We all consume media, especially news about the ongoing pandemic and high racial tensions, through multiple outlets. Since we live in an age of information, you are able to access and consume large amounts of media on a daily basis. In the news industry, you're surrounded with it every day - non-stop. Many people experience feeling a little anxious, stressed and overwhelmed about the future - especially given the current events in our country. It is important that during these times we take time to take care of our whole selves. This includes not only our physical health but our mental health too. Research confirms that college students of color are far less likely to seek help for mental health issues when compared to white students. A therapist of color can be a great resource and help you navigate life as a BIPOC. There is nothing wrong with seeking out professional help no matter how strong you are. As college students, you have access to your schools’ mental health resources that you can take advantage of and are paying for. There are a lot of therapists and psychiatrists that also cater to students financial status as well. We can also always reach out to a trusted family member or friend to speak to about these issues too. However, taking the time to manage our mental health and making it a priority is critical to our success and maintaining a balanced life.

Personally, I am blessed to have grown up in a home with my brother and parents that is loving and supportive yet high levels of accomplishments were expected. I always want to do my very best to show my parents my appreciation and it is their examples in the face of adversity that motivates me to push beyond any challenge that seeks to limit me in achieving my goals. My mom has set a standard for me to believe and have faith beyond what I physically can see. To not just hope things will be better in the future but to work my hardest to make my future great by achieving academically and contributing to my community through service. I am deeply dedicated to my community and have contributed more than 500 hours of service over the past five years. I want to be seen as a community contributor while in college and after graduation. My experience as a basketball player also contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. While there are several travel basketball programs in the area, they are cost prohibitive to many families. Students can access free resources for standardized test preparation, but individual tutoring is expensive. Upon graduation from Chapman, my goal is to use my experience to obtain a position as a television web producer and broadcast engineer. My long-term goal is to attend graduate school to earn my Phd. in order to become a college professor within 5 years . My research interests include understanding how social media/technology impacts the accurate reporting of news. I would also like to mentor students in graduate programs to ensure they are successful in the classroom and after graduation. As I pursue my college education, I will continue working with young girls via my non-profit, Life and Basketball (LAB), with the goal of providing academic, athletic and community service opportunities to high school girls. LAB is a non-profit, 501-c-3 organization I founded that provides top-notch basketball training, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge to participants. I formed this organization as an entrepreneurial idea in order to make a long-term impact on the academic and athletic success of girls like me who want to be student athletes and give back to their respective communities. I believe an important aspect of leadership is giving back. By making a difference in someone else's life, I can model the type of behavior that is important in our communities. LAB will contribute to the academic success of girls who participate in the program. The test preparation courses will assist girls in being accepted to college and provide more educational options for them. The test tutoring courses will utilize educators and students as staff, providing volunteer opportunities for local residents and those who wish to give back to high school students via community service. The community service component of the program at LAB will provide opportunities for teenage girls to solve problems in their communities, improve the lives of their neighbors, and strengthen their communities. One of the most important ways that community service benefits the community is by helping solve a problem or ongoing issue in the community. LAB will assist individuals and work with other Michigan organizations to identify and solve problems in neighborhoods. Whether the issue is senior citizen hunger, a need for school supplies or helping the homeless, volunteers will consistently work to meet the needs of the community.

While it is strange to say and think, the time of quarantine has impacted the pursuit of my dreams positively in two ways. During the pandemic, I realized my dream of launching the first program for my organization, Life and Basketball, with the first service project along with a Detroit community center. Neighborhood children wrote messages and decorated greeting cards to uplift the spirits of servicemen and women who were patients at the Ann Arbor, Michigan Veteran’s Hospital. An aspect of my summer internship includes an annual conference. Because my dreams include becoming a mental health advocate, I submitted a proposal to present and was honored to be selected to discuss Mental Health and the Media for Journalists of Color. Microagressions in college, work place discrimination and even seeing traumatizing videos and articles of BIPOC atrocities on social media affect us differently. Five options, including meditation by using online applications like Calm; journaling to identify triggers; limiting social media; scheduling a self-care day to include relaxing or favorite activities; and seeing a therapist of color. My plan is to learn from set-backs borne out of the pandemic and use them as stepping stones on the road to accomplishing my dreams.

The obstacles of life that we face can build up in our mind and cause both internal and external stress. Many times, we are unaware of just how much this stress can cause serious issues including insomnia, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. To keep a growth mindset, meditation is one of the most accessible tools to help with mental health and is known for easing the mind. Before your day begins, take time to be quiet and clear your mind. There are different apps that you can try such as Headspace and the Calm app. It is also as simple as typing in meditation on your search bar on Youtube. Using a journal to write out your thoughts on paper or even typing them out in your notes on your phone can be beneficial for a growth mindset and avoiding depression. Journaling has benefits similar to meditation and can help you identify any trigger points and give you a record of your thoughts and feelings. Taking a break from social media can help ease your mind. Self- care is an important part of taking care of yourself and relieving stress. It includes four key dimensions according to Verywell, your emotional, physical, psychological, and spiritual health. Ideas include a spa day, listening to soothing music, or any activity you personally classify as self care that puts you at ease. The next time you’re planning your week, remember to include yourself on your calendar. Research confirms that college students of color are far less likely to seek help for mental health issues when compared to white students. A therapist of color can be a great resource and help you navigate life as a BIPOC. There is nothing wrong with seeking out professional help no matter how strong you are.

Sources. Check.  AP Stylebook of writing.  Check.  Schedule of interviewees.  Check.  As a broadcast journalist for the past three years, I have found that I can never be over prepared.  The right tools make a difference when it comes to either a run-of-the-mill story or an amazing one that captures the imagination of readers.  This fall, I am a sophomore at Chapman University as a Broadcast Journalism and Documentary Film major in order to further my education to become a journalist who is a community advocate when I graduate. Upon graduation from Chapman, my goal is to use my experience to obtain a position as a television web producer and broadcast engineer.  My long-term goal is to attend graduate school to earn my Phd. in order to become a college professor within 5 years . My research interests include understanding how social media/technology impacts the accurate reporting of news. I would also like to mentor students in graduate programs to ensure they are successful in the classroom and after graduation.    I want to be known as an academically prepared and experienced journalist with a passion for creativity, innovation, and design of social good projects that elevate individuals. With in-depth knowledge of radio, print and television production.   I am currently a web producer/summer intern at WDIV-Local 4 in Detroit, Michigan. Prior to working at WDIV, I gained experience as a reporter/anchor, assistant director of sports, and producer for WBFH-FM. I also spent one year as an anchor, writer, features reporter, and producer for BHS-TV.  I am deeply dedicated to my community and have contributed more than 500 hours of service over the past five years.  I want to be seen as a community contributor while in college and after graduation. My experience as a basketball player also contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball.  While there are several travel basketball programs in the area, they are cost prohibitive to many families.  Students can access free resources for standardized test preparation, but individual tutoring is expensive. Recognizing these needs and having the desire to level the playing field, I created Life and Basketball (LAB) to benefit young girls like me.  The purpose of this non-profit, 501-c-3 organization is to provide top-notch basketball training from the area’s best coaches, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge.  The community service component will provide opportunities for girls to address concerns and improve the lives of their neighbors.  Our Social Good Champions (as we have named them) will consistently work to meet community needs.    A great deal of my community service is with my church. I am very involved with the community outreach team where we visit Detroit nursing home and provide care packages for residents. In the winter, we prepare food for distribution along with hats, gloves and scarves for the homeless. I have also worked as a volunteer for our Back to School Safe Day. I enjoy helping the younger children play games and assembling the backpacks.   While I am laser-focused on the present, I am excited about what the future may bring.  I hope to break barriers as a journalist, make generation differences in the lives of young girls, and become a respected college professor.  I look forward to writing the next chapters of my life.

