with God is the better story. The character, Pi was on fire with his love of God. When Pi is confronted by the men with whom he has been studying religion; a priest, an imam, and a pandit. The holy men are arguing and pointing out faults in each other’s faith and Pi says, “I just want to love God.” then his father settles the argument by saying, “I suppose that’s what we’re all trying to do love God.” Reading this book has broadened my perspective. It has reframed the way I look at the world. As I listen to the sad news of war in Gaza, I think not which side is right or wrong but I think of the simple wisdom of the parable of The Life of Pi and I pray for peace and I pray for the hearts of people filled with hate to be healed, and for the ones in power to be blessed divine wisdom. This is the loving spirit of my faith that I will use to create a better world. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people. People have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, gender bias, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation has had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is essential to increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience?

Environmental conservation has had a profound impact on my life. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. I am also an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, salamanders, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth!" In order to live my message not only do I participate in environmental clean-ups I try to reduce my carbon footprint. I have spent the majority of my vacation time camping and hiking so I am very familiar with the concept of leave no trace. But that doesn't go far enough I also leave the space cleaner than when I arrived. As someone who spends a lot of time in nature, it's impossible not to notice how tiny plastic pieces are everywhere. I could spend an hour in one square foot of sand at the beach and pick up hundreds of plastic pieces. This is why I never use single-use plastic bottles. I pack my lunch in a cloth sack, and I wrap my sandwiches in reusable wax paper. This may be a small gesture but if every person on the planet participated it would have a huge impact. Another way I intend to help the earth is to showcase its majestic beauty as a filmmaker. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wallie in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of caring for our planet and that message stays with me today. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Telling the story of the planet, its beauty, and its fragility can influence environmental change and inspire others to work toward sustainability. I believe this is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. I am grateful to my parents for inspiring my love of the outdoors. The day school ended we were off in our camper ready for an adventure in the great outdoors. Sometimes we'd be on the road for weeks. Every night was spent under the stars by the campfire listening to the owls and katydids. The days were for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Those were magical times and to spend my career outdoors would be a dream come true.

I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Telling stories through any method: filming, drawing, or digital design excites me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope for our society. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to have been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience? Attached is a film I made with my film classmates, I was responsible for editing and directing.

What beast slouches towards the underside of the unsuspecting town of Hawkins, Indiana to be born?1(“The Second Coming,” by W.B. Yeats) It’s El’s multiverse alter-ego, confident, unfaltering, and unscrupulous; unbeatable? Not for my dream team of Dustin, Hopper, and Eleven, who will have to battle inner demons, interpersonal connections, and the evil forces of the upside-down. How do you fight yourself, your friend, and your daughter? It will take awareness, acceptance, and action to fight Nevele, as Dustin calls, her. Awareness is Dustin’s strength, he will put all the pieces together and hash up the battle plan. Can Hopper accept himself, never mind a plan that spells the demise of his daughter’s doppelganger? And what about El? Can she fight her insecurities and reclaim the powers Nevele is draining from her? I will work with this team to heal their traumas and gently guide them to break from their chrysalises as transformed versions of themselves. El must merge with the demon facing her greatest fear that she is the demon. Hopper must be willing to do something he has never done before surrender; surrender El to the Upsidedown and abandon the fight. His struggle will be to sit on his hand and do absolutely nothing. We begin to wonder which side is the Upsidedown in this world of paradoxes. What makes me qualified to join this dream team? I’ve had experience surrendering to win and leading my team to acceptance. I have a condition called ARFID, Avoidant/ Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It’s an eating disorder I’ve had practically all my life. My parents tried to help in their way but they only made it worse. My father is very much like Hopper. He is strong and courageous mentally and physically. But ARFID can’t be overpowered by someone’s else strong will. My mother is like Dustin. She wants to figure things out, make a million phone calls, and hash up a plan. But with ARFID understanding it is overrated. Surrender, acceptance, and action are the solutions. And the solution had to come from me. It was my journey of transformation and recovery. It has been a slow journey but I’m going in the right direction. The first step was recognizing that I was powerless over my abnormal reaction to food and willpower alone was not going to make me a normal eater. It was from this awareness I could move forward and accept the tools of recovery. Today I am in counseling and feeding therapy on an intensive schedule. It is not easy to balance this schedule with all my homework and extracurricular activities but it’s necessary. It is a paradox that recovery starts with surrender and although facing our inner demons is an inside job we never do it alone. For me, my dream team is my loving family and supportive therapists and counselors. To save Hawkins, my dream team would be El, Hopper, and Dustin because they remind me of myself and my family. My vision for my future is a healthy, confident version of myself. My vision of the future El is a well-rounded, confident, powerful person who knows they are moral and kind and doesn’t have to be afraid of their past or true nature. Hopper too, will not have to fear his past, he is no longer a person with nothing to lose yet, it doesn’t terrify him to be in a relationship. And Dustin can be Dustin. 1. reference to “The Second Coming,” by W.B. Yeats

I have loving relationships with my family. I am sensitive and empathetic. I strive to help others and be a good caretaker of the earth by engaging in environmental clean-up events. All of that is enriching and should have a positive influence on my emotions. Yet, at times none of those outward activities fill my feelings of emptiness or anxiety. Unfortunately, I have always struggled with my food choices and during the pandemic, it has developed into an obsession. My family has tried to help me but they don't understand. How can they understand when I can't understand it myself? All day long I have obsessive thoughts of having fast food. It is an addiction. I know my food choices are harming my health but I can't stop. When I think today is the day I will try something new or healthy I get so depressed and overwhelmed. Then I think one more time and this will be the last time. Tomorrow I will eat something healthy. But tomorrow never comes. Some people have an obsession with drugs or alcohol but for me, it is food. If my family serves a different meal I won't eat it. When I know I won't be able to have this fast food I will order DoorDash when no one is around. I've tried to save money for college; however, I spend most of my savings on sneaking fast food. I am scared and I know I need help. I finally confessed my problem to my parents and admitted I needed help. Today I see an addiction counselor. He diagnosed me with an eating disorder called Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder or ARFID. The next step is to meet with a counselor who specializes in eating disorders. I am terrified yet hopeful. I desperately want to change. I want to free myself of this obsession so I can be healthy. I want to go away to college, make new friends, and engage in the world. Right now I feel dragged down by this obsession. It's like being a spectator. It's robbing me of my dreams. I have taken the first step by surrendering. I'm powerless over this addiction; my life is unmanageable. I am now on the road to transformation. My recovery will be a process because you can't quit food. But I'm willing to do anything it takes to recover. I have so many opportunities in the near future. When I overcome my addiction I will use my experience to help others.

