Losing a parent is a life changing experience that has affected me personally, academically, and financially in ways I never expected. It is not just the absence of a person, but the absence of guidance, comfort, and stability that I once relied on every day. This loss has shaped who I am today and continues to influence how I approach life and my future. Personally, the loss has been one of the most difficult things I have ever faced. There are moments when I feel okay, but there are also times when the grief feels overwhelming. I miss having someone I could go to for advice, encouragement, and unconditional support. Milestones and everyday moments feel different now because I cannot share them with my parent. This experience has forced me to grow emotionally and mentally. I have had to learn how to cope with my feelings, stay strong during hard times, and continue moving forward even when it is difficult. It has made me more independent and more aware of how important family and time truly are. Academically, losing my parent has been a challenge. Grief does not pause for school, and there have been times when focusing on my work felt almost impossible. My mind would often drift, and staying motivated became harder, especially when I was dealing with emotions I did not fully understand. Despite this, I have continued to push myself to succeed. I know that education is important, and I want to build a future that reflects the values my parent instilled in me. Their absence has motivated me to work harder and stay committed to my goals. Even during difficult times, I have remained determined to keep going and not let my circumstances define my potential. Financially, the loss has also had a major impact. A parent plays a key role in providing financial support, and without that, there are new responsibilities and challenges. My family has had to adjust, and I have become more aware of the importance of financial stability. Thinking about college expenses and my future has added pressure, but it has also made me more determined to find ways to succeed. Scholarships and financial assistance are important to me because they can help ease the burden and allow me to focus on my education without as much stress. Although losing a parent has been incredibly hard, it has also made me stronger. It has taught me resilience, responsibility, and the importance of perseverance. I have learned how to keep going even when life feels unfair. This experience has given me a deeper sense of purpose and a stronger drive to achieve my goals. I want to make my parent proud by continuing my education and building a successful future. Overall, the loss of my parent has impacted every area of my life, but it has also shaped me into a more determined and focused individual. I am committed to overcoming these challenges and using my experiences as motivation to create a better future for myself.

My “awkward” thing is that I talk to myself… a lot. Not just quick thoughts in my head, but full conversations out loud—like I’m explaining something, practicing what I’m going to say, or even arguing both sides of a situation. If someone overheard me, they’d probably be confused. For a long time, I thought it was something I needed to hide because it made me seem strange. But the truth is, it’s one of the ways I understand myself and the world around me. Talking to myself helps me organize my thoughts in a way nothing else does. When I’m stressed, confused, or trying to make a decision, I’ll literally walk myself through it step by step. I ask myself questions, answer them, and sometimes even challenge my own thinking. It might look awkward on the outside, but on the inside, it’s clarity. It helps me slow down instead of reacting too quickly or making decisions I might regret. This habit has also made me a better communicator. Because I rehearse conversations in my head (and out loud), I go into real-life situations more prepared. Whether it’s a serious conversation, a presentation, or even just expressing how I feel, I’ve already worked through the words. I’m not always perfect at it, but I’m more confident because I’ve practiced being honest with myself first. Another way this makes me stand out is in how I handle challenges. Instead of immediately depending on others for answers, I try to figure things out on my own first. I’ve learned how to problem-solve, reflect, and even calm myself down just by talking things through. That independence has helped me grow, especially during times when I felt unsure or overwhelmed. Of course, there are still moments when I feel self-conscious about it. If someone catches me mid-sentence talking to myself, I might laugh it off or feel a little embarrassed. But I don’t see it as something negative anymore. It’s not hurting anyone, and it actually helps me function better. In a way, it’s like I’ve built-in support—my own voice reminding me to think, reflect, and keep going. In a world where people are constantly influenced by outside opinions, my “awkward” habit keeps me grounded. It reminds me to check in with myself before anything else. It helps me stay true to what I think and feel, instead of just going along with the crowd. So yes, it might be a little different. It might even be a little awkward. But it’s also one of the reasons I’m thoughtful, self-aware, and able to handle situations in my own way. And that’s something I wouldn’t change.

