"My test became my testimony" encapsulates the transformative journey I have undergone, evolving from the hardships I faced into a source of strength and inspiration for myself and others. Growing up in a home marked by my father's alcoholism and its attendant violence, I confronted challenges that tested my resilience and shaped my character. These difficult experiences could have defined me negatively, but instead, they became the crucible in which my inner strength was forged. His struggles with alcoholism often manifested in bouts of violence that created an atmosphere of fear and instability at home. As a young child trying to navigate this tumultuous environment, I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about how to cope. Finding a safe outlet became crucial for my emotional and mental well-being. Discovering sports as my outlet was transformative. Whether I was shooting a basketball or swinging a bat, the physical exertion provided a release from the stress and anxiety I felt. Sports not only became a form of therapy but also a sanctuary where I could temporarily escape the chaos of my home life and channel my emotions into something productive and positive. Through dedication and practice, I found not just a hobby but a passion that helped me persevere through the darkest moments. To anyone facing similar challenges, I strongly encourage finding an outlet that brings solace and empowerment. Whether it’s through sports, art, music, or other activities, having a constructive way to process emotions and manage stress can make a profound difference. For me, sports not only offered an escape but also fostered resilience and determination. Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that overcoming adversity has shaped who I am today. The trials I faced have instilled in me a deep strength and resilience that I draw upon in every aspect of my life. I have learned to navigate challenges with courage and grace, understanding that each hardship has contributed to my personal growth and character development. My experiences have taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of turning struggles into strengths. As I pursue my education and future career in sports management, I carry with me a profound empathy for others facing adversity. I am committed to using my platform to advocate for those who may feel voiceless and to contribute to initiatives that promote healing and empowerment. My personal journey has shown me that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and impact. My story is not just a testament to resilience but a testament to the power of turning adversity into advocacy and action.

Attending Spelman College has profoundly shaped my understanding of how to leverage my education to create a better path for Black people in the business world. Being surrounded by strong, inspirational Black women at Spelman has equipped me with the confidence, resilience, and leadership skills necessary to make a significant impact. This environment has shown me the power of representation and the importance of creating opportunities for those who come after me. In my future career in sports management, I plan to use my education and experiences to address the underrepresentation of Black women in the field. The sports industry, like many other sectors, faces significant diversity and inclusion challenges. By entering this space, I aim to be a catalyst for change and advocate for greater representation and equity. One of my primary goals is to develop and implement programs that support the career advancement of Black women in sports management. This includes mentorship and professional development initiatives that connect young Black women with established professionals who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities. By fostering these connections, I hope to create a pipeline of talented Black women ready to lead and innovate in the sports industry. Moreover, I plan to work with sports organizations to promote diversity and inclusion at all levels. This involves advocating for policies that ensure equitable hiring practices, creating inclusive workplace environments, and providing resources and support for underrepresented groups. By influencing organizational culture and practices, I aim to make the sports industry more welcoming and supportive for Black women and other marginalized groups. Education and awareness are also crucial components of my strategy. Many organizations and individuals are unaware of the systemic barriers that Black women face in the business world. By raising awareness through workshops, seminars, and public speaking engagements, I hope to educate others about these challenges and inspire collective action. An informed and engaged community can drive meaningful change and support initiatives that promote equity and inclusion. Additionally, I plan to leverage my platform to highlight the achievements and contributions of Black women in sports management. Media representation plays a significant role in shaping public perception and inspiring future generations. By showcasing the successes of Black women in the field, I hope to challenge stereotypes, celebrate diversity, and encourage young Black girls to pursue careers in sports management and other business sectors. Attending Spelman College has instilled in me the importance of community and collaboration. I have learned that collective efforts are essential for driving progress and creating lasting change. In my future career, I plan to build strong networks and partnerships with like-minded individuals and organizations committed to advancing diversity and inclusion. By working together, we can amplify our impact and create a more equitable and inclusive business world. In conclusion, my education at Spelman College has provided me with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration needed to build a better path for Black people in the business world. Through my career in sports management, I aim to advocate for greater representation, support the career advancement of Black women, and promote diversity and inclusion at all levels. I am committed to making a meaningful impact and creating opportunities for future generations to thrive and succeed.

