Marie J. Lamerique Scholarship for Aspiring Scholars

Growing up in a single-parent household has had a profound impact on my character, values, and ambitions. Raised by my mother in Chicago, I learned early on what it truly means to work hard, stay disciplined, and never take opportunities for granted. While some people credit a father figure for shaping them into the person they are, for me, it was a strong, hardworking, and determined mother who stepped into every role I needed. My mother has always been my greatest influence, not only keeping me safe but also guiding my maturity and sense of discipline. She recognized my potential before I fully saw it in myself and refused to let me settle for anything less than my best. I remember her giving me books like Make Your Bed and sending me articles on self-improvement and personal discipline. She taught me the mindset of a responsible, intelligent man who understands that nothing meaningful comes without effort. She never allowed me to prioritize temporary pleasure over long-term responsibility and made it clear through her own example that she would not either. In high school, I watched her pick up extra shifts on weekends, not because she wanted to, but because she knew it was necessary to keep me in a good school and position me for a better future. Witnessing that kind of sacrifice shaped my work ethic in ways that still guide me today. It is partly because of her example that when other students are calling it a night, I am still up working, determined to finish what I started and go the extra mile. Her sacrifices taught me that success requires discipline, resilience, and the ability to push past comfort for the sake of a bigger goal. I do not take where I am for granted because I know exactly what it took for me to get here. Growing up without a father figure also influenced the kind of mentor and leader I strive to be. I currently coach and mentor a group of fourth and fifth-grade boys in a low-income neighborhood in Chicago, many of whom are growing up in situations similar to mine. Although the pay for this role is modest, and at times I have even worked for free, I am driven by the knowledge that I am giving these young men something I did not have: a consistent, positive male role model. I want to show them that different paths exist and that with discipline and the right guidance, they can overcome their circumstances. I have seen the impact this mentorship has had. Several of these boys now see me as a big brother figure and reach out for advice before making decisions that could affect their future. Being a part of their lives in this way reminds me of the importance of lifting as you climb and creating opportunities for others to find their voice, confidence, and purpose. Growing up in a single-parent household shaped not only my goals and values but my sense of responsibility to my community. It taught me to lead with integrity, work hard without excuse, and never forget those who are coming behind me. That is the legacy my mother gave me, and it is one I intend to pass on.