Ever since I was five years old, I have watched the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The spelling bee appealed to me because it showcased one's academic talents on a national stage. During my time in elementary school I always wondered, "That could be me competing onstage and having the time of my life in Washington, D.C., but what does it take to live my own dream?" In 2011, my brother, Mark, qualified for Nationals and it was on the car ride back from the regional bee that I realized that this could be me one day. Mark gave me tips on how to prepare, and my spelling skills improved radically. Two years later, I dramatically won my regional bee on the word "megalopolis." I was filled with exuberance that day as I finally had the chance to live my dream. A few memories that I cherish from the Bee Week of 2013 include receiving Dr. Bailly's autograph, getting both of my words correct on stage, and sitting courtside with my fellow competitors during the Finals. I will be forever grateful of having the opportunity to live my dream of competing in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.