Rotary Scholarship Applications

• Service Above Self
• Merit

I believe I am a strong candidate for the Service Above Self scholarship because I have always made the well-being of others my top priority, especially within my community. Whether through school clubs, volunteer work, or simply being a dependable friend, I strive to make life better for those around me.
In clubs like French Club and Model United Nations, I take it upon myself to ensure every student has access to the resources they need to thrive. I don’t want anyone to feel left behind, and I go out of my way to support classmates who are exploring new ideas. Through the National Honor Society, I’ve been able to take that commitment beyond school walls. I regularly tutor students in English and Geoscience, and I also volunteer with Oregon Dog Rescue and at the annual fundraising run for Pancreatic Cancer each April. These moments, whether walking a rescue dog or cheering on runners, remind me of how even small acts of service can ripple out and impact lives.
Whenever there’s an opportunity to help, like collecting bottles for Bottle Drop, working concessions at sports games, or assisting at local elementary schools, you’ll usually find my name on the sign-up sheet. I genuinely love being involved in my community. I helped get my community involved in voting last fall with the MUN club at Lakeridge’s voting fair, where I helped distribute information and rally people to vote. Even though I couldn’t vote at the time, I still put my community above myself so that people had the correct information to represent themselves.
I also hold two jobs in Lake Oswego, which has helped me connect with people and understand the needs and strengths of the place I call home more deeply. One of the most meaningful aspects of my work is engaging with kids. I feel a special sense of purpose when I know I’m contributing to a child’s sense of safety, joy, or confidence.
Beyond formal volunteering, I try to be a source of emotional support for the people in my life. I’ve walked alongside friends through some of their darkest moments. Those experiences have taught me the power of simply being there for someone without judgment. I often put the needs of others before my own because I believe that when we lift each other up, we all rise. A connected, compassionate community is one where everyone can find their footing and thrive.
Serving others isn’t just something I do, but it’s who I am. It brings me joy, gives me purpose, and has shaped the person I'm becoming.

I have applied to Georgetown, Swarthmore, Middlebury, American, McGill, UVM, UO, Colby, and the University of Colorado Boulder.
I was accepted to UVM and UO before I got my acceptance to Middlebury, and then withdrew all other applications. I applied to Middlebury College early decision and am enrolled for the fall term.

No.