Growing up in New Haven, I learned early that stories can either shape you or save you. As a young Black student, I’ve always been deeply aware of how my identity, community, and dreams intersect with broader narratives about access, justice, and representation. That’s why I’ve dedicated my life to pursuing an education that empowers me to rewrite those stories—through journalism, theater, and service. My passion for education began when I was placed in a reading and writing strategies class early in high school. It was designed to support students who needed extra help. For some, that label might have felt limiting. But for me, it was a launchpad. I knew I was capable of more, and I worked relentlessly to prove that. By junior year, I was enrolled in college-level courses. Now, I’m preparing to enter college with the ambition of majoring in journalism and minoring in theater—two fields where storytelling meets truth and creativity meets purpose. In journalism, I see a tool for change. I want to use my voice to amplify the stories of marginalized communities—stories that often go unheard or are misrepresented. In theater, I’ve found my soul. Performing has taught me empathy, leadership, and the power of human connection. Whether I’m on stage playing Sebastian in The Little Mermaid or leading chants at a Black Lives Matter march, I’m always finding ways to use art to make a difference. My experiences with the Coalition for Peace and Empowerment (formerly Ice the Beef) have been key in shaping that commitment. After losing two cousins to gun violence, I joined the organization as a way to turn grief into action. Today, I serve as the Youth President, organizing peace rallies, mentoring younger students, and helping to build a culture of healing and empowerment among youth in my city. It’s through this work that I’ve truly seen how education, storytelling, and community activism are interconnected. In college, I plan to continue this work on a larger scale. I want to intern at media organizations that focus on social justice. I want to write, perform, and create stories that center Black and Brown voices. Eventually, I hope to make my multimedia platform or show, combining journalism, performance, and education, to inform, inspire, and mobilize others. I believe that cultural literacy—understanding the richness of different identities, traditions, and experiences—is the key to building a more compassionate world. Education is more than grades and tests. For me, it’s the means to a mission: to empower my community, honor my roots, and open doors for those who come after me. This scholarship would help alleviate some of the financial burden that comes with pursuing big dreams. But more importantly, it would affirm my belief that with enough ambition, drive, and heart, young people like me can—and will—change the world.

Charity is essential to me because it represents love in action. It’s about using what you have—whether it's time, energy, or resources—to make life better for someone else. Growing up, I watched my mother work hard to provide for my siblings and me, often without much help. Her selflessness taught me that even when you don’t have a lot, giving what you can makes a difference. That lesson stuck with me and has shaped how I lead and serve others. Through organizations like the Coalition for Peace and Empowerment and my role as student government president, I’ve already begun giving back, mentoring youth, organizing school-wide events, and promoting peace in my community. In the future, I plan to continue serving by using my platform in journalism to highlight underrepresented voices and tell stories that inspire action. I’ll also support youth programs in underserved communities, making sure the next generation feels seen, heard, and supported, just like others once did for me.

My name is AJ Johnson, and I’m a young Black man from New Haven, Connecticut, with a passion for storytelling, leadership, and community empowerment. Everything I do—whether on stage, in the classroom, or out in the community—is rooted in the desire to inspire others and create change. My dream is to use my voice and talents to uplift underrepresented communities through acting, broadcast journalism, and digital storytelling. I believe that stories have the power to change lives, shift perspectives, and build bridges. Attending Morehouse College will help me sharpen my skills, expand my leadership, and continue the legacy of Black excellence that inspires me daily. Losing two of my cousins to gun violence changed my life. One was killed in 2020, and another in 2023. Their deaths fueled my desire to break cycles of violence and become a leader in my community. I joined Ice the Beef, a youth-led anti-violence organization in New Haven. I started as a participant but quickly grew into the role of Youth President, organizing peace marches, speaking at events, and mentoring middle school students who, like me, needed guidance and hope. This experience showed me that leadership isn’t just about taking action—it’s about helping others see their own potential. At Morehouse, I see a place where I can grow as a scholar, an artist, and a leader. Morehouse isn’t just a college—it’s an incubator for Black male excellence, where students are challenged to think critically and lead with purpose. I want to be part of a brotherhood where I am pushed to grow but also supported by a community that understands my experience. The legacy of Morehouse men like Spike Lee, Samuel L. Jackson, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. inspires me. They each used their voice and platform to make an impact, and I want to follow in their footsteps, while carving out my own path. My future career goal is to become an actor, screenwriter, and producer with my own television show. I aim to create content that amplifies Black voices and shares authentic stories about our communities. I also have a deep passion for broadcast and digital journalism. Through news reporting and storytelling, I want to spotlight real issues, from gun violence to education inequities, and be a voice for change. Whether it’s through film, television, or journalism, my goal is to spark conversations and action that lead to progress. Morehouse will provide me with the academic foundation and network I need to make these dreams a reality. I plan to major in Cinema, Television, and Emerging Media Studies (CTEMS) while also exploring opportunities in Journalism. I want to build my craft, expand my knowledge of media production, and develop as a leader who uses storytelling to transform communities. I’ve overcome adversity by turning pain into purpose. I lead with compassion, empathy, and resilience because I’ve experienced loss and know what it’s like to feel voiceless. But I also know the power of reclaiming that voice. Morehouse represents the next step in my journey—a place where I will continue to lead, tell stories, and make a positive impact on the world.

