The Thayer Group Scholarship Review Portal

Throughout my high school career, I have operated in a self-guiding principle: always capitalize on the next opportunity. This mindset has led me to immerse myself in DECA, FBLA, sports media, and shaping my professional skills. As the Vice-President for DECA, I qualified for the International Career Development Conference three times, including a state championship my Junior year. Recognizing the lack of leadership at Castle View, I revived FBLA as the first President in 5 years of absence. I also followed my passion in sports branding, growing a Kansas dedicated sports page (Jayhawk_Report) to over 5 social media sites including 13,700+ followers on Instagram.

Building on that momentum, I co-founded a college media company that has scaled to over 150,000+ accumulated followers and 45+ college sports programs. I also engaged in work with local businesses like The Kids Landing and Columbia to sharpen my professional and customer service skills. This drive to leadership is a direct reflection of my family’s influence. I am following the path of both my parents in business and media. Watching my mother’s journey in graphic design at Drury University and my father’s in business at Fort Hays State University has helped me develop these interests and pursue a four-year education. While choosing the path of college was simple, choosing the college was complex.

Growing up in Overland Park, I was indulged with the Kansas traditions, a culture fully embraced by my sister, who attended the University of Kansas. I felt indifferent after the move to Castle Rock at a young age, leaving a persistent pull to a Colorado school. I believe that choosing Colorado State University was my way of honoring both sides. Not only does it allow me to carry my interest in the business and design legacy of my parents, but it also gives me a distinct path from my sister. By returning to Colorado, I step back into a community that feels like home with my life-long friends. It offers the perfect environment to scale my interests and lead with a fresh perspective as a CSU Ram.

If selected for The Thayer Group Scholarship, I plan to use the funding for my academic success at Colorado State University. My goal is to continue immersing myself into as many opportunities as possible. I hope to leverage my skills and become a leader at CSU, and that starts with writing this essay.

Small businesses are the heart and soul of a community. They represent the cultural heartbeat. Unlike large corporations that prioritize scaling and profitability, small businesses are dedicated to their personal relationships and local identity. They are the textbook definition of your friendly neighbors, always looking to lift spirits as opposed to opening the next location. Moving to Castle Rock, Colorado, was a big step in my young life. I’ve watched my now hometown transform from the quiet suburbs to an active and fast-growing community. This growth has completely changed the market, especially for small, locally owned businesses. They used to thrive in a smaller town, where big competitors hadn’t yet established themselves.

For instance, Crowfoot Valley Coffee, who has been selling local coffee since 1999, reported struggles with competing with the major chains like Starbucks. These businesses hold smaller advertising budgets and less digital marketing tools that just a few years ago were unproblematic. The assistance with understanding our complex and dynamic market is so limited that the difficulties continue to pile up. I’ve experienced these challenges firsthand while working at The Kids Landing, a small, family-owned play and learning center with an incredible reputation. Despite the numerous positive reviews, the company slowly began to lose attraction from new customers.

The lack of a strong online presence or marketing analytics left the business stuck, which eventually led to closure. Watching a work place I loved and was passionate about disappear made me realize how difficult it is for small businesses to survive without the necessary tools. This is why I believe small businesses are so vital. They provide the soul of a city, but are somehow the most vulnerable. When they close, a piece of history is lost, and an opportunity to be a training ground for the next generation is ripped apart. My background in sports media and digital branding has shown me how big an online presence is. Seeing the struggles firsthand at The Kids Landing has fueled my ambition to make a change.

I would love to help these local businesses fight through adversity and compete with corporate giants. Even though it’s a tall task, it would ensure the unique characters of towns like Castle Rock remain intact for future generations.

Hi, my name is DM. I am currently seventeen years old, and a senior at Castle View High School. I am in the Castle View High School chapter of the National Honor Society, and I am in the top five percent of my graduating class of four hundred and thirteen students. I previously qualified for the Colorado DECA state competition, and just this past year, I was promoted to lead lifeguard at my community lifeguarding job, which I really enjoy. I’ve received the AP Scholar Award from the official AP organization, achieved First-Team Academic All-State Honors three years in a row, and I am also a part of my school’s Spanish Honor Society.

