Choosing to attend North Carolina A&T State University was a decision rooted in a desire for belonging and empowerment. Growing up, I often navigated spaces where I was the only Black individual in the room, constantly advocating for my voice and experiences. At A&T, I found a community that not only acknowledges my identity but celebrates it. Attending an HBCU means stepping into a legacy of resilience, excellence, and social change. It’s about becoming part of a community that uplifts, inspires, and challenges me to reach my highest potential. One of my most cherished memories at A&T was during election season when I joined efforts to boost student voter turnout. Despite attempts by higher powers to remove our on-campus voting site, the Aggie community rallied to preserve access. Together, we organized events, registered voters, and broke turnout records. Witnessing our unity and determination solidified my belief in the power of collective action. When the final numbers were announced, we celebrated with pride, knowing our efforts made a tangible impact. This experience deepened my understanding of advocacy and showed me the strength of the Aggie spirit. Attending an HBCU has given me more than an education; it has instilled a sense of purpose and community. A&T has shaped me into a leader committed to uplifting others and making lasting change—a legacy I will carry with me throughout my life.

Being a student at North Carolina Agricultural &Technical State University is both a privilege and a profound responsibility. A&T is more than just an institution of higher learning; it is a living legacy of excellence, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of progress. As the largest historically Black university in the nation, A&T represents a beacon of hope and a hub of empowerment for countless individuals who have faced systemic barriers. For me, attending A&T is a chance to not only honor this legacy but to contribute to it meaningfully. A&T’s values of commitment, community, and innovation deeply resonate with me and have shaped how I approach my education and life goals. The university has provided me with the opportunity to refine my skills as an accounting major at the Willie A. Deese College of Business and Economics, where I am developing a critical understanding of the intersection of finance and social responsibility. Through mentorship, academic rigor, and a supportive community, I am being equipped to think strategically and act with purpose. One of the most transformative experiences during my time at A&T has been my involvement in civic engagement efforts. I had the privilege of participating in initiatives to boost student voting, contributing to record-breaking voter turnout at our school. This effort was not without challenges. A&T’s on-campus voting site has been the target of persistent attempts by higher powers to remove this accessibility, which would disproportionately affect student voters. Witnessing and actively participating in the fight to preserve our voting site deepened my appreciation for the power of collective action. I saw firsthand how the Aggie community united to ensure that our voices were heard and our rights protected. This experience reinforced my commitment to advocacy and the importance of standing up for equity and justice. In addition to civic engagement, I’ve grown as a leader through involvement in mentorship programs such as Mentoring for H.E.R. These experiences have taught me the importance of giving back to the community and empowering others to succeed. Mentorship has become a cornerstone of my personal mission, and I plan to carry this value forward by supporting others, whether through professional guidance or financial education. My future goals are rooted in my passion for financial literacy and community empowerment. Growing up as a first-generation college student, I witnessed the devastating effects of financial hardship. My family’s struggles to manage medical bills for my stepmother, who has stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, shaped my determination to provide others with the tools to achieve financial stability. I aim to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and use my expertise to help families and small businesses navigate their financial challenges. My long-term vision includes creating a financial consulting firm focused on underserved communities, offering accessible resources to those who need them most. North Carolina A&T has provided me with a transformative education that is not just academic but holistic. The lessons I’ve learned in resilience, advocacy, and leadership have prepared me to tackle real-world challenges and make a meaningful impact. Being an Aggie means more than earning a degree—it is a commitment to excellence, a promise to uplift others, and a responsibility to lead with purpose. I am determined to honor this legacy by leveraging my education to create opportunities for others and to build a future defined by equity and empowerment.

