Despite not personally experiencing addiction issues, being sober has made a huge difference in my life through my close relative. My uncle was struggling with addiction for several years, and in the course of his struggle with substance abuse, he had made our family suffer a lot. He developed harmful tendencies such as beating up his wife and forcing everyone to feel scared and insecure. This experience with addiction showed me that substance abuse doesn’t hurt just one individual, but affects families and whole communities. The most inspiring part of his biography is the fact that it does not end here. My uncle had to make a tough decision to seek help, recover, and lead a completely new life. Recovery was not an answer to all the troubles caused by his behavior, but rather proved that change is possible when a person takes responsibility and tries to improve. Watching him change, I came to realize that sobriety is not only about abstinence from dangerous substances. This journey has influenced how I perceive resilience, responsibility, and compassion. It has also reinforced my conviction that individuals deserve opportunities to avail of the means that could enable them to get through life's difficulties. Instead of labeling individuals based on their biggest failures, I have come to realize the significance and importance of seeing their capacity for change despite the wrongs they have committed. Uncle’s story has also influenced my view of the need to advocate and serve the people in the community. I have witnessed how issues such as addiction, violence, and personal challenges can have an impact not just on the individual involved, but on the whole family. For this reason, I feel that there needs to be more structure within communities to educate, prevent, save, and offer a chance for recovery. My realization has led me to be a person who not only sees the problem but also finds a way to fix it. In my efforts at becoming educated and eventually working to become an attorney, I plan on working towards helping individuals and families that have gone through tough times. I plan on using the law to not only protect those that have been wronged but to assist in systems that promote rehabilitation and accountability where necessary. It was seeing my uncle come out of his problems that taught me the value and usefulness of perseverance, support, and determination.

Question 1, After graduating from Louisiana State University in 2027, I plan to attend law school, completing the 3+3 Law Program and earning a bachelor's degree in English. At the moment I am considering two primary law schools: LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center and Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Both schools offer students strong legal programs and emphasize justice, equity, and public service—values I deeply resonate with. Question 2, Getting better at writing before August is one of my short-term goals. Strong writing, in my opinion, is the foundation of successful communication, particularly in the legal profession. I'm reading more carefully, writing with greater impact, and asking mentors and instructors for feedback in order to work toward this. My long-term goal is to graduate in the top ten percent of my class. I am completely dedicated to the process, even though I know that it will require hard work, time management, and discipline. Getting to this goal will prove that I made the most of my undergraduate experience and strengthen my application to law school. Question 3, I try to learn outside of the classroom by watching documentaries, reading books, and having conversations with people in real life. I'm always trying to learn more about the world, in particular racial, legal, and justice issues. For instance, I became even more aware of the shortcomings of the legal system after viewing the series When They See Us and the Documentary Central Park Five, especially when individuals lack proper legal counsel. These stories inspired me to contribute to the solution by bringing to light the profound effects of injustice. Question 4, I captained the color guard team in high school. We had a major problem at the time: adults working in our program were mishandling and taking funds from our team. Since we were working without an official teacher or supervisor, tensions increased when parents threatened to remove their kids from the team. I took the initiative as captain and personally brought up the matter with the head band director. Despite my anxiety, I knew it was the right thing to do. As a result of my efforts, the problem was solved, and the team members were paid back. I learned from that experience how important it is to speak up, stand up for others, and accept responsibility. Question 5, Since I feel that all individuals must be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of what race or background they may be, I believe firmly in racial equality. It is not fair to judge an individual based solely on the color of their skin, something they have no control over, and it is extremely damaging. I have witnessed throughout my years how individuals of color tend to get less notice, less funding, and fewer opportunities. Long-standing systemic injustice is compounded by this. This is wrong in my view, and I believe that it is our responsibility to challenge and address these injustices. I would like to practice law and advocate for underrepresented people. I would like to apply my legal career to hold individuals accountable and work towards building a society where everybody has an actual access to justice and opportunity.