It’s the third day of our high school’s summer theater production. The director calls for our attention. We settled down more quickly than usual. I’m excited, we’re about to find out who got the lead roles. This is my ninth summer; I have reason to feel hopeful this year. In the early years it was a privilege to be an elementary student performing in a high school production, a solo audition wasn’t necessary. In more recent years, I’ve worked up the nerve to go for the leads, but I’ve either been too nervous or unprepared for the audition. This time is different. I’m an upperclassman. I put in the effort and practiced for weeks. After the audition, I felt confident. Now I sit with the group trying to level my expectations, but part of me thinks, you’ve earned your turn in the spotlight. I look around, the little kids are reasonably still for once. I remember those days quietly trying to figure out how it all worked. Back then I felt awe and envy toward the older students. They had an air of confidence I now had. Next, I glance at my classmates. After all these years I know them well. I admire their talent and dedication. I wonder how I will compare to them. The director announces the male and female leads. I do not hear my name. I know they are worthy of the awesome burden and they’ll do a great job. As more of my peers get called, I am happy for them but anxious for myself. Now we come to the minor roles. I had worked it out; nearly every upperclassman had a chance for these. My stomach feels a bit queasy. Finally, the entire cast has been announced and my name has not been called once. It is hard to think right now, I just feel. I feel my face grow hot and my stomach drop. Resentment and a touch of anger mix with disappointment. I feel I did my best, aren’t I entitled to be with my friends? Hadn’t I shown dedication? Doesn’t experience count for anything? I take a deep breath and swallow the lump in my throat. My brain has to do a complete turnaround. I’ll be with the ensemble cast and all my friends are in lead roles. I’ll be the only junior in the ensemble, all the others are elementary or middle school kids. My friends will be rehearsing separately and I’ll be left out. I’m utterly discouraged and forgotten. Slowly, I shifted my perspective and my attitude followed. As I walk with the younger kids to work on our first number, I accept my new role. I’ll do my best as an ensemble member. I’ll use my experience to help others and lead by example for the younger kids. I’ll put in my best effort. I’ll befriend them, remembering how special and grateful I felt when I was in 4th grade and the high schoolers paid attention to me. A warm feeling rose in my chest. I am happy. This situation hasn't turned out anywhere close to the picture I had in my mind but this is a new opportunity and it feels exciting and satisfying. Another thought pushes through, if I can make this shift in thought with all life’s disappointments maybe that is the secret to a happy and useful life. Today I take pride in being the best member of the ensemble as a form of service to my community. The hundreds of hours rehearsing is a labor of love and my way of spreading joy.

It’s the third day of our high school’s summer theater production. The director calls for our attention. We settled down more quickly than usual. I’m excited, we’re about to find out who got the lead roles. This is my ninth summer as a member of the Lynn Clark Players; I have reason to feel hopeful this year. In the early years it was a privilege to be an elementary student performing in a high school production, a solo audition wasn’t necessary. In more recent years, I’ve worked up the nerve to go for the leads, but I’ve either been too nervous or unprepared for the audition. This time is different. I’m an upperclassman. I put in the effort; I bought sheet music and practiced for weeks. After the audition I felt confident, if not lead worthy, at least I might get a minor role. Now I sit with the group trying to level my expectations, but part of me thinks, you’ve earned your turn in the spotlight. I look around, the little kids are reasonably still for once. I remember those days quietly trying to figure out how it all worked. Back then I felt a mix of awe and envy toward the older students. They had an air of confidence I now had. Next, I glance at my classmates. After all these years I know them well. I still admire their talent and dedication. I wonder how I will compare to them. The director gets down to business. He announces the male and female leads. I do not hear my name and surprisingly, I am relieved. I know they are worthy of the awesome burden and they’ll do a great job. As more and more of my peers get called, I am happy for them but anxious for myself. Now we come to the minor roles. I had worked it out; nearly every upperclassman had a chance for these. My stomach feels a bit queasy. Finally, the entire cast has been announced and my name has not been called once. It is hard to think right now, I just feel. I feel my face grow hot and my stomach drop. Resentment and a touch of anger mix with disappointment. I feel I did my best, and while I’m not the most talented, aren’t I entitled to be with my friends? Hadn’t I shown dedication? Doesn’t experience count for anything? I take a deep breath and swallow the lump in my throat. My brain has to do a complete turnaround. But how to accept this new reality? I’ll be with the ensemble cast and all my friends are in lead roles. I’ll be the only junior in the ensemble, all the others are elementary or middle school kids. My friends will be rehearsing separately and I’ll be left out. I’m utterly discouraged, and forgotten, and I wish I could know exactly what I could've done for my audition to be good enough to secure me a speaking role. Slowly, I shifted my perspective and my attitude followed. As I walk with the younger kids to work on our first number, I accept my new role. I’ll do my best as an ensemble member. I’ll use my experience to help others and lead by example for the younger kids. I’ll put in my best effort. I’ll befriend them, remembering how special and grateful I felt when I was in 4th grade and the high schoolers paid attention to me. A warm feeling rose in my chest. I am happy. This situation hasn't turned out anywhere close to the picture I had in my mind during all those hours practicing but this is a new opportunity and it feels exciting and satisfying. Another thought pushes through, if I can make this shift in thought with all life’s disappointments maybe that is the secret to a happy and useful life.

Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing universal action against climate change. History’s greatest atrocities were achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, shedding light on the problem increases empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. AI has great potential to usher in an age of global connectivity. I recently watched Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice, recorded on April 14, 2023. The message I gleaned was hopeful. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals such as zero hunger, affordable and clean energy, and climate action. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is an opportunity to correct immortal practices and even the scales of justice. This can be done if thoughtful and explicit policies are made now. As a camper and hiker, I practice reducing my carbon footprint. But that doesn't go far enough I also leave the space cleaner than when I arrived. As someone who spends much time in nature, it's impossible not to notice how tiny plastic pieces are everywhere. This is why I never use single-use plastic bottles. I pack my lunch in a cloth sack and wrap my sandwiches in reusable wax paper. This may be a small gesture, but it would have a huge impact if recycling were mandatory. Another way I intend to help the earth is to showcase its majestic beauty as a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. Telling the story of the planet, its beauty, and its fragility can influence environmental change and inspire others to work toward sustainability. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping the planet.

When the world shut down in March 2020 I was well prepared for studying online. Using platforms such as Google Meet or Zoom was second nature as most of my friendships are long-distance and I use Discord to connect with them. I was able to improve my grades that quarter and become a straight-A student. I continued to maintain an A-average using other apps in the Google Suite such as Google Classroom, Jamboard, and Lumio. There are many features of Google Classroom that are helpful in staying organized and productive. First of all having all my notes, readings, and assignments in digital form is not only eco-friendly but also more efficient. I saved time because I didn't have to flip through various notebooks and folders searching for papers. Google Classroom has a, "To Do List." I can click and have a list of the upcoming assignments and know exactly when they are due. If I have any missing assignments that information is also a click away. I found it convenient to use Kami to type answers directly into my teacher's pdf's. Attaching files to turn in was also a simple process. The quality and promptness of my assignments were greatly improved. Jamboard is another helpful communication tool. This was especially useful in the subject of math. A Jamboard can be opened on a Google Meet and everyone can write on or add to the board at once. My teacher could use a stylus to handwrite a solution to model a math problem and I could show my work and get immediate feedback. It was more efficient than the traditional way of solving problems and the teacher collecting and grading papers because any misconceptions I was having were immediately corrected. Other platforms like Lumio, Kahoot, and Blooket make studying fun. My teacher would use these game-style platforms to increase student engagement and friendly competition. I soon realized these were full of information and a great way to build math fluency or memorize definitions or concepts for a test. We students soon began asking teachers to post these games in our Google Classroom so we could use them to study. When I have a test to study for I can often find games on my own or sometimes I make an original Blooket. Quizlet is a similar app that helps me study definitions or learn vocabulary in a foreign language. Online tools and resources save time and keep me organized. The time I spend on a task is one hundred percent learning instead of fifty percent moving papers around. I will continue to embrace technology. This is a time of innovation and being open-minded and flexible is more important than ever before.