In the future, I aspire to build a career in sports management, where I can merge my passion for sports with my desire to drive positive change. My personal experience as a female athlete has provided me with insight into the challenges and underrepresentation that women face in the sports industry. These experiences have fueled my determination to bridge this gap and become a dedicated advocate for female athletes. The sports industry is vast and multifaceted, offering numerous opportunities to make a meaningful impact. My primary goal is to work with sports organizations to develop and implement programs and policies that promote gender equality. Women in sports often face unique challenges, including unequal pay, limited media coverage, and fewer opportunities for advancement. By addressing these issues, I hope to create a more inclusive environment where female athletes receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve. Mentorship and development programs are central to my vision. Many young female athletes lack access to role models and mentors who can guide them through the complexities of a sports career. By establishing mentorship programs, I aim to connect aspiring athletes with seasoned professionals who can offer valuable advice, support, and encouragement. These relationships can be instrumental in helping young women navigate their careers and achieve their full potential. Advocacy is another crucial aspect of my career aspirations. I plan to work closely with stakeholders, including sports organizations, sponsors, and policymakers, to advocate for the equitable treatment of female athletes. This includes pushing for equal pay, better training facilities, and more investment in women's sports programs. Advocacy efforts can help bring about systemic changes that create a more level playing field for female athletes. Education and awareness are also essential components of my strategy. Many people are unaware of the extent of the disparities in women's sports. By raising awareness through campaigns, workshops, and public speaking engagements, I hope to educate the broader community about these issues and inspire collective action. An informed and engaged public can play a significant role in driving change and supporting initiatives that promote gender equality in sports. Attending Spelman College has been instrumental in shaping my vision and reinforcing my determination. Being surrounded by strong, inspirational Black women has taught me the importance of leadership, advocacy, and resilience. The supportive and empowering environment at Spelman has equipped me with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the sports management field. I have learned that my voice matters and that I have the power to drive change, not only in sports management but in any field I choose to pursue. My time at Spelman has also highlighted the importance of community and collaboration. I have seen firsthand how collective efforts can lead to significant progress. I plan to build strong networks and partnerships with like-minded individuals and organizations. In conclusion, my future career in sports management is driven by a deep passion for sports and a commitment to gender equality. I aim to advocate for female athletes, create opportunities for their development, and increase their visibility. My experiences as a female athlete and my education at Spelman College have equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and determination to achieve these goals. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to making a meaningful impact in sports management.

In the future, I aspire to pursue a career in sports management. As a female athlete, I've experienced the underrepresentation and challenges women face in the sports industry. I aim to bridge this gap and advocate for female athletes, ensuring they receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve. I want to create platforms and programs that promote gender equality in sports, provide mentorship, and empower young girls to pursue their athletic dreams without barriers. Being Black to me is a source of immense pride and resilience. It means embracing a rich cultural heritage, overcoming adversity, and contributing to a legacy of strength, creativity, and excellence. My identity as a Black woman shapes my perspective and fuels my determination to make a positive impact in all my endeavors. Choosing to attend Spelman College has been one of the most transformative decisions of my life. At Spelman, I have been surrounded by strong, intelligent, and inspiring Black women who have taught me the importance of sisterhood, leadership, and self-advocacy. This environment has nurtured my personal and professional growth, instilling in me the confidence and skills needed to excel in my future career. Spelman has equipped me with the tools to make my mark on the world, reinforcing the importance of lifting as we climb. Here, I've learned that my voice matters and that I have the power to drive change, not only in sports management but in any field I choose to pursue.