Young Goodman Brown: A Tale of Morality, Faith, and Disillusionment Hawthorne, Nathenial. “Young Goodman Brown.” The North Anthology of American Literature, edited by Robert S. Levine, 10th ed, vol.1, Norton, 2017, pp. 619- 628. Nathaniel Hawthorne’s short story, “Young Goodman Brown”, gives readers a deeper understanding of the challenges of morality, faith, and one’s mental state. By analyzing this story You may follow the ethical dilemmas and psychological issues that Goodman Brown faces as he attempts to resolve the conflict between Puritan upbringing and the sinister aspects of human nature. Fundamentally, Young Goodman Brown explores the tension between private evil and public virtue, a subject that strikes a chord in the American setting of the nineteenth century. Goodman Brown's trek into the forest represents a break from his society's structured morals and the psychological conflict between sin temptation and religious observance. It appears that Hawthorne criticizes the strict moral standards of Puritanism by implying that there is more room for wickedness and deception beneath the mask of religion. The character growth of Goodman Brown is closely connected to the story’s portrayal of faith. Initially, he sets out with confidence, trusting the morality of his religion and society. But his trust is steadily weakened when he meets other people, such as the mysterious man in the bush. Hawthorne writes, “With almost a serene deportment, Goodman Brown meets the devil” (Hawthorne), highlighting the ease with which he is drawn into temptation. After this experience, Brown is forced to face the disturbing truth that everyone he holds in high regard, including his wife Faith, is susceptible to immorality. This realization is a turning point that signifies the passage from ignorance to disappointment. The woodland is portrayed as a place of moral ambiguity, chaos, and temptation, in stark contrast to the village, which stands for perceived purity and righteousness. Goodman Brown's journey into the forest serves as an exploration of humanity's inherent flaws and hypocrisies; despite his introduction as a “good man,” his experiences in the forest reveal the cracks in his moral resolve, emphasizing the irony behind his name. Finally, Hawthorne uses this setting to question whether true goodness can exist or if it is merely a façade. Another potent figure in the narrative is Faith, Goodman Brown's wife, who stands for both innocence and the frailty of faith in general. Her pink ribbons create a dualism that reflects the tension within Goodman Brown by fusing the intensity of red with the purity of white. A turning point is reached when he spots her pink ribbons in the bush, which destroys his romanticized view of her and sends him into a deep state of depression. He becomes disillusioned and suspicious of everyone around him as a result of this incident, which not only changes his perspective on faith but also completely upends his moral compass. Hawthorne criticizes the intricacies of human nature and the delicate equilibrium between faith and doubt through this symbolism. Readers are left wondering at the story's conclusion if Goodman Brown's encounter was real, a hallucination, or a dream. The lingering effects of Brown's adventure are highlighted by Hawthorne's uncertain conclusion. Upon returning to the village, he becomes a man deeply mistrustful of those around him, unable to reconcile his disillusionment with his previous beliefs. As Hawthorne poignantly captures, “he had lost faith in man, and, in his own soul” (628). This transformation reflects a broader commentary on the human condition and the struggle to maintain faith in a flawed world. All in all, after reading "Young Goodman Brown," it is obvious that Hawthorne's writing is a complex blend of social criticism, psychological struggle, and moral reflection. The story suggests that the path to self-understanding is dangerous and forces the reader to face the darkest sides of human nature as well as the difficulties of keeping faith. In the end, the story by Goodman Brown offers a warning about the perils of abandoning hope and the fallout from disappointment in a world where good and evil are sometimes confused.