I recently saw an inspirational quote by Jac Vanek: "You are the books you read, the films you watch ... You are a collective of every experience you have had in your life." I think everyone should read "The Life of Pi" because if humanity kept its message in their hearts we would have peace on earth. This story of survival is so fantastic I was moved by the hero’s resilience. But what I found surprising was the delightfully simple message that a story with God is the better story. The character, Pi was on fire with his love of God. When Pi is confronted by the men with whom he has been studying religion; a priest, an imam, and a pandit. The holy men are arguing and pointing out faults in each other’s faith and Pi says, “I just want to love God.” then his father settles the argument by saying, “I suppose that’s what we’re all trying to do love God.” Reading this book has broadened my perspective. It has reframed the way I look at the world. As I listen to the sad news of war in Gaza, I think not which side is right or wrong but I think of the simple wisdom of the parable of The Life of Pi and I pray for peace and I pray for the hearts of people filled with hate to be healed, and for the ones in power to be blessed divine wisdom. This is the loving spirit of my faith that I will use to create a better world. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people. People have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, gender bias, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation has had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is essential to increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better.

I am grateful to be considered for this scholarship because Hofstra is my dream college but it’s financially out of reach. Hofstra offers the best opportunities for success in Communications from internships to hands-on opportunities such as Hofstra Votes LIVE, producing or engineering Islanders games. Hofstra is the only college that has film, journalism, and media in one department so I can study all three subjects. Witnessing my aunt battle cancer impact has had a profound impact on my outlook on life. That was ten years ago and we have enjoyed a decade of holidays and family fun where we cherish her cheerful presence. I don’t even want to imagine those years without her. Our special times when we go out alone. Her face lights up every time I visit. She wants to know all about my life. She delights in my accomplishments. I feel like the most important person in the world to her. I’m grateful to have her on my side and I look forward to her seeing me graduate from high school and college. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I fear I’m not enough. I audition for plays, go on job interviews, and take challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program which was a leap of faith to leave the comfort of high school for four periods every day and sit with college students. I traveled far from home this summer to learn Media Production. I traveled to Europe with my AP class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to experience life even when it’s uncomfortable. The rewards for these adventures are rich. My next endeavor will be going to college to study communications. I want to make the world a better place through storytelling. If I can stir deep emotions in others I can change the world. Telling stories through writing, filming, or digital design excites me. I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career to which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others.

My aunt is the most courageous person I know. She is also my Godmother and the week before my First Holy Communion she was diagnosed with cancer for the second time. She had to start treatments immediately so all the plans for my Communion changed. That was a minor inconvenience eclipsed by the fear of losing her. That summer my family spent much time living at her house helping her by taking care of my younger cousin. Her house had a serious tone but she didn’t let that last. Whenever she felt well enough to join us she would put everyone at ease with her humor. It was her way to say it’s okay to laugh. Thankfully, 18 months and three surgeries later, she was declared cancer-free. That was ten years ago and we have enjoyed a decade of holidays and family fun where we cherish her cheerful presence. I don’t even want to imagine those years without her. Our special times when we go out alone. Her face lights up every time I visit. She wants to know all about my life. She delights in my accomplishments. I feel like the most important person in the world to her. I’m grateful to have her on my side and I look forward to her seeing me graduate from high school and college. Our story is a hopeful one and the impact it has had on my outlook on life is profound. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I fear I’m not enough. I audition for plays, go on job interviews, and take challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program which was a leap of faith to leave the comfort of high school for four periods every day and sit with college students. I traveled far from home this summer to learn Media Production. I traveled to Europe with my AP class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to experience life even when it’s uncomfortable. The rewards for these adventures are rich. My next endeavor will be going to college to study communications. I want to make the world a better place through storytelling. If I can stir deep emotions in others I can change the world. Telling stories through writing, filming, or digital design excites me. I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career to which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. That is why I want to study media and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can evolve as a global community. I hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together?

Watching my aunt battle through and survive breast cancer has had a profound impact on my choices. Life is too precious to allow self-doubt to hold me back from my dreams. I take opportunities even if I'm afraid like auditioning for plays, going on job interviews, and taking challenging classes. I participated in the Early College Program, leaving high school for four periods to take college classes. I left my home this summer to learn Media Production at Champlain College. I will travel to Europe with my AP Government class. My aunt’s example of courage has taught me to step out of my comfort zone. The rewards for these adventures are rich. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories is a process and I can get so absorbed that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I enjoy. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study culture and film and learn who we are and how we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience?

I ask not what a situation can do for me but what I can bring to the situation to improve conditions. That is what being a team player means to me. If I was granted this scholarship that is the attitude I would bring to my college career and into my professional career. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wallie in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of taking care of our planet and that message stays with me today. That is just one of a hundred examples of how the moving image has influenced my life and what I value. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. Even the editing process is something I can stay up all night doing just to see the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. I am so excited to have the opportunity to study history and culture through the moving image and to learn the craft of media production at a four-year college with passionate professors. I know I have much to learn to accomplish my goals and I am ready to do the hard work. This summer I am working for the Long Island Ducks, a minor-league baseball team. I am part of the promotions team. I am hoping if I work hard this summer I can gain an internship with their organization once I'm in college. Eventually, I hope to work on the media production side of the games. Then I will continue to seek other internships during my college career that will hone my media production skills. This work experience and the knowledge I gain in my college classes will hopefully allow me to use the power of communication for positive change. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. After college, I want to work to shed light and understanding by telling the stories of those who are oppressed and those who work to free the oppressed.

It’s the third day of our high school’s summer theater production. The director calls for our attention. We settled down more quickly than usual. I’m excited, we’re about to find out who got the lead roles. This is my ninth summer as a member of the Lynn Clark Players; I have reason to feel hopeful this year. In the early years it was a privilege to be an elementary student performing in a high school production, a solo audition wasn’t necessary. In more recent years, I’ve worked up the nerve to go for the leads, but I’ve either been too nervous or unprepared for the audition. This time is different. I’m an upperclassman. I practiced for weeks. After the audition, I felt confident. I sit with the group trying to level my expectations, but part of me thinks, you’ve earned your turn in the spotlight. I look around, the little kids are reasonably still for once. I remember those days quietly trying to figure out how it all worked. Back then I felt a mix of awe and envy toward the older students. They had an air of confidence I now had. Next, I glance at my classmates. I know them well. I admire their talent and dedication. I wonder how I will compare to them. The director announces the leads. I do not hear my name. I know they are worthy of the awesome burden and they’ll do a great job. As more of my peers get called, I am happy for them but anxious for myself. Now we come to the minor roles. I had worked it out; nearly every upperclassman had a chance for these. My stomach feels a bit queasy. Finally, the entire cast has been announced and my name has not been called once. It is hard to think right now, I just feel. I feel my face grow hot and my stomach drop. Resentment and a touch of anger mix with disappointment. I feel I did my best, aren’t I entitled to be with my friends? Hadn’t I shown dedication? Doesn’t experience count for anything? I take a deep breath and swallow the lump in my throat. My brain has to do a complete turnaround. But how to accept this new reality? I’ll be with the ensemble cast and all my friends are in lead roles. I’ll be the only junior in the ensemble, all the others are elementary or middle school kids. My friends will be rehearsing separately and I’ll be left out. I’m utterly discouraged, forgotten, and I just wish I could know exactly what I could've done for my audition to be good enough to secure me a speaking role. Slowly, I shifted my perspective and my attitude followed. As I walk with the younger kids to work on our first number I begin to accept my new role. I’ll do my best as an ensemble member. I’ll use my experience to help others and lead by example for the younger kids. I’ll put in my best effort. I’ll befriend them, remembering how special and grateful I felt when I was in 4th grade and the high schoolers paid attention to me. A warm feeling rose in my chest. I am happy. This situation hasn't turned out anywhere close to the picture I had in my mind during all those hours practicing but this is a new opportunity and it feels exciting and satisfying. Another thought pushes through, if I can make this shift in thought with all life’s disappointments maybe that is the secret to a happy and useful life.

