Looking Back on my Impact Keeps Me Walking Forward by Kate

Looking Back on my Impact Keeps Me Walking Forward by Kate - July 2024 Scholarship Essay

Through everything I have done this year, one of the most important lessons I have learned is that when life gets hard, you can look around and see the impact you have had and it will inspire you to keep moving. I have been part of FIRST robotics since I was in third grade. I constantly saw a group of students known as the CocoNuts volunteering and running the competitions I competed at. These people were my inspiration to keep going. When I got into high school, I joined the CocoNuts robotics team. I made it. I was one of the people I constantly looked up to. This year will be my last year on the team, but walking away I could not be happier with what I achieved. I was awarded the Dean’s List Finalist Award for my leadership in the community, the Allaire Medal Scholarship and Award for leadership, dedication, and core values. Now, I run the competitions I used to volunteer at. I go back to my old elementary school and mentor a new generation of students. I inspire people every day by showing up and never quitting. The inspiration and impact I have on others keeps me going when I struggle, and motivates me through the hardest times.

My name is Kate Garrison. I am the lead builder and competition driver for Team 2486, the CocoNuts, from Flagstaff, AZ. Each year, we compete at several national competitions, and this year we won the most prestigious award and became a member of the Hall of Fame. I volunteer at 20 events yearly, putting in several hundred hours of community service. I am a FIRST Dean’s List Award finalist and an Allaire Medal recipient. I have advocated for STEM education and policies on capital hill in Washington, DC. I work as a researcher in an applied physics and materials lab at Northern Arizona University (NAU) and am an Army Education Outreach Program (AEOP) apprentice.

Life has undoubtedly thrown hard things my way, but I persevere by looking at the difference I am making every day. I am to be a role model for younger students, showing them that hard work and perseverance can lead to success. My experiences in FIRST robotics have taught me the value of teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership, and I teach those skills to others.

Staying focused on my academic goals can be challenging, especially with so many activities and responsibilities. However, I prioritize my time, making sure to balance my studies, robotics, volunteering, and other commitments. When I face obstacles, I remind myself of the impact I can have on others and the importance of my goals. This keeps me motivated and focused, even during tough times.

In addition to robotics, my interest in applied physics and materials science drives me to excel academically. Working as a researcher at NAU has given me hands-on experience in a field I am passionate about. The research I am doing is making an impact in communities around the world. Each day I go into work is one day closer to finding a cure for neurodegenerative diseases. This experience has reinforced my desire to pursue a degree in chemical engineering. I know that with the support of others, I will never walk alone.