Growing up in New Haven, Connecticut, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of gun violence. But it became deeply personal when I lost two of my cousins—one in 2020 and another in 2023—to senseless shootings. Their deaths shattered me, but they also lit a fire within me to be part of the change my community desperately needed. Motivated by their memory and the desire to break the cycle of violence, I joined Ice the Beef, a youth-led anti-violence organization. At first, I was just showing up and listening, but over time, I realized I had a voice that could make a difference. Eventually, I became the Youth President. In this role, I’ve organized peace marches, led community conversations about violence prevention, and mentored younger students, helping them find alternatives to violence through leadership and the arts. One of my proudest accomplishments was helping to lead a Black Lives Matter march through Yale’s campus, where I used my voice to rally hundreds of people around the message of peace and unity. Beyond activism, I’ve focused on mentoring middle school students, using theater and storytelling to help them process their emotions and build confidence. Looking ahead, I want to expand these efforts by creating workshops that use acting and digital storytelling to give youth positive outlets for self-expression. I also hope to collaborate with local schools and media platforms to amplify stories of young people working for change. My goal is to not only address the issue of gun violence but to empower a generation to rewrite the narrative of our community.

My name is AJ Johnson, and I am a storyteller at heart. Whether I am performing on stage, speaking at a community event, or mentoring younger students, I have always used my voice to inspire, connect, and lead. Growing up in New Haven, Connecticut, I learned early on that life can be unpredictable and challenging. But I also learned that, with resilience and purpose, challenges can be transformed into opportunities to make a difference—not just for yourself, but for others. My life changed forever when I lost two of my cousins to gun violence—one in 2020 and another in 2023. At first, the grief and anger felt overwhelming. It was difficult to make sense of something so senseless. But instead of allowing that pain to define me, I chose to honor their memories by becoming part of the solution. I joined Ice the Beef, a youth-led organization committed to ending violence in New Haven and fostering peace within the community. What started as me attending meetings quickly turned into me leading them. I eventually became the Youth President, helping to organize marches, lead events, and mentor younger members. One of my most powerful experiences was leading chants at a Black Lives Matter march at Yale, standing in front of hundreds of people, using my voice to demand change. That day, I realized that my voice mattered—and I’ve been using it ever since. Outside of activism, I’ve found my passion in storytelling through acting, broadcast journalism, and digital journalism. On stage, I’ve played roles ranging from Horatio in Hamlet to Sebastian the Crab in The Little Mermaid, where I was honored with an award and a Halo nomination. I love how acting allows me to step into different lives and tell stories that make people feel something real. My goal is to have my own show one day and to earn an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony (EGOT). But my dream isn’t about fame—it’s about impact. I want to create films, TV shows, and news stories that amplify underrepresented voices and tell the kinds of stories that inspire people to see the world differently. Education has played a huge role in shaping me. As a student in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, I’ve pushed myself academically while also serving as Student Government President and captain of the football team. These leadership roles have taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, and responsibility—qualities that I carry into everything I do, including my career goals. My plan to make a positive impact on the world is simple: keep telling stories that matter. Whether I’m acting on stage, reporting as a broadcast journalist, or mentoring kids through Ice the Beef, I want my work to make people feel seen, heard, and understood. I believe that storytelling has the power to create empathy and spark social change. And as someone who has faced loss, pain, and adversity, I am determined to use my experiences to uplift others and be a voice for those who feel unheard. In the end, my story is about turning pain into purpose. I plan to use my talents, my voice, and my experiences to make a lasting difference in the world.