Going to college means more to me than just earning a degree it represents growth, independence, and the opportunity to build a better future for myself and my family. College is a chance for me to step outside of my comfort zone, gain new experiences, and develop the knowledge and skills I need to succeed in life. It is not only about academics, but also about learning who I am, what I stand for, and how I can make a positive impact on the world around me. Growing up, I have learned that success does not come easily. There have been challenges that tested my focus, motivation, and resilience, but those experiences have shaped me into a stronger and more determined person. Going to college means proving to myself that I can overcome obstacles and continue pushing forward, even when things get difficult. It is a symbol of hard work paying off and a reminder that my goals are within reach if I stay dedicated. In college, I plan to major in social work while also exploring opportunities in real estate. My goal in social work is to help individuals and families who are going through difficult situations, especially those who may not have the support they need. I want to be someone who listens, understands, and provides guidance to help others improve their lives. I have always cared deeply about people, and I want to turn that passion into a career that truly makes a difference. At the same time, I am interested in real estate because it offers financial stability and the ability to create opportunities not only for myself but for others as well. I want to learn how to invest, manage properties, and build generational wealth. By combining my passion for helping others with my interest in business, I hope to create a balanced future where I can both serve my community and secure long term success. Going to college also means setting an example for those around me. I want to show younger family members and people in my community that it is possible to pursue higher education and achieve their goals, no matter where they come from. Representation matters, and I want to be proof that determination and hard work can open doors. Ultimately, what I am trying to accomplish through college is growth in every aspect of my life academically, personally, and professionally. I want to graduate with the knowledge, confidence, and experience needed to build a meaningful career and live a stable, successful life. More importantly, I want to use what I learn to uplift others and give back to my community. College is not just a step in my journey; it is a foundation for the future I am determined to create.

Resilience is not something I was taught in a classroom; it is something I learned through life. One of the biggest challenges I have faced was losing my dad at the age of four. Growing up without him was not easy. There were moments when I felt like something was missing at important events, school programs, and milestones. As I got older, I understood more about what that loss meant. Instead of letting it make me bitter or angry, I decided to let it make me stronger. That choice is where my resilience began. I watched my mom work hard and stay strong for our family. Seeing her push through hard days inspired me to do the same. I realized that even when life feels unfair, giving up only makes things harder. So I focused on what I could control my attitude, my education, and my goals. I maintained a 4.0 GPA, stayed involved in positive activities, and pushed myself to succeed academically. There were times when balancing school, responsibilities, and emotions felt overwhelming, but I reminded myself why I was working so hard. I wanted to make my family proud and create opportunities for my future. By staying consistent and determined, I unknowingly became an example to others. Some of my peers have told me they admire how focused and driven I am despite everything I’ve been through. I have had friends come to me when they felt like giving up because they saw that I kept going even after facing loss. Instead of pretending everything was perfect, I was honest about my struggles. I shared that there were days I felt sad or unmotivated, but I chose to keep pushing forward anyway. I think that honesty made my resilience more real and relatable. There was a time when a friend was dealing with family problems and felt overwhelmed. She told me she did not know how to stay strong. I reminded her that strength does not mean never feeling hurt it means continuing even when you are hurt. I shared how I focus on my goals when things get difficult and how I use my pain as motivation instead of letting it hold me back. Over time, I saw her begin to shift her mindset. She started setting small goals for herself and stopped doubting her ability to overcome challenges. Knowing that my experience encouraged her showed me that resilience can be contagious. Resilience has also inspired others through my work ethic. Being involved in school, volunteering, and maintaining strong grades has shown people that your background does not determine your outcome. I strive to lead by example. When younger students ask how I stay motivated, I tell them it is about remembering your “why.” My “why” is honoring my dad’s memory, supporting my mom, and building a better future for myself. Through my actions, I have learned that resilience is not about being perfect or never struggling. It is about choosing to rise each time you fall. If my journey has helped even one person believe they can overcome their own challenges, then every obstacle I faced had a purpose.