I was born in Tarpon Springs, Florida, and I moved to Georgia at roughly six months old, well before I can remember. I lived in Georgia through the first grade and moved away when I was six because my dad got a job offer in Colorado. Over the first half of my senior year, I applied to nine different colleges: Florida, Florida Atlantic, Baylor, Washington, Nebraska, Georgetown, USC, Georgia, and CSU. Of those I have been accepted to, I’ve narrowed my search almost completely down to either the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or Baylor University.

I’m extremely excited for college, something I’ve told just about everyone I know, as it’s an opportunity to do something different and more challenging, all while getting a feel for what it's like to be an adult and living for the most part on your own. I am seeking to get degrees in both Business Management and Finance, hopefully double-majoring during my undergraduate tenure, and I hope to get an MBA in graduate school, or maybe even while still an undergraduate student if I have the opportunity to do so. I’d also really love to study international business as a minor, if not as a third major.

I’ve been fascinated by all aspects of business for as long as I can remember, really thinking about college, and I truly can’t wait to get started on creating a career for myself while also making meaningful connections in college. I am seeking financial aid because my dad was diagnosed with leukemia a few years ago, severely limiting his ability to work and causing my family to have to dip into savings accounts to simply maintain relative financial stability. The effect of this incredibly unfortunate diagnosis is still being felt by my family, as we now have less money saved for my college tuition, making many places, even those in-state, quite expensive.

I would use the money from the Thayer Group Scholarship to help propel me through college, allowing me to obtain an education that will give me incredible work opportunities later in my life, preventing my future family from having to deal with financial struggle. The money would go towards tuition specifically, which will allow my family to worry less about making ends meet just to put me through four years of college.

Small Businesses are so meaningful within communities such as Castle Rock because they provide economic strength, create jobs, and refine a friendly and welcoming social image for visitors as well as residents of the community. Firstly, small businesses are almost always owned and run by members of the very community they are located in, meaning money spent at such businesses is recirculated back into the pockets of those who will once again spend that money in the community as well. This constant circulation of money maintains that spending will remain, for the most part, in the community allowing for continued economic stability and growth over time.

The idea of economic strength goes hand-in-hand with the creation of jobs at homey and comfortable places. Small businesses are responsible for many of the jobs within communities, no matter the size. By creating jobs, small businesses give individuals of all ages the opportunity to work close to home in a familiar and comfortable place. These jobs help people to of course pay living expenses, or simply make some money to pay for other experiences or goods within the community, tying back to the recirculation of money. The comfort aspect of these small business jobs is extremely important, something I know from personal experience. Towards the end of my sophomore year of high school, I began to think about getting a job.

I didn’t really know where I wanted to work, but I knew I wanted it to be local and somewhere I was familiar with, so I knew it had to be a small business of some sort. I looked at a ton of different places, all small businesses within the community because I knew I’d be more happy and comfortable working somewhere I had been around before and was accustomed to due to the friendly nature of Castle Rock’s small businesses. Ultimately, I landed on being a lifeguard at the Grange in the Meadows of Castle Rock. Though not necessarily a small business by definition, the Grange met the familiar and friendly aspect I found to be so important, as I had been going there for years on end, and I had the opportunity to work there.

That sense of familiarity and friendliness are the most significant part of what makes small businesses so important in a community. Small businesses are far more equipped and able to provide a personal and social connection with consumers than any large chain brand is, as small businesses are focused more on quality and leaving a positive impression on their customers than they are pure quantity of sales like brands such as target may be.

This statute of positivity and rising above the bigger brands in the category of customer service and product quality is what makes them so important to a community, as it provides a community with a well-grounded social identity that expands the image of the community far beyond the pure sales and economics of a small business.

Dear Scholarship Committee, My name is EP, and I am currently a senior at Castle View High School in Castle Rock, Colorado. Throughout high school, I have challenged myself academically while also taking on leadership roles in my school, workplace, and community. I have maintained a 4.175 weighted GPA and have earned Honor Roll recognition each year. As an AP Scholar, I have completed rigorous coursework including AP Calculus AB, AP U.S. Government, AP Macroeconomics, AP Statistics, AP U.S. History, and AP Language & Composition, along with dual enrollment classes in Criminal Justice, Spanish, and Human Anatomy & Physiology.

