I chose to further my education in STEM because science has become the bridge between my experiences as an athlete and the healthcare professional I hope to become. I am pursuing kinesiology at Arizona State University as preparation for earning my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. For me, studying STEM is not simply about completing prerequisites or earning another degree. It is about understanding the human body well enough to one day help people recover, move confidently, and return to the lives they love. Athletics have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I spent approximately 18 years practicing martial arts and earned my black belt, while also participating in basketball, softball, and flag football. For years, I experienced movement from an athlete's perspective. I knew how to train, compete, push my body, and work toward better performance. However, tearing my ACL and meniscus during my junior year of college introduced me to the science behind movement and recovery. Going through surgery and physical therapy made me curious about what was happening inside my own body. I became interested in how muscles regain strength, how the body responds to injury, and how rehabilitation can safely prepare someone to return to activity. What began as one of the most difficult experiences of my college career eventually gave me a new direction and purpose. After graduating from Spelman College with a degree in Economics, I began working as a physical therapy technician. My work has allowed me to see subjects such as anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, and rehabilitation applied to real patients every day. I have learned that successful patient care requires scientific knowledge and critical thinking, but also compassion, communication, and an understanding of each patient's individual goals. Studying kinesiology will strengthen my scientific foundation and prepare me for the rigor of physical therapy school. My long-term goal is to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in sports and orthopedic rehabilitation, with the hope of eventually working with high-level and professional athletes. I also want to mentor younger athletes, promote injury prevention, and help make rehabilitation and sports medicine knowledge more accessible within the communities I serve. Receiving this scholarship would reduce the financial burden of continuing my education and allow me to dedicate more of my time and energy to succeeding academically. It would support expenses such as tuition, textbooks, course materials, and other educational costs as I prepare for physical therapy school. Ultimately, this scholarship would be an investment in more than my education. It would help me turn my experiences as an athlete, patient, and physical therapy technician into the scientific knowledge necessary to serve others. Through STEM, I hope to build a career that helps people regain their strength, confidence, independence, and ability to do what they love.

Family, faith, athletics, and education have each played an important role in shaping the woman I am today. I was born and raised in Chicago, and from an early age, I was surrounded by people who taught me the importance of working hard, remaining resilient, and pursuing opportunities that could create a better future. My family has been a source of support throughout my life, and their influence has encouraged me to continue setting higher goals for myself, even when the path toward them has not been easy. Athletics have also been a defining part of my life. I spent approximately 18 years practicing martial arts, eventually earning my black belt. I also participated in basketball, softball, and flag football, where I played quarterback. Being an athlete taught me lessons that extend far beyond competition. Sports taught me discipline, accountability, leadership, and how to continue working when something does not come easily. Playing quarterback especially required me to communicate, make decisions under pressure, and understand that being a leader also means trusting and supporting the people around you. My relationship with athletics changed during my junior year at Spelman College when I tore my ACL and meniscus. Suddenly, I went from competing and trusting my body to undergoing surgery and months of physical therapy. Although the injury temporarily took sports away from me, it ultimately helped me discover what I wanted to do with my future. I graduated from Spelman College with a degree in Economics, an accomplishment that means a great deal to both me and my family. My academic journey was not perfect, but it taught me important lessons about perseverance, responsibility, and discovering a sense of purpose. After graduation, I began working as a physical therapy technician. Being in the clinic has confirmed what my own rehabilitation first showed me: I want to build a career helping people regain their strength, confidence, and independence. I am now continuing my education in kinesiology at Arizona State University as I prepare to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. My long-term goal is to specialize in sports and orthopedic physical therapy, with the hope of eventually working with high-level and professional athletes. I want to combine my experiences as an athlete, injured patient, and healthcare professional to understand the people I treat from multiple perspectives. Faith continues to guide how I approach this journey. I believe having a goal is only part of the equation; I also have a responsibility to put in the work required to achieve it. Ultimately, I want to build a career that allows me to serve others, mentor younger athletes, and help people return to the sports and activities that make them feel like themselves. The values of family, faith, and competition represented by Stephan Laurence Wolley’s legacy resonate with me because they are values that have shaped my own journey. I would be honored to carry those principles forward through my education, career, and service to others.

One problem in healthcare that I refuse to accept as inevitable is patients feeling disconnected from their own care. Too often, patients leave appointments knowing what they were told to do but not understanding why they are doing it, what progress should look like, or how their treatment connects to the life they are trying to return to. In rehabilitation especially, I believe patients should feel like active participants in their recovery rather than people simply following instructions. I came to understand this problem from both sides of physical therapy. During my junior year of college, I tore my ACL and meniscus and underwent surgery. As an athlete who had always trusted my body, suddenly having to rebuild my strength and confidence was difficult. Rehabilitation taught me that recovery is not only physical. There are mental and emotional challenges involved in wondering whether your body will ever feel the same or whether you will be able to return to the activities you love. After graduating from Spelman College, I began working as a physical therapy technician. That experience allowed me to see how differently patients experience rehabilitation. Some are athletes eager to return to competition, while others want to return to work, play with their children, walk without pain, or regain their independence. I began paying attention not only to the exercises patients performed but also to their questions, frustrations, fears, and reactions to their progress. I learned that two people with similar injuries can have completely different goals and experiences. That is the part of healthcare I want to help change. As a future physical therapist, I plan to make patient education and communication central to my practice. I want patients to understand what we are working on, why it matters, and how each stage of rehabilitation moves them closer to a goal that is meaningful to them. I also want to create an environment where patients feel comfortable asking questions and expressing concerns instead of feeling intimidated by medical terminology or rushed through their care. My interest in sports and orthopedic physical therapy also makes me excited about using technology and data to make rehabilitation more individualized. I hope to incorporate tools that measure strength, movement, and functional progress in ways patients can understand. Instead of simply telling someone that they are improving, I want to be able to show them their progress and help them understand what comes next. Ultimately, I want to help create a healthcare experience where clinical expertise and human connection are equally valued. A successful recovery should not only mean that a patient has improved physically. It should mean they leave rehabilitation understanding their body better, confident in their abilities, and equipped to continue caring for themselves. I know what it feels like to need someone to help you trust your body again. My goal is to become the physical therapist who provides that same confidence to others while ensuring they always have a voice in their own recovery.

My involvement in church has helped shape my understanding of service as something that extends far beyond what happens inside the walls of a church. My faith has taught me the importance of using my abilities, experiences, and opportunities to serve others. It has also shown me that making an impact does not always require a large gesture. Sometimes service looks like mentoring someone who needs guidance, encouraging someone who is struggling, or simply being willing to show up when another person needs support. One of the values I have carried with me is the belief that we are blessed with our individual gifts for a reason. For me, athletics and martial arts have been a significant part of my life. I practiced martial arts for many years and earned my black belt, and that experience eventually gave me opportunities to teach and mentor younger athletes. Working with young people allowed me to provide more than instruction. I could encourage discipline, confidence, perseverance, and respect—the same values that others took the time to instill in me. I have especially valued opportunities to mentor young women and remind them that they are capable of being strong, confident leaders. My commitment to service has also influenced the career I am pursuing. After experiencing a serious knee injury and going through physical therapy myself, I discovered a passion for rehabilitation. Today, working as a physical therapy technician allows me to serve people in a different way. Patients often enter the clinic experiencing pain, frustration, fear, or uncertainty about whether they will return to the life they had before their injury. While my role involves helping patients with their rehabilitation, I have learned that encouragement and compassion can be just as meaningful as the physical work. My faith has also taught me that service should not be limited to people who look like me, share my experiences, or come from the same background. Every person deserves to be treated with dignity, patience, and kindness. That perspective influences how I interact with patients, younger athletes, coworkers, and members of my community. As I continue my education in kinesiology and eventually pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, I want service to remain central to the person and professional I become. I hope to use my education to improve people's health, help athletes safely return to the activities they love, mentor younger people interested in healthcare and athletics, and advocate for communities that may have limited access to quality rehabilitation and wellness resources. My involvement in church has reinforced for me that faith should be demonstrated through action. I want the life I build and the career I pursue to reflect that belief by using what I have been given to positively impact the lives of others.

1. Seeking a second chance at higher education means more to me than simply returning to school. It represents an opportunity to approach my education with a level of purpose, maturity, and determination that I did not always have during my undergraduate years. I am grateful to have earned my degree from Spelman College, but I also recognize that my academic record does not fully reflect my abilities or the student I know I can be. During college, I experienced challenges that affected my academic performance, including balancing personal difficulties, responsibilities, and uncertainty about the direction I wanted my life to take. There were times when I was focused more on getting through college than truly understanding how the choices I was making academically could affect my future. Looking back, there are things I would approach differently, but I cannot change my previous performance. What I can control is what I do with the opportunity in front of me now. One of the biggest differences today is that I have a clear sense of direction. After experiencing an ACL and meniscus injury and going through rehabilitation myself, I developed an interest in physical therapy. That interest became a true career goal after I began working as a physical therapy technician following graduation. Working directly with patients has allowed me to see the profession beyond textbooks or job descriptions. I have witnessed patients regain strength, independence, confidence, and the ability to return to activities they love. Those experiences have confirmed that I want to become a physical therapist. I am now pursuing kinesiology at Arizona State University to strengthen my academic foundation, complete the coursework necessary for physical therapy school, and ultimately earn my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. This time, I am entering higher education knowing exactly what I am working toward. I plan to succeed by being intentional with my time, maintaining a consistent study schedule, seeking assistance before I fall behind, utilizing academic resources, and treating my education with the same responsibility I bring to my professional life. My previous academic struggles are part of my story, but they do not have to determine how that story ends. This opportunity is my chance to demonstrate what I am capable of when purpose is paired with discipline, and I am prepared to put in the work necessary to make the most of it. 2. The greatest change since my previous academic struggles is not simply my circumstances; it is my mindset. I now understand the difference between attending school because it is the expected next step and pursuing an education because I understand exactly what I want that education to help me accomplish. My experiences after college have given me perspective that I did not have before. Working in a physical therapy clinic has placed me in an environment where I am constantly learning. I interact with physical therapists, observe different diagnoses and treatment approaches, and help patients complete exercises throughout their rehabilitation. Being surrounded by the career I am working toward has made my goals tangible. When I think about studying anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, or other challenging subjects, I no longer see them as courses I simply need to pass. I understand how that knowledge will eventually affect my ability to care for patients. I have also become more accountable to myself. I understand that motivation alone will not carry me through difficult courses or eventually through a demanding Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Success will require structure, consistency, discipline, and the willingness to ask for help. Most importantly, I have something now that I lacked during portions of my previous academic experience: clarity. I know what I want, why I want it, and what will be required to achieve it. I am not returning to school expecting the journey to be easy. I am returning prepared to work for the future I have chosen for myself. My past has taught me valuable lessons, but my actions moving forward will demonstrate how much I have grown from them.

1. I am someone who has always been motivated by growth, challenge, and the opportunity to make an impact on others. Growing up as an athlete and practicing martial arts for most of my life taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of consistently working toward something bigger than myself. Those lessons have followed me into my education, career, and the way I approach challenges. What motivates me most is knowing that I have the ability to create a life and career that are meaningful to me. After graduating from Spelman College, I began working in physical therapy, where I discovered how fulfilling it is to directly contribute to another person's progress. Every day, I see patients working toward goals that may include returning to a sport, getting back to work, walking without pain, or simply regaining their independence. Being part of those moments reminds me why I want to continue my education. If I could do anything with my life, I would build a career that combines my love of sports, healthcare, and service. My ultimate goal is to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in sports and orthopedic rehabilitation, with the opportunity to work with elite and professional athletes. Beyond the title, however, I want to be someone who helps people recognize what their bodies are capable of. I want my career to allow me to encourage, educate, and advocate for others while continually challenging myself to grow. 2. What excites me about STEM is its ability to take questions about how the world works and turn the answers into solutions that improve people's lives. My particular interest lies in the science of the human body. As a future physical therapist, I am fascinated by human movement, biomechanics, anatomy, injury recovery, and the ways science and technology can work together to improve rehabilitation. Technology is becoming increasingly important in healthcare and sports medicine. Physical therapists and other healthcare professionals can use technology to analyze movement, measure progress, maintain patient information, improve communication, and develop more individualized approaches to treatment. In sports, technology can also help professionals understand an athlete's movement patterns, workload, strength, and recovery. These tools can provide information that may help reduce injury risk and guide an athlete's return to competition. Although my career goal is physical therapy rather than traditional information technology, I believe understanding and effectively using technology will make me a stronger healthcare professional. I am especially interested in how data and emerging technologies can make rehabilitation more precise and accessible. I hope to use these advancements while still maintaining the human connection that initially drew me to physical therapy. Technology can provide valuable information, but healthcare professionals must determine how to use that information to serve real people. My goal is to combine science, technology, and compassionate patient care to help people recover from injuries, improve their performance, and return to the activities that give their lives meaning. 3. One of the greatest challenges I have faced was tearing my ACL and meniscus during my junior year of college. I had spent most of my life being active through martial arts and sports, so an injury that suddenly limited what my body could do affected me far beyond the physical pain. I had to undergo surgery and accept that returning to the activities I loved would require months of rehabilitation, patience, and work. Recovery challenged me physically and mentally. Progress did not happen overnight. I had to celebrate small accomplishments that I once would have taken for granted while continuing to work even when improvement felt slow. There were moments of frustration, but I learned to focus less on how far I still had to go and more on what I could accomplish each day. Physical therapy became an important part of that process. My therapists challenged me while also helping me regain confidence in my body. Eventually, I realized that the experience that had temporarily taken me away from athletics was introducing me to the career I wanted to pursue. Today, I work as a physical therapy technician while preparing for the next stage of my education. I now help encourage patients through some of the same frustrations I once experienced myself. My injury taught me that overcoming adversity does not always mean returning to exactly who you were before it happened. Sometimes overcoming a challenge means allowing the experience to change your direction. What once felt like a setback ultimately gave me a clearer sense of purpose and helped shape the future I am now working toward.

Continuing my education after graduation is an important step toward building the career I have envisioned for myself in physical therapy. After earning my undergraduate degree from Spelman College, I knew that graduation was not the end of my education. Instead, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in which I could intentionally pursue a career that combines my passion for sports, movement, healthcare, and helping others. My interest in physical therapy became personal after I tore my ACL and meniscus during my junior year of college. Going from being an athlete who had always been active to suddenly depending on others to help me regain my strength and mobility completely changed the way I viewed rehabilitation. Physical therapy was not simply about completing exercises; it was about rebuilding confidence, independence, and trust in my body. That experience introduced me to the impact a physical therapist can have on a patient both physically and mentally. After graduating, I began working as a physical therapy technician, which gave me the opportunity to experience the profession from another perspective. Instead of being the patient, I was now helping patients through their own rehabilitation journeys. Working in a clinical environment has allowed me to learn more about therapeutic exercises, patient care, injury recovery, and the different ways physical therapists adapt treatment to meet each patient's needs. Most importantly, it has confirmed that this is a field in which I can see myself building a meaningful and fulfilling career. To continue working toward that goal, I plan to study kinesiology at Arizona State University. My studies will allow me to strengthen my academic foundation in areas such as human movement, anatomy, physiology, and exercise science while completing the necessary preparation for Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. I am especially interested in eventually working in sports and orthopedic physical therapy. As someone who has participated in athletics for much of my life, I understand how important it is for athletes to have healthcare professionals who understand not only their injuries but also their desire to safely return to the activities they love. Continuing my education also represents personal growth for me. I have reached a point in my life where I understand that having a goal is only the beginning; achieving it requires discipline, consistency, and a willingness to put in the work. I am committed to becoming a stronger student and taking full advantage of the opportunities available to me. Ultimately, my goal is to earn my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and use my education to help people regain their strength, mobility, confidence, and quality of life. Continuing my education in kinesiology is the next step toward turning that goal into a career and becoming the type of healthcare professional who can make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

"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.