The title of the next chapter of my life would be, "Becoming Whole." This will be a time of independence and autonomy. All this freedom sounds amazing and while I look forward to all the new experiences I will have with excitement I also know that there will be challenges. Luckily I have loving relationships with my family. They will always be there to support me but for the first time, I will be making decisions on my own. Some simple decisions like what to eat, when to study, when to socialize, when to clean or do errands. Probably the hardest decision will be when to ask for help. Humans need each other and part of becoming whole is connecting with others both giving help and receiving it. I hope this new chapter in my life is a chance to improve and grow as a human. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience? I will take inspiration from some of my favorite book characters. I recently saw an inspirational quote by author and influencer Jac Vanek: "You are the books you read, the films you watch ... You are a collective of every experience you have had in your life." To paraphrase Charlie, the main character in Stephen Chbosky’s, The Perks of Being A Wallflower, my favorite book is whatever I’ve read last. So my new favorite book is The Life of Pi by Yann Martel. I think everyone in the world should read this book because if humanity kept its message in their hearts we would have peace on earth. This story of survival is so fantastic I expected to be moved by the hero’s resilience and determination and I was. What I found surprising was the delightfully simple message that a story with God is the better story. The character Pi Patel was on fire with his love of God. He was open-minded to learning Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. There is a scene where Pi is confronted by three of the men with whom he has been studying religion; a priest, an imam, and a pandit. The holy men are arguing and pointing out faults in each other’s faith and Pi says, “I just want to love God.” then his father settles the argument by saying, “I suppose that’s what we’re all trying to do love God.” Reading this book has broadened my perspective. Like every book I read, it shapes me and reframes the way I look at the world. For instance, as I listen to the sad news of war in Gaza, I think not which side is right or wrong but I think of the simple wisdom of the parable of The Life of Pi and I pray for peace and I pray for the hearts people filled with hate to be healed, and for the ones in power to be blessed divine wisdom.

One of my favorite memories was when my parents took me to their college reunion at Fordham University—the day started on Eddie's Parade in front of Keating Hall. I could feel the positive energy. The adults were joyfully hugging, almost giddy. Chatting happily and introducing us to their friends' children. At first, I felt shy but those feelings melted away as we played games and picnicked with the other families. It was a warm feeling to see my parents enveloped in this second family. The day continued with a tour of the campus and their favorite off-campus haunts like Pugsley's Pizza and the Bronx Zoo. The adults enthusiastically reminisced about each cherished spot. It was that day I knew that college was an experience not to be missed. I hoped someday I could go to Fordham but unfortunately, since both my parents are teachers and we live on Long Island private colleges like Fordham are out of reach for my family. I am grateful though that my family has not struggled as much as many families have. I grew up in a small but cozy home and my basic needs were met. But I have seen many families struggling. As public servants, my parents have instilled in me the responsibility to help those in need. The pandemic and the political arena my generation has witnessed have been a call to action. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, and gender bias. Many have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope for our society. Pain is the path to progress. That is why I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, or digital design excites me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience?

I recently saw an inspirational quote by Jac Vanek: "You are the books you read, the films you watch ... You are a collective of every experience you have had in your life." I think everyone should read "The Life of Pi" because if humanity kept its message in their hearts we would have peace on earth. This story of survival is so fantastic I was moved by the hero’s resilience. But what I found surprising was the delightfully simple message that a story with God is the better story. The character, Pi was on fire with his love of God. When Pi is confronted by the men with whom he has been studying religion; a priest, an imam, and a pandit. The holy men are arguing and pointing out faults in each other’s faith and Pi says, “I just want to love God.” then his father settles the argument by saying, “I suppose that’s what we’re all trying to do love God.” Reading this book has broadened my perspective. It has reframed the way I look at the world. As I listen to the sad news of war in Gaza, I think not which side is right or wrong but I think of the simple wisdom of the parable of The Life of Pi and I pray for peace and I pray for the hearts of people filled with hate to be healed, and for the ones in power to be blessed divine wisdom. This is the loving spirit of my faith that I will use to create a better world. I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people. People have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, gender bias, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation has had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is essential to increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience?

I am passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. My experiences hiking have inspired me to be an environmental volunteer. I am an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, salamanders, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth! I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wallie in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of taking care of our planet and that message stays with me today. That is just one of a hundred examples of how the moving image has influenced my life and what I value. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. Even the editing process is something I can stay up all night doing just to see the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. I want to show the beauty of the planet in my stories and inspire humans to be the caring stewards of the earth. I am so excited to have the opportunity to study history and culture through the moving image and to learn the craft of media production at a four-year college with passionate professors. I know I have much to learn in order to accomplish my goals and I am ready to do the hard work.

I have always challenged myself to take the most rigorous courses offered by my school. I am an honor roll, high school senior enrolled in two IB classes, two AP classes, Honors Physics, and I am taking a Marketing class at a community college. In my junior year, I applied and was accepted to the Early College Program where I earned 16 credits with a 3.5 GPA. IB Film is my passion. This summer I participated in a two-week pre-college Media Production Academy. I am a member of the school newspaper, esports, and robotics club. But I am most dedicated to drama club. I have had lead and supporting roles in 14 high school productions because I was nominated by my 4th-grade choir teacher to start my acting career early. I have gained membership in the International Thespian Society. I received The Director's Choice Award for my role in Les Miserable and Best Actor in a minor role for A Chorus Line. I spend my free time volunteering and helping my grandmother who suffered a stroke in 2015. I help out in my church during August and Easter with school supply drives and Easter Baskets. I also am part of the Sandwich Ministry, making lunches for the homeless. Before my grandmother had her stroke, I was her trusty champion volunteering at numerous Lion's Club Events. We still help out during holidays but her health concerns made her give up her leadership role so I help her after school and on weekends by taking her to appointments and taking care of her pets. I am an avid hiker, my favorite trail is Angels Landing in Zion National Park. I am also passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. My strength is my kindness and caring for others. The award I treasure most is the 2020 Parent-Faculty's Citizenship Award. It is important for me to do service with my talents. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. Even the editing process is something I can stay up all night doing just to see the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing.

Leadership not only means charging the way it also means being passionate, dedicated, and engaged. I have always challenged myself to take the most rigorous courses offered by my school. I am an honor roll, high school senior enrolled in two IB classes, two AP classes, Honors Physics, and I am taking a Marketing class at a community college. In my junior year, I applied and was accepted to the Early College Program where I earned 16 credits with a 3.5 GPA. IB Film is my passion. This summer I participated in a two-week pre-college Media Production Academy. I am a member of the school newspaper, esports, and robotics club. But I am most dedicated to drama club. I have had lead and supporting roles in 14 high school productions because I was nominated by my 4th-grade choir teacher to start my acting career early. I have gained membership in the International Thespian Society. I received The Director's Choice Award for my role in Les Miserable and Best Actor in a minor role for A Chorus Line. I spend my free time volunteering and helping my grandmother who suffered a stroke in 2015. I help out in my church during August and Easter with school supply drives and Easter Baskets. I also am part of the Sandwich Ministry, making lunches for the homeless. Before my grandmother had her stroke, I was her trusty champion volunteering at numerous Lion's Club Events. We still help out during holidays but her health concerns made her give up her leadership role so I help her after school and on weekends by taking her to appointments and taking care of her pets. I am an avid hiker, my favorite trail is Angels Landing in Zion National Park. I am also passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful where I regularly participate in community clean-up events. My strength is my kindness and caring for others. The award I treasure most is the 2020 Parent-Faculty's Citizenship Award. It is important for me to do service with my talents. I may not lead in the usual sense of the word by being in charge of the organizations to which I belong but I can be counted on to show up and do the work and leadership also needs membership.