Twin Brother Chronicles I have a twin, we’re quite the pair, We look the same, but he’s unaware. He steals my socks, I steal his hat, He says it’s mine, I’m pretty sure that’s flat. We share the same room, same chair, same bed, But somehow, he ends up with all the bread. He’s always ahead in the race to the door, Then blames me for getting there first (what a bore!). We play the same games, but here’s the twist— He cheats, and I’m the one who gets missed. He’s got a laugh that sounds like a squeak, And never, ever listens when I speak. He knows all my secrets—wait, no, I know his! We’re like one brain, just divided in bits. He borrows my jeans, then says they fit better, I laugh and say, “You’re just a trendsetter!” He’s the one who’s always got the cool new tech, While I’m stuck playing catch-up—what the heck?! But when the world tries to tear us apart, We team up together—yeah, that’s the start! We finish each other’s sandwiches (not a joke), Then blame the dog when it all gets soaked. He’s my twin, my buddy, my partner in crime, But sometimes I wish he’d give me some space... just this time.

Since the eighth grade I have been diving deep into my history. Knowing your history gives you the tools you need to navigate through life. I have watched documentaries about the panthers, read books about Dr. King, watched movies about slavery, and took African American studies in high school. However, there is one man who has stood out to me. El Hajj Malik el Shabazz, better known as Malcolm X. Malcolm X really inspires me because of his unwavering honesty, his teachings of self- love, and his extraordinary bravery. His words and actions still resonate with me, especially when it comes to embracing my identity and standing firm in the face of adversity. The profound teachings of Malcolm X have imbued in me a deep understanding of the concept of self-love. I apply his teachings when I look in the mirror and when I interact with other Black people (a concept of "The Black Mirror" that I dreamt up a while ago). I think about what he would say to me, or to another Black person, in condemnation or admiration, or just in understanding. I apply the lessons of my imagining this Black Mirror, and I try not to look away. By his words, you can’t look away. If you look away in hatred and in shame, and for reasons you yourself barely understand, you can’t then turn back and say, "I love the person I see." Applying the Black Mirror concept is one of the ways I imagine that true self-love can be understood. One of Malcolm X's most admirable qualities was his honesty. He spoke truths that many people found uncomfortable, and perhaps even more daring, he spoke those truths to power. Because of his fearlessness, or perhaps in spite of it, he was disliked by many people in authority. But I think even his enemies had to concede the kind of integrity he possessed, for one simple reason: He wasn’t afraid to tell the truth about his own past. U.S. probation records show that during Malcolm’s prison years he was involved in numerous disciplinary infractions, mainly stemming from his refusal to obey orders and his use of profane language, which he seemed to enjoy very much. The life and teachings of Malcolm X present a deeply moving template for cultivating self-love, truthfulness, and courage. His enduring influence calls me to live a life that fully embraces my identity and to resist any push to conform to a less than true version of myself. He inspires me to have the courage to stand up and live my life as a real person—standing up for the things I am genuinely and profoundly passionate about and for sharing with others the gifts that I am passionate about offering. His model is a powerful influence on me and on many people my age in this country. Finally, the bravery of Malcolm X inspires me. He had the courage to challenge the oppressor, to speak out against injustice, and to evolve in the face of criticism. After his pilgrimage to Mecca, his views on race shifted, and he began advocating for unity across racial lines. “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today,” he said, reminding me that change requires both vision and the courage to adapt. Malcolm X’s life and teachings offer a profound blueprint for self-love, truth, and bravery. His legacy reminds me that embracing who we are and standing up for what is right is the most powerful form of resistance.

