My journey has not been perfect, but it has been real, and it has shaped the person I am becoming today. I have experienced moments where my mental health was challenged, especially while navigating life as a first-generation student trying to figure everything out on my own. Carrying that pressure, along with personal responsibilities and uncertainty about my future, at times felt overwhelming. There were moments where I had to confront stress, self-doubt, and emotional strain while still trying to stay focused on my goals. Becoming a new mother added another layer to that journey. It brought both joy and responsibility, but also challenges that tested me in ways I had never experienced before. Balancing school, work, and motherhood has not been easy. There have been days where I felt exhausted, stretched thin, and unsure of how I would manage everything in front of me. But even in those moments, I made a commitment to keep showing up. I continue to push forward every day, not just for myself, but for my child and the future I am working to build. At one point, I had to be honest with myself and recognize that something was not right. I was overwhelmed, and I could not keep pushing through without support. Making the decision to speak to a therapist again wasn't easy, especially coming from a community where mental health is often stigmatized. In many Black communities, there is an unspoken expectation to be strong, to push through, and to handle things on your own. Seeking help can sometimes be seen as weakness, when in reality, it takes strength to face what you are going through. Through therapy, I began to unpack not only my own experiences, but also generational patterns. I came to understand that if your family has experienced trauma, that pain can carry over in ways that are not always talked about. Hurt people can hurt people, not intentionally, but because they have not had the space or tools to heal. Recognizing that helped me shift my perspective. It allowed me to approach both myself and others with more compassion, while also taking responsibility for my own healing. That moment became a turning point for me. I realized that I didn't just want to heal for myself, but for my son. I want to be better for him. I want to model healthy ways to cope, to manage emotions, and to prioritize mental health in a way that was not always shown to me. I want him to grow up feeling reassured, supported, and safe expressing how he feels, knowing that his emotions are valid and that he doesn't have to carry things on his own. Therapy became a turning point for me. It gave me the space to process my emotions, understand my triggers, and develop healthier ways to cope with stress. It also reminded me that taking care of my mental health is not a weakness, but it is a necessary part of growth. I learned to check in with myself, set boundaries, and prioritize my well-being in a way I had not before. My personal growth is reflected in how I approach challenges today. Instead of ignoring how I feel, I face it. Instead of isolating myself, I seek support. I have built resilience, discipline, and a deeper understanding of myself. Most importantly, I have learned how to give myself grace while still holding myself accountable. Academically, I am pursuing a degree in education with the goal of becoming an educator and mentor for students who may face similar challenges. I want to create spaces where students feel supported not only academically, but emotionally as well. My experiences have shown me how important it is for students to have access to guidance, encouragement, and someone who truly understands their journey. Through career coaching initiative through Breaking Barriers, I'm already taking steps toward that goal by helping students build confidence and navigate their career and educational paths. My plans for continuing in my recovery are rooted in consistency, self-awareness, and ongoing support. I plan to continue attending therapy, maintaining healthy routines, and prioritizing my mental health as I balance school, work, and motherhood. I understand that recovery is not a one-time decision, but a continuous commitment to myself and my future. Ultimately, my experiences have strengthened me. They have taught me resilience, vulnerability, and the importance of breaking cycles. I continue to show up every day, even when it is difficult, because I know what I am working toward.

I grew up understanding both the power of community and the reality of what happens when access is limited. As a first-generation college student, I did not have a clear roadmap for my future. There was no one guiding me through the college process, explaining career pathways, or preparing me for professional opportunities. I had to teach myself. I relied on free resources, asked questions when I could, and learned through trial and error. While that journey was challenging, it shaped my perspective and made me realize how many students are navigating the same uncertainty. Because of that, I chose to pursue a degree in education. I want to be more than just a teacher. I want to be a resource, a mentor, and a support system for students who may not have guidance at home. My goal is to create spaces where students feel seen, supported, and prepared for their futures. Education, to me, is about access, confidence, and opportunity. During high school, I stepped into leadership roles that reflected this purpose. I founded the People of Color Student Union and a Poetry Club, creating spaces where students could express themselves and build community. Those experiences showed me how important it is for students to feel like they belong and have a voice. It also reinforced my passion for helping others navigate systems that were not always designed with them in mind. Today, I continue that work through my initiative, Breaking Barriers. This work focuses on career readiness and college access for students, especially those from minority and first-generation backgrounds. I help students build resumes, prepare for interviews, and understand how to navigate the college process. More importantly, I focus on helping them build confidence and believe in their potential. I created Breaking Barriers because I know what it feels like to have to figure everything out on your own, and I am committed to making sure other students do not have to. The cause I am most passionate about is educational equity. Too many students are placed at a disadvantage simply because they lack access to information and support. This is important to me because I have lived that experience. I know how difficult it can be to move forward without guidance, and I also know how powerful it is when someone provides direction and encouragement. Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background. If I am awarded this scholarship, it will directly support both my education and the impact I am working to make. Financial support will allow me to focus more on my studies while continuing to grow Breaking Barriers. It will give me the ability to invest more time and resources into reaching students who need guidance the most. This scholarship is not just an investment in me, but in the students and communities I am committed to serving. Through my degree and my work, I plan to make a positive impact by ensuring that students like me are no longer left to navigate their futures alone. I want to provide access, build confidence, and create opportunities for the next generation. My goal is to not only change individual lives, but to contribute to a larger shift toward equity in education and beyond.