**What Going to College Means to Me and My Goals** For me, going to college is more than an academic milestone; it is the manifestation of dreams built upon resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. As a first-generation college student, attending North Carolina A&T State University represents a doorway to opportunities my family has long envisioned but could not access. It signifies breaking generational cycles, challenging societal expectations, and building a foundation for a future defined by empowerment and service. College is my chance to immerse myself in an environment of growth, surrounded by peers and mentors who will inspire me to think critically and dream boldly. I chose to major in Accounting not only to pursue a career in a dynamic field but also to equip myself with the skills to make a tangible impact on individuals and communities. Numbers have always fascinated me, but what truly drives my passion is the idea of helping people navigate financial complexities to achieve their dreams, whether buying a home, funding education or starting a business. My goals extend beyond personal success. I aim to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and contribute to reputable firms, ensuring businesses thrive and individuals receive financial clarity. However, my ultimate aspiration lies in community service. Growing up, I witnessed how financial hardship can trap families in cycles of uncertainty. My stepmother’s fight against stage 4 metastatic breast cancer exposed me to the weight of medical bills and the challenge of surviving on a single income. These experiences shaped my resolve to expand access to financial education and provide assistance to those who need it most. At North Carolina A&T, I hope to refine my leadership skills and build connections with like-minded individuals who share my passion for progress. My involvement in organizations such as FBLA, peer leadership programs, and community tutoring has taught me the importance of collaboration and mentorship. These experiences, combined with my academic pursuits, will prepare me to create meaningful change. Going to college also represents a space where I can explore my multifaceted identity. My journey from Newark, NJ, to a predominantly white high school shaped my understanding of being a minority in professional and academic spaces. It taught me to amplify my voice, advocate for inclusivity, and embrace the strength of diversity. As I move forward, I aspire to use my story to inspire others, demonstrating that success is not confined by circumstances but fueled by resilience and purpose. Ultimately, college is not just about earning a degree; it is about becoming the person I aspire to be—a knowledgeable professional, a compassionate leader, and a catalyst for change. My journey at North Carolina A&T is the next chapter in a story of persistence, empowerment, and giving back, and I am determined to make it a narrative worth sharing.

Education is not just a means to an end—it is the foundation upon which I have built my future. Growing up as a first-generation college student, I understood early on that education was my key to breaking cycles of financial struggle and accessing opportunities that were otherwise out of reach. For me, education is more than the accumulation of knowledge; it is empowerment. It has shaped my identity, expanded my worldview, and equipped me with the tools to lead, innovate, and make a difference. Throughout my academic journey, education has been my compass, guiding me to pursue excellence both inside and outside of the classroom. My experiences in clubs like FBLA, the Civic Engagement Club, and leadership positions in the debate team have allowed me to see firsthand the impact of a well-rounded education. These opportunities have not only sharpened my skills but also taught me the value of perseverance and collaboration—critical traits that have helped me overcome challenges and develop a resilient mindset. However, the true value of education extends beyond personal achievement—it is the engine for societal change. Education has given me the confidence to speak up for those who are often overlooked, to advocate for financial literacy in underserved communities, and to serve as a role model for students who, like me, come from backgrounds where higher education is not a given. It has shown me the power of knowledge to break barriers and uplift others, reinforcing my desire to give back to my community. This motivation drives my career aspirations in accounting, where I plan to use my skills to help individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions, thereby contributing to economic equity. By becoming a CPA, I will be in a position to provide critical financial support and guidance, particularly to those who have been historically excluded from such services. This includes my own family. My stepmother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019, and this journey has been one of my strongest motivations to pursue an education. I want to equip my family with the financial tools to manage the overwhelming medical expenses, easing their burdens and strengthening our resilience. Winning this scholarship would affirm the hard work and dedication I have poured into my education thus far, while providing the financial support I need to continue pursuing my goals. It is not just an investment in my future—it is an investment in the many lives I hope to impact through my work. Education has been my path to success, and with your support, I will continue to walk that path with purpose and determination, ready to create lasting change for myself and my community.