If you asked what leadership means to me, I can now truthfully say, I am a leader. For most of my life I have worked hard, diligently giving my all to accomplish the many opportunities I have been given. It isn't enough for me to just participate, as I see each experience as my chance to learn and expand my knowledge. In the past, my desire to fulfill every commitment to the highest levels of perfection possible, caused me to achieve the goal. I just applied myself to the task and I would achieve my goal. Yet if you asked me what my achievements were, I was uncomfortable to speak to any of my accomplishments. I never really discussed or celebrated anything, I just continued on to the next assignment. Self-praise has never been a component of leadership to me. It was not until I prepared for my college interviews and admission that I was forced to review what I had done in the world. I realized that I enjoyed working hard, and achieving the goal but, accepting credit was my leadership challenge. I came across the poem, "Our Deepest Fear" by Marianne Williamson that was recited in the movie "Coach Carter" and it specifically spoke to me about leadership. The section of the poem that helped me define leadership goes: We are all meant to shine, As children do. We were born to make manifest The glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; It's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we're liberated from our own fear, Our presence automatically liberates others. I realized that just as I accepted a responsibility to complete a commitment, I needed to be confident and unafraid to accept the commendations. I benefit others by stepping forward when others fail to or don't want to lead; and I lead. And in leading, I have the opportunity to recognize others for their contributions and help them grow – just as others have done for me. I believe I have demonstrated this type of leadership in my service to my community and church. Recognizing the need to provide safe, creative and supportive environments for young women to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball, and having the desire to level the playing field, I founded Life and Basketball (LAB). Our purpose includes providing basketball training, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities to contribute to participants’ success – both on and off the court. I have learned to value each leadership opportunity I receive and I want to do all that I can to not only realize my dreams but to be worthy of the investments my parents, teachers and community have made in me. This poem was the springboard that vaulted me into my current roles as a student athlete and leader.

Personally, I am blessed to have grown up in a home with my brother and parents that is loving and supportive yet high levels of accomplishments were expected. I always want to do my very best to show my parents my appreciation and it is their examples in the face of adversity that motivates me to push beyond any challenge that seeks to limit me in achieving my goals. My mom has set a standard for me to believe and have faith beyond what I physically can see. To not just hope things will be better in the future but to work my hardest to make my future great by achieving academically and being a community contributor. I want to be seen as a community contributor while in college and after graduation. My experience as a basketball player also contributed to my strong belief to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in basketball. While there are several travel programs in the area, they are cost prohibitive to many families. Students can access free resources for standardized test preparation, but individual tutoring is expensive. Upon graduation from Chapman, my goal is to use my experience to obtain a position as a television web producer and broadcast engineer. My long-term goal is to attend graduate school to earn my doctoral degree in order to become a college professor. My research interests include understanding how social media/technology impacts the accurate reporting of news. I would also like to mentor students in graduate programs to ensure they are successful in the classroom and after graduation. As I pursue my college education, I will continue working with young girls via my non-profit, Life and Basketball (LAB), with the goal of providing academic, athletic and community service opportunities to high school girls. LAB is a non-profit, 501-c-3 organization I founded that provides top-notch basketball training, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge to participants. I formed this organization in order to make a long-term impact on the academic and athletic success of girls like me who want to be student athletes and give back to their communities. I believe an important aspect of leadership is giving back. By making a difference in someone else's life, I can model the type of behavior that is important in our communities. LAB will contribute to the academic success of girls who participate in the program. The test preparation courses will assist girls in being accepted to college and provide more educational options for them. The test tutoring courses will utilize educators and students as staff, providing volunteer opportunities for local residents and those who wish to give back to high school students via community service. The community service component of the program at LAB will provide opportunities for teenage girls to solve problems in their communities, improve the lives of their neighbors, and strengthen their communities. LAB will assist individuals and work with other Michigan organizations to identify and solve problems in neighborhoods. Whether the issue is senior citizen hunger, a need for school supplies or helping the homeless, volunteers will consistently work to meet the needs of the community. While I am laser-focused on the present, I am excited about what the future may bring. I hope to break barriers as a journalist, make generation differences in the lives of young girls, and become a respected college professor. I look forward to writing the next chapters of my life.

I am blessed to have grown up in a home with my brother and parents that is loving and supportive yet high levels of accomplishments were expected. I always want to do my very best to show my parents my appreciation and it is their examples in the face of adversity that motivates me to push beyond any challenge. My mom set a standard for me to believe and have faith beyond what I physically can see. She always stressed that our obstacles can be stumbling blocks that throw us off course or they can be stepping stones that provide important lessons about life and ourselves that make us stronger as we move forward towards our future. I have always used these words as motivation during difficult times because I have watched my mom literally live them. For the past four years, my mom has dealt with serious, life-threatening health challenges. Vision problems, severe headaches, bulging discs, balance issues, nausea, and light sensitivity were caused by two auto accidents that required my assistance with her care. To make matters worse, I was devastated when she told me about her second breast cancer diagnosis. This made college a lot more financially challenging due to my mom losing her job. With the support from Chapman University and my family, I learned how to persevere and become a successful student and leader. I rebounded academically by making the Dean’s List and my mom is on her way to fully recovering. With all of these events going on, receiving assistance would help lighten the load of college expenses. While I am excited and honored to attend Chapman University, the cost is high and the unexpected events my mother has endured have impacted my parents’ ability to help pay for my education. Assistance from outside scholarships would allow me to focus more on my academic studies and worry less about how to pay for my education. While I am laser-focused on the present, I am excited about what the future may bring. I hope to break barriers as a journalist, make generation differences in the lives of young girls, and become a respected college professor. I look forward to writing the next chapters of my life and believe there will be many happy endings.

My mom’s first accident was four years ago. She was sitting at a four-way stop sign, just a few feet from the driveway to her job, when a distracted driver rear-ended her car. She sustained a concussion/post-concussion syndrome, vestibular/balance problems, convergence requiring prisms and tint in her glasses, bulging discs in her neck requiring multiple injections, and severe nausea she needed daily medication to manage. Because of her symptoms, I spent many evenings assisting her up the stairs, driving her to doctor’s appointments during my school breaks, and helping her with home exercises. I learned about convergence, closed-head injuries, post-concussion syndrome, and speech therapy. I marveled at my mom’s fortitude and upbeat attitude while dealing with so many life-changing injuries. While I never imagined taking care of my mother at that point in her life, her example gave me the blueprint for thoughtfully assisting her in recovering. We both found comfort in one another’s encouragement, kind words and care, especially since in that same year I was still learning how to cope with my ADHD. We came upon my diagnosis due to my failing grades in my freshman and sophomore years of high school. I then suffered from a concussion which worsened my improvement in class, then my parents knew something was wrong. They decided I should see my pediatrician who sent us to a Pediatric Neurologist who then sent me to complete Neuro-Psych testing. I had a wonderful doctor and she helped me understand how I learn differently and in fact, my case was different than any other she had seen. I learned that I had a neurological disorder that was impacting my ability to succeed in the classroom. That’s how I found out that I had ADHD. At first, I was confused and upset. But after meeting with my counselor and teachers at my high school, I discovered I could obtain the accommodations and tools needed for success, both at home and school. My grade point average went from a 3.0 for my freshman year to a 3.7 for my junior year. I learned how to persevere and overcome obstacles to become a successful student, community leader, and athlete. I’ve accomplished much more than I have ever been able to do in the past. Even now as a college student-athlete I have kept up my grades and made the Dean’s list twice. I also play basketball and work as a virtual tour guide in the office of admission. Yet, through this my mom was always right there with me and together we have overcome obstacles that life has thrown our way. Through all of this, my mom still kept up with all of my academic, extra-curricular, and church commitments, finding ways to celebrate my accomplishments and encourage me when things didn’t go the way I planned. I share all of this because while my mother was in the midst of recovering from multiple auto accidents, I was also impacted due to the noticeable changes resulting from each incident. Seeing my once busy and vibrant mom deal with the stress of her injuries, loss of two jobs, and reduced to being driven everywhere by others filled me with sadness. But in true form, she always assured me that she was “Still Standing” and everything would work out. Even though it would be easy to justify being an average student, it is my mother’s inspiration that fuels my drive to always give my best. I was equally excited when, after almost three years, my mom found a new job and ways to manage her “new normal” at work. Her employer was supportive and provided special screens to filter the light in her cubicle. She even began driving again to work. Just as all was going well, she was broadsided just 3 blocks from home by another distracted driver last March. Unfortunately, she was hit on the driver’s side of her car and her injuries included a sprained ankle, torn tendons in her wrist, a shoulder injury, a concussion, and further damage to her vision. While extremely frustrated and upset, she continues to persevere. The strength of my mom during her recovery has made me laser-focused on the present and her example provides the foundation for me to make my college dreams and career goals a reality.