It’s the third day of the summer theater production. The director calls for our attention. We settled down more quickly than usual. I’m excited, we’re about to find out who got the lead roles. This is my ninth summer; I have reason to feel hopeful this year. In the early years it was a privilege to be an elementary student in a high school production, a solo audition wasn’t necessary. Now, I’ve worked up the nerve to go for the leads, but I’ve either been too nervous or unprepared for the audition. This time is different. I’m an upperclassman. I put in the effort and practiced for weeks. I felt confident. I sit with the group trying to level my expectations, but part of me thinks, you’ve earned your turn in the spotlight. I look around, the little kids are reasonably still for once. I remember those days trying to figure out how it worked. Back then I felt a mix of awe and envy toward the older students. They had an air of confidence I now had. Next, I glance at my classmates. I admire their talent. The director gets down to business. He announces the leads. I do not hear my name. As more of my peers get called, I am happy for them yet anxious. We come to the minor roles. I had worked it out; every upperclassman had a chance for these. My stomach feels a bit queasy. Finally, the entire cast has been announced and my name hasn't been called. It is hard to think right now. I feel my face grow hot and my stomach drop. Resentment and a touch of anger mix with disappointment. Aren’t I entitled to be with my friends? Hadn’t I shown dedication? Doesn’t experience count for anything? I take a deep breath and swallow the lump in my throat. My brain has to do a complete turnaround. I’ll be with the ensemble cast and all my friends are in lead roles. I’ll be the only junior in the ensemble, all the little kids. My friends will be rehearsing separately and I’ll be left out. I’m utterly discouraged. I wish I could know what I could've done to secure a speaking role. Slowly, I shifted my perspective and my attitude followed. As I walk with the younger kids to work on our first number I begin to accept my new role. I’ll do my best as an ensemble member. I’ll use my experience to help others and lead by example for the younger kids. I’ll put in my best effort. I’ll befriend them, remembering how special and grateful I felt when I was in 4th grade and the high schoolers paid attention to me. A warm feeling rose in my chest. This situation hasn't turned out the way I expected but it feels exciting and satisfying. Another thought pushes through if I can make this shift in thought with all life’s disappointments that's the secret to a fulfilling life.

I am passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. My experiences hiking have inspired me to be an environmental volunteer. I am an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, salamanders, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth! I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wallie in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of taking care of our planet and that message stays with me today. That is just one of a hundred examples of how the moving image has influenced my life and what I value. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. Even the editing process is something I can stay up all night doing just to see the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. I want to show the beauty of the planet in my stories and inspire humans to be the caring stewards of the earth. I am so excited to have the opportunity to study history and culture through the moving image and to learn the craft of media production at a four-year college with passionate professors. I know I have much to learn to accomplish my goals and I am ready to do the hard work.

It’s the third day of the summer theater production. The director calls for our attention. We settled down more quickly than usual. I’m excited, we’re about to find out who got the lead roles. This is my ninth summer. I have reason to feel hopeful this year. In the early years, it was a privilege to be an elementary student performing in a high school production, an audition wasn’t necessary. In recent years, I’ve worked up the nerve to go for the leads, but I’ve either been too nervous or unprepared for the audition. This time is different. I’m an upperclassman. I put in the effort. After the audition, I felt confident. I sit with the group trying to level my expectations, but part of me thinks, you’ve earned your turn in the spotlight. I look around, the little kids are reasonably still for once. I remember those days trying to figure out how it worked. Back then I felt a mix of awe and envy toward the older students. They had an air of confidence I now had. Next, I glance at my classmates. After all these years I know them well. I still admire their talent and dedication. I wonder how I will compare to them. The director gets down to business. He announces the male and female leads. I do not hear my name. I know they are worthy of the awesome burden and they’ll do a great job. As more and more of my peers get called, I am happy for them but anxious for myself. Now we come to the minor roles. I had worked it out; nearly every upperclassman had a chance for these. My stomach feels a bit queasy. Finally, the entire cast has been announced and my name has not been called once. It is hard to think right now, I just feel. I feel my face grow hot and my stomach drop. Resentment and a touch of anger mix with disappointment. I feel I did my best, and while I’m not the most talented, aren’t I entitled to be with my friends? Hadn’t I shown dedication? Doesn’t experience count for anything? I take a deep breath and swallow the lump in my throat. My brain has to do a complete turnaround. But how to accept this new reality? I’ll be with the ensemble and all my friends are in lead roles. I’ll be the only junior in the ensemble, all the others are elementary kids. My friends will be rehearsing separately and I’ll be left out. I’m discouraged and forgotten. I wish I could know exactly what I could've done for my audition to be good enough to secure a speaking role. Slowly, I shifted my perspective and my attitude followed. As I walk with the younger kids to work on our first number I begin to accept my new role. I’ll do my best as an ensemble member. I’ll use my experience to help others and lead by example for the younger kids. I’ll put in my best effort. I’ll befriend them, remembering how special and grateful I felt when I was in 4th grade and the high schoolers paid attention to me. A warm feeling rose in my chest. I am happy. This situation hasn't turned out anywhere close to the picture I had in my mind during all those hours practicing but this is a new opportunity and it feels exciting and satisfying. Another thought pushes through, if I can make this shift in thought with life’s disappointments that is the secret to a happy and useful life.

I want to be a filmmaker. If I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design excites me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to make the final product match my vision. I would continue polishing my films if I had an extra 24 hours in the day. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. This is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with more hope for our society. Pain is the path to progress. People around the world are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, gender bias, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. My films can shed light and awareness on these issues. The pandemic and the political arena my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I accept the challenge. I want to give a voice not only to those who are marginalized but also to those who are helping others. Improved global communication is an essential means of increasing inclusion, equity, and justice. History’s greatest atrocities were the product of dehumanizing a particular group of people. This is achieved through propaganda and misinformation. Whereas, learning about marginalized groups unveils their humanity. This leads to increased empathy. Communication is at the core of these interactions. I want to use the power of communication for positive change. There are so many inspiring stories to be told. Once you hear someone else's story you can identify with them. You realize we are all doing our best with what we are given. If we know better then we do better. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I also hope to discover what is universal. What binds humanity together? What themes will resonate with a global audience?

I have loving relationships with my family. I am sensitive and empathetic. I strive to help others and be a good caretaker of the earth by engaging in environmental clean-up events. All of that is enriching and should have a positive influence on my emotions. Yet, at times none of those outward activities fill my feelings of emptiness or anxiety. Unfortunately, I have always struggled with my food choices and during the pandemic, it has developed into an obsession. My family has tried to help me but they don't understand. How can they understand when I can't understand it myself? All day long I have obsessive thoughts of having chicken tenders and french fries for dinner. It is an addiction. I know my food choices are harming my health but I can't stop. When I think today is the day I will try something new or healthy I get depressed and overwhelmed. Then I think one more time and this will be the last time. Tomorrow I will eat something healthy. But tomorrow never comes. Some people have an obsession with drugs or alcohol but for me, it is this one meal. I have eaten it every day for at least three years or more. If my family serves a different meal I won't eat it. When I know I won't be able to have this meal I will order Door Dash when no one is around. I've tried to save money for college; however, I spend most of my savings on sneaking fast food. I am scared and I know I need help. I finally confessed my problem to my parents and admitted I needed help. My mother was unsure of where to turn for help so she used the Employee Assistance Program offered at her job. Last week I talked with a counselor. She diagnosed me with an eating disorder. The next step is to meet with a counselor who specializes in eating disorders. I am terrified yet hopeful. I desperately want to change. I want to free myself of this obsession so I can be healthy. I want to go away to college, make new friends, and engage in the world. Right now I feel dragged down by this obsession. It's like being a spectator on the sidelines of my own life. It's robbing me of my dreams. I want to be a filmmaker. In my wildest fantasies, I’m the next George Lucas writing and directing next summer’s blockbuster. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. But I need to be free of this obsession so I can have the mental wellness to pursue my dreams. Problems grow in the dark so I thank the committee for encouraging me to talk openly about mental health. I know I have appreciated the opportunity, to be honest and admit I have a problem. I believe this is the first step on my journey of transformation and recovery.

