Franklin Regional High School
Senior? Yes
Elite top 100? Yes
Letters of recommendation: Letter of Recommendation 1, Letter of Recommendation 2
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” These words by Ralph Waldo Emerson remind me of the importance of making a difference in the lives of others. As a leader in many different organizations throughout my high school years, I have spent a great deal of time volunteering. Volunteerism has reminded me about the importance of empathy and gratitude, has impacted my life and those around me, and will play a vital role in my life going forward.
As Team Captain of the Pink Ribbon Girls Relay for Life Team, I have enthusiastically volunteered and supported Relay for Life numerous years, and these experiences have reminded me about the importance of empathy and assisting others during their time of need. Each year, the Survivor Walk and Luminaria Ceremony remind me of the importance of honoring lives lost and supporting those who are still battling this terrible disease. People in these situations need to know that others care and want to help. I have collaborated with my team and served on the Relay for Life Leadership Event Committee to make a difference in support of the American Cancer Society through various fundraising initiatives. We have increased our team total each year and have been one of the top fundraising teams each year for the Murrysville Relay for Life.
Not only has volunteering highlighted the importance of empathy, but it has impacted my life and those around me. As a member of the East End Kids Premier Teen Song and Dance Ensemble for three years, I witnessed the dedication of our Veterans and the sweetness of our seniors. While performing at the Veterans Hospital and area nursing homes, my patriotism and gratitude for their service have grown. I have witnessed firsthand the joy and excitement on their faces while we performed military tributes or favorite musical numbers. Former soldiers and elderly people, along with various community members, have enjoyed the service that we provided in the form of entertainment.
Through my music, I have and will continue to volunteer in the future. As a church cantor, I have provided vocal leadership to our congregation over the years. Since I enjoy music and want to pursue a music education degree, I organized a Performing Arts Showcase event that benefited the Westmoreland County Food Bank. I wanted to assist needy families in our local area. I plan on continuing my volunteer contributions and serving my church and community in the future at PSU.
In my various volunteer capacities, I hope that I have exemplified the words of Emerson. Overall, I have learned that by serving and caring about others, I have become a more compassionate person. Furthermore, many people will likely assist others if they have a leader to initiate activities. I want to continue being a leader that can inspire others to take action to help others.