Sources. Check. AP Stylebook of writing. Check. Schedule of interviewees. Check. As a broadcast journalist for the past three years, I have found that I can never be over prepared. The right tools make a difference when it comes to either a run-of-the-mill story or an amazing one that captures the imagination of readers. A day with a popular Detroit anchor started me on my journey. It is 3 a.m. and 30 degrees on a cold, wintery Wednesday morning. I have been awake for an hour, eaten breakfast, and put on my favorite dress for the 30 minute drive to downtown Detroit. My peers are fast asleep on this snowy winter break day but there is no need for me to be envious; instead of going to school, I’m headed to WDIV-Local 4, the NBC television station where I have the opportunity to be a staff member for the day. Anchor Rhonda Walker has agreed to help me explore broadcast journalism. She and her colleagues shared their typical workday with me and sparked my love for broadcast journalism. It was, by far, more than worth the early wake up call. Rhonda went above and beyond my basic request and gave me the opportunity not only to shadow her but to also spend time with various anchors, meteorologists, producers and field reporters. I attended the morning staff meeting and, with some encouragement, even stood in front of a green screen and practiced being a traffic reporter. My day ended by heading just down the street to Ford Field with a seasoned reporter to cover the Monster Truck event. The story was reported live and it was exciting to watch how the team – reporter and cameraman – works together so quickly to bring a story to viewers. At the time, I was slightly interested in journalism. Spending that day with Rhonda confirmed broadcast journalism as my college major. Rhonda started her career at Fox 2 News in Southfield and then moved to WDIV. She started as a traffic reporter before moving to the co-anchor chair. But the accomplishment she is most proud of is her non-profit, the Rhonda Walker Foundation (RWF) which benefits Detroit girls. A five year commitment, the foundation provides college preparatory opportunities and resources such as ACT/SAT test preparation, tutoring in all subject areas, and scholarships. RWF humbly boasts its impressive program results, including a 100% high school graduation rate. She recently received the National Association of Black Journalists’ 2018 Angelo B. Henderson Community Service Award which recognizes a journalist who has had a positive impact on the community. Because of Rhonda’s influence, I am an academically prepared and experienced journalist with a passion for creativity, innovation, and design of social good projects that elevate individuals. With in-depth knowledge of radio, print and television production, I have the proven ability in writing compelling stories, reporting news, and producing high-level radio shows. Prior to my current role as a web producer/summer intern at WDIV-Local 4 in Detroit - where my journey began - , I gained experience as a reporter/anchor, assistant director of sports, and producer for WBFH-FM. I also spent one year as an engineer and producer for BHS-TV. My experience as a basketball player has contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. Recognizing these needs, I founded Life and Basketball (LAB), a non-profit, 501-c-3 organization, to provide top-notch basketball training from the area’s best coaches, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge to participants. The community service component of the program at LAB will provide opportunities for teenage girls to solve problems in their communities while improving the lives of their neighbors. Whether the issue is senior citizen hunger, a need for school supplies or helping the homeless, our Social Good Champions (as we have named them) will consistently work to meet community needs. Rhonda’s example with her non-profit inspired me to follow in her footsteps by seeing the importance of giving back. My journey was not without some road blocks. Early in my high school career I struggled and became frustrated with the adjustment from middle school. Sensing something more, my parents shared concerns with my doctor and ultimately we found out that I had Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I was initially devastated and unsure of how to proceed but with help from my family, teachers, and special counselors, I found my path. I also discovered the importance of maintaining my mental health in the face of difficulties. During this journey, I became a mental health advocate, particularly for journalists of color. As a Fellow of the Emma Bowen Foundation, I was honored to be selected as a student presenter for our national annual conference where I talked about Mental Health and the Media for Journalists of Color. The presentation focused on handling micro-aggressions in college, work place discrimination and even seeing traumatizing videos and articles in the media. Five options for managing stress were offered, including meditation by using online applications like Calm; journaling online or in paper to identify triggers; taking a break from social media to reduce consuming stressful information; scheduling a self-care day ranging from pampering to going to a favorite restaurant; and, scheduling an appointment with a therapist of color. This opportunity gave me an outlet to help others and share the skills I have learned personally gained from both therapy and research. While I am laser-focused on the present, I am excited about what the future may bring. My time with Rhonda confirmed my love of writing, reporting and my community - something I will always remember and this summer I am fortunate to be working with her. While many see her as just a morning anchor, to me she is someone who has made an indelible impact on my life.