I am also involved in the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Link Crew, and Student Leadership Board, where I work to support and mentor other students. In addition to academics, I have balanced multiple jobs to help support my personal expenses and build real-world skills. I have worked as a hostess and server assistant at the Country Club at Castle Pines and Canyon House Kitchen & Cocktail, as well as a shift lead at Wag N Wash. Through these roles, I have developed leadership, teamwork, and conflict resolution skills while consistently maintaining high customer satisfaction.

Being named Student Athlete of the Month and becoming a two-time Cheerleading State Champion on a nationally ranked team are accomplishments I am especially proud of, as they reflect my dedication, discipline, and ability to work toward long-term goals. My parents are both highly educated and have always encouraged me to pursue excellence in everything I do. They have instilled in me a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for education. I am applying to Clemson University, the University of Tennessee Knoxville, Texas Christian University, the University of Miami, and the University of South Carolina.

I plan to major in political science on the pre-law track and minor in business, which will allow me to combine leadership, communication, and analytical skills in a meaningful career. While my family has always prioritized education, the cost of attending an out-of-state university presents a significant financial challenge. Receiving this scholarship would greatly ease that burden and allow me to focus fully on my academic and extracurricular commitments. If selected, I would use the scholarship funding to help cover tuition, housing, and academic materials.

Small businesses are an essential part of a community because they create connections, foster generosity, and reflect the values of the people they serve. While large corporations may offer convenience, small businesses often provide something far more meaningful: a sense of belonging. Their impact goes beyond products or services as they strengthen relationships and invest directly in the well-being of the community around them. I witnessed this impact firsthand while working at the Castle Rock location of Nothing Bundt Cakes. Although the brand itself is a national chain, the store felt more like a traditional mom-and-pop shop because of its owners, H and her husband E.

They approached their business with the belief that success meant more than profit, it meant caring for the people in their community. H and E consistently went above and beyond to give back. Each week, they donated cakes to the Labor and Delivery floor at AdventHealth Hospital as well as to the Manna Restaurant, expressing gratitude to the healthcare workers and volunteers who support our community every day. These acts of kindness were never done for recognition, they were simply part of how they chose to run their business. Generosity was an instilled practice throughout my time working there, being a fundamental value during employee training.

Each shift, we were encouraged to give a free bundtlet to someone who looked like they might need a small moment of kindness. The store also offered discounts for veterans, teachers, and friends and family, reinforcing the idea that the business existed to support the community that supported it. Beyond these gestures, the store became a place where relationships were built. Customers often came in not only for cake, but to talk with H, whether they were church members, old friends, or longtime regulars. Watching these interactions made it clear that small businesses are not just places of transaction; they are spaces of connection.

Experiences like this have shown me that the strength of a community often lies in the compassion of the people within it. Small businesses may appear small in scale, but their generosity, relationships, and commitment to others often make them the true heart of a community.

My name is GA, and I am a motivated and hardworking student preparing to pursue a dual degree in Economics and Finance. Throughout high school, I have remained focused on my academic goals while also gaining valuable real-world experience through employment. I take pride in balancing my responsibilities and consistently pushing myself to grow both academically and personally. In addition to maintaining strong academic performance, I have worked as a Housekeeping Associate and as a Dietary Aide at a local nursing home. These roles have taught me responsibility, time management, and the importance of compassion and teamwork.

Working closely with residents strengthened my communication skills and helped me understand the value of serving others with patience and respect. Balancing school and work has required discipline and dedication, qualities that I will continue to carry with me into college. I come from a family that strongly values hard work and perseverance. While my family has always supported my goals, the financial responsibility of attending college is significant. The cost of tuition, books, housing, and other expenses makes financial assistance essential. Earning this scholarship would help reduce the financial strain on my family and allow me to focus more fully on my education.

I am applying to several universities where I plan to pursue a dual degree in Economics and Finance. I am passionate about understanding how financial systems operate and how economic decisions impact individuals, businesses, and communities. My long-term goal is to build a career in the financial sector where I can apply analytical skills, strategic thinking, and ethical decision-making to make a meaningful impact. If selected for this scholarship, the funding would be used directly toward tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenses. It would allow me to reduce student loan debt and dedicate more time to my studies, internships, and campus involvement.