I remember being at Ruby Young Elementary and having the best history teacher in the world. She would tell us stories and read some of the best books my little fourth-grade ears have ever heard. Ever since then, reading has always been my number one hobby. I have read a variety of genres like romance, horror, fantasy, and more. However, autobiographies are always going to be my favorite. Something about autobiographies motivates me, especially the ones that tell stories of overcoming and perseverance. One of the best books in the world is an autobiography titled, The Autobiography of Malcolm X. This book holds the real-life story of the legendary activist Malcolm X. I believe this is a book that the whole world should read because it dives into the life of a revolutionary thinker and the racial issues in America.  To kick things off, Malcolm X was a prominent African American leader and vocal advocate for black people in the 1950s and 1960s. Born Malcolm Little on May 19, 1925, he became a minister for the Nation of Islam (NOI), promoting black empowerment and self-sufficiency. Reading his book, published months after his assassination in 1965, introduced me to the evolution of his mind.  Malcolm’s autobiography provides a detailed insight into his journey from a troubled youth to a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. His transformation, including his intellectual and spiritual growth, offers valuable lessons on resilience, the power of education, and the impact of personal development on a person’s ability to effect social change.  Apart from this, The Autobiography of Malcolm X looks into the racial issues in the United States. This book gives a detailed and personal perspective on the racial dynamics and oppression in America during the mid-20th century. Malcolm X’s experiences and reflections offer a critical understanding of the civil rights movement, racial injustice, and the ongoing struggles for equality, making it an important read for everyone, especially people interested in American history and social justice.  All in all, The Autobiography of Malcolm X is a powerful testament to resilience. Through Malcolm X’s journey, readers are not only offered a glimpse into the life of a revolutionary thinker but also gain insights into the issues of racial injustice in America. As we continue to navigate the challenges of our time, Malcolm’s autobiography remains a timeless resource for understanding the past and shaping a better future.

What is feminism? American author Laura Bates once said," This is not a man vs. women issue. It's about people vs. prejudice." Meaning gender equality is not just a women's issue-but everyone's issue. Men must comprehend gender equality and take part in its promotion. Feminism is the advocacy of women's rights based on the equality of the sexes. For men, feminism can serve as motivation to change toward more equal and cooperative friendships and relationships, better sharing of care and job obligations, and efforts to lessen both organized and unorganized violence. Many males don't regularly act in a violent or sexist manner. In the fight for gender equality, it is important to have male feminists as allies. As long as they follow these four rules: Honor feminism; Be respectful to those who are pursuing gender equality. Be creative; your audience will grow as a result of your innovation. Join forces; in order to accomplish your goals, seek out others who share your beliefs. Efficiency will rise as a result. Utilize your power; men naturally get greater privileges than women and girls do. This will increase the rights of others while not reducing your own rights. There is a large number of feminists: both male and female; for example, Beyonce, Hillary Clinton, Harry Styles, Barack Obama, John Legend, Angela Davis, and more. My feminist inspiration would have to be Gloria Jean Watkins, also known as bell hooks. Bell was an American novelist and social activist who served as Berea College's Distinguished Professor in Residence. She is well-recognized for her essays on feminism, class, and racism. The world made sense after reading one of her numerous books, such as Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center, Yearning: Race, Gender, and Cultural Politics, or Ain't I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism. She bravely gave us the theories and words to comprehend who we were in a frequently hostile and alienating society, thus rearranging the cosmos. She also made it quite evident that Black women belonged solely to themselves. The fact that footnotes were rejected seemed to represent the reality that the most important knowledge hooks could not fit in those constrained areas. Her writing style gave away the fact that she always had concepts bigger than what even her novels could contain. Her works were love letters to the individuals she cherished dearly, even though they lacked footnotes. Her literature will continue to nourish feminists for many generations, but a generation of feminists has lost a cherished symbol and a founding figure. There are many ways to express feminism. I contribute to the feminist movement by supporting and communicating with others. Speaking up is the most crucial part of being an advocate for me, whether I'm talking to my friends and family or working with an advocacy group. I can raise awareness and smash barriers by speaking for women's rights and gender equality. You can start empowering women in your own house. Women perform at least 2.5 times more unpaid home and care work than men, including everything from cooking and cleaning to carrying water and firewood to looking after children and the elderly. As a result, individuals work hours doing paid and unpaid tasks or have less time for paid work. In conclusion, feminism is the belief that all genders should have equal rights and opportunities. It involves valuing different experiences, identities, skills, and strengths of women and working to ensure that every woman has the opportunity to exercise all of her legal rights.