I have loving relationships with my family. I am sensitive and empathetic. I strive to help others and be a good caretaker of the earth by engaging in environmental clean-up events. All of that is enriching and should have a positive influence on my emotions. Yet, at times none of those outward activities fill my feelings of emptiness or anxiety. Unfortunately, I have always struggled with my food choices and during the pandemic, it has developed into an obsession. My family has tried to help me but they don't understand. How can they understand when I can't understand it myself? All day long I have obsessive thoughts of having chicken tenders and french fries for dinner. It is an addiction. I know my food choices are harming my health but I can't stop. When I think today is the day I will try something new or healthy I get depressed and overwhelmed. Then I think one more time and this will be the last time. Tomorrow I will eat something healthy. But tomorrow never comes. Some people have an obsession with drugs or alcohol but for me, it is this one meal. I have eaten it every day for at least three years or more. If my family serves a different meal I won't eat it. When I know I won't be able to have this meal I will order Door Dash when no one is around. I've tried to save money for college; however, I spend most of my savings on sneaking fast food. I am scared and I know I need help. I finally confessed my problem to my parents and admitted I needed help. My mother was unsure of where to turn for help so she used the Employee Assistance Program offered at her job. Last week I talked with a counselor. She diagnosed me with an eating disorder. The next step is to meet with a counselor who specializes in eating disorders. I am terrified yet hopeful. I desperately want to change. I want to free myself of this obsession so I can be healthy. I want to go away to college, make new friends, and engage in the world. Right now I feel dragged down by this obsession. It's like being a spectator on the sidelines of my own life. It's robbing me of my dreams. I want to be a filmmaker. In my wildest fantasies, I’m the next George Lucas writing and directing next summer’s blockbuster. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. But I need to be free of this obsession so I can have the mental wellness to pursue my dreams. Problems grow in the dark so I thank the committee for encouraging me to talk openly about mental health. I know I have appreciated the opportunity, to be honest and admit I have a problem. I believe this is the first step on my journey of transformation and recovery.

I am passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. I am an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, salamanders, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth! In order to live my message not only do I participate in environmental clean-ups I try to reduce my carbon footprint. I have spent the majority of my vacation time camping and hiking so I am very familiar with the concept of leave no trace. But that doesn't go far enough I also leave the space cleaner than when I arrived. As someone who spends a lot of time in nature, it's impossible not to notice how tiny plastic pieces are everywhere. I could spend an hour in one square foot of sand at the beach and pick up hundreds of plastic pieces. This is why I never use single-use plastic bottles. I pack my lunch in a cloth sack, and I wrap my sandwiches in reusable wax paper. This may be a small gesture but if every person on the planet participated it would have a huge impact. Another way I intend to help the earth is to showcase its majestic beauty as a filmmaker. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wallie in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of caring for our planet and that message stays with me today. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling the story of the planet, its beauty, and its fragility can influence environmental change and inspire others to work toward sustainability. I believe this is a way to bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. I aspire to go to a private college in New York with industry-standard equipment but the tuition is well beyond my family's budget. This scholarship would help me make my dream college a reality. I am grateful for the chance to apply for the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship.

The dangers of driving while impaired cannot be understated. I feel blessed that I have not been personally involved in any drunk driving accidents. No members of my family drink alcohol but unfortunately, that doesn't make us immune to the devastating effects of these preventable tragedies. Driving sober has been a message that was ingrained in me as a child. In 2009 there was a particularly horrible DUI accident reported on the news. I was too young to understand it at the time but the details of the accident hit so close to home it's a deterrent for me. A family had been camping at a nearby campground as my family had around the same time. On their way home the mother drove 1.7 miles in the wrong direction on the Taconic State Parkway crashing head-on with another vehicle. Eight people were killed: the mother, her young daughter, three young nieces, and all three passengers in the other car. According to Wikipedia, it was confirmed the driver had a blood-alcohol level of 0.19%, high THC levels, and another six grams of alcohol in her stomach that had not been digested. What kept this horrible story alive for my family was my mother. There was one survivor of this accident, the diver's five-year-old son. He suffered broken bones and head trauma and was in the hospital for months. When he was released from the hospital he started kindergarten at the school where my mother teaches. To this day she reminds my brother and me of the importance of driving sober as we travel along the Taconic, which we do often. Last summer I took a Driver's Education course to prepare to become a driver. The most important part of the class is learning the effects drugs and alcohol have on your ability to drive safely. I think education is an effective preventative measure. If you were unaware of the effects substances can have on your reflexes you may "feel" sober and drive impaired. We also learned about the New York penalties for driving while intoxicated. This may deter some people from driving under the influence. But for multiple offenses, the laws are too lenient. Perhaps mandatory drug or alcohol abuse treatment should be made part of the sentences for all offenders. Abstinence from drugs and alcohol is the best preventative strategy. Another effective strategy for preventing accidents might be late-night free ride-share service. This could be offered at colleges and other institutions. It could be a government service. Perhaps ride-share companies could be incentivized to offer free rides with funding or tax breaks. This crisis is too prevalent to be ignored. It is worth an investment for the lives that could be saved.

I recently saw an inspirational quote by author and influencer Jac Vanek: "You are the books you read, the films you watch ... You are a collective of every experience you have had in your life." To paraphrase Charlie, the main character in Stephen Chbosky’s, The Perks of Being A Wallflower, my favorite book is whatever I’ve read last. So my new favorite book is The Life of Pi by Yann Martel. I think everyone in the world should read this book because if humanity kept its message in their hearts we would have peace on earth. This story of survival is so fantastic I expected to be moved by the hero’s resilience and determination and I was. What I found surprising was the delightfully simple message that a story with God is the better story. The character Pi Patel was on fire with his love of God. He was open-minded to learning Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. There is a scene where Pi is confronted by three of the men with whom he has been studying religion; a priest, an imam, and a pandit. The holy men are arguing and pointing out faults in each other’s faith and Pi says, “I just want to love God.” then his father settles the argument by saying, “I suppose that’s what we’re all trying to do love God.” Reading this book has broadened my perspective. Like every book I read, it shapes me and reframes the way I look at the world. For instance, as I listen to the sad news of war in Gaza, I think not which side is right or wrong but I think of the simple wisdom of the parable of The Life of Pi and I pray for peace and I pray for the hearts people filled with hate to be healed, and for the ones in power to be blessed divine wisdom.