This support would not only ease financial pressure but also serve as encouragement to continue striving for excellence. I am committed to working hard, making the most of every opportunity, and giving back to my community in the future. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Small businesses are an important part of a community because they create personal connections, provide local jobs, and keep money circulating within the area. Unlike large corporations, small businesses are often deeply rooted in the neighborhoods they serve. They understand the needs of local families and respond in ways that are more personal and community-focused. When people support small businesses, they are not just buying a product or service—they are investing in their own community. From personal experience, working at a local nursing home as both a Housekeeping Associate and a Dietary Aide showed me how much small, locally operated facilities matter.

The nursing home was more than just a workplace; it was a home for residents and a support system for families. Because it was a smaller, community-based facility, staff members were able to build real relationships with residents. I learned their routines, preferences, and even their life stories. That level of care would be difficult to replicate in a large, impersonal organization. Families trusted us not just because of the services we provided, but because they knew we genuinely cared. Small businesses also create opportunities for students and young adults. My job at the nursing home allowed me to gain work experience while still in school. It taught me responsibility, teamwork, and compassion.

At the same time, my income helped support my personal expenses and savings for college. Without small businesses like this one, many students would have fewer opportunities to develop professional skills early on. Additionally, small businesses strengthen the local economy. They hire locally, purchase supplies from nearby vendors, and often give back through community events or sponsorships. The nursing home where I worked regularly interacted with local families and community members, which helped build strong relationships and a sense of belonging. Overall, small businesses are essential because they provide more than services—they create connection, opportunity, and stability.

My experience working at a nursing home showed me firsthand how a small business can positively impact both employees and the community it serves.

My name is IR, and I am proud to introduce myself as a first-generation immigrant, a trilingual student leader, and an aspiring civil engineer committed to uplifting the communities that shaped me. Since arriving in the United States three and a half years ago, I have worked to turn every challenge into an opportunity learning a new language, adapting to a new culture, and striving to become the first in my family to graduate from a U.S. college.

Throughout high school, I have dedicated myself to both academic excellence and community leadership. I currently serve as President of the French Honor Society, lead a club I created for Hispanic students, tutor peers through the National Honor Society, and volunteer with programs that support immigrant families. These experiences have strengthened my belief in service, mentorship, and the power of education to transform lives.

My family’s story is central to who I am. My mother is the sole provider for our household, working tirelessly to support my younger sister and me. She sacrificed her career in Colombia so we could have opportunities she never had. My father, who remains in our home country as he follows the legal immigration process, has always been my example of integrity and perseverance. Their sacrifices motivate me to pursue a future that honors everything they have given up.

I have been accepted to several universities, including my dream school: the University of California, Berkeley. My goal is to get a degree in civil engineering so I can design safe, sustainable infrastructure and eventually create initiatives or a company that supports Latino workers, immigrant youth, and underserved communities. I want my education to become a tool for service and a way to build not only structures, but stability and opportunity for others.

However, the financial reality of attending college is a significant challenge for my family. With my mother as the only income provider and the rising cost of tuition, housing, and materials, I will need substantial financial support to pursue my degree. This scholarship would help close the gap between what my family can afford and the cost of attending a university like Berkeley.

If selected, I would use the scholarship funding to cover essential academic expenses such as tuition, textbooks, and housing. More importantly, it would allow me to focus on my studies and community involvement without placing additional strain on my family. Your support would not only help me achieve my educational goals, but it would also empower me to continue giving back, mentoring others, and building a future where I can uplift the communities that have uplifted me.

Small businesses are the heartbeat of a community because they carry something that large corporations rarely can: a sense of soul. They are built by people who know the streets they stand on, who understand the needs of their neighbors, and who pour their own stories into the work they do. When you walk into a place like this, you are getting the opportunity of enriching your life with someone else’s story and contribution to the place you both call home.

I’ve seen this firsthand through my father. Back in my home country, he built a small business not just to provide for our family, but to create opportunities for people who didn’t have many. He hired workers with limited education, taught them skills, and treated them with dignity. His business wasn’t just a workplace; it was a space where people grew, found stability, and felt valued. Watching him showed me that a small business can be a quiet engine of transformation, lifting individuals and strengthening the community around it.