While it is strange to say and think, the time of quarantine has impacted the pursuit of my dreams positively in three ways. I finalized plans for the rollout of my organization, Life and Basketball, which will fulfill my dream to provide academic, athletic and community service opportunities to girls. In light of the devastation of the pandemic, I was humbled and honored to share important mental health and self-care resources with my journalism peers, with a focus on students of color. Academically, I achieved my dreams of making the Dean’s List and working with my school on creating diversity and inclusion programs. Ever since I can remember, community service has been an important part of my life. My parents have instilled in my brother and me the importance of giving back in ways that were both personal and meaningful. My experience as a basketball player has contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. Recognizing these needs, I founded Life and Basketball (LAB), a non-profit, 501-c-3 organization, to provide top-notch basketball training from the area’s best coaches, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge. The community service component of the program will provide opportunities for teenage girls to solve problems in their communities while improving the lives of their neighbors. Whether the issue is senior citizen hunger, a need for school supplies or helping the homeless, our Social Good Champions (as we have named them) will consistently work to meet community needs. I also realized my dream of launching the program by coordinating the first service project along with a Detroit community center. Neighborhood children wrote messages and decorated greeting cards to uplift the spirits of servicemen and women who were patients at the Ann Arbor, Michigan Veteran’s Hospital. Currently, I am working with my board of directors to find ways to support high school athletes who are facing cancelled or postponed seasons. Our goal is to assist them in refocusing their efforts on continuing their athletic training while becoming academically prepared to apply to college. An aspect of my summer internship program included attending an annual conference in New York City that includes presentations from influential journalists like Lester Holt, a career fair featuring innovative media companies, and presentations by current fellows. Because my dreams include becoming a mental health advocate for journalists of color, I submitted a proposal and was honored to be selected as a presenter and realized a dream to present about Mental Health and the Media for Journalists of Color. The presentation focused on the importance of making our mental health a priority - especially due to the unique challenges we face that our white counterparts may not experience. Microagressions in college, work place discrimination and even seeing traumatizing videos and articles of BIPOC atrocities on social media and plastered all over the news affect us differently. Many times, we are unaware of how this stress can cause serious issues including insomnia, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Five options, including meditation by using online applications like Calm; journaling online or in paper to identify triggers; taking a break from social media to reduce consuming stressful information; scheduling a self-care day ranging from pampering to going to a favorite restaurant; and, because students of color are far less likely to seek help, scheduling an appointment with a therapist of color. This opportunity gave me an outlet to help others and share the skills I have learned personally gained from both therapy and research. Academically, I achieved my dreams of making the Dean’s List and working with my school on creating diversity and inclusion programs. While the pandemic forced me to move home, I was committed to excelling academically and achieved a perfect grade point average during the spring semester. I also began serving as a charter member of the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts (Dodge) new initiative called the Dodge Inclusivity Project. My role as the director of curriculum is to meet with the Dean and chair a committee to discuss and design a plan to restructure the academic curriculum to showcase more black literaries and scholars within the realms of broadcasting. While 2020 has forever changed our lives and many people are worried about contracting the virus, I have remained focused on my goals while comforting those impacted by Covid-19. My advice to those pursuing their dreams would be to remember that being frustrated or angry is easy; however, they can use their personal pandemic experiences as a springboard to new ways of thinking and doing things. This life-changing moment can be framed in a positive light by using our strengths in an edifying way.

Colorful. Touching. Cinematic. Those are the three words I would use to describe my favorite movie, Disney’s COCO which superbly displays Mexican culture. I’ve always had a fascination for history and animation but when those worlds collide I am in awe. That is exactly how I felt when watching the film. It authentically displays many facets of the culture and is visually appealing. The colors within it just come out at you and keep you mesmerized. Not only is it visually appealing but the storyline is touching. Miguel is a child and has a sense of innocence just like all of us. We don’t know how the world works yet and that can be good but that can also lead to trouble. This was exactly what we saw in the film in relation to music. Yet in the end the goodness and innocence of Miguel brought the family’s musicality back. There were also some losses along the way but again, that relates to life because on your path you may lose people physically and you have to keep pushing on to your destiny. Coco overall is my favorite movie and will forever have a special place in my heart due to its life lessons and culture that it portrays.

Regardless of our family situation, my parents have consistently emphasized the importance of giving back from the time I was a little girl. My fondest memory of giving back was the idea for an activity that was initiated when I was a member of my 8th grade basketball team. Several mothers who were impacted by breast cancer wanted to find a way to give back to other families who were impacted by breast cancer. Because my mother is a survivor, I suggested a Pink Out, a basketball game and fundraiser for a charity benefiting current breast cancer patients. The project became very personal to me and I was excited to volunteer. Unfortunately, I saw first-hand how breast cancer can take a financial, emotional and physical toll on families. At the time we were planning the event, my mother was a recent survivor of breast cancer for the second time herself. While difficult, I was glad to be there for her, especially at the hospital before her surgery, to hold her hand and show my support. She had family and friends who encouraged her along the way. She was very brave and transparent with me about her journey and fortunately beat the disease with her extended family, friends and church standing beside her. My mother was fortunate to have a great deal of support but knew of others who had inadequate resources primarily related to the financial losses incurred during treatment. When she talked to our coach about the team creating the first Pink Out basketball game to raise money for families in need, I was highly motivated to do my best work. I had the opportunity to work with each basketball family, the opposing team we would play, and with businesses in the local community. Due to tremendous teamwork, the Pink Out raised just over $1,700 for The Pink Fund, a local charity that assists families in treatment with household expenses. The most memorable part of the event for me was seeing the tears in my mom's eyes when we accomplished our goals at the end of the game. That moment made all of the work and time spent so worthwhile. I learned valuable skills and the experience served as a foundation for greater leadership roles. My experience as a basketball player also contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. While there are several travel basketball programs in the area, they are cost prohibitive to many families. Students can access free resources for standardized test preparation, but those who need individual attention from tutors find tutoring to be expensive. Recognizing these needs, seeing highly ranked players lose scholarships due to their grades and having the desire to level the playing field, I created Life and Basketball (LAB) to benefit young girls like me. The purpose of this non-profit, 501-c-3 organization is to provide top-notch basketball training from the area’s best coaches, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge - to participants. Our mission is to contribute to their success on and off the basketball court. Our most important goal is to ensure all participants excel academically so we will provide personalized standardized testing preparation that includes practice test days, free test-prep materials, and information for parents. The community service component of the program at LAB will provide opportunities for teenage girls to solve problems in their communities, improve the lives of their neighbors, and strengthen their communities.

Personally, I am blessed to have grown up in a home with my brother and parents that is loving and supportive. Ever since I can remember, community service has been an important part of my life. My parents have instilled in my brother and me the importance of giving back to our neighborhood, school, athletic programs, and church in ways that were both personal and meaningful. What we found was that community service is an important tool to bring neighborhoods, families, and people closer together. So if money was no issue, I would spend my time working on my non-profit organization and facilitating programs that provide information about the importance of mental health for BIPOC journalists. My experience as a basketball player has contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. Recognizing these needs, I founded Life and Basketball (LAB), a non-profit, 501-c-3 organization, to provide top-notch basketball training from the area’s best coaches, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge to participants. Our mission is to contribute to their success – both on and off the court. Our most important goal is to ensure all participants excel academically so we will provide personalized standardized testing preparation that includes practice test days, free test-prep materials, and information for parents. The community service component of the program at LAB will provide opportunities for teenage girls to solve problems in their communities while improving the lives of their neighbors. Whether the issue is senior citizen hunger, a need for school supplies or helping the homeless, our Social Good Champions (as we have named them) will consistently work to meet community needs. During the pandemic, I realized my dream of launching the program by coordinating the first service project along with a Detroit community center. Neighborhood children wrote messages on holiday cards and included treats with them. The cards were delivered by LAB staff to the Veterans’ Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan for the patients as a way to bring them some holiday cheer. An aspect of my journalism summer internship program includes attending an annual conference in New York City. Presentations from influential journalists like Lester Holt, a career fair featuring innovative media companies, and presentations by current fellows are part of the agenda.. Because my dreams include becoming a mental health advocate for journalists of color, I submitted a proposal and was honored to be selected as a presenter and realized a dream to present about Mental Health and the Media for Journalists of Color. The presentation focused on the importance of making our mental health a priority - especially due to the unique challenges we face that our white counterparts may not experience. Microagressions in college, work place discrimination and even seeing traumatizing videos and articles of BIPOC atrocities on social media and plastered all over the news affect us differently. Many times, we are unaware of how this stress can cause serious issues including insomnia, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Five options, including meditation by using online applications like Calm; journaling online or in paper to identify triggers; taking a break from social media to reduce consuming stressful information; scheduling a self-care day ranging from pampering to going to a favorite restaurant; and, because students of color are far less likely to seek help, scheduling an appointment with a therapist of color. This opportunity gave me an outlet to help others and share the skills I have learned personally gained from both therapy and research. While I may never be independently wealthy or in a position to make these two life-long dreams my full-time reality, I will continue to strive to make each one an important part of my community. Just as my parents have taught me.