One of the most impactful community events I have participated in is the annual Ice the Beef Peace Walk in New Haven, Connecticut. As the Youth President of Ice the Beef, an organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of violence and fostering unity, this event holds a deep personal significance for me. Having lost two cousins to gun violence, I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of community violence, making the mission of this event incredibly meaningful. The Peace Walk brings together people from all walks of life—students, activists, local leaders, and families affected by violence—to march through the streets of New Haven in a united call for peace. As we chant and hold up signs with messages of hope, we create a visible reminder that our community is stronger together. The event serves not only as a tribute to those we have lost but also as an urgent call to action to prevent future tragedies. What makes the Peace Walk particularly meaningful to me is the sense of unity and empowerment it fosters. It is a space where young people, including myself, can take an active role in shaping the future of our community. Throughout the event, I engage in conversations with younger students, encouraging them to channel their pain into activism rather than retaliation. Seeing their faces light up with a sense of purpose reminds me why I do this work—it’s about giving the next generation hope and direction. Beyond raising awareness, the Peace Walk also pushes for tangible change. It amplifies the voices of community members demanding policy reforms, increased investment in youth programs, and better mental health resources for those affected by violence. By marching, we are not just making noise—we are making a statement that our community refuses to accept violence as the norm. As a result of this event, I hope to see a lasting impact in several key areas. First, I want to see more accessible mentorship programs for at-risk youth. Many young people turn to violence because they lack positive role models or support systems. By expanding mentorship initiatives, we can provide guidance and opportunities that deter them from dangerous paths. Second, I would love to see an increase in conflict resolution education in schools. Teaching students how to handle disputes peacefully can prevent violence before it begins. Finally, I hope the Peace Walk inspires more young people to take leadership roles in community activism. If more youth recognize their power to effect change, we can build a stronger, safer future. Participating in the Ice the Beef Peace Walk is more than just an event for me—it is a movement toward a better New Haven. It reminds me of my responsibility to continue advocating for peace, not just on the day of the march, but every single day. Through this event, I have seen the power of community coming together, and I am committed to ensuring that our efforts lead to lasting, positive change.

Title: Unscripted Opening Scene: The screen fades from black. I stand backstage, hidden in the shadows, just outside the bright stage lights. I can hear the low hum of the audience—their collective anticipation, waiting for the show to start. I can feel the tension in the air. It’s the feeling I know all too well, the one I’ve come to crave: the moment before you step into the spotlight. I take a deep breath, my heart pounding in rhythm with the murmurs from the crowd. A mirror in front of me reflects a 17-year-old me, half in costume, half in my own clothes. The blend of the two symbolizes where I am in my life. It’s not just about acting—it’s about living the stories I’ve been given and the ones I’m still writing. "For as long as I can remember, the stage has been my home. But life? Life doesn’t come with a script. You write it as you go." Suddenly, the stage disappears, and I’m transported to the streets of New Haven, where I’m marching with Ice the Beef, leading chants to stand against gun violence. My megaphone amplifies our voices, filling the streets with power and purpose. I see a younger version of myself, uncertain but determined, walking with me. That day, the world felt heavy on my shoulders, but there was something powerful in knowing I wasn’t alone. There was hope in the crowd, in our unity, and it fueled something inside me. This wasn’t just a protest; it was a realization. It was the moment I realized I could be more than just a voice on stage. I could be a voice for change in my community, using the same passion I had for acting to make a difference in the real world. The scene shifts again. This time, I’m in a middle school classroom, sitting in the front row as a student. But as the camera pulls back, I see myself now on the other side of the classroom. I’m standing at the front, not as a student, but as an assistant director in the very same after-school theater program where I once started. The young students look up to me, wide-eyed and full of the same nervous energy I had when I was their age. One of the kids stumbles over his lines, and I feel the familiar pressure of wanting to help them get it right. I walk over, give him a reassuring smile, and tell him to breathe. The stage isn’t about perfection, I say—it’s about truth. It’s about being real with yourself and your audience. That moment hits me harder than I expect. I realize how much I’ve grown. The stage that helped me find my voice now allows me to help others find theirs. I never imagined that one day I’d be standing there, guiding others just like my teachers and mentors once guided me. The art of storytelling and the lessons learned on stage had shaped me into someone who could offer support and advice, not just to students, but to my community as a whole. Next, the scene blurs, and I’m back in a classroom—this time, it’s my IB History class. I’m surrounded by books, papers, and research as I work on my Internal Assessment about the Black Panther Party in New Haven. The significance of this project isn’t just academic; it’s personal. This research goes beyond the classroom—it’s an exploration of my city, my community, and the very essence of what it means to fight for change. I feel the weight of the past and the power of those who fought before me. As I dive deeper into the history of the Black Panther Party’s role in New Haven, I realize that activism and leadership are also forms of performance. They require passion, vision, and the ability to inspire others to take action. These are lessons I’ve learned not just from history books, but from the very people who’ve shaped my life. In the next shift, I’m standing backstage again, but this time, it’s different. The setting is unfamiliar—larger, grander, more professional. I’m stepping out onto a grand stage, the lights glaring down on me. This time, there’s no script to follow, no lines to memorize. There’s only me. I step into the spotlight, and the world feels alive with possibility. The audience is silent, waiting for something—maybe something new, maybe something that has yet to be written. In that moment, I realize that the stage isn’t just where I perform—it’s where I live out my purpose. This moment is unscripted. It’s mine. The scene fades to black, and the title appears: Unscripted.

