Especially after I began middle school, I had longed to be able to help out and contribute to social impacts that could be made for those who are unable to speak out for themselves; mainly children caught in legal family affairs. I love being able to volunteer or use my skills to be able to contribute to the cause!

A couple of things I enjoy are running, writing, and learning more through projects or activities where I meet new people and topics. Often, I find myself looking for runs or walks towards causes—one previous one being a denim-themed walk supporting older foster children. The message illustrated by the organization spoke to me; the stories of older foster children left with almost no one to turn to for guidance on their lives. I want to be able to support them through running and walking.

A frequent activity I enjoy is writing. As a child, I loved to read, the satisfaction and amazement I was able to get from good books fueling me to read more. I know this feeling well, and want to give it to more people who might read my writing. I do write a lot of book reviews for my local library, as well, in the hopes that I could be a positive influence to these readers, and give them the same memorable experience with books I had at a young age.

One thing I love to do is partake in events or activities where I am able to learn or come across something new. Some examples of the way I can do this is through camps, courses, or projects! In these, I have always struggled at first, an example being my first course with Johns Hopkins CTY outside of my school, called Project Mars, in fourth grade. I didn’t know anything about space and physics, and was completely confused with the material. However, this initial struggle led to me becoming comfortable with asking for help in an unfamiliar context, being an opening gate towards my future endeavors. Each experience I have brings me something new, which I can improve and grow with.

Currently, I have been able to challenge myself with a Psychology course from Dr. Shannon Holleran, and explore traits of people I had observed or found interest in.

I hope that one day, I will be able to be one of the many positive influences on someone, just as many had been for me. I want to be able to have an impact, that could benefit many people.