Growing up in the age of smartphones, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful and how damaging social media can be. It’s the first thing many of us check when we wake up and the last thing we scroll through before bed. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have become more than just apps; they’re places where people connect, express themselves, and often seek validation. But behind the filters and perfectly curated posts, there’s a much more complex reality that deeply affects mental health and self-esteem, especially for my generation. Social media can make us feel like we’re never enough. We see highlight reels of others’ lives, vacations, achievements, and perfectly posed selfies, and it becomes easy to fall into the trap of comparison. “Why don’t I look like that?” “Why isn’t my life as exciting?” These thoughts are silent, but they’re powerful. They chip away at confidence, foster anxiety, and sometimes even lead to depression. And because social media is always accessible, those negative thoughts can follow us everywhere, 24/7. I’ve experienced this personally. There were times when I’d spend hours on social media without realizing how drained and insecure it made me feel. I found myself comparing my progress, my looks, and even my personality to people I didn’t even know. And when posts didn’t get many likes, I questioned my own worth. It took me a while to understand that these platforms, while entertaining, can distort our view of reality and ourselves. But the impact isn’t just individual, it’s cultural. We’ve built a society where online approval can sometimes feel more important than real-life connections. And that needs to change. So, what can be done? First, we need to have honest conversations. Schools, colleges, and families should create safe spaces where young people can talk openly about how social media affects them. Mental health should be discussed in the same way we talk about physical health. There’s no shame in struggling, and there’s strength in reaching out. Second, we need to encourage digital mindfulness. This means setting healthy boundaries—like limiting screen time, unfollowing accounts that make us feel bad about ourselves, and taking regular breaks from the apps. Personally, I’ve learned to log off when I need to recharge. I remind myself that likes don’t measure my value, and I try to spend more time offline connecting with friends, growing spiritually, and focusing on real-life goals. Finally, social media companies need to take more responsibility. Features that allow users to hide like counts or get reminders to take breaks are good starts. However, there is still more to be done, such as promoting mental health resources, reducing algorithm-driven comparison culture, and creating safer online environments. Social media isn’t all bad; it can inspire, educate, and connect. But we must learn to use it without letting it use us. We need to shift from seeking validation online to finding confidence within. As a future leader, I aim to be part of this shift, promoting awareness, leading with compassion, and helping others rise above the pressures of the digital world.

My name is Argenis Rosario, and I’m currently pursuing a degree in Management Information Systems at Oakwood University. I’m originally from the Dominican Republic, and I came to the United States with a dream of using my skills in business and technology to make a meaningful difference in underserved communities, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and sustainable development. Growing up, life wasn’t always easy. When I was twelve, I lost my mother to cancer. That loss shaped my understanding of hardship and made me more aware of how systems, especially healthcare and education, can either support or fail families in need. It’s one of the reasons I chose a business path that integrates technology: I believe that innovation, when guided by empathy, can bring life-changing solutions to people who need them the most. This scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden of my education. As an international student, I face limitations in accessing federal financial aid and work opportunities, which make it difficult to afford tuition, textbooks, and living expenses. Receiving this scholarship would not only allow me to continue my studies without the constant pressure of financial insecurity, but it would also free up time and mental space to continue growing as a leader and servant in my community. My long-term goal is to lead technology and business transformation initiatives that serve vulnerable populations, both in the U.S. and in the Dominican Republic. I envision starting a social enterprise that partners with rural communities to improve access to digital tools, business education, and healthcare information. Whether it’s creating affordable tech solutions for small farmers or helping youth access online training in entrepreneurship and IT, I want my career to empower others. During my time in college, I’ve been intentional about giving back. I served as an assistant in the Diversity and Inclusion department at my university, helping organize programs that promoted cultural awareness and supported underrepresented students. I was also a canvassing leader in North Carolina, where I led young teams in going door-to-door to share literature and provide encouragement to families. Additionally, I volunteered as an elder at my church, offering spiritual support and organizing service activities for the local community. These experiences have deepened my desire to serve and lead with purpose. I don’t see my education as just a personal achievement; I see it as a bridge to give more, serve better, and lead stronger. I am committed to making a difference in the lives of others, and I know that this scholarship would not only be a gift to me but also a seed invested in a future where I can give back tenfold. Thank you for considering my application. I’m deeply grateful for your support of students who are working hard to build a better world through business, technology, and service.

