When I think about the qualities that make a person truly great, I look beyond their professional achievements and focus on how they use their platform to impact the world. That’s why I’m a fan of LeBron James, not just because of his incredible basketball skills, but because of the way he has transcended the sport to become a powerful force for positive change. LeBron embodies the idea that every athlete is more than just an athlete, and his commitment to uplifting underserved communities is what truly sets him apart. LeBron’s accomplishments on the court are nothing short of legendary. With four NBA MVP awards, four NBA championships, and two Olympic gold medals to his name, he has solidified his place among the basketball elite. His ability to dominate the game, whether through scoring, passing, or defense, has earned him the admiration of fans and peers alike. However, while his on-court success is undeniable, what impresses me most about LeBron is how he has used his influence off the court. One of the most inspiring examples of LeBron’s dedication to giving back is the opening of the I-Promise School in his hometown of Akron, Ohio. This public school is designed to support at-risk children, providing them with the resources and education they need to succeed. For LeBron, this school is more than just a charitable endeavor; it’s a testament to his belief in the power of education to change lives. By investing in the future of these children, LeBron is helping to break the cycle of poverty and giving them the tools to build a brighter future. In my eyes, LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time, not just because of his extraordinary talent, but because of the way he has utilized his talent to make a difference. He has surpassed Michael Jordan in my eyes, not only for his achievements on the court but for his unwavering commitment to using his platform to uplift others. LeBron’s legacy will be defined not just by the championships he’s won, but by the lives he’s touched along the way.

Growing up in Nashville, Tennessee, a city rich in culture, history and country music, has greatly influenced my vision for the future. Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, but it's also a city with a deep sense of community and tradition. The people here take pride in supporting local businesses, and this has always inspired me. I’ve seen how small businesses, particularly those that cater to the community's needs, can be a driving force for economic growth and social cohesion. This has shaped my goal of using my Business degree to open a hair salon that not only serves the community but also contributes to its development. From a young age, I recognized the importance of self-expression and the role that personal appearance plays in confidence and identity. As a natural hair braider, I’ve had the privilege of helping people feel good about themselves, but I’ve also seen the potential for something greater, a business that could make a real impact. My dream is to open a hair salon in Nashville that specializes in natural hair care and styling. This salon would not only offer services but also create jobs, provide training, and empower others in the community. In Nashville, many neighborhoods are experiencing economic revitalization, but there are still areas that lack access to quality services and employment opportunities. By opening my salon in one of these underserved areas, I hope to address both of these issues. My goal is to hire local talent and provide them with the training and resources they need to succeed. This includes not only hair stylists but also administrative and customer service roles. By creating jobs, I can help stimulate the local economy and provide a pathway for others to improve their livelihoods. Also, I plan to offer internships and apprenticeships for young people interested in pursuing careers in the beauty industry. In Nashville, as in many places, there are talented individuals who just need the right opportunities to thrive. By providing hands-on experience and mentorship, I aim to equip them with the skills and confidence they need to start their own businesses or advance in their careers. In addition to job creation and training, I’m passionate about promoting self-care and wellness through my salon. Nashville is a city that values health and well-being, and I want my business to reflect those values. My salon will offer workshops on natural hair care, skincare, and overall wellness, emphasizing the importance of taking care of oneself both inside and out. These workshops will be free or low-cost, making them accessible to everyone in the community. My ultimate vision is for my salon to become a cornerstone of the community, a place where people can come not just to get their hair done, but to connect, learn, and grow. I want it to be a space that uplifts everyone who walks through the door, whether they’re a client, an employee, or a young person looking for guidance. By using my Business degree to turn this vision into reality, I believe I can make a lasting, positive impact on Nashville. My roots in Nashville have instilled in me a deep appreciation for community and a desire to contribute to its well-being. Through my hair salon, I plan to create jobs, provide valuable services, and empower others, all while strengthening the local economy. My Business degree will give me the knowledge and skills to make this dream a reality, and I’m excited to see the positive changes it will bring to my community.

The scent of hair oils have been constants in my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in a household that cherished both education and the art of hair care, I found myself at the intersection of two worlds that shaped who I am today. My name is Alexandria Johnson, and I am an upcoming sophomore at Alabama A&M University, majoring in business with a 3.91 GPA. My journey has been shaped by a blend of academic dedication, a strong commitment to my family, and active involvement in my community. As a certified braider, I have found a unique way to blend my passion for natural hair care with my desire to give back to those around me. Education has always been a cornerstone in my family. Growing up, I was inspired by the emphasis my parents placed on learning and self-improvement. They instilled in me the importance of not just achieving personal success but also paving the way for others. As I continue my academic journey, I am committed to taking this tradition of education to the next generation, ensuring that they have a role model to look up to. In addition to my academic pursuits, I contribute to my family by helping to maintain a supportive and nurturing environment. My role as a certified braider allows me to provide a valuable service to my community while also supporting my family financially. My small business is more than just a source of income; it is a platform through which I can positively impact the lives of those around me. Each year, I make it a point to give back to my community by offering two free braiding styles to young girls preparing to return to school. These girls might not otherwise be able to afford professional hair services, and by offering my skills, I hope to boost their confidence and ensure they start the school year feeling proud and beautiful. Looking forward, I plan to sustain and expand my community involvement post-college. With a business degree, I aim to open a full-service natural hair salon that not only provides exceptional hair care but also serves as a community hub. This salon will offer workshops on hair maintenance, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Also, I intend to establish a scholarship fund for young girls interested in cosmetology and business. This initiative will provide them with the financial support they need to pursue their passions and achieve their goals. By investing in the education and development of the next generation, I hope to create a ripple effect of positive change within my community. My background as a dedicated student, family supporter, and active community member has equipped me with the skills and drive to make a lasting impact. Through my continued efforts, I am committed to upholding the tradition of education, supporting my community, and inspiring others to achieve their dreams.