It is 3 a.m. in Michigan and 30 degrees on a cold, wintery Wednesday morning. I have been awake for an hour, eaten breakfast, and put on my nice dress for the 30 minute drive to downtown Detroit. My peers are fast asleep on this snowy winter break day but there is no need for me to be envious; instead of going to school, I’m headed to WDIV-Local 4, the NBC station where I have the opportunity to be a staff member for the day. As part of my sophomore year career project, Morning Show anchor Rhonda Walker agreed to help me explore broadcast journalism. She and her colleagues shared their typical workday with me and instantly sparked my love for broadcast journalism. It was, by far, more than worth the early wake up call. Rhonda went above and beyond my basic request and gave me the opportunity not only to shadow her but to also spend time with various anchors, meteorologists, producers and field reporters. I attended the morning staff meeting and, with some encouragement, even stood in front of a green screen and practiced being a traffic reporter. My day ended by heading just down the street to Ford Field with a seasoned reporter to cover the Monster Truck event. The story was reported live and it was exciting to watch how the team – reporter and cameraman – works together so quickly to bring a story to viewers. At the time, I was slightly interested in journalism but unsure of my career goals. Spending that day with Rhonda confirmed broadcast journalism as my college major. She was very helpful, insightful and transparent in relating the life of a morning show anchor. Rhonda started her career at Fox 2 News in Southfield and then moved to WDIV. She started as a traffic reporter before she moved to the morning co-anchor chair. But the accomplishment she is most proud of is her non-profit, the Rhonda Walker Foundation (RWF) which benefits Detroit girls. A five year commitment, the foundation provides college preparatory opportunities and tools such as ACT/SAT test preparation, tutoring in all subject areas, college tours, scholarships and financial aid workshops. RWF humbly boasts its impressive program results, including a 100% high school graduation rate. She recently received the National Association of Black Journalists’ 2018 Angelo B. Henderson Community Service Award which recognizes a journalist who has had a positive impact on the community outside the normal realm of journalism. Little did I know that my day would lead to my becoming a student broadcaster and leader, including being selected as a board member of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and becoming an Executive Staff member for my high school’s award-winning radio and television stations. I was also selected by my radio teacher to serve as the Public Affairs Director at our radio station, WBFH, in charge of the public service announcements aired on the station. Along with my classmate, we were the only all-girls team to broadcast the boys’ basketball semi-final game at Michigan State University. I also applied for and was selected to be on the elite Student Advisory Committee of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Foundation, representing all radio and TV high school broadcasting students in Michigan. Rhonda also impacted me by demonstrating the importance of giving back to my community. As a student-athlete, it became far too familiar to hear of talented athletes who had to turn down full scholarships because of grades or standardized test scores. Recognizing the need to bridge this gap, I founded my non-profit organization, Life and Basketball (LAB), with the goal of providing academic, athletic and community service opportunities to high school girls. LAB is a 501-c-3 organization that provides top-notch basketball training, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge to participants. My time with Rhonda confirmed my love of writing, reporting and my community - something I will always remember and this summer I am fortunate to be working with her. As fate would have it, I was also fortunate to be selected as an Emma Bowen Foundation Media Fellow which included a four-year summer internship and my assignment is where my career aspiration began – WDIV-Local 4. I am a Web Producer with more than 130 stories published this far. I am thankful for Rhonda’s help and interest in me. While many see her as just a morning anchor, to me she is someone who has made an indelible impact on my life.

It’s 3 am on a school night. I’m awake and nicely dressed for the drive to downtown Detroit. Instead of going to school, I’m headed to WDIV, the NBC station where I have a busy day of being a staff member for the day with planned activities ranging from attending a producers meeting and watching production of the morning show. Morning Show anchor Rhonda Walker and her colleagues shared their typical workday with me and instantly sparked my love for broadcast journalism. I experienced Rhonda’s influence first-hand that winter morning, as she directly sparked my interest in Journalism. The experience, by far, was more than worth the early wake up call and became the starting point for broadcast engineering journey. That is when I became intrigued with the broadcasting equipment, software and systems that are critical when the time comes to broadcast. The following semester, I signed up for my high school’s radio course which includes applying for positions with our school radio station. This was the beginning of several unique and amazing broadcasting experiences. Our teacher chose me and a classmate to broadcast the boys’ basketball semi-final game at Michigan State University. My role was not only to provide the play-by-play analysis but to also ensure that all of the audio and technical components functioned properly. As the only all-girl duo covering the championship games, we were also selected to interview with State Champs, a sports television show that airs across the state. I was also selected by my radio teacher to serve as the Public Affairs Director at our radio station in charge of the public service announcements aired on the station. In this role, I thoroughly review the public service announcements that have been produced and make sure the quality is high and they are mixed properly. I am also trained to use a control board during broadcasts to make sure levels are appropriate, DAD where our music is housed for programming, Comrex for remote broadcasts and Adobe Audition for audio editing.. Not only was I involved in radio but I also was a part of the news program at my high school. We would use Adobe Premiere video editing software to cut video into packages for the broadcast and use Canon digital video cameras to capture the news packages remotely. In the studio, we used professional grade equipment similar to what I saw at Local 4. Behind the scenes, I controlled the pace of the Teleprompter in the Control Room and was a producer. In that role I had to manage cameras to ensure we captured the anchors properly. Excelling as a Broadcast Journalism engineer would be challenging without a college degree. This upcoming fall, I will be a sophomore at Chapman University majoring in Broadcast Journalism as part of the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts which includes replicas of working studios. What drew me to Chapman were the television and broadcast journalism studios that include a control room with the latest equipment to hon my skills. Along with opportunities for hands-on broadcast engineering experience and access to top faculty, Chapman will prepare me well to compete in top television markets. With all of my experiences in journalism and media in general, Chapman is the perfect place to capitalize on my journalistic potential outside of the classroom. As a member of the Chapman radio station team, I would be able to elevate my skills working with the Prime Time TV Club and glean knowledge from the producers and directors that host workshops on campus. This is why I’m applying for your generous scholarship. Personally, if I have more funding to continue developing my broadcast engineering skills, I will have the opportunity to be part of a team that uncovers the untold stories in our communities that need to be reported. I share your organization’s vision of being driven by better and believe my past and current experiences have motivated me to set my personal achievement bar very high. I have already demonstrated this commitment through my engineering skills in high school and I look forward to continuing it while attending Chapman University. There, I will become a better broadcast engineer and more persuasive writer while learning about other aspects of journalism.

Personally, I am blessed to have grown up in a home with my brother and parents that is loving and supportive yet high levels of accomplishments were expected. I always want to do my very best to show my parents my appreciation and it is their examples in the face of adversity that motivates me to push beyond any challenge that seeks to limit me in achieving my goals. As a student with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) this can be challenging. I initially struggled during my transition to high school. During my freshman and sophomore years, I struggled with keeping up in class. My family and I decided to see my pediatrician who sent us to a Pediatric Neurologist and I completed Neuro-Psych testing. I had a wonderful doctor and she helped me understand how I learn differently and in fact, my case was different than any other she had seen. This is how I found out that I had ADHD. At first, I was confused and upset but with the right tools I learned how to succeed. After meeting with my counselor and teachers at my high school, I discovered I could obtain the accommodations and tools needed for success, both at home and school. I managed my homework and extracurricular activities and I have a better understanding of how to study and stay organized. I’ve accomplished much more than I have ever been able to do in the past. In fact, most of my teachers are unaware of the challenges that make it difficult for me to study and retain the knowledge conveyed in class. Currently as a college student, I have kept up my success even with my ADHD. Last summer I got the opportunity to speak about mental wellness at a national media conference sponsored by the Emma Bowen Foundation. I got to speak to over 100 student journalists and professionals about self care and tips for their mental health. I also made the Dean’s List this past fall, became a student athlete and earned the position as an admissions tour guide.