I grew up in a single-parent household, where my mother was both the provider and nurturer. Her strength and resilience shaped much of who I am today. From a young age, I witnessed the sacrifices she made to ensure our family had what we needed, despite the challenges that came with being a single parent. My mom worked long hours, and I learned the value of hard work, determination, and perseverance through her example. But beyond the material sacrifices, it was her unwavering love and support that taught me the importance of kindness, empathy, and the power of family. These qualities have become the foundation of my character, guiding me through life's ups and downs. Growing up in this environment also meant that I had to mature quickly. I became accustomed to helping with household responsibilities and caring for my younger siblings, often taking on a leadership role. These experiences fostered my sense of responsibility and instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of community and support systems. I saw how my mom’s strong will, despite facing so much on her own, created an environment where we were motivated to succeed, and where empathy and shared goals brought us closer as a family. One of the most transformative events in my life came when I lost two cousins to gun violence—one on January 1, 2023, and the other on February 23, 2020. The weight of their loss forced me to confront the harsh realities of violence in my community, and it ignited within me a passion for activism and social change. Their deaths were a catalyst for my involvement with Ice the Beef, an organization aimed at breaking the cycle of violence in New Haven. Through Ice the Beef, I became more involved in mentoring youth and organizing community events that foster peace and unity. This experience helped me develop a greater understanding of the power of community empowerment and the importance of using one's voice to create change. The loss of my cousins not only deepened my commitment to making a difference but also changed my perspective on what it means to lead. I understood that leadership is not just about titles or accolades; it's about serving others, making a positive impact, and standing up for what is right. It was through my leadership role with Ice the Beef that I truly realized how much one individual can inspire and influence others, especially when driven by a cause greater than oneself. This journey has reshaped my understanding of my own potential and the importance of giving back to the community. It has taught me that while we may face challenges, it is in those challenges that we find the strength to push forward and make a difference in the world. I carry these lessons with me as I continue my academic and personal pursuits, committed to fostering change, promoting peace, and using my voice to challenge injustice wherever I find it.

Playing sports throughout high school has been one of the most rewarding but challenging experiences of my life. Balancing practices, games, and tournaments with schoolwork and other commitments hasn’t been easy, but it’s taught me lessons I’ll carry forever. One of the toughest challenges has been time management. There were so many nights when I’d come home exhausted after a game, but I’d still have to tackle homework or study for an upcoming test. Some weekends were completely packed with tournaments, leaving little time to hang out with friends or just relax. I had to learn to plan ahead and stay on top of my work to make sure I didn’t fall behind. At first, it was overwhelming, but over time, I realized how important it was to prioritize what mattered most. That’s a skill I know will help me in college and beyond. Another challenge was staying healthy—both physically and mentally. Long practices and tough games took a toll on my body, and there were moments when I felt completely drained. The injury was an athlete student's constant fear, and the pressure to perform at my best added to the stress. I had to learn to listen to my body, take care of myself, and not be afraid to ask for help when I needed it. Mentally, there were days when the pressure felt like too much, but pushing through those moments taught me how to stay focused and not give up, even when things got tough. Being a student athlete also meant making sacrifices. I missed out on some parties, family events, and time with friends because I was so committed to my team. At times, it felt isolating, but I kept reminding myself why I was doing it. The moments on the field—winning with my teammates, celebrating a hard-fought victory, or even just improving my own skills—made it all worth it. It taught me to stay dedicated and think about the bigger picture. One of the most valuable lessons I've learned came from working with my team. I’ve been lucky to play with people from all kinds of backgrounds and skill levels. Although we didn’t always agree, we learned how to communicate, trust each other, and work toward the same goal. Those experiences taught me about leadership and how important it is to support the people around you. Looking back, being a high school athlete wasn’t just about playing a sport. It was about learning how to manage my time, handle pressure, make sacrifices, and work with others. These skills have shaped who I am today and prepared me to face challenges with confidence and determination.

