Meet the 2023 Scholars

"Write a letter to your younger self during a key moment in your life addressing one or more of the following: words of encouragement, lessons you have learned and/or challenges you have overcome."

Dear 14 year old Me, You are turning 21 this summer, a lot has changed since you started high school. I never thought I would be able to look back and say that I actually enjoy running now, but you do. You were consistent and determined to keep you lungs healthy, so one day you woke up and decided that you were simply going to 'go for it.' Those three little words will encourage and inspire you do to so much more in life. This saying came from mom, of course it did, she always gives the best advice. One day in college you will receive a small package from home, and inside there will be a little sticker that says "be the girl who decided to go for it." That was it. That saying that changed the direction of your health and ultimately you life. I never want you to look back and have regrets about what you didn't do. Sometimes you simply need to go for it. So, 14 year old me, be the girl that decided to go for it. Take those chances, live life to your fullest and enjoy all the little moments along the way, you never know where they could lead.