Growing up in a sub-city of Dallas, Texas, I was never introduced to the idea of attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). My elementary and middle school experience did not offer much exposure to the vast benefits these institutions provide, and I never had the chance to learn about the rich history and legacy of HBCUs until later in my academic journey. It wasn’t until I reached high school that I started hearing about the opportunities that HBCUs offered being on my high school's dance team, and learning about HBCU collegiate dance teams. The biggest challenge I faced came when I was ready to attend college. I had worked hard throughout high school, aiming to earn a scholarship to cover my tuition, but when it came time to pay for my first semester, I realized that I simply could not afford the costs. Despite my best efforts, the scholarships and financial aid were not enough, and the financial gap left me in a difficult position. I had to make the painful decision to miss a semester of school and delay my dream of pursuing higher education. Missing that semester was a tough and humbling experience. At first, I felt defeated and uncertain about what my future held. I had worked so hard to get to this point, and the thought of pausing my educational journey was discouraging. But during that time, I took the opportunity to reflect on my goals and the bigger picture. I found part-time work and saved money while continuing to study on my own. I also took the time to research various educational opportunities, including HBCUs, which I had only recently discovered. This experience taught me that adversity doesn’t define you, but rather how you respond to it. I learned resilience, perseverance, and the importance of adaptability. As I saved enough money to return to school, I also realized that attending an HBCU would provide me with not just a quality education, but also a sense of community and pride. Which is why I decided to attend Xavier University of Louisiana. The history and culture of Xavier deeply resonated with me, especially coming from a place where many students, like myself, don’t always get the opportunity to experience this kind of support system. Xavier is known for their commitment to empowering students of color and fostering a strong sense of belonging, and I knew that this environment would allow me to thrive academically and personally. I believe that attending Xavier will set me up for success in the future by providing a nurturing environment where I can grow both as a student and as an individual. The strong alumni networks, community engagement, and dedication to cultural pride will give me the foundation I need to pursue my career goals. By attending an HBCU, I will gain the skills and confidence to overcome any adversity that comes my way. Ultimately, my journey has taught me that setbacks are not permanent; they are growth opportunities. Attending an HBCU will allow me to continue that journey and shape my future in a way that I couldn’t have imagined before.

Title: A Call for Change in My Community Mental health is an intricate tapestry woven into the fabric of my community, influencing the lives of individuals in ways often unseen. In my community, the impact of mental health has become increasingly apparent, prompting a call for change and a collective effort to address the issue. The journey toward understanding the significance of mental health began for me during my freshman year of high school, a pivotal time that marked not only my personal realization but also an awareness of the broader challenges faced by my community. As I stepped into the realm of high school, a wave of newfound responsibilities and academic pressures engulfed me. It was during this transitional phase that I began to notice the subtle yet pervasive signs of mental health struggles among my peers. Anxiety, depression, and stress seemed to loom over the shoulders of students, affecting their academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being. This awakening extended beyond the school gates, revealing a community grappling with the consequences of unaddressed mental health concerns. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, I decided to take proactive steps toward fostering positive change. The first crucial aspect involved breaking the silence surrounding mental health. Open and honest conversations emerged as powerful tools to destigmatize the issues, allowing individuals to share their experiences without fear of judgment. As a catalyst for change, I initiated awareness within my peers, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being and providing resources for support from myself. These initiatives aimed to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals felt comfortable acknowledging their struggles and seeking help. My personal journey with mental health further fueled my commitment to this issue. Recognizing the signs within myself allowed me to empathize with others facing similar struggles. I encouraged the development of peer support systems, where students could lean on each other for understanding and encouragement. By fostering a culture of empathy and compassion, the community could collectively work towards creating a positive change in the narrative surrounding mental health. In conclusion, the impact of mental health on my community became a catalyst for positive change during my freshman year of high school. Through open dialogue, education, and community engagement, I have sought to address the issue and contribute to creating an environment that prioritizes mental well-being. As we continue to navigate the complexities of life, let us stand united in our commitment to nurturing the mental health of our community and building a foundation for a brighter, more empathetic future.