Growing up in a single-parent household shaped who I am in ways I didn’t fully understand when I was younger. My dad passed away when I was four years old, and even though I was young, that loss has stayed with me. Not having him there for birthdays, school events, or big milestones made me realize early on that life can change in an instant. It forced me to grow up with a different kind of strength. I learned how to appreciate the people who are present, especially my mom, who had to take on both roles and carry responsibilities that weren’t meant for just one person. Watching my mom raise me on her own showed me what resilience looks like. She worked hard, made sacrifices, and still found ways to support and encourage me. Seeing her strength pushed me to become more independent and responsible. I understood that I couldn’t take opportunities for granted. I had to work hard not just for myself, but for the family that believed in me. Losing my dad also gave me a deeper sense of empathy. I understand what it feels like to experience grief, to miss someone, and to wonder “what if.” Because of that, I’m more sensitive to other people’s pain. I try to be the friend who listens, the person who checks in, and someone others can depend on. Being raised without my dad has also motivated my future goals. It made me want to build a stable and loving life for myself and the family I will have one day. I want to create the kind of environment where my children feel secure, supported, and encouraged to chase their dreams. It also influenced my desire to pursue a career where I can help others. I want to be someone who makes a real difference in people’s lives, especially for those who may feel overlooked or alone. In the future, I see myself using my talents my compassion, communication skills, and determination to do good in the world. I want to work in a field where I can guide and uplift others, possibly in social work or a helping profession. I imagine supporting children who are growing up in single-parent households or who have experienced loss, just like I did. I want to remind them that their circumstances do not define their potential. With the right support, they can overcome challenges and succeed. I also hope to give back to my community by mentoring young girls and encouraging them to believe in themselves. I know what it feels like to need reassurance and guidance, and I want to be that source of light for someone else. My experiences have taught me that pain can either break you or build you. I’ve chosen to let it build me. Although losing my dad at such a young age was one of the hardest parts of my life, it has shaped me into a stronger, more compassionate, and goal-driven person. My future is not defined by what I lost, but by how I choose to grow from it. Through my career and my actions, I plan to honor my dad’s memory by becoming someone who spreads love, support, and hope to others.

am a student who is deeply committed to supporting and strengthening my community. Over the past several years, I have volunteered in programs focused on youth development, education, and digital safety. I enjoy being someone younger students can trust, whether that means tutoring after school, organizing community events, or helping families navigate technology safely. Much of my involvement has centered on mentorship. I have served as a peer leader in school and as a volunteer with local youth programs, where I helped create a welcoming environment for students who might feel isolated or overwhelmed. These experiences have taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of showing up consistently for others. What sort of financial need do you have as you enter higher education? As I begin my higher education journey, financial assistance is essential for me to pursue my academic goals. My family’s resources are limited, and we are not able to fully support the cost of tuition, textbooks, technology, and living expenses. I am committed to working part-time, applying for scholarships, and managing my budget carefully, but these alone will not cover the full cost of college. Receiving financial support would allow me to focus more on my studies and community engagement rather than constantly worrying about how to pay for school. How do you keep children/youth safe in your community and online from in-person bullying and cyber bullying? I believe that keeping young people safe requires both proactive education and consistent presence. In my community roles, I help create safe environments by: 1. Teaching digital literacy and online boundaries I talk with younger students about recognizing red flags online, protecting personal information, blocking/reporting harmful content, and understanding the emotional impact of social media. 2. Promoting open communication I encourage kids to talk to trusted adults when something makes them uncomfortable whether it’s an online message, group chat behavior, or in-person conflict. I try to model being approachable and judgment-free. 3. Establishing clear expectations for respectful behavior During youth programs, I help set guidelines for how students should treat one another. We discuss empathy, bystander intervention, and how to respond when someone is being targeted. 4. Providing support to those affected If I see bullying, I intervene safely by redirecting the situation, seeking adult help, or checking in privately with the person targeted. I help students understand that seeking help is not " snitching" protecting themselves and others. 5. Encouraging inclusive spaces I help organize activities that bring students together across different backgrounds and interests. When young people feel included and valued, bullying is less likely to take hold.

Mrs. Wilson entered my life at a time when I didn’t realize how much I needed someone to truly see me. She was my eleventh-grade English teacher, but her influence reached far beyond the classroom. While most teachers focused on grammar rules and essay formats, Mrs. Wilson focused on people their stories, their struggles, and the quiet potential hidden beneath their insecurities. It was the way she listened, really listened, that made her unforgettable. I wasn’t the most confident student. I completed my assignments and blended into the background, convinced that the safest place was the one where no one expected too much of me. Mrs. Wilson saw right through that. During the first month of school, she pulled me aside after class and handed me back an essay I had written. I expected the usual corrections and suggestions, but instead she tapped the page and said, “You have a voice worth hearing. Stop writing like you’re afraid of it.” That single sentence stunned me, not because she complimented me, but because she recognized something I didn’t yet believe. From that point on, Mrs. Wilson became a steady force in my academic and personal growth. She pushed me to enter a school writing contest, even though I insisted I wasn’t “that type” of student. She made me rewrite drafts until my fingertips felt numb, not because perfection mattered, but because she wanted me to experience the power of committing to something fully. When I won second place, she celebrated as though I had won a national award. Her belief in my abilities slowly began to shape my own belief in myself. But her influence extended far beyond academics. Mrs. Wilson had a way of weaving life lessons into everyday conversation, turning simple moments into lasting wisdom. On days when I seemed overwhelmed, she would remind me that mistakes were proof of effort, not signs of failure. When I felt uncertain about my future, she encouraged me to chase curiosity rather than certainty, explaining that purpose often reveals itself through exploration. She taught me that authenticity mattered more than approval, and that my worth wasn’t tied to achievements but to the effort and heart I put into what I did. What struck me most was that Mrs. Wilson lived the very lessons she taught. She showed compassion without making a spectacle of it. She offered guidance without judgment. And she created an environment where students felt safe enough to take risks, share their thoughts, and discover their strengths. Watching her navigate challenges with grace and humor taught me that leadership doesn’t always look loud it often looks patient, intentional, and quietly courageous. Mrs. Wilson changed the way I approach my life by teaching me to embrace my voice, trust my potential, and move forward even when fear whispers otherwise. Her influence still echoes in the choices I make and the confidence I carry today. She wasn’t just a teacher she was a turning point, and her impact continues to guide me long after leaving her classroom.