I plan to use my education in accounting to create a better path for Black people in the business world by addressing some of the systemic challenges that have long hindered access to financial resources and opportunities. Becoming a CPA is not just about personal advancement for me; it’s about leveraging my knowledge and credentials to make a lasting impact on my community. I believe that true change in the business world begins with dismantling barriers and providing underrepresented groups with the tools, mentorship, and guidance they need to succeed. One of my primary goals is to increase financial literacy within Black communities. Too often, individuals and families lack access to the resources and education necessary to build wealth or manage their finances effectively. This is not due to a lack of potential or ambition, but rather a lack of access and guidance. I want to use my education to bridge that gap, offering financial advice, hosting workshops, and providing one-on-one mentorship to help Black entrepreneurs, small business owners, and individuals navigate complex financial systems. By doing so, I hope to empower people to make informed financial decisions that can lead to long-term success. In the business world, there is a significant lack of diversity, especially in leadership positions. I recognize that as I progress in my career, I will often be one of the few Black professionals in the room, but I view this as an opportunity to create change from within. My education at North Carolina A&T State University, a historically Black university, will equip me with the knowledge and perspective I need to challenge the status quo. I plan to use my voice and my platform to advocate for more diverse hiring practices, equal opportunities for advancement, and inclusive corporate cultures. By helping companies recognize the value of diverse leadership, I hope to open doors for more Black professionals to rise to positions of power and influence. Mentorship is another crucial aspect of my plan. As a first-generation college student, I understand how intimidating it can be to navigate educational and career paths without guidance. I want to be a mentor to young Black professionals entering the business world, providing them with the support and advice I’ve received along the way. By sharing my experiences, I hope to help others avoid some of the pitfalls I’ve encountered and build their confidence to pursue ambitious goals. Mentorship isn’t just about helping individuals succeed; it’s about creating a network of support that lifts entire communities. Ultimately, I see my role in the business world as more than just a career—it’s a mission. Through my work as an accountant, a CPA, and a mentor, I plan to actively build a more inclusive and equitable business environment where Black people can thrive. I envision a future where more Black entrepreneurs can scale their businesses, more Black professionals can rise to leadership positions, and where financial education and opportunity are accessible to all, regardless of background. By using my education to open doors, advocate for change, and empower others, I hope to create a path that not only benefits my community but transforms the business world as a whole.

My identity has shaped both my personal growth and my ambitions, informing the path I have walked and the direction I’m headed. Growing up as a Black individual, I experienced firsthand what it feels like to stand out, sometimes being the only person of color in predominantly white spaces. This was particularly evident when I moved from Newark, NJ—a city rich in cultural diversity—to a predominantly white neighborhood during my high school years. The experience taught me to adapt to different environments while remaining true to who I am, and it instilled in me the importance of ensuring my voice was heard, even when it felt difficult. Being part of an underrepresented group also exposed me to the systemic inequalities that persist in areas such as education, healthcare, and environmental justice. Seeing these disparities made me want to work harder, not just for my own success, but also to advocate for others who face similar challenges. My participation in discussions on climate justice and environmental racism, such as my work on The Ironbound and the impact of environmental degradation on Newark's communities, stemmed from my personal connection to these struggles. I understand the importance of representation, and I aim to bring awareness to these issues by using my platform to address the larger forces at play. As I pursue a career in accounting, I see my identity as a Black woman shaping the spaces I will enter in the financial sector, where representation is still lacking. I intend to become a CPA not only for personal advancement but also to open doors for others who might look like me and aspire to similar goals. By advancing in this field, I want to help underprivileged communities with financial literacy and access to resources where systemic barriers disproportionately affect these populations. Being part of an underrepresented minority group has fueled my passion for leadership by highlighting the importance of advocacy, both for myself and others. In debate, I helped lead my team to victory by guiding discussions on key issues like racial justice and socioeconomic disparities. My role in civic engagement pushed me to bring minority perspectives to the forefront, ensuring topics like inequality were addressed. As a mentor with Mentoring 4 Her (M4H), I use my experiences to inspire young students, offering them guidance and support. Moving forward, I will continue to let my identity inform my leadership. Whether in professional spaces, community engagement, or advocacy, I aim to ensure that my actions not only benefit me but create opportunities for others to follow. For me, leadership isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about paving the way for the next generation, ensuring that they too have the confidence and support to step into roles of influence.

