One high school teacher who deeply influenced me and changed how I approach life is Mr. Garrick Cummings, my 9th grade Human Geography and AVID teacher. From the first day of class, it was clear that Mr. Cummings wasn’t just another teacher—he was someone who genuinely cared about his students, not just academically but personally as well. He made a lasting impression on me by being approachable, supportive, and consistent. His ability to connect with students and meet them where they were—academically, emotionally, and socially—set him apart. He was the kind of teacher you don’t forget – not just because he taught well, but because he made every student feel heard, seen, and supported. Freshman year was overwhelming. I was transitioning into high school, juggling a full schedule, and trying to figure out where I fit in. Mr. Cummings made that transition easier. His classroom quickly became a safe space – a place where I didn’t feel judged or overlooked. He had created an environment where students felt safe to be themselves. He encouraged us to speak our minds, ask questions, and explore topics from different perspectives. He wasn’t just a teacher—he was a mentor. He listened when my classmates and I had problems, whether they were related to school, friendships, or life outside the classroom. His door was always open, and that open-door policy made a huge difference. I never felt like I had to go through anything alone, because I knew he would listen without judgment and respond with honesty and care. Academically, Mr. Cummings had a gift for making learning both fun and accessible. Human Geography wasn’t a subject I expected to enjoy, but he turned every lesson into an experience. Whether he was teaching geography or helping us develop our AVID skills, he always found ways to make the material engaging. He respected that not everyone learns the same way, and he made sure to adapt his teaching style to reach every student. From games, debates, storytelling, and real-life examples, he taught in a way that helped us all connect with the content. He didn’t just talk about success – he showed us how to achieve it, step by step. He believed in us, even when we didn’t fully believe in ourselves yet. But more than anything, it was the life lessons Mr. Cummings shared that changed me. He constantly emphasized the importance of staying focused, setting goals, and believing in ourselves. He didn’t just teach us about maps or study habits—he taught us about life. He talked about resilience, self-worth, and making good choices. He shared his own experiences and challenges, and that made it easier for us to be honest about our own. Through his words and actions, I learned that being smart isn't about always knowing the answer—it's about staying curious, working hard, and never being afraid to grow. Because of Mr. Cummings, I’ve learned to approach life with more confidence and intention. I’m not afraid to ask for help when I need it, and I try to offer the same support and encouragement to others that he gave me. He helped shape not only the student I became but the person I strive to be—one who listens, leads with kindness, and believes in the power of hard work and human connection. And I’ve learned that success isn’t just about academics—it’s also about character, effort, and community.

My name is Brianna Holmes, and I am a graduating senior excitedly preparing to embark on my journey at Lander University this fall. I have chosen to major in Psychology, complemented by a minor in Business Administration, as I believe this combination will equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand human behavior while also navigating the complexities of running a successful practice. My enthusiasm for learning about the intricacies of the human mind and my commitment to helping others through their emotional and psychological challenges drive me to pursue this path. I aspire to become a clinical psychologist and am eager to gain hands-on experience that will prepare me for this vital role. My ultimate goal is to create a positive impact in the lives of individuals, particularly young adults and members of underserved communities who face mental health challenges. I envision opening a mental wellness center that provides accessible therapy, community support groups, and educational resources aimed at promoting mental health literacy. This center would not only serve as a therapeutic space but also as a hub for community engagement and education, empowering individuals to take charge of their mental well-being. Additionally, I am in the final stages of obtaining my licensure as a cosmetologist, specializing in natural hairstyles and braiding. I plan to work part-time in this field while attending college, which will allow me to utilize my creative skills to generate income while fostering an encouraging environment for my clients. I believe that beauty and mental wellness are interconnected, and through my work in cosmetology, I aim to uplift and support others. Despite my aspirations and diligent work ethic, I face significant financial challenges. Currently, I do not have access to transportation or a driver’s license, and I will be living on campus with limited resources. Receiving the Achieve Potential Scholarship would greatly ease my financial burdens and enable me to focus on my academic pursuits, professional development, and the growth of my cosmetology business. This scholarship would be an invaluable investment not just in my education but also in the communities I intend to serve in the future. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to be considered for the Achieve Potential Scholarship. Your support would not only bring me closer to fulfilling my educational and professional goals but also empower me to make a meaningful, lasting impact in the field of mental health advocacy and service. Thank you for considering my application.

The first time I watched "Hidden Figures," I was in tenth grade, sitting on the floor of my bedroom with my laptop and a head full of questions about my future. By the end of the movie, I had tears in my eyes—not from sadness, but from deep recognition. In Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, I saw not just historical figures, but reflections of who I aspired to be a Black woman who is brilliant, bold, and determined to succeed in spaces that weren't built for her. As someone pursuing a career in psychology with a minor in business, while also becoming a licensed cosmetologist, I understand the importance of balance, resilience, and purpose. What inspired me most about "Hidden Figures" was how these women used their intelligence, creativity, and perseverance to change the world, even when society tried to overlook their contributions. This mirrors my own journey as I strive to create a space for myself in both the beauty industry and the mental health field, where Black women are often overlooked. Watching "Hidden Figures" allowed me to dream beyond the limitations placed on me. It reminded me that I don't have to choose between my passions; I can merge them. I've always believed that beauty and healing are connected. When a client sits in my chair, I'm not just styling their hair; I'm helping them feel seen, valued, and confident. This emotional connection is what motivated me to study psychology, so I can one day offer therapy and support to young women who feel silenced by self-doubt or trauma, much like the characters in the film. One scene I’ll never forget is when Dorothy Vaughan teaches herself and her team to code the IBM machine, knowing that no one else would help them. She didn’t wait for permission or recognition—she prepared for the future on her own terms. That mindset has guided me through long nights of studying, juggling multiple responsibilities, and preparing to enter college as a first-generation student. Like Dorothy, I’m not waiting to be invited to the table—I’m building my own. "Hidden Figures" didn’t just tell a powerful story; it gave me a blueprint. It showed me that my background, struggles, and determination are all part of what makes me capable. Whether I'm working with a client in the salon or sitting across from someone in a therapy session, I want to make them feel what that movie made me feel: empowered, worthy, and limitless.

