The goal of clean air may not be on everyone’s mind, but air pollution affects every single one of us. From what appears to be minor pollutants, such as cigarette smoke, to exhaust of combustion engines, industrial facilities and increasingly wildfires, we all play a role in clean air. According to the World Health Organization, every year, 4.2 million people die as a result of exposure to outdoor air pollution.  Every death cuts someone’s life short; a life that tells a story of a person. To increase awareness about environmental pollution, these stories need to be told.  Each individual needs to realize that they are affected by environmental pollution. Each individual needs to realize that they have the power to create change. Each individual needs to realize that they can join a movement - the movement to clean air. 

To join a movement, we need to be invested in the cause. We need to be able to relate.  As a military child, civilian children who have never experienced my lifestyle. At first it may seem as if it might be difficult to relate to one another.  Once we get to know each other and find something in common, we make a connection.  Everyone can make that connection through the common goal of reducing environmental pollution.  That is why I am proposing creating a website similar to the one I created that allows individuals to tell their stories of how environmental pollution affects them or a loved one. In addition to the website though there should be dedicated social media across a variety of platforms in order to reach the widest audience possible. On the website it should offer an option for individuals to share their story, why clean air is important to them. This will give a platform and voice to the individual. Those watching will be able to relate and will be encouraged to share their own story.  Using personal storytelling to create awareness of a problem we all share will create a movement. 

We could share the story of a young soldier and father of two boys.  He deployed frequently to Iraq and Afghanistan.  There, he was exposed to toxic waste burn pits for an extended amount of time. The soldier returned home. His headaches became unbearable, so was his diagnosis: inoperable brain cancer. The soldier died at the young age of 44. He was my father’s battle buddy. His story should be of many told with the help of the movement.

Everyone is welcome - and encouraged - to join the movement not only by letting the world know how air pollution has affected them, but by supporting positive change efforts.  Calls for actions to support proposed legislation, companies that have invested in clean air and also showing who and what the biggest air pollutants are, asking them to change will inspire others to join the bottom-up movement. Every single individual is able to make a difference, to call on change. The movement can be a challenge, or trend, that is shared on all social media platforms using #cleanairchallenge. Challenge your friends and the entire global community.  We are all part of a community.  Over the years as a military child, I have realized that you are not just part of the small community you may live in, but you are part of a global community. What affects me, is likely to affect you. Together, we can push for positive change. Now is the time. 

As you read about my proposal to increase awareness about environmental pollution you have found out a little about me.  Having been part of many diverse communities has allowed me to adapt to local cultures and try to see the world from a different perspective. I do not shy away from a challenge. I have experienced many challenges in my life. Having to break away from what I call home, friends, activities and school to get up and move once again has taught me to quickly adapt and take advantage of opportunities. Connecting with other students through some kind of a common tie has become one of my specialities. Something in common may be music, sports or STEM. I’m a high schooler seeking to make a difference through STEM research. I’ve already made steps to reach this goal by enrolling in AP Seminar and AP Research. I've now completed the courses and will graduate high school with the AP Capstone Diploma. In addition I am published and have entered into research competitions in order to network and gain experience.  I believe I am a good candidate as I have already shown results before going to college and pursuing research as an undergraduate student. I’m hoping to enroll in Clemson University, a Tier I research institution. This scholarship will help me strive for my goals and help others.