The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem and Mental Health Social media has revolutionized the world by allowing human beings to connect immediately regardless of distance. The social media platforms of Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are providers of entertainment, information, and networking. Despite these benefits dominating, social media significantly impacts self-esteem and mental health, particularly among young people. The unrealistic portrayals of life, constant exposure to filtered realities, and the anxiety of seeking validation through likes and shares have contributed to escalating fears of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These have to be dealt with through a conscious effort on the part of individuals, teachers, and social media sites. The Negative Effects on Mental Health One of the biggest issues that come with the use of social media is increased anxiety, depression, and loneliness. People compare themselves to idealized versions that are presented on the internet, and this creates feelings of inadequacy. It has been shown that excessive use of social media will heighten negative self-perceptions, making users feel as though they are failing in some manner. Cyberbullying is another major concern. In contrast to the more traditional form, cyberbullying can occur at any time and in any location, with no place for the victim to hide. Insulting comments, shaming online, and exclusion online lead to stress, isolation, and suicide. Furthermore, the anonymity of the internet leads individuals to become bolder about speaking their minds in ways that they would never do in actual life, further increasing harmful interaction. Secondly, the addictive nature of social media deteriorates mental well-being. Alerts, likes, and comments trigger brain dopamine releases, creating a pattern of dependence. Excessive usage of social media reduces real-life social connections and results in loss of sleep, both of which are negative to overall well-being. The Effect on Self-Esteem Social media encourages a culture of seeking validation and comparison. The majority of users, especially young people, measure their self-worth by the number of followers and likes they get. When they perform poorly on social media, they feel insecure and question themselves. Additionally, the proliferation of filtered and edited content distorts reality and creates unrealistic standards of beauty and lifestyle. Many people, particularly teenagers, have body image issues due to having to be "perfect." The result is low self-esteem, eating disorders, and negative behavioral patterns. Combating the Ill Effects of Social Media In an effort to reverse these ill effects, individuals, educators, and technology businesses must take deliberate actions: Promoting Digital Well-being – Enforcing screen time restrictions and taking activities offline can help users develop more healthy social media habits. Promoting Media Literacy – Teaching teens to recognize the edited quality of content on the web can reduce the harms of comparison. Creating Nurturing Online Communities – Social media platforms should have more stringent anti-cyberbullying standards and promote healthy interaction. Prioritizing Offline Relationships and Activities – Valuing face-to-face relationships and activities over online validation can help build strong self-esteem. Seeking Professional Assistance – Those suffering from anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem due to the use of social media can benefit from therapy or counseling. Conclusion Social media has many positive aspects, but its impact on mental health and self-esteem should not be dismissed. The pressure of maintaining unreal expectations and the addictive properties of these websites contribute to anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. Yet, with digital well-being, media literacy, and promoting in-person interactions, one can create a healthier dynamic with social media. The intention is not to prohibit social media but to use it in a way that values mental health and self-esteem over online validation.

Charity is essential to me because it mirrors service, empathy, and leadership—values that have influenced my professional and personal life. Having experienced failures in my life, I value the impact of care and support, especially when I am down. In the near future, I will be making a number of contributions. One of the most important contributions to my involvement will be mentorship, where I would like to assist young professionals, especially international students, with their career paths and academic life. Furthermore, I will maintain community service and ministry involvement, providing others with grief counseling and spiritual care. As a Management Information Systems professional, I consider technology as a catalyst for change. I aim to utilize my expertise in assisting nonprofit organizations, healthcare institutions, and education programs that serve to empower underprivileged segments. Not only an obligation but giving back is my way of thanking those who have helped me and offering others the same resources and support. Whether it is through technology, service, or mentorship, I am committed to leaving a positive influence.