I recently saw an inspirational quote by author and influencer Jac Vanek: "You are the books you read, the films you watch ... You are a collective of every experience you have had in your life." My favorite book is The Life of Pi by Yann Martel. This story of survival is so fantastic I expected to be moved by the hero’s resilience and determination and I was. What I found surprising was the delightfully simple message that a story with God is the better story. The character Pi Patel was on fire with his love of God. He was open-minded to learning Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. There is a scene where Pi is confronted by three of the men with whom he has been studying religion; a priest, an imam, and a pandit. The holy men are arguing and pointing out faults in each other’s faith and Pi says, “I just want to love God.” then his father settles the argument by saying, “I suppose that’s what we’re all trying to do, love God.” Reading this book has broadened my perspective. Like every book I read, it shapes me and reframes the way I look at the world. For instance, as I listen to the sad news of war in Gaza, I think not which side is right or wrong but I think of the simple wisdom of the parable of The Life of Pi and I pray for peace and I pray for the hearts people filled with hate to be healed, and for the ones in power to be blessed divine wisdom. I am also a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wall-E. The premise is the Earth has become so polluted that it is uninhabitable. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of taking care of our planet and that message stays with me today. That is just one of a hundred examples of how the moving image has influenced my life and what I value. The environmental conservation message of Wall-E has had a profound impact on my life and my desire to do service. I'm a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, and Keep America Beautiful. I participate in community clean-ups and I'm an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. I want to share my passions through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in the field of filmmaking because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people.

I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wall-E which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wall-E in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. It’s an early Pixar animated film. The premise is the Earth has become so polluted due to consumership inspired by megacorporation Buy n Large, that it is uninhabitable. The humans live on a spaceship called the Axiom which runs on autopilot navigating space waiting for the day it is safe to return to Earth. Meanwhile, Waste Allocation Load Lifters (Earth-Class) are to clean the planet making return possible. Conditions are grim on Earth and all of the WALL-E’s have malfunctioned except for the unlikely hero, Wall-E. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of taking care of our planet and that message stays with me today. That is just one of a hundred examples of how the moving image has influenced my life and what I value. The environmental conservation message of Wall-E has had a profound impact on my life and my desire to do service. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. I am an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, salamanders, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth!"

I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wall-E which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wall-E in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. It’s an early Pixar animated film. The premise is the Earth has become so polluted due to consumership inspired by megacorporation Buy n Large, that it is uninhabitable. The humans live on a spaceship called the Axiom which runs on autopilot navigating space waiting for the day it is safe to return to Earth. Meanwhile, Waste Allocation Load Lifters (Earth-Class) are to clean the planet making return possible. Conditions are grim on Earth and all of the WALL-E’s have malfunctioned except for the unlikely hero, Wall-E. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of taking care of our planet and that message stays with me today. That is just one of a hundred examples of how the moving image has influenced my life and what I value. The environmental conservation message of Wall-E has had a profound impact on my life and my desire to do service. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. I am an avid hiker. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state of New York. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. One summer I traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more powerfully magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen double rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, salamanders, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth!"

My favorite actor to portray Spider-Man would have to be Tobey Maguire. He was the first actor to portray Spider-Man in a feature film so he brings out all the classic characteristics of Spider-Man from the original comics. You see him go through all the struggles and the changes in his life throughout the three films he was in and Maguire is able to use his exquisite acting skills to give a performance that is entertaining but also deeply emotional and true to the character of Peter Parker. Not to mention the many one-liners that he spews while acting as Spider-Man are entertaining as well. Maguire showcases his range as he will go from calm and Nerdy to erratic and aggressive in a short time span. While Tom Holland and Andrew Garfield both betray the character faithfully, as well, McGuire also shows the bad side of Peter Parker and his own internal struggles in a more convincing fashion. I also appreciate how you see the character essentially grow up over the course of the three movies. He matures and learns from his actions, treatment of people, and mistakes. These include his relationships with his best friend, Mary Jane, and Aunt May. Throughout the movie, he loses so much of what is important to him but through it all he's able to keep his composure and battle through his external and internal struggles. This is why I believe that McGuire is the quintessential Spider-Man.

Thank you, Mrs. Zappia The summer before I started Middle School I was studying for a big test. My district had a fifth-grade final that would determine whether I got into the honors program. Tests made me nervous. Last year I studied for months and when the day came for the test I choked. All the ideas ran from my head. My pencil was frozen. It was as though I came completely unprepared. I was ashamed to go home I knew my family would be disappointed. Now I had to face my nemesis again. This was a problem too big to face alone. I raised my hand for help and Mrs. Zappia answered the call. I met with her after school she was always willing to stay late to help students. She also chaperoned most of my field trips, and my brother's tennis matches, and you always saw her around town helping out in her free time. In our meetings after school, she not only taught me the material but also modeled how to stay calm under pressure. She always focused on my strengths. She taught me my mistakes were opportunities to correct misconceptions and not something to be ashamed of or avoided but something to learn from. It has changed the way I approach mistakes and learning. This has changed my entire mindset about learning and facing challenges. When it came time for the test I felt calm. I felt Mrs. Zappia's influence was running through me. I had a new confidence. It was her faith in me and her giving spirit that changed me that day. From that day forward when I sit for a test I think of Mrs. Zappia. During all my Regents Exams, the SATs, my AP exams, and every midterm and final Mrs. Zappia is with me. I'm not alone. I share any successes I have had with Mrs. Zappia. This scholarship has inspired me to show gratitude to the teacher who had such a huge impact on my life. Some people suffer from test anxiety for their entire lives. This can have a domino effect and result in poor outcomes not only academically but also on their self-esteem. Overcoming this obstacle has changed the trajectory of my life. How do you thank someone who has had such a positive effect on your life? It’s impossible to do but I think gratitude is a start. I have nominated Mrs. Zappia for New York State Teacher of the Year.

I would be in Hufflepuff because I embody the characteristics of humility, perseverance, loyalty, and a sense of justice. I have always challenged myself to take the most rigorous courses offered by my school even when it didn't come easily for me. I am a member of the school newspaper, esports, and robotics club. But I am most dedicated to drama club. I have had lead and supporting roles in 14 school productions. I have gained membership in the International Thespian Society. I received The Director's Choice Award for my role in Les Miserable. I spend my free time volunteering and helping my grandmother who suffered a stroke. I help in my church during August and Easter with school supply drives and Easter Baskets. Before my grandmother had her stroke, I was her champion volunteering at Lion's Club Events. We still help out during holidays but her health concerns made her give up her leadership role so I help her after school and on weekends by taking her to appointments and taking care of her pets. I am passionate about the planet. I am a member of environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. I've hiked hundreds of beautiful trails in my home state. Words don't do justice to the sights I've beheld. I've traveled from Awosting Falls in the east to Niagara Falls in the west and hiked 15 falls in between. Each was more magical than the next. From chasms to glens, I've seen rainbows, insects that twinkle like fairies, lizards, snakes, timid deer, and oblivious bears. I've visited the Big Five National Parks in Utah. I've gazed across the Grand Canyon. Every trail I travel becomes a part of me, fills my senses, and leaves a mark on my soul. The feeling of standing at the apex of Angels Landing in Zion National Park has touched me in a way no other vista has impacted me. That is the spot where I would leave the message: "You are one with all, everything is connected, you matter, and your choices matter. Choose Earth!" It is important for me to do service with my talents. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wallie in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of taking care of our planet and that message stays with me today. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories is a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. I can stay up all night editing to see if the final product matches my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing.

