During my years in school, I participated in numerous organizations and activities, including SGA, Boy Scouts, and Peer Helpers. Alongside my involvement in extracurricular activities, I consistently maintained honor roll status and received several academic awards. But I believe that my experiences outside of academics have also played a major role in shaping the person I am today and the person I hope to become.

During my tenth-grade year, I was encouraged to join the A+ Student VOICES Team — a student advocacy and leadership organization that gives students a voice in Alabama educational policymaking. As a member of the team, I worked alongside other students to help craft an annual survey addressing some of the most pressing issues facing schools across the state. We then presented our findings and data to legislators in the Alabama State House.

Through that experience, I learned the importance of advocacy and gained a better understanding of how to view issues from multiple perspectives. It also gave me insight into my future aspirations of becoming an attorney and eventually an elected official. More personally, it taught me the importance of understanding people in order to better serve and help them.

Looking back, I believe that growing up in a rural community with fewer opportunities than many others pushed me to make the most of every opportunity available to me. I remain grateful for everything Hale County has contributed to my growth and development. Looking toward the future, I hope to use the lessons, experiences, and values I have gained to positively impact the world through leadership, advocacy, and service to others.