The obstacles of life that we face can build up in our mind and cause both internal and external stress. Many times, we are unaware of just how much this stress can cause serious issues including insomnia, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. As a college student, journalist and someone who suffers from ADHD, my mental health journey has been unique and, at times, overwhelming. With the pandemic and racial and social unrest in the United States as a backdrop, I became a mental health advocate by using my social media accounts to share strategies for others to maintain their mental health. I also facilitated a mental health workshop for journalists of color at a national convention for interns. To combat the internal stress, I gave 5 suggestions for students and professionals to achieve. Meditation is one of the most accessible tools to help with mental health and is known for easing the mind. Before your day begins, take time to be quiet and clear your mind. There are different apps that you can try such as Headspace and the Calm app. It is also as simple as typing in meditation on your search bar on Youtube. Using a journal to write out your thoughts on paper or even typing them out in your notes on your phone can be beneficial for your mental health and avoiding depression. Journaling has benefits similar to meditation and can help you identify any trigger points and give you a record of your thoughts and feelings. Taking a break from social media can help ease your mind in consuming all of the information on your timeline and take off the strain on your eyes from the blue light on your phone. Self- care is an important part of taking care of yourself and relieving stress. It includes four key dimensions according to Verywell, your emotional, physical, psychological, and spiritual health. Ideas include a spa day, listening to soothing music, eating outside in the sunshine, having a face mask or pampering day with friends or any activity you personally classify as self care that puts you at ease. The next time you’re planning your week, remember to include yourself on your calendar. Research confirms that college students of color are far less likely to seek help for mental health issues when compared to white students. A therapist of color can be a great resource and help you navigate life as a BIPOC. There is nothing wrong with seeking out professional help no matter how strong you are. My mental health journey has led me to expand my community service efforts by creating a non-profit organization that has a health component that includes mental health. In addition, my experience as a basketball player contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching, affordable and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. Recognizing these needs, I created Life and Basketball (LAB), a non-profit, 501-c-3 organization, to provide basketball training from the area’s best coaches, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge. The community service component will provide opportunities for participants to contribute to and strengthen their communities. Whether the issue is senior citizen hunger, a need for school supplies or helping the homeless, LAB Social Good Champions - the name for our volunteers - will consistently meet the needs of their respective neighborhoods. The healthy living component will include providing strategies to maintain mental health and workshops that address the stigma that is attached to seeking mental health care and assistance. As a future entrepreneur, my plan is to be a community service champion while empowering young girls. My program will be easily replicated in other communities and my goal is to have a national program in the next 10 to 15 years. I believe that by making mental health part of the daily conversations of young girls, we can begin to have healthier families and communities.

It is 3 a.m. in Michigan and 30 degrees on a cold, wintery Wednesday morning. I have been awake for an hour, eaten breakfast, and put on my nicely dress for the 30 minute drive to downtown Detroit. My peers are fast asleep on this snowy winter break day but there is no need for me to be envious; instead of going to school, I’m headed to WDIV-Local 4, the NBC station where I have the opportunity to be a staff member for the day. Morning Show anchor Rhonda Walker has agreed to help me explore broadcast journalism. She and her colleagues shared their typical workday with me and instantly sparked my love for broadcast journalism. It was, by far, more than worth the early wake up call. I experienced Rhonda’s caring nature before I entered the station’s doors. While I asked for a brief phone interview, Rhonda went above and beyond my basic request and gave me the opportunity not only shadow her but to also spend time with various anchors, meteorologists, producers and field reporters. I attended the morning staff meeting and, with some encouragement, even stood in front of a green screen and practiced being a traffic reporter. My day ended by heading just down the street to Ford Field with a seasoned reporter to cover the Monster Truck event. The story was reported live and it was exciting to watch how the team – reporter and cameraman – works together so quickly to bring a story to viewers. At the time, I was slightly interested in journalism but unsure of my career goals. Spending that day with Rhonda confirmed broadcast journalism as my college major. She was very helpful, insightful and transparent in relating the life of a morning show anchor. When asked why she was a morning anchor, she explained that she has always been a morning person, loves to bring energy to the morning show, and enjoys having the rest of the day to devote to her numerous community commitments. When Detroiters think of Rhonda Walker, many things come to mind: change agent, broadcast journalist, fashion icon and community leader. Rhonda came from humble beginnings that led her ultimately to become one of the most prominent voices in Detroit. She wasn’t always an anchor, beginning as a traffic reporter before she moved to the morning co-anchor chair. She happily said yes to and co-hosting station sponsored events including the Thanksgiving Day Parade and the North American International Auto Show. But the accomplishment she is most proud of is her non-profit, the Rhonda Walker Foundation (RWF) which benefits Detroit girls. A five year commitment, the foundation provides college preparatory opportunities and tools such as ACT/SAT test preparation, tutoring in all subject areas, college tours, scholarships and financial aid workshops. RWF humbly boasts its impressive program results, including a 100% high school graduation rate. I have seen first-hand Rhonda’s genuine passion for mentoring young girls. She feels that every girl should be confident and have the tools to succeed. Because someone like Rhonda took the time to help me understand the life of a journalist and community leader, the direction of my life was positively impacted. Although it wasn't clear to me then, looking back on this day, I believe Rhonda was a wonderful teacher whose help impacted my life tremendously. Little did I know that my day would lead to my becoming a student broadcaster and leader, including being selected as a board member of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and becoming an Executive Staff member for my high school’s award-winning radio and television station I was also selected by my radio teacher to serve as the Public Affairs Director at our radio station, WBFH, in charge of the public service announcements aired on the station. As Public Service Announcement Director the following year, I thoroughly review the public service announcements that have been produced and make sure the quality is high. On BHS-TV, I was a field reporter, camera operator, anchor and floor manager – winning a state award for a story about preparing for final examinations. I also applied for and was selected to be on the elite Student Advisory Committee of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Foundation, representing all radio and TV high school broadcasting students in Michigan. Rhonda also impacted me by demonstrating the importance of giving back to my community. As a student-athlete, it became familiar to hear of talented athletes turnOmg down full scholarships because of grades or standardized test scores. Recognizing the need to bridge this gap, I founded my non-profit organization, Life and Basketball (LAB), with the goal of providing free academic, athletic and community service opportunities to high school girls. I formed this organization in order to make a long-term impact on the academic and athletic success of girls like me who want to be successful on the court and in the classroom while being amazing community service champions. Currently, I am a student at Chapman University as a Broadcast Journalism and Documentary major, a program with a three percent acceptance rate. My goal is to complete my degree in four years while participating in both the student-run radio and television stations. I am also a member of the women’s basketball team and community service is a high priority. My time with Rhonda confirmed my love of writing, reporting and my community - something I will always remember and this summer I am fortunate to be working with her. I was selected as an Emma Bowen Foundation Media Fellow which included a four-year summer internship opportunity and my assignment is where my career aspiration began – WDIV-Local 4. Each summer, I have worked as a Web Producer and I also work with Rhonda. I am thankful for Rhonda’s help and interest in me as a student interested in broadcasting. While many see her as just a morning anchor, to me she is a role model and someone who has made an indelible impact on my life.

