Jeff Sessions Student Scholarship Program

In the fall, I will be starting my senior year at Regis College. I will be completing my bachelor's degree in dental hygiene.

For now, the plan is to earn my bachelor's degree and practice as a pediatric dental hygienist using my free time to educate students on the importance of oral hygiene. I also hope to work with low-income/unhoused veterans at Operation Stand Down or through clinic work. Ultimately, I hope to become one of the first dental health therapists (similar to a physician's assistant but for dentistry) to work in under-served communities.

Local anesthesia was actually my favorite course in college. I loved the lab except for the day my partner's needle slipped and she gave me a hematoma. Of course, I was volunteering later that afternoon. I looked like I had been in a fight, as my cheek was swollen and black and blue. However, when it was my turn and after the first few stressful injections, the feeling of placing a needle correctly and knowing I could do it with minimal pain to my patient was extremely rewarding.

Deborah and Ted Luszey of Operation Care for Troops are my role models. Since the age of 11, I've followed Deb and Ted around at every packing event. They've patiently taught me how to lead teams, pack care packages with precision, and do every job at our packing events. My favorite job is still rolling socks! Their unwavering commitment to advocating for our military has taught me what service before self looks like. They inspire me to continue serving, and I hope to continue their mission with the same passion in the future.

I am headed to Colorado School of Mines to study Environmental Engineering.

I plan to work as an Environmental Engineer with a focus on clean wind and solar energy.

My favorite subjects in high school were calculus and biology.

My favorite role model has been Jessie Diggins, the most decorated cross-country skier in American History. She carries this title in my mind because she used her success to make a positive impact on others. She has spoken about her struggles, helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging people to seek support when they need it. She is also an advocate for protecting the environment, using her platform to raise awareness about issues that affect both athletes and communities; one of the reasons why I want to become an environmental engineer. Her resilience, compassion, and commitment to making a difference inspire me to be confident, care for others, and use my own voice to create positive change.