When my family moved to the United States, I began to notice the same pattern here. In Castle Rock, a small town, businesses are often run by people who know their customers by name. They sponsor school events, donate to local causes, and create jobs that keep the community thriving. Many immigrant families, like mine, rely on these businesses not only for income but for connection. They become places where languages mix, cultures meet, peace flows, and people find belonging.

Small businesses matter because they remind us that community is built person by person, story by story. They show us that economic growth doesn’t have to be distant or impersonal, but it can be local, human, and rooted in care. And in a world that often feels dominated by large systems and corporations, small businesses are proof that individual effort still has the power to shape a community’s identity.

My name is KE, and I am currently a senior at Castle View High School with a 4.22 GPA. Throughout my high school career, I have consistently challenged myself academically while staying actively involved in my school and community. I plan to study political science on a pre-law track, with the goal of becoming a criminal defense attorney and advocating for fairness within the legal system. During high school, I have participated in a variety of activities that have shaped both my character and my work ethic. As a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society, I have demonstrated my commitment to academic excellence and continuous growth. Through my involvement in DECA, I have developed valuable professional skills such as communication, leadership, and real world problem solving. These experiences have helped me become more confident in my ability to think critically and work effectively with others. Leadership has been an important part of my high school experience. As a Link Crew mentor, I worked closely with incoming freshmen to help them adjust to high school, offering guidance and support during a major transition in their lives. This role strengthened my ability to connect with others and reinforced the importance of being someone others can rely on. In addition, my participation in both high school and club volleyball has taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, especially when balancing athletics with academics. My family, especially my mom, has had a major impact on who I am today. She has always emphasized the importance of hard work, resilience, and showing up for others, even when things are difficult. Watching her balance responsibilities while continuing to support our family has motivated me to stay focused on my goals and push through challenges. Her example has shaped the way I approach both my education and my future. Outside of school, I work for the Town of Castle Rock, where I have gained experience in responsibility, independence, and customer service. I have also completed over 100 hours of community service, reflecting my commitment to giving back and making a positive impact in my community. While I am proud of what I have accomplished, I recognize that the cost of higher education is a significant financial responsibility for my family. I am going to be attending CU Boulder in fall, where I hope to continue my academic journey and prepare for law school. If selected, I would use this scholarship to help cover tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenses, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and long-term goals.

Small businesses are an essential part of any community because they create meaningful connections, support the local economy, and give each area a unique identity. They are more than just places to shop or eat, they reflect the people and values that make a community feel like home. One example of this in my own life is COFF33, a local coffee shop I enjoy going to. What makes it stand out is not just the coffee, but the environment and the people. Unlike larger chain coffee shops, COFF33 feels more personal and welcoming. The interactions there are more genuine, and it creates a space where people can connect, whether they are meeting friends, studying, or just starting their day. Experiences like this show how small businesses help build relationships and create a sense of belonging within a community. Small businesses also play a major role in supporting the local economy. When people choose to shop locally, they are directly supporting families and individuals within their own community. This keeps money circulating locally and can create more job opportunities. Through my experience working for the Town of Castle Rock, I have seen how local businesses contribute to the overall growth and success of the community. They are not only places of business, but also sources of opportunity and stability. In addition, small businesses give communities their character and individuality. They reflect the creativity and values of the people who live there, making each place feel unique rather than generic. Without small businesses, many communities would lose what makes them special. I also admire the determination it takes to start and run a small business. It requires risk, dedication, and a strong work ethic, qualities that I value and try to apply in my own life. As someone who hopes to pursue a career in law, I believe it is important to support individuals who are working hard to build something meaningful for themselves and their families. Overall, small businesses are vital because they strengthen relationships, support economic growth, and create a sense of identity within a community. Supporting them means investing in both the present and future of the community itself.