My struggles, leadership experiences, and commitment to service have molded my path thus far. Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, as a young child, I knew I wanted to make a difference in the world. However, with the loss of my mother to cancer at the tender age of twelve, I fell into a profound, spiritual, and emotional crisis. Well, she fell sick and eventually left this world, and I felt destroyed, but as time wore on, I started to believe in faith and how such an experience led me to help people in pain and tears. This experience has driven me to vow to comfort the people around me, especially those experiencing loss or hardship, knowing how relieving it feels to know that people understand their condition and support them. Currently, a junior at Oakwood University studying Management Information Systems, I am developing the skills and experience that will enable me to make a far more significant contribution to my work. I have learned from my studies the value of data, technology, and teamwork in solving problems and taken up leadership roles to refine these skills. I have had the privilege of interning with the clinical analytics team at AdventHealth, where I saw technology's role in improving patient care and making life easier within a hospital. Working alongside health professionals who used data to improve outcomes gave me a new vision of how my skills could make a tangible difference. Besides my internship, I hold other positions that have further honed my leadership abilities. I organize events and practices as the Vice President of the Oakwood Men's Volleyball Team, where I learn much about teamwork, resilience, and discipline. I have also worked as an assistant in the Diversity and Inclusion Department, helping to provide an inclusive environment for all students. These experiences have taught me the importance of inclusivity, perseverance, and empathy, which I hope to bring to my future career. My long-term goal is to work in healthcare technology, devising innovations that improve patient outcomes while introducing efficiency. Eventually, I want to assume a leadership position where I can effect meaningful changes by integrating technology into my commitment to bettering lives. I am most interested in positions that dare me to assist others in times of need, as my past is deeply rooted in my commitment to helping others find hope and resiliency in their struggles. This scholarship would greatly benefit my journey, taking much of the financial weight off my shoulders as I work toward my degree. Being an internationally dependent student, the economic burdens weigh heavily upon me. Receiving this scholarship would provide me with the security of covering school finances and offer me a vast opportunity to put more effort into studying, interning, and leadership roles instead of always stressing over possible financial burdens. In turn, this would help me become fully engaged in excelling in my field and building a career that will be substantial in helping others. Reflecting on my journey and some of the real difficulties I have experienced makes me feel motivated to press on with purpose like never before. I am ready to step into my career and, with the skills and dedication I had, take on those challenges that came my way, every step closer to achieving my goals of helping others through my work. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to that vision: making a difference, not just in my life but for the communities I hope to serve.

My career goals include developing my leadership and technological skills to bring positive changes to the world. As a junior student majoring in Management Information Systems, I have had experiences about how influential technology has been in bringing efficiency to organizations and changing people's lives. While working at AdventHealth this summer in the clinical analytics side, I saw how data-driven solutions can drive better patient care, thus making hospitals more efficient. This indeed emboldens me in my quest for a career at which technology and healthcare merge, using data and IT to support critical missions. In the long term, I envision myself at an executive level in a healthcare or technology-oriented organization, spearheading an initiative in the development and implementation of progressive solutions to highly complex issues. I am particularly passionate about the design of systems that improve user experience and operational effectiveness. I will be further developing my expertise through continuous internships and project work, extending my interests to mentorship of others with similar dedication. My ultimate aspiration is to be able to participate in meaningful projects that target health and wellness for many, making a difference by applying acquired skill and experiences.