In high school, my perspective began to take shape because of one person who truly saw me. My high school history teacher, Mr. Ikeda, recognized my potential before I fully believed in it myself. At a time when I was still trying to figure out who I was and where I fit, he created a classroom environment where my voice mattered. He encouraged me to share my ideas, challenge perspectives, and think critically about the world around me. That kind of support stayed with me. What stood out most was not just what he taught, but how he showed up. He listened, he affirmed, and he pushed me to step into leadership even when I doubted myself. Mr. Ikeda cared about my education and my culture in a way that was supportive but not performative. With his encouragement, I founded the People of Color Student Union and a Poetry Club. At first, I saw these as opportunities to get involved, but they quickly became something much deeper. These spaces became safe environments where students of color could speak openly about their experiences, share their emotions, and connect with others who understood them. Students who may have felt unseen in other spaces finally had a place where they belonged. Through that experience, I saw firsthand how powerful it is when students are given both the space to express themselves and support. I saw students grow more confident, more engaged, and more willing to express themselves. We were a family. I also saw how much of a difference one supportive adult can make. Mr. Ikeda’s belief in me gave me the confidence to create spaces for others, and in doing so, I found my purpose. As a black young woman and first-generation student, I was also navigating a system without clear guidance. I didn’t always have access to the resources or knowledge needed to succeed, and I often had to figure things out on my own. That experience shaped my decision to pursue education. I realized that I wanted to be that person for others. I want to be the teacher who not only delivers content, but also creates an environment where students feel seen, supported, and capable. As a future educator, I plan to use my experiences to inspire others by being both a mirror and a guide. Representation matters, and I want my students, especially those from similar backgrounds, to see themselves reflected in me. I want them to know that their circumstances do not define their potential. I will create spaces in my classroom where students feel safe expressing who they are and where their voices are valued. I also plan to be intentional about teaching students the skills and knowledge that are not always explicitly taught. I understand what it feels like to not know where to start, so I will make sure my students are equipped not just academically, but personally and professionally as well. Most importantly, I will lead with empathy. I will listen, encourage, and challenge my students in ways that help them grow into confident individuals. Mr. Ikeda showed me what is possible when a teacher believes in their students. Because of him, I understand the impact I can have. I want to carry that forward and be the reason another student begins to believe in themselves.

My community has always meant everything to me. Not just in the big moments, but in the small ones too. The educators who showed up, who poured into me, who reminded me that I mattered even when I didn’t fully believe it myself. But as I got older, I started to realize something. Not every student grows up with access to the same kind of support, especially when it comes to education and career guidance, just like me. When I was figuring out my own path, I didn’t have a clear roadmap. There was no one sitting me down explaining the college process step by step, no one walking me through how to build a resume, apply for opportunities, or prepare for interviews. I had to teach myself. I used free resources, asked questions when I could, and learned through trial and error. I realized that there were so many students just like me who had the potential to succeed but didn’t have access to the information they needed. As I continued my journey in education, I began to think about what I could do differently. I knew I wanted to be more than just someone who succeeded for myself. I wanted to be someone who reached back and helped others move forward. That is how Breaking Barriers was created. Breaking Barriers is career coaching focused on helping students, especially minority and first-generation students, build confidence and learn how to navigate their careers and professional spaces. Recently, I had the opportunity to table and lead a workshop at a high school’s College and Career Day representing Breaking Barriers. Standing in that room, I saw so much of my younger self in those students. I saw their potential, their curiosity, and also the questions they might not always feel comfortable asking. I made it my mission to create a space where they felt seen, heard, and supported. During the workshop, we talked about real things students need to hear. We talked about how community college is a strong and smart option, even though there can be stigma around it. We talked about how changing majors or careers is normal, and that loving what you do matters, especially for your mental health. I reminded them to believe in themselves, to speak their goals into existence, and to understand that anything is possible when they stay focused and keep pushing. My degree in education is intentional because I want to be in spaces where I can directly impact students’ lives. Representation matters. I want students to see someone who looks like them, who has faced similar challenges, and who has still been able to pursue higher education and create opportunities for themselves. With my degree, I plan to continue growing Breaking Barriers so I can reach more students and expand my impact. I want to partner with schools, create more workshops, and develop resources that are accessible to students who may not otherwise have support. My goal is not just to help students get into college, but to help them feel confident navigating their futures. This work is bigger than me. It is about making sure that students like me are no longer left to figure it out alone.