Small businesses are an essential part of any community because they create meaningful connections, support the local economy, and give each area a unique identity. They are more than just places to shop or eat, they reflect the people and values that make a community feel like home. One example of this in my own life is COFF33, a local coffee shop I enjoy going to. What makes it stand out is not just the coffee, but the environment and the people. Unlike larger chain coffee shops, COFF33 feels more personal and welcoming. The interactions there are more genuine, and it creates a space where people can connect, whether they are meeting friends, studying, or just starting their day.

Experiences like this show how small businesses help build relationships and create a sense of belonging within a community. Small businesses also play a major role in supporting the local economy. When people choose to shop locally, they are directly supporting families and individuals within their own community. This keeps money circulating locally and can create more job opportunities. Through my experience working for the Town of Castle Rock, I have seen how local businesses contribute to the overall growth and success of the community. They are not only places of business, but also sources of opportunity and stability. In addition, small businesses give communities their character and individuality.

They reflect the creativity and values of the people who live there, making each place feel unique rather than generic. Without small businesses, many communities would lose what makes them special. I also admire the determination it takes to start and run a small business. It requires risk, dedication, and a strong work ethic, qualities that I value and try to apply in my own life. As someone who hopes to pursue a career in law, I believe it is important to support individuals who are working hard to build something meaningful for themselves and their families. Overall, small businesses are vital because they strengthen relationships, support economic growth, and create a sense of identity within a community.

Supporting them means investing in both the present and future of the community itself.

My name is OC, and I am a graduating senior at Castle View High School. I have worked hard to maintain a 3.77 GPA while overcoming the long-term effects of severe bacterial meningitis, which required hospitalizations both as a newborn and again at age nine. These experiences have shaped my resilience and determination, motivating me to push myself academically and personally. Throughout high school, I have been deeply involved in athletics. I am a four-year varsity track athlete and also competed in cross country. For the past three years, I have qualified for and competed in multiple events at the state track meet.

In addition, I have trained with Steadfast Track Academy for four years, which gave me the opportunity to compete at the Nike Indoor Championships in New York each year. My academic and athletic experiences have helped me develop a strong work ethic and a belief in teamwork, leadership, and supporting those around me. I take pride in giving my best effort and encouraging others to do the same. I come from a close and supportive family. My mom is a middle school teacher, and my stepdad has been an important role model in my life. My older brother is currently attending college as a student-athlete, and my younger brother is a freshman at Castle View. My stepbrother is also an important part of my family.

I have been accepted to several colleges and will be attending the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, where I plan to major in nursing and continue my track career. My goal is to become a pediatric ICU nurse. My passion for nursing comes from my own experiences as a patient and the compassionate care I received during some of the most difficult moments of my life. While still in high school, I earned my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, which has prepared me for a career in healthcare. I also work part-time to help contribute to my education.

With my older brother already in college and my younger brother preparing to follow, the financial responsibility of higher education is significant for my family, especially as my father does not contribute financially. Receiving this scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my ability to pursue my education. Any funds awarded would go directly toward tuition, supplies, and the requirements of my nursing program. I am committed to continuing my education and pursuing a career where I can make a difference in the lives of others.

I hold a strong belief that small businesses are an essential part of any strong community because they provide more than just products or services, they create connections, opportunities, and local pride. Unlike large corporations, small businesses are owned by real people who live in the same neighborhoods they serve. They care about the success of the community because it is their home too. When people choose to support small businesses, they are not only helping a company survive, but also supporting local families, jobs, and the local economy. One of the biggest strengths of small businesses is their personal investment in the people around them.

Small business owners are often involved in local schools, sports teams, and community events. They understand the needs of the area and can respond more quickly and creatively than large corporations based somewhere else. Instead of profits leaving the community, money spent at local businesses is often reinvested into the town through jobs, sponsorships, and other support. I have seen the impact of small businesses through my own family. Both of my grandfathers were small business owners before they retired. My Grandpa Don owned and operated a plumbing company. He took pride in helping people and would often lower his prices or not charge at all when customers were going through financial hardship.

Even now, people still ask for his advice because of the trust and respect he built over the years. My Grandpa Steve owned a landscaping business and found pride in improving the appearance of the community. He also created local jobs and served on boards and organizations that helped the area grow. I have also experienced how small businesses support young people. As a child, I played on an Ilwaco Landing soccer team where a local fish processor helped cover registration and uniforms. In little league, many teams proudly wore shirts with names like Chico’s Pizza or Oman’s Lumber. Those businesses were not just advertising—they were investing in kids and giving families opportunities to participate in sports.

