Be Skilled Find Success Scholarship

I chose the path of Culinary Arts because it’s something I truly connect with—it feels like the right blend of creativity, discipline, and service. For me, cooking isn’t just about food—it’s about making people feel at home, creating experiences that bring comfort or celebration, and showing care without needing to say a word. I grew up watching my mom cook, not with fancy recipes or expensive ingredients, but with love and purpose. She didn’t call herself a chef, but she made meals that brought our family together. That’s when I first felt the power of food, and that’s what made me want to make it my career. I knew I wanted a hands-on, skill-based education—something that would actually prepare me for the real world. When I found out about the Culinary Arts program at the Academy of Loudoun, I was immediately drawn to it. It’s not just any program—it’s competitive, selective, and focused on real training that leads to real work. Being accepted felt like validation that this is what I’m meant to do. I’m also attending ECPI University to continue building on those skills and eventually earn my culinary degree. What makes this even more meaningful is that I’m the first in my family to pursue a career in the trades. No one before me has followed this kind of path. A lot of people see trades as a “lesser” option, but I think that’s wrong. Working with your hands, learning a craft, and building something of value—that’s real success. I want to help change the way people view culinary work. It’s not just about cooking—it’s about leadership, service, creativity, and hustle. It’s a trade that takes skill, stamina, and heart. My biggest inspiration has always been my mom. She never went to culinary school, but the way she cared for people through her food is something I carry with me every time I step into a kitchen. She taught me to show up, do my best, and put love into everything I do. She also taught me to stay grounded and not give up, even when things get hard. What I want you to know is that I’m committed. I’m not just chasing a dream—I’m building a future. I plan to work my way up in the hospitality industry, learn from every experience, and eventually open a café or community space where people feel safe, welcomed, and cared for. I believe that food has the power to heal, connect, and inspire—and that’s exactly the kind of impact I hope to make in the world. Thank you for considering me for this opportunity.

My sincere desire to become an esthetician is in large part due to my personal struggle, story and transformation. As a young teen, I struggled with my appearance, specifically, my skin. I just did not feel attractive. I was very insecure and did not think that any of my peers would like me nor would they want to become friends with me. In a world where people are always taking selfies and making posts, I shied away from cameras and social activities because I did not want to be photographed. I became very depressed and even entertained suicidal thoughts as a way to relieve the pain. Thankfully, God allowed my best friend to speak to me in my darkest moment, speaking encouragement into me, showing me love and compassion. From that time forward, I learned how to take care of my skin and gained real confidence in myself. I no longer see myself through a negative lens. I am filled with positivity, and I walk around with a smile. Now, I am able to feel good in the skin I’m in, take excellent care of myself, and look for ways to help others do the same. My self-worth has increased so much that I have done some modeling last summer for a couple of local designers and participated at a fashion show at my church. For me, becoming an esthetician is not just about helping people to look beautiful, I want to help people feel beautiful. I graduate from Banneker High School in Atlanta, Georgia on May 14, 2025 with a 3.4 GPA. I have already been accepted into Ogle Beauty school and will begin on September 8, 2025. I applied on my own and completed the interview process. I will be the first person in my family to attend a trade school and I am very excited about my future. I researched several beauty school options and decided on Ogle because they had 98% licensure rate, a 87% graduation rate, and almost 80% job placement rate. The reviews were very positive and they recently opened a new campus in Atlanta, Georgia. My biggest inspiration is my Granny. She loves me unconditionally and we are very close. She is amazing; like a super hero to me. She is always supportive; shows up at every school, church, or volunteer event that I participate in. She's loved by my friends, neighbors, and community. She has such a big heart and is such a caring person. Almost every Sunday, she cooks large meals and invites family and friends over to feed their bellies and their souls. Some of the things I've learned from her are to have confidence in myself, demonstrate compassion toward others, and to look for ways to be of service while not expecting anything in return. I hope that you will choose me to receive this scholarship because I will study harder than anyone in my class. I'll ensure your investment in me will reap great benefits, not only for me, but for my clients & community. Completing my esthetic courses & obtaining my license will be a significant step in furthering a lifetime of learning, the beginning of my professional career, and allow for more opportunities for me to be of service to others. Receiving the scholarship will make my goals achievable & less of a financial struggle for me & my family. Thank you for your consideration.