As a young African American college student, my experience with mental health has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. Struggling with the unique pressures of academic expectations, societal stereotypes, and personal challenges has made me more resilient and empathetic. Throughout college, I have struggled many times, and the only thing I could do was count on my peers. During my freshman year of college, I battled with anxiety and depression. Being surrounded by new friends who genuinely cared is the only thing that helped me through. During my sophomore year of college, my brother was murdered. As anyone could imagine my whole world shook. I couldn't get out of bed for weeks, I wouldn't eat. I was in a deep depression after this traumatic event happened. Because of my battle with mental health during college, I am no more understanding and open to helping others get through those trying times. I aim to advocate for mental health awareness and resources, particularly within minority communities, to break the stigma and provide support for others facing similar issues. These experiences have strengthened my relationships, fostering deeper connections based on mutual understanding and support. Ultimately, they have broadened my perspective, making me more conscious of the importance of mental health and the need for systemic change in how it is addressed in educational and social environments.As a young African American college student, my journey with mental health has deeply influenced my aspirations, connections, and worldview. Navigating the distinctive pressures of academic demands, societal biases, and personal struggles has fortified my resilience and empathy. Throughout my college experience, I encountered significant challenges and found solace in the unwavering support of my peers. In my freshman year, I grappled with anxiety and depression, and the genuine concern of my new friends carried me through. In my sophomore year, the tragic murder of my brother plunged me into a profound state of depression. These trials have equipped me to be more understanding and supportive of others facing similar circumstances. My goal is to champion mental health awareness and resources, particularly within minority communities, to dismantle the stigma and extend a helping hand to those in need. These experiences have deepened my relationships, fostering profound connections founded on empathy and solidarity. Ultimately, they have broadened my perspective, prompting a heightened awareness of the significance of mental health and the imperative for systemic change in addressing it within educational and social settings.

I have been an example of how volunteering can change someone's life. I was born in Englewood, a neighborhood on the south side of Chicago. This neighborhood is widely known for its violence, drug activity, and gang affiliations. My mother was trying to protect me from the dangerous and illegal activity surrounding me. While my mother was trying to protect me, my father lived that life. As a child, I have witnessed multiple drug transactions, gang meetings, and a lot more children should not be a witness to. This life and neighborhood have been a stuck point for so many people. I have seen many people get sucked into the life of crime, trying to survive or fit in, and from many examples, often, once you get started, it is tough to stop, which is why I am very grateful for my mother. As a counselor at a very troubled Chicago Public School, she saw struggling teens just trying to survive all the time, and she knew she didn't want that life for me. My mother put me in the best schools, giving me the resources to excel academically. I was involved in many extracurricular activities to keep me busy and find a purpose which led me to karate. I started karate when I was five years old. After witnessing my grandfather's passing, I felt I had to learn how to protect my family and take over his role as protector. This became one of the best decisions of my life. I was naturally gifted in martial arts, quickly leading to much success. Throughout my martial arts journey, I was talked down upon by friends and family, telling me this was a boy's sport. Coaches placed bets on me, measuring how far I would get. People told me I wouldn't be anything and karate wouldn't take me anywhere. My mom stayed in my corner through all the negativity and kept me motivated. I used every negative comment and every bet against me as fuel to keep going. This led me to multiple grand championships, led me to become the first 16-year-old to test for my black belt in front of the international board and passing; this led me to become a member of the US team, being the only athlete representing the state of Illinois winning two silver and one gold medal at the World Martial Arts Games in London, this led me to be ranked number one in the nation for 12 consecutive years. We all have a beginning, but it doesn't matter if it is good or bad; all that matters is what you do with it.

I have been doing Martial Arts for 16 years, studying the traditional style Okinawan Shuri-Ryu. I have competed in the Martial Arts World Games 2019 in London on the U.S team representing the state of Illinois, winning two silver medals, one in kata and won in weapons, and a gold medal in fighting. I have learned many lesson from martial arts. One of many that stuck with me is no matter who tells you no, as long as you keep working and striving, you will eventually get your yes. I was a brown belt for about five years, winning my divisions and constantly improving; however my sensei would not allow me to test for black belt promotion. Because I have been successful and my improvement was showing, many people noticed and started to watch me, including the system head. He personally invited me to the international symposium to test in front of the national board at the age of 16. No one in our system was allowed to test before the age of 16, but he took a chance on me. It was a three day long test, but in the end I passed, becoming the first person to test and receive my black belt in front of the international board under the age of 16. Now they allow other’s to test starting at the age of 16. This was one the most important lessons I have learned, because from that experience, I earned a spot on the US team.