Lights! Camera! Imanni, Model?? What happened to “action!”? My mentor, photography professional and social good champion Shawn Lee changed the narrative for me. Shawn moved me from behind the camera as a fledgling photographer with several photo shoots and even a wedding to her credit and placed me in front of the camera. While some would welcome beIng the subject of many gifted photographers, I was terrified. With lots of encouragement and an amazing group of gifted photography professionals, I gave it my best shot - and I’m glad I took the leap of faith. I hope you enjoy!

I am blessed to have grown up in a home with my brother and parents that is loving and supportive yet high levels of accomplishments were expected. I always want to do my very best to show my parents my appreciation and it is their examples in the face of adversity that motivates me to push beyond any challenge. My mom particularly set a standard for me to believe and have faith beyond what I physically can see and to always maintain a positive attitude. She raised us with love and compassion and modeled the importance of caring for one another. I share all of this because while my mother was in the midst of recovering from multiple auto accidents, I was also impacted due to the noticeable changes resulting from each incident. Seeing my once busy and vibrant mom deal with the stress of her injuries, loss of two jobs, and reduced to being driven everywhere by others filled me with sadness. But in true form, she always assured me that she was “Still Standing” and everything would work out. My mom’s first accident was four years ago. She was sitting at a four-way stop sign, just a few feet from the driveway to her job, when a distracted driver rear-ended her car. She sustained a concussion/post-concussion syndrome, vestibular/balance problems, convergence requiring prisms and tint in her glasses, bulging discs in her neck requiring multiple injections, and severe nausea she needed daily medication to manage. Because of her symptoms, I spent many evenings assisting her up the stairs, driving her to doctor’s appointments during my school breaks, and helping her with home exercises.. I learned about convergence, closed-head injuries, post-concussion syndrome, and speech therapy. I marveled at my mom’s fortitude and upbeat attitude while dealing with so many life-changing injuries. Because of her compassionate nature, we were able to help one another through her unexpected health challenges. While I never imagined taking care of my mother at that point in her life, her example gave me the blueprint for thoughtfully assisting her in recovering. We both found comfort in one another’s encouragement, kind words and care. During this time, she kept up with all of my academic, extra-curricular, and church commitments, finding ways to celebrate my accomplishments and encourage me when things didn’t go the way I planned. Even though it would be easy to justify being an average student, it is my mother’s inspiration that fuels my drive to always give my best. When I expressed an interest in Journalism for my sophomore year project, she arranged for me to meet with a college friend who was a morning anchor at an NBC affiliate in Detroit, Michigan. On a blustery winter morning, I headed to WDIV-Local 4 where I had the opportunity to be a staff member for the day. Morning Show anchor Rhonda Walker and her colleagues shared their typical workday with me and instantly sparked my love for broadcast journalism. As a result, I became a staff member at my high school’s television and radio stations working as an anchor, producer, reporter and writer. Last year, I was selected as a national Emma Bowen Media Fellow and I was excited to learn my assignment would be at the station where my journalism story began - WDIV-Local 4. I was equally excited when, after almost three years, my mom found a new job and ways to manage her “new normal” at work. Her employer was supportive and provided special screens to filter the light in her cubicle. She even began driving again to work. Just as all was going well, she was broadsided just 3 blocks from home by another distracted driver last March. Unfortunately, she was hit on the driver’s side of her car and her injuries included a sprained ankle, torn tendons in her wrist, a shoulder injury, a concussion, and further damage to her vision. While extremely frustrated and upset, she continues to persevere. After college graduation, I plan to seek out reporting positions with a television station, continue my work with the non-profit I founded, and begin graduate school to obtain my Masters and Ph.D. in Journalism. During my senior year of college, I will begin my search for a television morning anchor or reporter position in a mid-sized market. While anchoring the morning news, I also hope to cover college sports. These positions would provide the foundation to transition to becoming a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) play-by-play analyst. My ultimate goal is to become a commentator with the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). After gaining work experience, I will pursue advanced degrees in Journalism. My research interests include understanding how social media impacts the accurate reporting of news and the disparities of health communication in poor communities. I want to use my desire to teach to mentor students who have a passion for creative storytelling and want to make a difference. I also plan to continue contributing to my community. My experience as a basketball player along with seeing teammates struggle academically with no affordable outside resources has contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. Recognizing this need and having the desire to level the playing field, I founded Life and Basketball (LAB) to make a long-term impact on girls like me who want to be student athletes and give back to their respective communities. The strength of my mom during her recovery has made me laser-focused on the present and her example provides the foundation for me to make my college dreams and career goals a reality. I hope to break barriers as a journalist, make generation differences in the lives of young girls, and become a respected college professor. I look forward to writing the next chapters of my life and believe there will be many happy endings.

Sources. Check. AP Stylebook of writing. Check. Schedule of interviewees. Check. As a broadcast journalist for the past three years, I have found that I can never be over prepared. The right tools make a difference when it comes to either a run-of-the-mill story or an amazing one that captures the imagination of readers. This fall, I am a sophomore at Chapman University as a Broadcast Journalism and Documentary Film major in order to further my education to become a journalist who is a community advocate when I graduate. A day with a popular Detroit anchor started me on my journey. It is 3 a.m. and 30 degrees on a cold, wintery Wednesday morning. I have been awake for an hour, eaten breakfast, and put on my favorite dress for the 30 minute drive to downtown Detroit. My peers are fast asleep on this snowy winter break day but there is no need for me to be envious; instead of going to school, I’m headed to WDIV-Local 4, the NBC station where I have the opportunity to be a staff member for the day. As part of my sophomore year career project, Morning Show anchor Rhonda Walker has agreed to help me explore broadcast journalism. She and her colleagues shared their typical workday with me and instantly sparked my love for broadcast journalism. It was, by far, more than worth the early wake up call. Currently, I am an academically prepared and experienced journalist with a passion for creativity, innovation, and design of social good projects that elevate individuals. With in-depth knowledge of radio, print and television production, I have the proven ability in writing compelling stories, reporting news, and producing high-level radio shows. Prior to my current role as a web producer/summer intern at WDIV-Local 4 in Detroit, I gained experience as a reporter/anchor, assistant director of sports, and producer for WBFH-FM. I also spent one year as an engineer and producer for BHS-TV. Upon graduation from Chapman, my goal is to use my experience to obtain a position as a television web producer and broadcast engineer. My long-term goal is to attend graduate school to earn my Phd. in order to become a college professor within 5 years . My research interests include understanding how social media/technology impacts the accurate reporting of news. I would also like to mentor students in graduate programs to ensure they are successful in the classroom and after graduation. My experience as a basketball player has contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. Recognizing these needs, I founded Life and Basketball (LAB), a non-profit, 501-c-3 organization, to provide top-notch basketball training from the area’s best coaches, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge to participants. Our mission is to contribute to their success – both on and off the court. Our long-term goals include proving summer camps that train girls to enter technical fields related to sports like analytics and engineering. The community service component of the program at LAB will provide opportunities for teenage girls to solve problems in their communities while improving the lives of their neighbors. Whether the issue is senior citizen hunger, a need for school supplies or helping the homeless, our Social Good Champions (as we have named them) will consistently work to meet community needs. I am also a mental health advocate for journalists of color. As a Fellow of the Emma Bowen Foundation, I was honored to be selected as a student presenter for our national annual conference where I talked about Mental Health and the Media for Journalists of Color. The presentation focused on the importance of making our mental health a priority - especially due to the unique challenges we face that our white counterparts may not experience. Micro-aggressions in college, work place discrimination and even seeing traumatizing videos and articles of BIPOC atrocities on social media that are plastered all over the news affect us differently. Many times, we are unaware of how this stress can cause serious issues including insomnia, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Five options for managing stress were offered to attendees, including meditation by using online applications like Calm; journaling online or in paper to identify triggers; taking a break from social media to reduce consuming stressful information; scheduling a self-care day ranging from pampering to going to a favorite restaurant; and, because students of color are far less likely to seek help, scheduling an appointment with a therapist of color. This opportunity gave me an outlet to help others and share the skills I have learned personally gained from both therapy and research. The value of education and a college degree has been stressed in my family since I was very young. My mom has particularly set a standard for me to have faith beyond what I physically can see. To not just hope things will be better in the future but to work my hardest to make my future great by earning a college education and gaining invaluable experience. I plan to change the world through my education and by empowering those who will follow me in the technical field of journalism. While I am laser-focused on the present, I am excited about what the future may bring. I hope to break barriers as a journalist, make generation differences in the lives of young girls, and become a respected college professor. I look forward to writing the next chapters of my life.