I have faced significant adversity throughout my educational journey, which has profoundly shaped my resilience and determination. Growing up in Newark, New Jersey, my family has always struggled with financial constraints. As a first-generation college student, I have had to navigate the complexities of higher education without the guidance that many of my peers take for granted. One of the most challenging periods of my life was when my stepmother was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. For over four years, my family has been overwhelmed by medical expenses, with my dad as the sole income earner. This financial burden has made it difficult to focus solely on my academic goals. In addition to these financial challenges, I experienced a significant cultural shift when I moved from a predominantly Black community to a predominantly white one during my sophomore to senior years of high school. Adapting to this new environment and often being the only Black person in the room was daunting. I had to work hard to ensure my voice was heard and to access the privileges of my wealthier peers, whose parents could afford to take them on vacations multiple times a year and provide extra funds for their education. These experiences have instilled in me a profound sense of resilience and a commitment to advocating for myself and others in similar situations. My passion for pursuing a degree in STEM, particularly in Accounting, stems from my desire to make a tangible impact on the world. I have always been fascinated by the intersection of numbers and real-world applications, and I believe that a career in accounting will allow me to help businesses succeed and provide financial assistance to individuals. My goal is to expand access to financial education and support for financially disadvantaged individuals, using my expertise to address economic disparities and promote financial literacy. Financially, my pursuit of higher education is a significant challenge. My family has limited resources, and without assistance, covering tuition, books, and other educational expenses will be extremely difficult. This scholarship will be instrumental in alleviating some of the financial stress, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on how to pay for them. It will enable me to fully engage in academic and extracurricular activities, such as joining professional organizations and attending networking events, which are crucial for my development as an aspiring accountant. By minimizing the need for part-time work, this scholarship will allow me to maintain a strong academic performance and participate in internships that provide practical experience, which is vital for securing reputable positions after graduation. In essence, receiving this scholarship would mean more than just financial aid; it would be a recognition of my hard work, creativity, and drive. It would embody the support and encouragement from my community, lifting me up to pursue knowledge and excellence despite the challenges I have faced. This scholarship is a powerful tool for empowering individuals to reach their full potential and make a positive impact in their fields and beyond. With this support, I am determined to continue making a difference in the lives of others and to use my experiences to inspire and mentor other students who face similar challenges.

I am a student at North Carolina A&T State University, where I plan to major in Accounting. Growing up in Newark, NJ, I have always been deeply connected to my community and passionate about making a positive impact. As a first-generation college student, I have faced various challenges, including financial constraints and adapting to new environments. These experiences have shaped my commitment to addressing important issues and striving for excellence in every venture. A pivotal moment in my journey was participating in High Point Regional's annual symposium on Climate Justice, titled "Under The Same Sky." As a member of the steering committee, I worked with my peers to discuss and develop creative ways to convey our message about climate justice. When tasked with delivering a speech on a climate justice topic, I chose to focus on The Ironbound, Sacrifice Zones, and Environmental Racism. These issues are close to my heart, as I am native to Newark, where the Ironbound is located. My goal with this speech was to educate my audience and dismantle prejudiced ideals about my hometown. I aimed to humanize Newark's citizens, who are not just strangers but my family members and friends. Despite the stress of perfecting my speech and facing personal setbacks at home, including my stepmother's battle with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, I persevered. My classmates recognized my dedication and selected me to present at the symposium, where I addressed an audience of over 100 people. Throughout high school, I engaged in various extracurricular activities that have helped shape and develop the scholar I am today. I was a member of the debate team, which honed my public speaking and critical thinking skills. As a participant in FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), I developed my leadership abilities and gained valuable insights into the business world. Additionally, I was a member of the National Business Honors Society, where I furthered my understanding of business principles and ethics. Being a peer leader and part of the civic engagement club enabled me to give back to my community and develop my interpersonal skills. I am also honored to be a Horatio Alger Scholar and a Washington Journalism and Media Conference (WJMC) alumna. These experiences have provided me with invaluable opportunities for growth, networking, and leadership development. Moreover, I faced the challenge of moving from a predominantly Black community to a predominantly white one during my sophomore to senior years of high school. Adapting to this new environment and often being the only Black person in the room was difficult. As a minority student, I worked hard to ensure my voice was heard, navigating the differences and striving to access the privileges of my wealthier peers. My career goal is to become an experienced accountant, helping businesses succeed and providing financial assistance to individuals. I aim to expand access to financial education and support for financially disadvantaged individuals, using my expertise to make a meaningful impact in my community. By pursuing a degree in Accounting and becoming a CPA, I hope to leverage my skills to address economic disparities and promote financial literacy. I am committed to using my experiences to inspire and mentor other students who face similar challenges, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their educational and career goals. In essence, I am dedicated to making a positive impact on the world by addressing important social issues and empowering others to do the same. My journey has been shaped by resilience, perseverance, and a deep commitment to my community, and I am determined to continue making a difference in the lives of others.