I like to say that who I am is a blend of where I come from, what I’ve lived through, and who I’m determined to become. Growing up in the Mississippi Delta shaped me in ways I’m still discovering. It’s a place full of front-porch wisdom, neighbors who treat you like family, and stories that stretch longer than the summers. But it’s also a place where you learn early how important support, understanding, and community truly are. Those lessons planted the seeds for the person I am today someone who wants to help, listen, and make life a little easier for others. Losing my dad at just four years old was one of the first life events that pushed me toward compassion and taught me how deeply loss can impact a person. Even though I was young, that experience left an imprint on my heart. As I got older, I realized how much it shaped me into someone who notices pain in others, someone who understands the kind of loneliness that can follow you, and someone who knows how powerful it is when even one person genuinely cares. That early loss didn’t just make me sensitive it made me strong, aware, and determined to give others the support I had to grow up learning to find on my own. That desire is why I plan to build a career in social work. I want to be the person who listens without judgment, who meets people exactly where they are, and who believes in them even when life feels overwhelming. Social work gives me the opportunity to help individuals and families heal, to advocate for those who feel unseen, and to be a steady presence in moments when everything else feels unstable. My goal is to create a positive impact not just by offering help, but by empowering people to recognize their own strength and resilience. I know that change doesn’t always come from huge gestures it often comes from small moments of kindness, patience, and genuine connection. I want to bring those moments into my work every day. Whether it’s guiding someone through a crisis, offering emotional support, or simply showing up consistently, I want to be part of someone’s path toward healing and hope. Ultimately, I plan to make a positive impact on the world by combining my lived experiences with my passion for helping others. I want to use my story, my compassion, and my dedication to create a future where more people feel heard, supported, and capable of moving forward. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has given me the heart and purpose I need to make a meaningful difference one person at a time.

I like to say I was raised in the Mississippi Delta, which means I grew up with three things: mosquitoes the size of small birds, neighbors who knew my business before I did, and enough blues music to make even a happy person shed a dramatic tear out the window like they’re in a music video. Life there had its charms front porches, sweet tea strong enough to stop your heart, and elders who could turn a five-minute story into a full three hour event with bonus life lessons you didn’t ask for. But my childhood had some heavy moments, too. I lost my dad when I was just four. At that age, you don’t understand loss you just know something big is missing, like a puzzle piece that somehow makes the whole picture feel crooked. As I got older, I realized that losing him shaped my heart in quiet ways. It made me softer with people, quicker to notice who was hurting, and way more emotional than someone who claims they’re “fine” all the time. I am absolutely not always fine. Growing up in the Delta with that kind of loss felt like walking around with an invisible backpack full of feelings. Some days it was light; some days it felt like carrying a whole sack of Delta grown sweet potatoes. But it also made me strong, in the “I can survive almost anything” way, not strong in the “I can lift a tractor” way. Let’s be realistic and a little honest nobody’s picking up a tractor in that heat anyway. And that’s honestly a big part of why I want to become a social worker. When you’ve needed help and didn’t always know where to find it, you grow up wanting to be that person for someone else the one who listens, understands, and doesn’t judge you even if you’re a little chaotic. I want to be that steady hand, that encouraging voice, maybe even that person who brings snacks to appointments because emotional support snacks are real and sometimes absolutely necessary. My upbringing taught me resilience, compassion, and the ability to laugh even when life feels like a dramatic soap opera. The Mississippi Delta gave me roots, my childhood gave me purpose, and now I’m ready to take all of that every lesson, every struggle, every laugh and turn it into a career where I can make life just a little easier for someone else.