Sources. Check. AP Stylebook of writing. Check. Schedule of interviewees. Check. As a broadcast journalist for the past three years, I have found that I can never be over prepared. The right tools make a difference when it comes to either a run-of-the-mill story or an amazing one that captures the imagination of readers. This fall, I am a sophomore at Chapman University as a Broadcast Journalism and Documentary Film major in order to further my education to become a journalist who is a community advocate when I graduate. A day with a popular Detroit anchor started me on my journey. It is 3 a.m. and 30 degrees on a cold, wintery Wednesday morning. I have been awake for an hour, eaten breakfast, and put on my favorite dress for the 30 minute drive to downtown Detroit. My peers are fast asleep on this snowy winter break day but there is no need for me to be envious; instead of going to school, I’m headed to WDIV-Local 4, the NBC station where I have the opportunity to be a staff member for the day. As part of my sophomore year career project, Morning Show anchor Rhonda Walker has agreed to help me explore broadcast journalism. She and her colleagues shared their typical workday with me and instantly sparked my love for broadcast journalism. It was, by far, more than worth the early wake up call. Currently, I am an academically prepared and experienced journalist with a passion for creativity, innovation, and design of social good projects that elevate individuals. With in-depth knowledge of radio, print and television production, I have the proven ability in writing compelling stories, reporting news, and producing high-level radio shows. Prior to my current role as a web producer/summer intern at WDIV-Local 4 in Detroit, I gained experience as a reporter/anchor, assistant director of sports, and producer for WBFH-FM. I also spent one year as an engineer and producer for BHS-TV. Upon graduation from Chapman, my goal is to use my experience to obtain a position as a television web producer and broadcast engineer. My long-term goal is to attend graduate school to earn my Phd. in order to become a college professor within 5 years . My research interests include understanding how social media/technology impacts the accurate reporting of news. I would also like to mentor students in graduate programs to ensure they are successful in the classroom and after graduation. My experience as a basketball player has contributed to my strong belief in the need to provide safe, academically enriching and supportive environments for girls to advance to their potential in sports, particularly basketball. Recognizing these needs, I founded Life and Basketball (LAB), a non-profit, 501-c-3 organization, to provide top-notch basketball training from the area’s best coaches, standardized test preparation and community service opportunities - all free of charge to participants. Our mission is to contribute to their success – both on and off the court. Our long-term goals include proving summer camps that train girls to enter technical fields related to sports like analytics and engineering. The community service component of the program at LAB will provide opportunities for teenage girls to solve problems in their communities while improving the lives of their neighbors. Whether the issue is senior citizen hunger, a need for school supplies or helping the homeless, our Social Good Champions (as we have named them) will consistently work to meet community needs. I am also a mental health advocate for journalists of color. As a Fellow of the Emma Bowen Foundation, I was honored to be selected as a student presenter for our national annual conference where I talked about Mental Health and the Media for Journalists of Color. The presentation focused on the importance of making our mental health a priority - especially due to the unique challenges we face that our white counterparts may not experience. Micro-aggressions in college, work place discrimination and even seeing traumatizing videos and articles of BIPOC atrocities on social media that are plastered all over the news affect us differently. Many times, we are unaware of how this stress can cause serious issues including insomnia, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Five options for managing stress were offered to attendees, including meditation by using online applications like Calm; journaling online or in paper to identify triggers; taking a break from social media to reduce consuming stressful information; scheduling a self-care day ranging from pampering to going to a favorite restaurant; and, because students of color are far less likely to seek help, scheduling an appointment with a therapist of color. This opportunity gave me an outlet to help others and share the skills I have learned personally gained from both therapy and research. The value of education and a college degree has been stressed in my family since I was very young. My mom has particularly set a standard for me to have faith beyond what I physically can see. To not just hope things will be better in the future but to work my hardest to make my future great by earning a college education and gaining invaluable experience. I plan to change the world through my education and by empowering those who will follow me in the technical field of journalism. While I am laser-focused on the present, I am excited about what the future may bring. I hope to break barriers as a journalist, make generation differences in the lives of young girls, and become a respected college professor. I look forward to writing the next chapters of my life.

Sources. Check. AP Stylebook. Check. Schedule of interviewees. Check. My name is Imanni Wright and as a broadcast journalist for the past three years, I have found that I can never be over prepared. This fall, I will be a rising sophomore at Chapman University as a Broadcast Journalism major. I am an academically prepared and experienced journalist with a passion for creativity, innovation, and design of social good projects that elevate individuals. I am also involved in the Black Student Union at Chapman University along with Dodge College of Film and Media Arts (Dodge) new initiative called the Dodge Inclusivity Project. My role in the project is to meet with the Dean to talk about how we can restructure the academic curriculum to make it more diverse and for it to showcase more black literaries and scholars within the realms of broadcasting. I am also a mental health advocate for journalists of color and through my summer internship program I was able to attend an annual conference and speak on the subject. I submitted a proposal and was honored to be selected as a presenter where I talked about Mental Health and the Media for Journalists of Color. The presentation focused on the importance of making our mental health a priority - especially due to the unique challenges we face that our white counterparts may not experience. Micro-aggressions in college, work place discrimination and even seeing traumatizing videos and articles of BIPOC atrocities on social media that are plastered all over the news affect us differently. Many times, we are unaware of how this stress can cause serious issues including insomnia, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Five options, including meditation by using online applications like Calm; journaling online or in paper to identify triggers; taking a break from social media to reduce consuming stressful information; scheduling a self-care day ranging from pampering to going to a favorite restaurant; and, because students of color are far less likely to seek help, scheduling an appointment with a therapist of color. This opportunity gave me an outlet to help others and share the skills I have learned personally gained from both therapy and research. There are diverse career paths I could pursue with my degree but in whichever path I take I will change the world with my education. My passion lies in writing stories that are thought provoking and make a difference. I plan to interview high profile professional athletes and college draft choices. I will strive to be a reporter who has the ability to draw out their dreams and capture a more personal storyline. My strong desire to be a contributor to my community will drive my passion to write stories that can bring attention to serious issues that require action. I am confident that the foundation created by my family, collegiate experiences and college education will provide a solid foundation to complete these goals. Also, I plan to bring attention to community needs in my community by writing stories about existing needs and showcasing the youth who make a difference. Many times, donations are made when attention is brought to a need that may have been overlooked. Finding ways to give back and help neighborhoods thrive will be an important aspect of my future career and the non-profit I founded. The value of education and a college degree has been stressed in my family since I was very young. My mom has particularly set a standard for me to have faith beyond what I physically can see. To not just hope things will be better in the future but to work my hardest to make my future great by earning a college education and gaining invaluable experience. I plan to change the world through my education by holding on to my family values and pouring them into community based journalism.