As a female athlete, I understand the challenges females have to endure in the sports industry. This is the main reason why I want to pursue a career in sports. I am working to pursue a career in sports management. I want to be an ear and voice for women in sports. From my personal experiences, throughout my martial arts career, I did not have someone to stand up for me or guide me. Especially in a male-dominant sport, I was often underestimated and overlooked. I had to make my name known and earn the respect that I deserved. That came with hard work, as we say in sports a lot of blood, sweat, and tears. It was challenging, but eventually, my name was known. I had earned the respect of my fellow athletes. My experiences showed me that women need more representation in sports which is why I am so passionate about getting into a position where I can help my fellow female athletes. Be a voice for them.

My name is Alexis Harvey. I am a daughter, sister, mentor and friend. Throughout my 19 years of living, I have been through so much, but I am grateful for the things I’ve been through because it has helped shape who I am. At the age of five, my mother and I found my grandfather deceased on our living room couch. I remember feeling helpless, stuck, scared. It was October 31, 2007 instead of being excited to go trick or treating like other kids, I am standing there looking at my best friend, not comprehending that he’s not coming back. Shortly after that I started karate, because my grandfather was the protector of my family, I felt like I had to take over. I went on to be ranked number one in the nation for 12 consecutive years. The youngest person ever to test in front of the international board for my black belt. Competed on the US team representing the state of Illinois at the World Martial Arts Games winning two silver medals and one gold medal. With everything I’ve been through in life, I have learned valuable lessons, for example how to keep going, dedication, determination, and discipline. I plan to continue to be an example to my siblings and anyone else who looks to me for inspiration. I want to live by example and show them that this life is ours, the future is now, and we should live it by any means necessary.

Girl Power is defined as the art of pure, unadulterated dopeness that every woman exudes, which beholds not only her internal and external beauty but demonstrates the glory of God the creator. I feel I am Girl Power. Being a highly active female athlete in a male-dominated sport takes a different level of confidence, determination, and natural leadership ability. Karate has had a huge impact on my life and has shaped me into the young woman I am today. This organized art has taught me self-confidence, faith, mental and physical strength, and the ability to be an effective leader by mastering the art of following. The strength and confidence mentioned above were not qualities I have always possessed. At the age of four, my mom and I found my grandfather after his untimely death. Even at such a young age, I remember my feelings like it was yesterday. That very moment, watching my grandfather who appeared to be sleeping and my mom screaming, I felt completely empty. He always told me “granddaughter, you are brilliant, like no other, you are strong and a natural-born leader, true girl power”. Despite my hardships throughout my life, I have always made it my mission to use those downfalls as fuel and motivation to keep myself driven. His voice and his words live in my head as a constant reminder to not only work for those who count on me but to work and achieve everything I can for myself. As I continue to mature and grow into my womanhood, I see more every day that I am not meant to work a nine to five job behind a desk. I plan to continue to expand my brand Eye Ego, which stands for seeing everything God-ordained. Part of the profits goes to helping younger kids explore the arts, whether it's dance, martial arts, or music. I want to allot the same opportunities, life lessons, and release I was blessed to have to younger generations. Staying hands-on, I will continue to spread my knowledge and teaching to younger generations by continuing instructing kids in martial arts. I was able to achieve my goals because someone believes in me, I want to pass that on. More now than ever, I see that every day is a blessing and I want to set the example for my sibling that you can do whatever you put your mind to no matter what is going on around you. I will make sure that they know the future is now, this life is theirs, and they are going to live it by any means necessary.