Dr. Tujuana Hunter Memorial Scholarship

Many people believe that community service is just about completing a few hours and then forgetting about it, but for me, it is something much more meaningful. Community service represents the opportunity to dedicate my time to creating change for people who truly need it. It means caring about what happens around us and understanding that even small actions can make a difference in someone else’s life.Since I was young, when I would go out with my mother, I began to notice how many people lacked basic needs and how there was not always enough help available. Later, when I immigrated at the age of 14, I learned not only the importance of giving help, but also the strength it takes to ask for it. That is why I take every opportunity I can to support others, from children to adults, and remind them that they are not alone.As a high school student who was new to my community, I did not always know how to get involved. However, after joining different organizations at my school, I began to find opportunities to serve. One of the most meaningful experiences I had was volunteering with Book Buddies at the community library, where I worked with children who were beginning to learn how to read. Many of them struggled with concentration or language barriers, and I was able to connect with them because I had experienced similar challenges.I especially remember one girl who at first refused to read because she thought it was boring. However, over time, she began to change. By the end of the program, she was reading multiple books per session and truly enjoying the stories. Seeing her growth reminded me of my own journey and made me realize that I now had the opportunity to help someone else overcome their struggles.In addition to this, I volunteered at Boopalooza, a Halloween event at the community library, where I helped organize games and create a fun and safe environment for families. I also participated in Feed the Future, where I helped distribute food to families in need, and I assisted with Easter Vigil Clean Up at my church, helping prepare spaces for community events. Through all of these experiences, I learned that community service is not just about helping, it is about connecting, understanding, and supporting others in meaningful ways.This journey has not only helped me growacademically, but it has also taught me the power of perseverance and dedication. I want to dedicate my life to nursing, not only to care for people’s physical health, but also to help heal their internal wounds, just as I have healed mine. I want to give hope to those who feel defeated or lost.Although I miss everything I left behind, I can now say that I found the most important thing: my passion and my future. My goal is to become a nurse and continue my education in healthcare. This scholarship will help me achieve that goal by providing the financial stability I need to focus on my studies and prepare for my future career. I want to prove that being an immigrant is not an obstacle to success. Despite all the challenges I have faced, I have remained committed to building a better future for myself. With this scholarship, I will be able to continue my journey and, one day, give back to others with the same strength and perseverance that I have developed through my experiences.

One of the most meaningful ways I have served my community has been through my involvement with Phenomenal Women, Nicole Butler Founder, a local organization dedicated to empowering Women. Through this organization, I have volunteered to provide pajamas and socks at the nursing home, back-to-school drives, cancer awareness events, and community outreach programs. At the nursing home, we spent time with elderly residents and provided lunch. My greatest moment was when one of the residents was so appreciative, she took pictures with me on her cell phone, she took my mom’s number so she could keep up with my school progress. She was very kind. Also, she led a few songs in worship for the group. These experiences taught me the importance of valuing my elder, since my grandparents are deceased. I also volunteered at back-to-school events where we distributed backpacks, school supplies, and resources to families in need. During these events, I helped with the distribution for many families with Phenomenal Women and Valo Barber Shop with both organizations Through Phenomenal Women’s various events, I learned that leadership is rooted in service. Whether spending time with seniors or supporting young people, I know firsthand how consistent community involvement builds a stronger community. My family's motto in life is to lead by example and do right by others. I'm very intentional about my relationships with others and helping people. Being part of these initiatives has inspired me to continue serving others in college and beyond and leave the world better than I found it. My parents were married for almost 20 years, until they divorced. Unfortunately, two years ago my dad passed away way from uncontrollable diabetes. This was the hardest day in my life. One thing I knew he loved me and was very proud. Some days are harder than others. I tried to quit the football team, but my coach would not let me. My days were dark, but mom prayed, and we were able to get through the pain. Some days are still hard, but I know he’s my angel watching over me. My goal is to the best choices for my life because and try to make my parents proud. My parents were married for almost 20 years, until they divorced. Unfortunately, two years ago my dad passed away from uncontrollable diabetes. This was the hardest day in my life. One thing I knew he loved me and was very proud. My days were dark, but my mom prayed, and we were able to get through the pain. Some days are still hard, but I know he’s my angel watching over me. My goal is to make the best choices for my life and try to make my parents proud. This scholarship will truly help my mom with all the expenses that comes with college. The person that has most impacted my life is my mom. She has loved me unconditionally and always been there for me. She has made countless sacrifices and never complained. If I am considered for this scholarship, I vow to do my best and represent Dr. Hunter proud. Thank you in advance.