Receiving this scholarship would be a significant support for me as it directly addresses the financial challenges I face in pursuing higher education. As a first-generation college student from a financially constrained family, this scholarship would alleviate the burden of tuition, books, and other educational expenses at North Carolina A&T State University, where I plan to major in Accounting. The additional financial strain from my stepmother's stage 4 metastatic breast cancer treatment has made it even more challenging for my family to support my educational aspirations. Throughout high school, I faced the challenge of moving from a predominantly Black community to a predominantly white one in my sophomore through my senior year. Adapting to this new environment and often being the only Black person in the room was difficult. As a minority student, I had to work hard to ensure my voice was heard, and stereotypes were dismantled. Navigating the differences and making my presence known in a setting where I was often underrepresented. I constantly strove to access the privileges of the rich white students I was surrounded by, kids whose parents took them on vacations multiple times a year and had an extra $10,000-$15,000 to help them pay for school. In addition to the racial and economic challenges, I experienced significant personal setbacks at home. My stepmother's ongoing battle with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer has placed a heavy financial and emotional burden on our family. My father is the sole income earner, and the costs of her treatment have been overwhelming. Balancing the demands of schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and my responsibilities at home has been incredibly difficult. Nevertheless, I have remained committed to my academic goals and continued to excel in my studies. With this scholarship, I can fully focus on my studies and take advantage of academic and extracurricular opportunities, such as joining professional organizations and attending networking events. These experiences are crucial for my development as an aspiring accountant and for achieving my goal of becoming a CPA. By reducing the need for part-time work, I can maintain a strong academic performance and participate in internships, gaining practical experience vital for securing reputable positions after graduation. In the future, I plan to pay this support forward by expanding access to financial education and support for financially disadvantaged individuals. My career goal includes providing financial assistance, particularly in tax management and home buying, to help businesses succeed and support individuals in achieving financial stability. This scholarship would not only support my education but also empower me to make a meaningful impact in my community. Moreover, I am committed to using my experiences to inspire and mentor other students who face similar challenges. By sharing my story and offering guidance, I hope to help others overcome obstacles and achieve their educational and career goals. This scholarship would enable me to fully engage in this mission, providing me with the resources and opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Growing up in a low-income household and as a minority student, I quickly became aware of the financial challenges my family faced. We often could not afford, housing and food. I remember coming home from school on some days to the water being off. My awareness of this experience ignited a passion for finding solutions to financial difficulties, leading me to explore the field of accounting. My journey began in high school with my first accounting class, where I learned the pivotal role accounting plays in business. This discovery, coupled with the profession's stability and flexibility, solidified my decision to pursue a career in this field. Reflecting on my educational experiences, one significant influence was my AP Language class. My teacher emphasized the importance of being a Citizen Rhetorician, engaging in civic discourse, and contributing positively to society. This notion of civic responsibility and active engagement deeply resonated with me, shaping my desire to use my skills in accounting not just for personal success but to address broader societal issues. It taught me that contributing to the world around you takes work, understanding, and a sense of social responsibility to take care of those in need. This realization pushed me to find ways to serve my community within my chosen field. I plan to continue my education at North Carolina A&T State University, where I will seek opportunities to encourage younger generations of minority students, especially young women, to pursue careers in accounting. The low number of accountants, particularly black female accountants, highlights the need for increased diversity in the field. Organizations like The National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) and Women in Public Finance play crucial roles in promoting diversity and providing support for aspiring business professionals. By joining these organizations, I aim to elevate the voices of black women striving for success and implement plans to provide financial education and stimulate financial security in underserved communities. My ambition to pursue higher education is driven by my status as a first-generation college student. I want to give back to my community by initiating change in the financial and educational sectors. Through my studies and involvement in college activities, I hope to tackle systemic issues like financial insecurity and racial and gender discrimination. Additionally, regarding my financial circumstance, my stepmother has been battling stage 4 metastatic breast cancer since 2019, placing a significant financial strain on our family, which relies solely on my father's income. This personal challenge has further fueled my determination to pursue a career in accounting, where I can make a positive impact on my community by helping others navigate financial difficulties. I look forward to collaborating with like-minded individuals to achieve collective goals. Throughout my college life, after graduation, and during my career, I am committed to carrying out my passion for helping others. By extending my hand, I hope to promote change on a larger scale and support those in need, thereby contributing to a more financially literate and empowered community.

