As a student at Howard University, my philanthropic efforts have been focused on making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Since March of 2022, I have been actively involved in volunteering with East Flatbush Village Inc., primarily in their efforts related to parishable and non-parishable pantry distribution, as well as providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) resources to those in need. Through my involvement with East Flatbush Village Inc., I have learned the true meaning of empathy, compassion, and the importance of giving back. Witnessing the impact of these initiatives on the lives of community members has been incredibly humbling. It has reinforced my belief in the power of collective action and the ability of individuals to create positive change when they come together for a common cause. One of the key lessons I have learned from giving back is the importance of recognizing the systemic issues that contribute to the challenges faced by underserved communities. It is not enough to address the immediate needs through pantry distributions or resource giveaways; we must also work towards long-term solutions that address the root causes of these challenges. This understanding has ignited a passion within me to tackle these systemic issues and advocate for sustainable change. As I continue my philanthropic journey, I plan to expand my efforts by leveraging the knowledge and resources available to me as a student at Howard University. I believe that education is a powerful tool for empowerment and social transformation. I intend to combine my studies in computer science with my passion for philanthropy to develop innovative technological solutions that address social issues and improve the lives of marginalized communities. Furthermore, I plan to engage with student organizations and community service initiatives at Howard University to create a ripple effect of philanthropic action. By organizing awareness campaigns, workshops, and volunteer opportunities, I aim to inspire and mobilize fellow students to join me in making a meaningful impact on society. In the future, I also intend to collaborate with local community organizations, non-profits, and government agencies to develop sustainable programs that address food insecurity, access to resources, and promote community resilience. By forging partnerships and utilizing my skills and knowledge, I aspire to contribute to holistic solutions that uplift individuals and create lasting change. Overall, my philanthropic efforts have taught me the power of empathy, the importance of addressing systemic issues, and the need for sustainable solutions. As a student at Howard University, I am committed to continuing my mission of giving back, leveraging my education, skills, and networks to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities in need. Through collaboration, education, and technological innovation, I believe we can create a more equitable and compassionate society.

Going to college holds immense importance to me for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, it provides an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. College offers an environment where I can explore my interests, expand my knowledge, and gain a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. It serves as a transformative period in my life, where I can develop as an individual, challenge my beliefs, and cultivate critical thinking skills that will be invaluable throughout my lifetime. Secondly, college acts as a gateway to acquiring specialized knowledge and skills in my chosen field of study. As a computer science major at Howard University, I recognize the significant impact that a college education can have on my career prospects. Pursuing a higher education in this rapidly evolving field equips me with the technical expertise and problem-solving abilities necessary for a successful career in the technology industry. Through rigorous coursework, engaging with experienced professors, participating in hands-on projects, and collaborating with like-minded peers, I can foster an environment of intellectual growth and development. Furthermore, college provides a unique platform for networking and building meaningful connections. By actively engaging with professors, professionals, and fellow students, I can expand my professional network and gain valuable mentorship and guidance. These connections can open doors to internships, research opportunities, and potential career prospects. The diverse perspectives and experiences of my peers can broaden my worldview and enhance my understanding of different cultures and perspectives. Moreover, college offers a range of extracurricular activities and organizations that allow me to pursue my passions and interests outside of academics. I aspire to engage in campus clubs and organizations related to computer science, diversity, and community service. By immersing myself in these activities, I can further develop leadership skills, teamwork, and contribute to creating a positive impact on campus and in the wider community. Lastly, college instills a sense of social responsibility and fosters an environment for civic engagement. Through community service initiatives and involvement in social causes, I can actively participate in projects that address societal issues and promote positive change. I believe that education should not only benefit oneself but also be utilized to uplift others and create a more equitable society. In summary, my aspiration for college extends beyond obtaining a degree. It encompasses personal growth, intellectual curiosity, skill development, networking, and making a difference in the world. By seizing the opportunities college offers, I aim to leave with not only a solid education but also a broader perspective, a sense of purpose, and the tools necessary to make a meaningful contribution to society