I have always challenged myself to take the most rigorous courses offered by my school. I am an honor roll, high school senior enrolled in two IB classes, two AP classes, Honors Physics, and I am taking a Marketing class at a community college. In my junior year, I applied and was accepted to the Early College Program where I earned 16 credits with a 3.5 GPA. IB Film is my passion. This summer I participated in a two-week pre-college Media Production Academy. I am a member of the school newspaper, esports, and robotics club. But I am most dedicated to drama club. I have had lead and supporting roles in 14 high school productions because I was nominated by my 4th-grade choir teacher to start my acting career early. I have gained membership in the International Thespian Society. I received The Director's Choice Award for my role in Les Miserable and Best Actor in a minor role for A Chorus Line. I spend my free time volunteering and helping my grandmother who suffered a stroke in 2015. I help out in my church during August and Easter with school supply drives and Easter Baskets. I also am part of the Sandwich Ministry, making lunches for the homeless. Before my grandmother had her stroke, I was her trusty champion volunteering at numerous Lion's Club Events. We still help out during holidays but her health concerns made her give up her leadership role so I help her after school and on weekends by taking her to appointments and taking care of her pets. I am an avid hiker, my favorite trail is Angels Landing in Zion National Park. I am also passionate about keeping our planet clean. I am a member of many environmental groups, including Keep Islip Clean, Love My Parks, American Littoral Society, Seatuck, and Keep America Beautiful. I regularly participate in community clean-up events. My strength is my kindness and caring for others. The award I treasure most is the 2020 Parent-Faculty's Citizenship Award. It is important for me to do service with my talents. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. Even the editing process is something I can stay up all night doing just to see the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing.

I am so grateful that I have not been a victim of gun violence. I deeply regret the horrific experience of anyone who has been so unfortunate to be or love a gun violence victim. Unfortunately, it has become an epidemic in the United States. I am passionately opposed to legislation that makes it easier for people to purchase or possess guns. I have felt this way since early in my childhood. The week before Christmas vacation when I was in first grade my mother came home from work crying. She hugged me tightly and told me she loved me. When I asked her what was wrong she wiped her tears and tried to smile. She called my brother into the room. I knew we were about to have a serious talk. She asked if we had ever had a fire drill at school. I had been going to school since I was three. I had been in plenty of fire drills. She explained soon my school would have a planned lockdown drill. We have had those, too. All the students would go to the closet area and sit quietly. My mom told my brother and me we should stay quiet and not fool around during these drills. These drills were a way to practice keeping safe, so the teachers could keep us safe, in case of an emergency. I know now this conversation was shortly after the Sandy Hook shooting in 2012. My mother is an elementary teacher. That day there was a suspected intruder in her school and they had an unannounced lockdown drill. She was terrified. She didn’t let on how scared she was to send me to school. All parents must feel this terror at times. All people feel this terror. Gun violence affects us all. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action. I aspire to have a career in communications because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others, I can change the world. Media in all forms can be a powerful tool in the battle against gun violence. This is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people. I’d be gratified if any of my creations saved even one life.

I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for Morgan Levin Dolan Scholarship. I am not athletic but I am certainly a team player. I have been in more than 14 plays and musicals and only had a lead role in four of them. As a member of the ensemble, I do my best to make the show a success and allow the leads to shine. I ask not what a situation can do for me but what I can bring to the situation to improve conditions. That is what being a team player means to me. If I was granted this scholarship that is the attitude I would bring to my college career and into my professional career. I hope to make the world a better place through storytelling. That is why I want to study media, culture, and film and use these mediums as the lens to learn about who we are as a culture and in what ways we can improve and evolve as a global community. I am a passionate moviegoer. As long as I can remember movies have evoked deep emotions in me and have moved me into action or compassion. My earliest movie memory is shedding a tear while watching Wallie which came out when I was two. I am too young to have seen Wallie in theaters but I watched that DVD until it wore out. The movie has a powerful warning about the importance of taking care of our planet and that message stays with me today. That is just one of a hundred examples of how the moving image has influenced my life and what I value. I aspire to have a career in the field of communication because if I can stir deep emotions or passion in others I can change the world. It’s important for me to feel creative. Telling stories through any method: writing, filming, drawing, or even digital design is exciting to me. It’s a process and I can get so absorbed in the process that I know it is a career in which I can stay committed. Even the editing process is something I can stay up all night doing just to see the final product match my vision. It’s gratifying to create an original story that people can enjoy or learn from. I believe this is a way I can bring my passion together with helping people and doing something I will never get tired of doing. I am so excited to have the opportunity to study history and culture through the moving image and to learn the craft of media production at a four-year college with passionate professors. I know I have much to learn in order to accomplish my goals and I am ready to do the hard work.

The character from “The Office” that resonates most with me is Jim. He has an easy-going personality and generally goes with the flow. I think Jim is a kind, moral, and intelligent person but the lack of intellectually challenging work at the office leads him to behave immaturely. The way Jim looks at the camera crew, and thus the audience, makes you feel like you are his friend and you understand him but his coworkers don’t entirely get him. At first, you think Jim is unfulfilled in this job and it is not his passion but as time goes by you realize the people are his passion. Obviously, he loves Pam but he cares for the other characters, too. He feels responsibility for them in a sense. His role is to witness the absurdity and raise an eyebrow or shrug, yet accept each character for who they are. He is the quiet patriarch of the office. My family and I have bonded watching “The Office.” The characters and jokes have become part of our family’s lexicon. The premise of people working in a fairly meaningless and unfulfilling office job followed by the camera crew debriefing them as if their work was so meaningful it needed explaining is brilliant. Michael Scott’s interaction with the crew is comedic genius. The characters and their performances delight me. As a younger person watching a show about adults working in an office, I did gain insight into workplace dynamics. I would want to work at a job I felt passionate about; however, the show has shown me no matter how diverse or quirky your coworkers are when you spend enough time together they could become like a second family. It is important to accept people for who they are and learn to celebrate their diverse personalities. “The Office,” would be pretty boring if all the workers were the same. There can be much joy and laughter in our differences.

I feel excited to be a member of Gen Z. Many people have a pessimistic view of this crossroads in America’s history but I couldn’t be filled with any more hope for our society. Pain is the path to progress. In many ways, some Americans are suffering from social injustices like inequity in the health care system, economic insecurity, food insecurity, racial discrimination, gender bias, and political polarization. Nothing that grows in the dark can be changed. The pandemic and the political arena that my generation and I have had a front-row seat to witness as we enter adulthood has been a call to action. I accept the challenge. The social issue that would be the focus of my efforts to effect change would be implementing a code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence. Recent media has cast a tone of suspicion and fear about the future use of AI. The current writers' strike is just one example that perhaps justifiably begs the question of what role should AI play in our future. Gen Zers should be critically examining this question. I believe AI has great potential to usher in an age of increased social justice. I recently watched a recording of this very topic being discussed at a UN special event entitled, Artificial Intelligence for Social Justice, recorded on April 14, 2023. The discussion convened a panel of experts such as UN Ambassadors from India and Singapore, an AI scholar from Johns Hopkins, the CEO of AI for Good Foundation, a representative from the W.H.O., and a representative from the UN’s International Telecommunication Union. The message I gleaned from these distinguished public servants was a hopeful one. AI has tremendous potential to help the world reach the 17 Sustainability Development Goals of the UN. Goals such as no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities, climate action, and peace, justice, and strong institutions. This is the potential legacy of Gen Z. Z-not end of the line, but rather, the last time a child dies of hunger or our last chance to slow down climate change. There are also potential risks of an AI future. AI relies on the quality of the data it uses. This is a true crossroad. The precipice of an opportunity to correct immortal practices, even the scales of justice, and share resources equitably. This can be done if thoughtful, deliberate, and explicit policies are made now. I can be part of this vehicle of positive change. I am fascinated to have the opportunity to study this issue in depth and use my craft to effect change in the world.

My future self will be an enriched, experienced, and more educated version of the kind, creative, and caring person I am now.