I plan to continue my interest in accounting at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University. I am confident that with my studies I will have the opportunity to help others. Business rules our society, and tackling systemic issues, like financial insecurity can be done with the hand of an accountant and future businesswoman, as I aspire to be. Along with goals of becoming a CPA to further leverage the skills I will gain throughout college. I’ll learn how to implement my plan to provide aid in financial education and stimulate financial security in under-served communities. My ambition to pursue higher education derives from my status as a first-generation college student. I want to give back to my community by initiating change, especially within the financial and education sectors. This drive to succeed defines how I view my blackness. To be black means to be diligent, clever, creative, and valued; traits history has failed to rightfully give us for centuries. My goal is to actively denounce this negative framework. I do this not by trying to prove my worthiness with accomplishments, but by making it so I can look at myself in the mirror every day and be proud of the girl I see reflected; knowing that I value her. I want this not only for myself but for every other black girl who has been hurt by society. For us, community matters and at my HBCU I believe the connection with my sisters will be like no other.

My interest in accounting has been developed through my experiences growing up in a low-income household and as a minority student. When I began to understand the severity of my financial situation, I instantly sought solutions. In my first accounting class sophomore year, I learned that accounting was the foundation of business. I figured, what better way to set myself up for success than to learn about finance from the source? Along with the flexibility and stability of this profession, I decided to challenge myself and pursue such a lucrative field. In my Junior year of high school, I took a dual enrollment class with Ramapo College; Accounting 2 Honors. This course helped me solidify my major choice early on. Reflecting on my past experiences, I recall my AP Language class where my teacher emphasized being a Citizen Rhetorician. This notion was instilled in us during our weekly Piece of The Week assignments, where we analyzed articles about current events and discussed their rhetorical context. By routine, we had been learning many different things and sharing our findings weekly in class. My teacher encouraged us not only to be well-read individuals but also to actively engage in discourse to contribute to our community and society at large. My memory of her class highlighted how one should serve their community. It's important to contribute to the world around you for the greater good, doing so takes a sort of social responsibility to take care of those in need. In being a server to your community you allow yourself to learn where society falls short and how you can help that situation. This pushed me to find ways to do so within my respective field. I plan to continue my interest in accounting in college at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University. Finding opportunities that will allow me to encourage younger generations of minority students to pursue the accounting field. With the low number of accountants in general, the amount of black accountants has always been insufficient. Organizations like NABA; The National Association of Black Accountants work to promote diversity within business fields and provide community for aspiring business professionals. My goal is to be a part of this organization as my values align with their mission statement. To “engage, empower, and educate Black Business Leaders and institutions by providing a platform to enhance skills and elevate voices.” With this membership, I can learn how to implement my plan to provide aid in financial education and stimulate financial security in under-served communities. I am confident that with my studies I will have the opportunity to help others. Business rules our society and tackling systemic issues, like financial insecurity can be done with the hand of an accountant and future businesswoman, as I aspire to be. Along with goals of becoming a CPA or CMA to further leverage the skills I will gain as a college student. As I progress, I often remind myself of my 'Whys', and why the hard work I'm doing now will pay off later. For example, my ambition to pursue higher education derives from my status as a first-generation college student. I want to give back to my community by initiating change, especially within the financial and education sectors. I look forward to working alongside like-minded individuals to achieve collective goals. Not only throughout my college life but after graduation and during my career, I vow to carry out my passion for helping others. By extending my hand, I hope to promote change on a larger scale and bless those in need.