Ann Holiday Memorial Scholarship

Attending North Carolina A&T State University has been a transformative experience for me, not just academically but personally as well. In addition to pursuing my studies diligently, I've sought out opportunities to immerse myself in campus life and further connect with my roots. Joining the Caribbean Student Association and other clubs has provided me with a space where I feel even more deeply included and celebrated for my culture. In addition to improving my academic experience, these extracurricular activities have strengthened my sense of self and community. During my time at NC A&T, I actively engaged with campus organizations such as the Caribbean Student Association (CSA) and Natural and Proud Sistas (NAPS), where I embraced opportunities to contribute meaningfully to both my community and my personal growth. One standout moment with CSA was when we collectively gathered donations to fill a barrel destined for Jamaica, embodying our commitment to supporting our homeland and fostering connections beyond our campus borders. Additionally, as a member of Natural and Proud Sistas and now serving as Vice President Intern for the 23-24 school year, I've taken on a more active role in shaping campus events and initiatives. One memorable collaboration between NAPS and CSA was the 'Protect Your Crown Ball,' a celebration of hairstyles worn by our community through the decades. This event not only showcased our cultural pride but also served as an opportunity to educate and engage the broader campus community in our traditions and heritage. As a nursing student, I am passionate about healthcare and the impact it has on people's lives. After graduation, I aspire to attend physician assistant school with a specialization in dermatology. My goal is to combine my love for medicine with my desire to serve diverse communities, to address racial disparities in medical practices, and making sure that everyone has fair access to high-quality care, regardless of race or ethnicity. I believe that by pursuing this path, I can make a meaningful difference in people's lives while also advocating for inclusivity and cultural competency within the healthcare system. My time at NC A&T has been transformative, shaping not only my academic prowess but also fostering invaluable friendships and connections. The unique mix of cultures and backgrounds at A&T has deepened my understanding of diversity, which is an invaluable resource in the rapidly changing healthcare industry. Through collaborative projects and stimulating talks, I've built friendships that go beyond the classroom, to be lifelong relationships. These relationships, along with all of the possibilities that NC A&T offers, have given me the skill set that I need to succeed. I am grateful for the opportunities this institution has provided me and am confident that my education here will serve as a solid foundation for my future endeavors. Moreover, I am deeply moved by the story of Ann Holiday, whose passion for education and belief in NC A&T's transformative power left an indelible mark. Ann's advocacy for her son's education and her commitment to nurturing Black potential resonate deeply with me. Therefore, I am honored to apply for the Ann Holiday Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship symbolizes a commitment to upholding Ann's vision of excellence and empowerment. With this scholarship, I am not only fulfilling my own aspirations but also perpetuating Ann's belief in our limitless potential. Being a student at North Carolina A&T State University isn't just about obtaining a degree—it's about reclaiming my roots, fostering community, and empowering future generations to do the same, all while honoring the legacy of individuals like Ann Holiday who have paved the way for excellence and inclusivity.

“Aggie Pride”: A term used by students and alumni of North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. Stands for Achieving Great Goals in Everything – Producing Renowned Individuals Dedicated to Excellence. “Aggie Pride? What’s that?” As an incoming freshman, I was nervous to attend North Carolina A&T for the next 4 years of my life. It was a new experience in a new environment in a new state, after all. During our New Student Orientation, our Aggie Success Leaders emphasized the words “Aggie Pride”. Naive, I had no clue how much weight and history these two words held. Ironically, I’d be staying in Blair Hall yet knew little about the actions of Ezell Blair Jr. and how his actions paved the way for countless African American students. Way before entering North Carolina A&T, I expressed my dream of becoming an emergency doctor at 11 years old, both ignorant of the work it required and how necessary it was for the field to become more diverse. After my first year here, I’ve achieved more in 1 academic year than I had during my time in high school. To begin, I’ve excelled in my academics, having been accepted to the university’s Honor College, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, and the Pre-Medical track for Biology majors. Moreover, I’ve become highly involved as a Biology Student Ambassador as a freshman and assisting in various events held by the department. Additionally, I’ve worked as the Community Service Intern and Co-Chair for the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students, working to create consistent, engaging service opportunities for our members and community. Lastly, I’m part of Duke University’s Evidence2Practice program where students work together to create effective strategies to decrease the number of HIV/STI cases on-campus and in the local community. Currently, I’m completing a summer research program at Duke University where I’m working on the in vivo validation of epigenomic therapies for Parkinson’s Disease. If you told me last August that I’d be gain so many new connections, experiences, and a new perspective of myself and why I’m on this path into medicine, I would think you’re crazy, then ask you “So what IS Aggie Pride?” The importance of one’s education is nearly as important as how one applies it in their community. It makes no sense to spend time learning and pushing yourself past your physical and mental limitations if you don’t end up improving the lives of others. Carrying this mindset, one way I plan on continuing this impact, post-graduation, is applying to medical school to specialize in emergency medicine and working as a member of Black Men in White Coats to expose underrepresented communities to the medical field, not only increasing the diversity of the field but improving the outcomes of patient-doctor experiences. So, to say that I’m proud to be an Aggie doesn’t give the statement judgement in terms of how much the school has given me physically and mentally. The best thing I’ve received from the school would have to be the definition of “Aggie Pride.” After a self-discovering first year at North Carolina A&T, I can confidently say that “Aggie Pride” is many things. It’s the motto of our illustrious university, it's a greeting between fellow Aggies, but most of all, it’s a mindset to possess. A mindset where despite whatever challenges you may be facing, you’re still a scholar destined to achieve great goals in everything you put your mind to as long as you remember you’re a renowned individual dedicated to excellence. Sometimes we may forget we are, but that’s exactly why we say it so much, Aggie Pride!