While large companies can bring convenience and jobs, they often do not create the same sense of belonging. Small businesses build relationships, strengthen neighborhoods, and give back in meaningful ways. They help create communities where people feel supported and connected. That is why I believe small businesses are such an important part of society.

Throughout high school, I’ve been a children's swim instructor at SafeSplash Swim School, a local business. Teaching young kids requires patience, clear communication, and a constant smile. Although it may seem easy for someone outgoing like me, the role requires careful consideration for each learner. Every lesson is different, and each child learns at their own pace. In this role, I have learned to meet people where they are and celebrate growth. Teaching swimming brings me immense joy, and I value the importance of my work. On a typical day, I have the privilege of teaching kids lifelong skills and helping save lives, one of my proudest accomplishments.

Recognizing my passion for caring for and teaching people, I explored medical careers by volunteering in the Labor and Delivery unit at AdventHealth Hospital in Castle Rock. I saw it as a great way to gain experience for my future studies. I didn’t expect this work to deepen my appreciation for everyone I encountered. These experiences have strengthened my empathy and my ability to remain calm in emotional situations. I have logged over 150 hours and continue to volunteer every Tuesday. My goal is to become a pediatric speech-language pathologist, where I can combine my love for teaching children with my passion for serving and seeing others.

I plan to achieve this by pursuing an undergraduate degree in the Speech, Language, and Auditory Sciences major at CU Boulder this fall. I am eternally grateful for my career and volunteering experiences that have given me the clarity to move forward in my education, surefooted and excited about my next opportunity to learn. I understand that this path requires years of education and dedication, which I am prepared to meet with intense, passion-driven focus and a genuine love for the work. Additionally, I am extremely passionate about leadership, and have been a part of student government for all four years. Currently, I am aiming to continue this pathway by joining the President's Leadership Class (PLC) at CU.

This will allow me to continue that passion and incorporate all lessons learned into my future endeavors. I am the youngest of four children, and I am acutely aware of the value of higher education. The successes and accomplishments of my older siblings have demonstrated to me what is possible through pursuing my passions. I am endlessly inspired by their grit and determination, and I aim to take advantage of every resource that CU Boulder provides me to further my career development. Receiving this scholarship would make these resources and advanced programs more accessible and allow me to explore the various possible paths within Speech, Language, and Auditory Science.

This scholarship is an investment in my education, but it is also an investment in the children and families I will serve in the future.

Small businesses are the backbone of our community. They aren't just places to shop; they are the people we know. They are families whose children we sit next to in school, whose parents volunteer in our classes, and who live alongside all of us. When we support them, we are directly supporting our neighbors. As large corporations continue to expand at a rapid pace, it often feels impossible for small businesses to compete. Big companies can provide services and goods for a lower price, receive larger tax advantages, and operate at a colossal scale. While they might be convenient to consumers, the playing field is getting more and more uneven.

Profit and shareholders drive these corporations, not the potential personal relationships with whom they interact. Small businesses are deeply rooted in those around them. For example, the Castle Rock location of SafeSplash Swim School is owned by a parent with two children within the CV school system. Because she is personally connected to the community, she goes out of her way to offer job opportunities to teenagers, host giveaways, and actively support the businesses around her. Her generosity can be funded through her consumers, and her success directly benefits local families. Similarly, local businesses, like The Thayer Group, demonstrate their commitment to Castle Rock by giving back through scholarships such as this one.

Small businesses understand that their growth depends on the people around them and want to reinvest accordingly. Companies like Amazon may offer lower prices, but they do not provide the same face-to-face connection as those in our town. A single purchase may mean little to a multi-billion-dollar company, but that same purchase can make a real difference to local families. Supporting smaller companies keeps money circulating within the local economy, strengthens relationships, and creates a strong sense of town pride. Small businesses reflect the character of the community itself.

Choosing to spend a few extra dollars at a local bookstore, swim school, or real estate office is not just a financial transaction; it is direct support of nearby families and supports the personal connections that make a big town feel small.