For the past five years, I have been a dedicated volunteer supporting robotics programs through FIRST Tech Challenge teams across the state, as well as contributing my time to FIRST LEGO League, accumulating over 90 hours of service that has become a defining part of my identity as a servant leader. Through FIRST Tech Challenge, I have mentored teams, assisted at competitions, and helped students navigate both technical challenges and teamwork, emphasizing problem-solving, communication, and perseverance. At the same time, my involvement with FIRST LEGO League has allowed me to work with younger students at the start of their STEM journeys, introducing foundational engineering and programming concepts in an engaging and accessible way while helping build their confidence and curiosity. These combined experiences have shaped my understanding of leadership as service, showing me that true leadership is measured not by recognition, but by the ability to invest in others and empower them to grow, succeed, and realize their potential. 

My service to Seward Congregational Church has been a meaningful way for me to apply both my technical skills and my commitment to serving others. I have had the opportunity to deliver messages to the congregation, which challenged me to communicate thoughtfully and connect with a diverse audience in a meaningful way. In addition, I led a complete renovation of the church’s audio-visual system, redesigning and implementing updated technology to improve sound quality, reliability, and overall accessibility for services and events. This project required not only technical problem-solving, but also planning, collaboration, and an understanding of the church’s needs. Through this experience, I was able to directly contribute to enhancing the worship experience for the community while growing as both a leader and a servant. 

I have also taken initiative in environmental stewardship through roadside cleanup efforts across Winnebago Township, where I have personally cleared over 30 miles of roadway of garbage. This ongoing service has involved consistent time and effort to improve the safety, appearance, and environmental health of the area. By removing litter from rural roadsides and public spaces, I have worked to reduce pollution and promote greater community pride in shared spaces. This experience has strengthened my sense of responsibility toward the environment and reinforced the impact that sustained, hands-on service can have on a community’s overall well-being.