From the moment I stepped into a classroom, I knew that was where I belonged. I realized the importance of teachers at a very young age. School was where I felt safe, valued, and capable of more than I believed. With my teacher’s encouragement, I founded a People of Color Student Union and Poetry Club, both safe spaces for students to share their stories and express themselves through art and dialogue. This experience provides insight as to why I am passionate about education, the arts, and cultural literacy. As a first-generation student, I lacked resources and guidance at home. That reality fuels my commitment to be the kind of educator who bridges those gaps for students. Cultural literacy is so important to me that I chose to research cultural competence in education—especially as a Black educator—not just to understand it, but to fully embody and apply it in my teaching. My research explores institutional barriers that prevent cultural competence and offers solutions such as inclusive curricula, mentorship for teachers, and community engagement. These strategies ensure students see themselves reflected in their education year-round, not only during cultural heritage months. Growing up, I could count on one hand the number of teachers who looked like me, and that absence left a lasting impression. Representation shapes what children believe is possible for themselves—it is the mirror through which they can envision their own potential. Without seeing role models who reflected my identity, I had to work harder to imagine myself in certain spaces. My path was not one of privilege; I carved my own future from humble beginnings, fueled by determination, resilience, and the belief that education could open doors. These experiences give me a deep and personal connection to students navigating similar challenges, allowing me to understand their struggles and guide them toward envisioning their own success. My former teachers have described me as a natural leader who inspires others, a committed learner who follows through on her goals, and a caring, collaborative classmate who builds strong relationships and supports those around her. To this day, I remain a lifelong learner, and I carry those same qualities into my work as an educator, in my academic pursuits, and in every aspect of my personal growth. I believe in creating the change I want to see. Through education, I will inspire my students to dream bigger, work harder, and believe in themselves. I will lend my ear, extend my hand, and do everything in my power to help them succeed not just academically, but in everyday life.

What sets me apart is my ability to connect with anyone, no matter their walk of life. Whether I’m sitting across from a young student trying to figure out their first job or guiding a professional making a career pivot, I listen without judgment and lead with empathy. I’ve lived many lives in one: professional, student, coach, and now mother. That gives me a deep well of understanding to draw from. I see people for who they are and who they can become, and I meet them exactly where they are. I taught myself how to navigate corporate America as a Black woman, which is something no one really prepares you for. I didn’t grow up with a roadmap or a network of professionals to lean on. I had to learn how to speak the language of professionalism while staying grounded in who I am. I figured out how to advocate for myself, earn respect in rooms I wasn’t expected to be in, and move confidently through spaces that weren’t always welcoming. Once I figured it out, I knew I had to turn around and help others do the same. That’s how I became a career coach. Over the years, I’ve helped more than 200 people—mostly youth, students, and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds—revamp their resumes, ace interviews, negotiate salaries, and land life-changing opportunities. I didn’t just help them get jobs. I helped them see themselves differently. I helped them walk taller and believe they belonged. I shared every lesson I had to learn the hard way, so they didn’t have to do it alone. After years of establishing my career and building a reputation for being reliable, detail-oriented, and mission-driven, I became a mother. Having my son, Rockett, has deepened my purpose. He’s the next generation I’ve been advocating for all along. Now I understand even more intimately what it means to dream while providing, to keep pushing forward while nurturing. I want to show him, and others watching, that motherhood and ambition are not at odds. You can do both. You can thrive. What makes me different isn’t just my resilience, it’s my relatability. I’ve been the underdog and I’ve been the one making decisions. That dual experience makes me someone people trust and feel seen by. I know what it takes to survive, and I know what it takes to succeed. And I teach others how to do both. I make a difference by showing up fully and helping others do the same. I’ve created a ripple effect that stretches beyond me, and I’m only getting started.