As a high school dance captain and a young entrepreneur, my journey has been a testament to my unwavering commitment to leadership, exemplified through effective communication, innovative thinking, and sound decision-making. In the role of dance captain, I quickly learned the indispensable value of clear communication. My responsibilities extended beyond personal performance; I had to ensure the entire team was prepared and cohesive, so we could accomplish our goals seamlessly. Communicating with my fellow dancers and collaborating with the coach became second nature, ensuring each season progressed with minimal confusion and maximum motivation. Moreover, my passion for innovation breathed life into our choreography, uniforms, and hairstyles, pushing the boundaries of creativity and inspiring the team to reach new heights. Amidst varying opinions, I embraced the weight of leadership, making sound decisions that ultimately served the greater good of the team. In addition to my roles as a dance captain and an entrepreneur, I have consistently demonstrated my leadership skills by maintaining a commendable 3.9 grade point average throughout my academic journey. Balancing the responsibilities of leading a dance team and excelling in my studies has taught me the importance of prioritization and discipline. As a leader academically, I have strived to lead by example, setting a precedent for my peers that excellence in both extracurricular activities and studies can go hand in hand. I firmly believe that being a well-rounded leader means excelling in all aspects of life, not just in one's chosen pursuits. By maintaining a strong academic record, I have shown my fellow dancers and classmates that our education is a top priority and a crucial steppingstone to fulfilling our dreams and aspirations. Throughout my high school journey, I have faced numerous challenges that tested my time management skills and determination. Yet, I embraced these hurdles with tenacity, refusing to compromise on my commitment to both the dance team and my academic pursuits. In doing so, I have inspired others to recognize the value of academic excellence while actively pursuing their passions. Being a leader in both dance and academia has taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, resilience, and the significance of fostering a supportive environment. My dedication to maintaining a strong academic standing while leading the dance team has fostered a sense of camaraderie within the group, as we collectively strive for excellence on all fronts. Stepping into the world of entrepreneurship at the tender age of fourteen, I quickly grasped the significance of professionalism and effective communication with clients. Building my own business demanded adaptability and a profound sense of leadership. Over the years, these traits have grown and evolved with me, enabling me to conquer new challenges with determination and resilience. I have honed my leadership skills through practice, continuously striving to better myself in every endeavor I undertake. Throughout my leadership journey, I have grown not only in knowledge but also in heart. Each experience has fortified my resolve to make a positive impact on those around me. I understand that true leadership is not solely about guiding others; it is about creating a ripple effect of inspiration, empowerment, and personal growth. As I look back on my accomplishments, I am eager to carry these valuable leadership skills into my future endeavors, whether as a student, a professional, or an agent of change in my community. As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I am fueled by the unshakable conviction that leadership is not just a quality to possess but a lifelong commitment to positively impact the lives of others.

I am Alexandria Johnson, an enthusiastic and motivated first-year student at Alabama A&M University. I began my academic pursuit in civil engineering with a solid desire to unravel the intricacies and mysteries of this discipline. This essay will provide insights into my self-identity and why I want to secure the scholarship program. I am driven by a desire to change the world. My academic focus has kept me above the GPA of 3.6 throughout high school. My main ambition that drives me is to succeed in Alabama A&M University's College of Engineering program and learn valuable skills that will help me improve society. Besides academia, dance has had a lasting impact on me. In 2022-2023, I was elected the team captain for my high school dance team. This experience helped me gain leadership, teamwork, and discipline skills. Also, it enhanced my creativity, which aligns with my academic goals and civil engineering mission to improve communities. In addition to academia and dancing, I am an entrepreneur. At the age of fourteen, I started my hair braiding business called Crowned by Alex where I specialize in natural hair braiding. Beyond the business sphere, hairstyling was a platform where I interacted with different people and empowered them using my artistic skills. Additionally, my dedication at work extends beyond appearances; I always prioritize following strict hygienic regulations and protecting the health and safety of my clients by providing human-friendly services. Furthermore, participating in community involvement activities has helped shape me. I have seen the transforming power of collective action through my work with kindergarteners in preparation programs and my active participation in the church's coat drives and backpack giveaways. These encounters have strengthened my resolve to give back and demonstrated the incredible potential for change when people come together for a common goal. Besides that, receiving the Barbara J. DeVaney Memorial Scholarship would help me achieve my ambitions. As a civil engineering major at Alabama A&M University, the scholarship would significantly lighten the load of my tuition fees. With the scholarship, I could concentrate on my studies without worrying about the next expense. This financial freedom will alleviate stress and allow me to pursue academic opportunities beyond the classroom. Additionally, this scholarship will help me grow professionally. It will give me the tools to take advantage of research opportunities, internships, and practical experience, which are priceless in civil engineering. Through these experiences, I will acquire information and practical abilities beyond textbooks, equipping me to succeed in a cutthroat employment market. The scholarship will broaden my network by allowing me to attend career-related conferences and workshops. Most significantly, this scholarship will allow me to devote more time and money to community work. I could participate more in volunteering programs like kindergarten readiness, political campaigns, and coat drives. By improving my financial security, I could contribute more to these projects and improve the lives of persons and families facing various challenges. As a woman of color pursuing an engineering career, I am committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in these fields. The scholarship would allow me to actively promote STEM representation and opportunities for marginalized groups, fulfilling my commitment to societal improvement through a more just and comprehensive future.