"Sight" for the Future by Sydney

"Sight" for the Future by Sydney - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

While in New York to perform in a Broadway concert at Lincoln Center, I trained with incredible professionals. This allowed me a glimpse into the world of those who refine their craft and share it. Pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering will allow me to learn side-by-side with experts in the field and engineer new devices to serve vision-impaired individuals. I have witnessed the care that my female pediatrician provides and makes me feel at ease. I’m in awe as my female optometrist takes time to engage with me and explain her education that led her to a fulfilling career in optometry! Because of their care and expertise in their fields, I am scheduling shadowing days to learn more about their careers in healthcare. Women play a significant role in our world but specifically in the STEM realm as they can more purposefully engage with their female patients as they share intimate details.

In AP Psychology we explored depths of human emotion and intellect. AP Physics stretched my mind with mind-blowing experiments, like a life-sized cardboard boat challenge, which solidified my decision to pursue a STEM career as a physician. Biomedical Engineering will enable me to explore opportunities like researching therapies for mental health disorders and exploring new ways to treat eye disease. I can work with world-renowned professionals in the science realm, just like those on Broadway. I cannot wait to explore advances in medicine that will allow me to help my vision-impaired friend Kaci and my community.

More than anything, Amarillo is home. It is more than just my house and school; it is my community. I have been born and raised here and feel deeply connected to its people and organizations. I lead in each area I am involved in, including my school, theater, and church. Leadership is a trait developed and matured over time, and I learn from amazing examples, like the teachers, directors, and mentors that surround me. I have learned that leadership is demonstrating empathy, humility, diligence, and integrity so others want to follow. As leadership opportunities arise, I take initiative. For example, junior year I applied for the Student Council Executive team at Amarillo High, one of only five juniors selected. I have helped coordinate the homecoming parade, assist with the canned food drive, coordinate gifts for AHS staff members, and organize school dances. I am currently running for Student Body President, Choir President, Lions Club Queen, and Tri-State Fair & Rodeo Ambassador. Being able to serve my student body and community in these leadership roles allows me to show others that leaders can serve with respect, kindness, and integrity and truly be an ambassador for the organizations I will represent.

Being involved in Peace Club, a program at my school to assist those with varying disabilities, is the full highlight of my day. My goal every day is to greet each student by name and make them smile. However, my efforts are never one-sided. The moment I walk through the door, I am welcomed with a high five, hug, or hand shake. The kids in Peace Club constantly remind me that I matter when Ben remembers my middle name, Arrisa giddily jumps to play a game with me, Joseph asks if “You good?” and Kaci tells me about zombies. Peace Club has taught me the beauty of a community that loves unconditionally and welcomes without judgment. A true community has hallways full of smiles and people who see the best in others.

I received the Spirit of the Academy award at Amarillo Little Theatre, which is given to someone who exemplifies kindness and embodies the true spirit of the theatre. My aim is to always exemplify that “spirit” in everything I do. Since first grade I have devoted countless hours to Amarillo Little Theatre by teaching camps, volunteering backstage, and performing in several shows a year. The theater has taught me the value of dedication and teamwork and inspires me to give back to my community, which in turn brings joy to the entire community. When we complete these tasks and see the finished project, whether it is a play, musical, camp, or set construction, it is evident that our work makes a difference and is worth the sweat and exhaustion.

A family friend I met through theatre once told me, “To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world.” As a community leader, I believe I am a leader that serves with integrity and love.