When I was young, I always wondered what my future career would be. My family would tell me to “be a lawyer or journalist!” because of their high salaries. Deep within, I sensed those specific careers weren’t my true calling. In my younger years, I possessed a sharp social consciousness recognizing teachers didn’t make a high salary like other popular professions but money didn’t deter my purpose to shape young. What matters most is waking up knowing you love what you do than having a career you dislike because it pays better. School was my sanctuary, where I felt safe and acknowledged. My teachers saw my potential first hand and they could see my growth and development. Children’s award-winning author and illustrator, Donald Crews once said “Teachers are the first people who can show confidence in children outside of family members—and the opinions of outsiders usually make a stronger impression than relatives.” In contrast to my parents who love me and supported me because of that, these educators pushed me academically. I had a history teacher in high school who saw my potential and knew my capabilities. My visions came to life because he would support them. With his assistance, I started two new high school clubs—The People of Color Student Union and Poetry Club. For students, these clubs are essential to connect with peers and share their emotions or experiences in a safe space created for them. Being a first generation student, my parents couldn’t provide me with the resources I needed to succeed. When I came to this realization—I understood that there are children that will be just like me, yearning for guidance they cannot receive at home. I can relate to feeling alone, not knowing where to start, and not wanting to seek aid in fear of seeming needy. As a black teacher I will provide a mirror for students. Growing up, I can barely count on one hand how many of my teachers looked like me. Representation in education is crucial and provides children with the motivation to succeed. As a child, seeing a black teacher, doctor, or lawyer allows you to envision yourself in any profession you deem possible. Students will look to me for support and what makes my support more impactful is my circumstances weren’t ideal— I didn’t come from a wealthy home with my future set up for me, I fought for my future by carving my own path from humble beginnings. By becoming an educator, I am resolved to empower and inspire the black youth to manifest the futures they envision. You have to create the change you want to see. I will lend an ear, hand and do everything in my power to ensure my students succeed.

A woman who’s helped me with my educational and professional goals is my mentor Kim Connolly. In my process she has been such a great person as far as helping me expand my network and motivating, and supporting me throughout my journey to become an educator. We speak weekly about different strategies and academic plans and formulate next steps. Kim is very important to my educational goals because she encourages me to persevere. My schedule has become filled because I work full-time while also attending class and it gets difficult sometimes. Since I am a first gen student, it is my obligation to do both as this is how I pay off my loans and pay for my tuition. Kim is also my friend and we can also share similar stories, and situations so it doesn’t feel solely like a professional relationship. She is like a sister to me and I appreciate every piece of advice she gives to me. When thinking of my future, Kim assures me that all my hard work will pay off. In these times, it is so refreshing and empowering to be supported by another woman because of gender inequality, we aren’t presented with the same opportunities as our male counterparts. Intersectionality is another big factor in my life which Kim and I also share because we are both women of color—she is Asian American and I am African American. Challenges often occur in life due to these differences but we persevere. In my academic and professional journey, I have embarked on a remarkable path— meeting not only my mentor but also my soul sister. My journey with her began through the introduction by my high school history teacher, Mr. Ikeda, who recognized the potential synergy between us. From our initial meeting, the energy was delightful and we could not stop talking or laughing. Our connection was instant and I knew this would be a friendship that would last a lifetime. Our similarities are what drive us to create a different narrative in our story. When I grew into adulthood, I didn’t have the proper guidance, let alone resources being a low-income minority, and everything I’ve earned I had to strive for. There have been many sleepless nights, packed schedules, and dark days but I open my eyes and keep going, no matter how hard it gets. Kim sees this determination in me and always makes sure to let me know that she is by far impressed and proud of me. It was evident that Kim's commitment to diversity and equity was significant—it was a guiding principle in her everyday actions. This has transformed my goal of focusing on one thing in education but to explore other opportunities in the education field. Kim demonstrated an ingrained ability to pinpoint and nurture my strengths throughout our mentorship. She tailored her guidance to align with my individual goals, offering incredible insights into the complexities of navigating a diverse professional world. Under her wing, I gained a deeper understanding of my career and a sense of clarity and confidence. Kim is compassionate, dependable and ambitious. She provided unwavering support during challenging times, fostering an environment where I felt empowered and encouraged to explore new opportunities. Her outstanding work-ethic speaks volumes about her dedication to creating positive change and inspires me to be a better me every day. In essence, I am deeply grateful for her mentorship, which has not only shaped my educational and professional goals but has also instilled in me a lifelong commitment to not just showing up but impacting those I encounter everyday.