The spotlight was blinding, and my heart raced as the opening chords of "Under the Sea" began. I had been cast as Sebastian in my school's production of The Little Mermaid, and while the role was thrilling, it also came with a weight of expectation. As someone who had always loved performing, I knew this role was a chance to showcase my singing abilities like never before. But self-doubt crept in, as it often does before moments of growth. I questioned whether my voice could carry the performance. Would I be able to balance the lively, comedic energy Sebastian required while staying true to the music's technical demands? Doubt echoed louder than my voice in rehearsals. It was during this time that I turned to my faith for guidance and strength. Late one evening, after a particularly shaky rehearsal, I found myself reflecting on a Bible verse my grandmother often recited: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). I decided to lean into this belief, choosing to trust that my gifts were meant to be shared and that with preparation and prayer, I could overcome any obstacle. Faith didn’t just mean praying for a better outcome—it meant doing the work and trusting the process. I dedicated extra time to vocal practice, sought feedback from my director, and reminded myself to focus on the joy of the performance rather than perfection. As opening night approached, my confidence grew. The prayers, hard work, and support from my castmates paid off. I gave everything I had. Singing "Under the Sea" became a celebration of resilience, passion, and faith in the gifts I was fortunate enough to receive a one-minute applause for the song. My performance as Sebastian was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience, and I was thrilled to hear their laughter during my comedic moments. When I later won an award for my portrayal of Sebastian and earned a Halo nomination, I felt deeply humbled and grateful. To me, the recognition wasn’t just a testament to my performance but also to the power of perseverance and faith in overcoming challenges. I gave everything I had. That moment affirmed that faith and hard work can transform fear into confidence, allowing you to rise above challenges. Today, whether I’m on stage or facing obstacles off of it, I carry the lessons of Sebastian and that special performance with me, knowing that with faith, I can navigate any storm.

My goals are to achieve academic success, pursue my passions in various fields of art, and secure a stable and well-paying job. I believe that education is the key to opening doors of opportunities, and I am committed to achieving my academic goals. I am currently a Notre Dame West Haven High School student, excelling in my studies and developing a love for learning. As a creative individual, I am passionate about various fields of art, including theater, acting, fashion, and interior design. These fields offer a unique platform to express oneself and connect with others. I have been able to pursue my passion for acting and performing arts through my involvement in the theater club at NDWH. I have also developed an interest in fashion and interior design and enjoy creating unique and beautiful spaces that reflect my personality and style. Regarding my future career path, I have not yet decided on a specific field. However, I am open to exploring various options and discovering what suits me best. I am considering pursuing a career in theater or acting, as they offer a unique and exciting experience. I also think that fashion and interior design provide a lot of potential for creativity and self-expression. Whatever path I choose, I am confident I will work hard to succeed. Apart from my academic and career goals, I am also committed to providing a better future for my family. As a child, I have always seen my mom struggling to make ends meet. She has worked hard to provide for our family, and I want to take some of that burden off of her shoulders. I want to ensure her have a comfortable retirement and that my siblings have a bright future. Therefore, I am working hard to secure a stable and well-paying job after college. Moreover, I believe in giving back to the community and positively impacting the world. I am interested in pursuing opportunities that allow me to contribute to society and help those in need. I believe that by using my talents and skills, I can make a difference in the lives of others. In conclusion, my goals are to achieve academic success, pursue my passions in various fields of art, secure a stable and well-paying job, provide a better future for my family, and positively impact the world. I am committed to putting in the hard work required to achieve my goals and to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. I am excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead.