Hello, my name's Alshine Mondesir II and when I saw this scholarship opportunity I knew that it was a calling to apply. As a young child growing up in Ft.Lauderdale, Florida my family made it a priority for me to volunteer and get active within our community. I started volunteering at a young age working with my fellow church members on church retreats which evolved to me becoming an aid and helping kids like me understand their purpose and deepen their relationship with God. In my high school days of volunteering I found that working with my city and their events was my favorite of all. I got to be connected with my community making this big city much smaller. Speaking with different members that are involved in the city council or dedicated civilians that like to support their community. I was involved in various events from holiday events and beach cleanups I was able to see the impact that I made in the community and how it affects the lives of it's citizens. As I have now entered college and was given the opportunity to vote for the first time I saw a major hole in our city government levels for african american students especially young black men like myself. This past year I began taking political classes to gain a better depth of knowledge in these situations that arise regularly in my cities government. I was inspired by the results of the election to make a change and make an impact as soon as possible. I started to reach out to some of the city officials that I met in my time volunteering at home and asking them if there are any opportunities for student leaders in the city government. Of course they were eager to see students want to be apart of something big in the community and that is how I can make my change at the biggest level. I want to gain this position to boost the popularity of student involvement within your cities government, I see it as an asset for individuals that look like me to make a standout impression for those in the city to do something substantial. Whether that is having different student ambassadors for the city at different high schools and establishing clubs that help provide a students input on what the city can do better for them and their community. Now I hope with continuous talks with my city officials I can make this dream come true to open the doors for young black students like me to make their mark in my city and empower those that want to do something special by giving back to the community. Because we're all in this city and together we can create something spectacular.

My freshman year of college was a period of profound growth and challenge. Balancing rigorous academic demands with personal responsibilities was a test of my resilience. Yet, it was my role as a retreat leader during this time that provided me with a unique perspective and a deep connection to my faith, which proved instrumental in navigating these challenges. The role of a retreat leader required me to manage a range of responsibilities, from organizing activities to guiding discussions. This role was both fulfilling and demanding, requiring me to balance leadership duties with academic pressures. The dual responsibility of excelling in my studies while effectively leading a retreat was a significant trial, pushing me to my limits. On the weekend of the retreat, I returned home to speak at my church, preaching to the youth and leading the event. This break from college was more than just a chance to rest; it was an opportunity to reconnect with my spiritual roots and recharge my emotional and mental reserves. Leading the youth allowed me to reflect on my journey and draw strength from my faith. Engaging with the younger generation and sharing my experiences provided a renewed sense of purpose and clarity. The time spent away from college, immersed in spiritual reflection and community engagement, was transformative. It allowed me to step back from the academic grind and focus on what truly mattered. I realized that my faith was not just a source of comfort but a powerful force that could guide me through adversity. This period of reflection and reconnection with God provided me with a renewed sense of strength and resolve. Returning to college after this rejuvenating experience, I approached my studies and responsibilities with a fresh perspective. The trials I faced during my freshman year, though daunting, were met with a strengthened resolve. My faith had provided me with the tools to persevere, turning obstacles into opportunities for personal growth. Looking ahead, I believe that the lessons learned from my retreat leadership and faith journey will continue to influence my career. Faith has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of staying grounded in one’s values. These qualities are essential in any career, especially in fields that require both personal and professional growth. The ability to face challenges with a sense of purpose and inner strength is invaluable. As I advance in my career, I plan to carry forward the insights gained from my faith and experiences as a retreat leader. I recognize that challenges are an inevitable part of any journey, but faith provides a framework for understanding and overcoming them. It reminds me to approach obstacles with a positive mindset and to remain focused on my goals. The most impactful moment from the retreat that carried me through the rest of the school year was when one of the searchers said to me that in the beginning he didn't have faith and I led him to believe which stuck with me and made me thankful to come home and do this as a passion. In conclusion, my experiences as a retreat leader and my spiritual journey during my freshman year of college have profoundly shaped my perspective. They have reinforced my belief in the power of faith to guide and sustain me through life’s challenges. As I embark on my career, I am confident that the lessons learned from this period will continue to offer guidance and support, helping me to navigate future obstacles with resilience and purpose.

Leaving the Miami Heat to rejoin the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014 was a moment, in LeBron James career shaping my perception of him. During his time with the Heat from 2010 to 2014 LeBron, alongside Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh guided the team to two NBA titles. Clinched two MVP honors. His presence was pivotal to Miamis success during that era. However his decision to return to Cleveland through a letter on ESPN felt like a letdown. While it was understandable that he wanted to fulfill a promise to his hometown the timing and manner of his departure were disappointing. His exit came after a season where the Heat fell short of winning their consecutive championship leaving fans like me feeling abandoned. The contrast between LeBrons departure and his arrival in Miami in 2010 intensified the impact of his choice. Despite his accomplishments with the Cavaliers, such as winning the NBA Championship in 2016 feelings of betrayal lingered. In sports loyalty from fans is deeply emotional making LeBrons exit, from Miami resonate long after he left. Although his impact, on basketball is undeniable the bond between fans and players can be greatly influenced by these choices. This situation highlights how critical moments, in a athletes journey can mold opinion.

In my lifetime I've been structured with a very supportive group of family and friends that are there for me when I need advice on things. But the wisest advice that I have ever been given came from a somewhat close friend who I always ask for ideas and help with and he is very giving. The problem that I was situated with is with my Youtube channel that I have had and uploaded onto for more than 5 years and I have had trouble uploading videos on there for the past year or two. What I realized my problem was that I had no niche for uploading onto my page and I needed help on what my next step would be. I had brought up to him the option of me quitting and giving up on posting since I had nothing to provide to it. Until he said some inspiring and wise words to much which quote, "Just commit and stop waiting for an answer. You will be waiting 4 years for an answer and at that point you will find something that holds you back" His words meant so much to me because I realized it was true if I kept on overthinking on what to do instead of just going for it and not holding back I can get through my problem and finally upload again. That's why this was the wisest thing said to me because it impacted me and moved me to have faith in myself and move forward.

My name is Alshine Mondesir and my family moved from Haiti to America in the late 1980's. My dad who is the 2nd oldest to 4 siblings moved with my grandmother and grandfather to America. My dad's life in Haiti as a child was somewhat bad at times being the 2nd oldest of 4 they all lived in a small hut near a rice field where my grandmother used to work on with my grandfather. I asked my grandparents what was their reasoning for leaving Haiti, and it was to fulfill a better life for their children such as education, religion and better job opportunities. My grandparents raised and got my dad and siblings involved in Catholicism once they came to America and we have all been at the same church and indulged in the community and faith for over 30 years. Him and his siblings all went on and carried what my grandparents left to America for which is a better education opportunity. When they all graduated college they graduated with their bachelors and masters degrees in their respective fields. Upholding the plan my grandparents had for them. This is what makes education in life important. My parents hold me highly accountable and reliable in my school studies pursuing me to get straight A's and achieve a 4.0 gpa in high school as well as never missing a single day of school since the 1st day of Kindergarten. This all stems from my grandparents words which makes a college education important to me it can create a better opportunity for the high goals that I'm set to achieve in life and the plan that I have made for myself. I show love and give back to my community mainly through my church Our Lady Queen of Martyrs. I've been indulged in my faith and community at church by helping mentor and teach to the younger children about God and how to work on building your faith in him. Another way that I help my community is by participating behind the scenes and helping in my church at the retreats we have for teenagers to help them learn about their faith in God. I help get food ready, I am a table leader and invite and indulge the kids into learning more. So, the experiences of my Dad living and moving to Haiti helps me create my importance on having a college education and why the scholarship is important to me because it can help me get into the dream school of University of Miami and pursue my career in Meteorology.