Tyzhae Coats (NC) High School Recipient – Impactful

People often label individuals with disabilities based on their limited perceptions. This skewed perspective offers only a surface-level view without considering the wealth of their character. Unfortunately, my grandmother falls under this clouded lens. She has had an inability to walk for over a decade and requires assistance with daily tasks that most people are able to perform independently. She cannot prepare her own meals, and she cannot soak in the warmth of the sun. Rather than focusing on her capabilities, people focus on her limitations. Her inability has inspired me to use my ability to be of assistance in every way that I can, and I am committed to aiding her in every way that I can. For the past 4-5 years, I have visited her at least three days per week to help prepare meals, assist with daily tasks, and provide her with company. It may be simpler to hire a nurse, but this way allows me to have the greatest positive impact on someone I care about very much. These small things have brought joy back into her life and put a smile back on her face. Through this, I can have meaningful conversations with someone who has limited social interactions, develop a deeper relationship with the person, and better understand people who live with disabilities. Having an impact on someone does not have to be a grand gesture, it’s the little things that matter.

Impactful as a core value of has shaped my personal experiences and has molded my vision for the future. Whether through helping my disabled grandmother or pursuing a career in aerospace engineering, this core value will always be prominent in my life. By focusing on creating solutions, I aim to make a meaningful difference in the world. I will carry this core value with me, always striving to make changes that go beyond the immediate moment, leaving a legacy of positive influence that inspires hope and drives progress.