The night was warm, and I had just gotten home from summer camp. I was getting ready for bed when I heard something that sounded like my mother's footsteps walking downstairs. Being the curious child that I was, I left my room and followed her down the stairs. When I got to the bottom of the stairs I heard a loud sound. RING-RING-RING. The house phone was ringing. No one ever called our house phone that late. My mother went to pick up the phone. The house was silent, and I was standing right behind her. I heard distant crying and screaming on the other side of the phone. My mother, then, dropped the phone and started crying and screaming. I had never seen my mother like that before. She then broke the news to me that my young neighbor, Brent, who used to pick me up from school whenever my parents couldn't, was murdered. He was dead. The five-year-old child that I was, didn’t understand what death was, but I knew from the way that everyone else reacted that it wasn’t a good thing. I remember walking through the streets of East Flatbush, Brooklyn, protesting for Brent to get Justice. That is something no child should ever have to go through. I continued to live my life, like any child that age would, but knowing that Brent was gone forever felt strange. Brent would never pick me up from school again. As I grew older I continuously heard about young lives being taken due to gun violence in New York. From children who I attended school with to family friends that I grew up with. It has gotten to a point where I don't feel safe in the city where I was born and raised in. I have witnessed multiple shootings on my block and a few right in front of my house over things that are not worth fighting or even killing over. Every time I leave my house I feel like I am always alarmed and ready to run and hide in case anything were to happen. The only time that feeling goes away is when I leave New York City. I knew that I wanted to go to college since I was very young and watching the violence in New York City has made me feel like the only way I can escape gun violence is to go to college far away from my city. In the fall I will be attending Howard University as a Computer Science major in hopes of becoming a Software Developer. I owe it to Brent, who wasn’t able to finish college, and all of my friends who were taken too soon and were not able to finish highschool, to excel in school. Life is short, and I cannot take it for granted, while I am alive. If I set my mind to do well in school, then I will.

When I was five years old I remember waking up in the middle of the night and hearing the phone ring and following my mother as she ran to answer it. The house was silent, and I was standing right behind her. I heard distant crying and screaming on the other side of the phone. My mother, then, dropped the phone and started crying and screaming. I had never seen my mother like that before. She then broke the news to me that my young neighbor, Brent, who used to pick me up from school whenever my parents couldn't, was murdered. He was dead. The five-year-old child that I was, didn’t understand what death was, but I knew from the way that everyone else reacted that it wasn’t a good thing. I continued to live my life, like any child that age would, but knowing that Brent was gone forever felt strange. Brent would never pick me up from school again. Some years passed, and I was now an eleven-year old, sixth-grader, and my parents had a friend named Ceford, who picked me up after school on Tuesdays and Fridays. I loved it when he came to pick me up because every Friday he bought me chicken nuggets and a chocolate milkshake from McDonald's. He was the funniest man, he would joke with me, tell me stories, and make me laugh. He told me that he would teach me how to drive, so that I could get my license before my mother and sister. He always would say “Make sure you do well in school, so that you can live a nice life; everything pays off, Abigail!” Ceford continued to pick me up until seventh grade. In eighth grade, I began taking the bus home by myself, so I did not see Ceford as often, but at the beginning of the school year he stopped by and brought me a plethora of school supplies. Not long after I started the eighth grade, a Monday morning in October, my mom got a call that Ceford had died overnight; he had a heart attack. She shared the news with me, but she didn’t expect my response. I immediately broke down crying. I was heartbroken. I remember thinking how could this nice man, my friend, be dead. It was not fair. This was the first time in my young life that I truly understood what death meant, and how much it affected me. Yes, Brent died several years earlier, but I didn’t understand much, all I knew was that it felt strange that my neighbor was never coming home again. After Ceford died, I started to understand that death was natural. Some people die at a young age, while others die when they are old. Some people die from sickness, while others, like Ceford, die suddenly. I realized that death made me feel sorrowful, and I would never get used to death, but it is part of a cycle. I understood that life is short, death is unexpected, and that I should not take the time that I am here for granted. Both of these individuals were important people during my formative years. From Brent picking me up from school and Ceford affirming that school was impactful. I owe it to Brent, who wasn’t able to finish college, and Ceford who encouraged me to complete school, to excel in school. Life is short, and I cannot take it for granted, while I am alive. If I set my mind to do well in school, then I will.

Growing up as a black child in the U.S, I was told that black students were not able to attend institutions with white students, so schools were made specifically for black students, but I did not know the seriousness behind that situation until a few years ago. In 2020, during the uprise of the Black Lives Matter movement, I came across a post on Instagram showing rejection letters from the 1940s and 50s that were sent to black students who applied to multiple higher education institutions. A few of those schools were Alabama Polytechnic Institute, Emory University, and The University of Texas. Those are all schools that I know at least one person that attended. After viewing that post I did a lot of research on the topic and came to a conclusion that I would and could not attend a school that would have rejected my grandparents just because of the color of their skin. I recall discussing that topic with my sister who attended a predominantly white institution, Franklin and Marshall College, and she told me that when she got on campus she was informed that outside of one of the main buildings, many slaves were lynched. It was at that point that I started researching HBCUs. This year I decided to stick to my plan and commit to an HBCU. I will be attending the illustrious Howard University in the fall and I will be the first person in my family to attend an HBCU. I will be majoring in computer science and I will work to become a software developer and help close the gender and race gap in STEM.