My childhood wasn't a melody of perfect harmonies; it was a symphony of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering love conducted by my single mother. There was a constant undercurrent of struggle, a hum of "what ifs" and "maybe laters," but the melody that resonated most powerfully was the unwavering strength of my mother. Our home was a testament to resourcefulness. Mismatched furniture, hand-me-down clothes, and dinners meticulously planned to stretch every penny – these were the hallmarks of our reality. Yet, my mother never let these limitations dim the light within our small haven. She transformed our cramped apartment into a world of possibilities. A worn card table became our stage for elaborate plays, and the library, our portal to endless adventures. The absence of a father figure left a void, a lingering note that couldn't be fully replaced. There were times when I yearned for the stereotypical image of a complete family, a twinge of envy at friends who had fathers to play catch with or fix their bikes. However, my mother filled this space with a fierce, all-encompassing love. She shouldered the burdens of parenthood with grace, her nights often burning the midnight oil as she juggled work and single-handedly managing our household. This relentless effort instilled in me a profound respect for her strength and a deep appreciation for the sacrifices she made for my well-being. Growing up in a single-parent household fostered a fierce independence in me. From a young age, I learned to navigate responsibilities beyond my years. I helped with chores, cooked simple meals, and learned to budget our limited resources. These experiences nurtured a sense of self-reliance and resourcefulness that has become a cornerstone of my personality. I learned to find solutions, to improvise, and to make the most of what I had. Most importantly, my upbringing nurtured a deep sense of empathy and compassion. Witnessing my mother's struggles firsthand made me acutely aware of the challenges faced by others. It ignited a desire to understand, to help, and to use my own experiences to advocate for those in need. My childhood wasn't a fairy tale, but it was a powerful melody that shaped me into who I am today. It instilled in me resilience, resourcefulness, and a unwavering commitment to hard work. The absence of a father figure may have left a note missing, but the symphony of my mother's love, strength, and sacrifice provided the foundation for my growth and the drive to pursue my dreams. This experience has fueled my desire to earn more certifications in my field of study, a field where I can contribute to a more just and equitable society. The challenges I faced growing up have only strengthened my resolve to advocate for those in need and to build a future where opportunities are not dictated by circumstance. Just like my mother, I too, strive to create my own symphony of success, a melody woven with the threads of resilience, empathy, and the unwavering belief in the power of hard work.

For generations, the Black community has carried the weight of a brutal past and the burdens of an unequal present. Systemic racism, violence, and social disparities create a unique set of challenges that profoundly impact mental well-being. However, within this struggle lies immense strength and a deep-rooted desire for healing. By dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health and increasing access to culturally competent care, we can empower Black communities to not only survive, but thrive. The first step lies in a decisive shift in narrative. Mental health needs to be reframed as a sign of strength, not weakness. Black celebrities, athletes, and community leaders hold immense influence. By sharing their own experiences of seeking help, they can normalize the conversation and encourage others to prioritize their mental well-being. Imagine the impact if a revered rapper spoke openly about therapy, or a star athlete discussed the importance of mental health training. These acts of vulnerability can break down walls of silence and inspire others to prioritize their emotional well-being. However, access to care goes beyond just talking about it. Culturally competent therapists are crucial for creating a safe space for healing. Many Black individuals may feel hesitant to open up to someone who doesn't understand the nuances of their lived experiences. This is where increasing the number of Black mental health professionals becomes essential. Training programs and mentorship initiatives can create a pipeline for talented Black individuals to enter the field. Seeing a therapist who "gets it," who shares similar cultural references and understands the weight of societal pressures, can foster trust and open communication. The solution isn't limited to clinical settings. Community-based support systems are vital in reaching those who may not traditionally seek professional help. Faith-based organizations, barbershops, and community centers already hold a trusted place in many Black neighborhoods. These institutions can be transformed into hubs for mental health resources. Workshops on managing stress or recognizing signs of depression, facilitated by trained professionals, can provide easily accessible education. Support groups led by Black mental health professionals can offer a safe space for peer-to-peer connection and shared experiences. Educational materials, flyers, and posters displayed in these familiar spaces can raise awareness and encourage help-seeking behavior. By working collaboratively—celebrities, mental health professionals, and community leaders alike—we can build bridges of trust and understanding. Imagine barbershops offering mental health screenings alongside haircuts or churches hosting support groups for young Black men. These efforts can normalize conversations about mental health, foster early intervention, and create a culture of support within the Black community itself. The journey towards dismantling stigma and increasing access to care won't be easy. However, the potential for positive change is immense. By empowering Black communities to prioritize mental health, we can cultivate a future where seeking help is not a source of shame, but a badge of courage – a testament to the resilience and strength that has always defined the Black experience.