Leadership is often defined by the ability to inspire and guide others towards a common goal. As a senior and cosmetology student at my high school, I have had the privilege of demonstrating leadership through my interactions with lowerclassmen in our program. The cosmetology program at my school offers a variety of salon services for affordable prices at our monthly Saturday salon clinics. Once particular clinic stands out: our January salon clinic, where I had to help multiple lowerclassmen in the program with many different clients and help to keep the salon organized. During the salon clinic, I noticed that a few of our junior and sophomore students were running overtime with a few of their clients. I informed my cosmetology instructor of the matter, and offered my services once I had finished my own clients. I specialized in natural hair services and silk presses, and when I saw one of the juniors struggling with a silk press service, I stepped in to teach her the proper technique. I showed her how to prevent the client from being burned and how to ensure the hair would not suffer heat damage from the service. This not only helped her finish the service efficiently but also gave her skills that would improve her future work. In addition, I noticed another one of our junior students was struggling with a braided hairstyle on her client, and since she had already surpassed her allotted time in the salon, I stepped in to help her complete the style more quickly. My goal was to support my peers so that they could meet their responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed. Beyond assisting with client services, I also contributed to keeping the salon running smoothly. I took it upon myself to sweep the salon floor, assist with cleaning stations, and organize tools to maintain a clean and professional work environment. In the dispensary, there was a buildup of dirty implements, and since only one person was assigned to clean them, I stepped in to help, ensuring everything was sanitized and ready for use. Additionally, I assisted the receptionist with managing payments and organizing consultation and information forms that each client completed. By taking initiative and offering my assistance wherever it was needed, I helped ensure that our salon clinic operated efficiently and that all students could complete their work on time. The leadership I demonstrated that day had a meaningful impact-not only did my peers gain valuable skills and confidence, but the salon itself maintained a high standard of professionalism and client satisfaction. Moving forward, I plan to continue developing my leadership skills in my future career. As I pursue my cosmetology license and eventually work in a professional salon, I will apply the same leadership principles- mentoring others, maintaining organization, and stepping up when needed. I hope to inspire and support future cosmetologists, just as I have done with my peers in my high school program. Whether through training new stylists, assisting colleagues, or even one day owning my own salon, I will carry the lessons of teamwork, responsibility, and mentorship with me. Leadership is about more than just taking charge-it is about uplifting others, creating a positive environment, and ensuring that everyone has the support they need to succeed. Through my experiences in my high school cosmetology program, I have learned that true leadership is about service, and I am excited to continue demonstrating excellence in leadership in my future endeavors.

My name is Brianna Holmes, and I am a high school senior with a passion for understanding the human mind and helping others navigate their mental health journeys. I am interested in studying Psychology and Business Administration, with the hope of attending one of several universities, including Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University and Clark Atlanta University. As a Black woman, I am particularly aware of the unique challenges our community faces regarding mental health, and I am determined to make a difference. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how mental health issues can affect individuals and families. I have seen loved ones struggle with anxiety and depression, often without the resources or support they needed. My mother and my older sister were both diagnosed with BPD, which impacted myself, our peers, and our everyday life. These experiences have shaped my beliefs about the importance of mental health awareness and accessibility. I believe that mental health should be prioritized just as much as physical health, and that everyone deserves access to the care and support they need. My experiences have also influenced my relationships. I have learned the importance of empathy and active listening, and I strive to be a supportive friend and family member. I have seen how powerful it can be to simply be there for someone, to listen without judgment, and to offer encouragement. These values guide how I interact with others and have strengthened my relationships. In terms of career aspirations, my experiences with mental health have inspired me to pursue a career where I can make a positive impact. I am particularly interested in the intersection of psychology and business because I believe that understanding human behavior is crucial in any field. I hope to use my education to develop programs or initiatives that promote mental health awareness and provide resources to underserved communities, especially those similar to my own. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by advocating for mental health education and support. I want to work towards breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in communities of color. By pursuing a degree in psychology, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of mental health issues and develop the skills necessary to support those in need. Additionally, with a background in business administration, I aim to create and manage organizations that focus on providing mental health services and resources. Ultimately, I am driven by a desire to help others and make a meaningful difference in the world. I believe that by addressing mental health issues and promoting awareness, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society. I am committed to using my education and experiences to contribute to this vision, and I am excited about the opportunity to further my studies and make a positive impact through my career in mental health. Thank you for considering my application for the Autumn Davis Memorial Scholarship. Your support would greatly assist me in achieving my goals and making a difference in the field of mental health.

My name is Brianna Holmes, and I am a high school senior with a GPA of 3.8. As I look toward the future, I am filled with excitement and ambition. My plans include obtaining my cosmetology license before I graduate high school, which is a stepping stone towards my dream of owning a salon. I am also eager to attend the amazing Georgia State University to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology. The combination of my interests in cosmetology and psychology might seem unusual to some, but for me, it makes perfect sense. I envision a future where I can merge these passions to make a real difference in people's lives. With my cosmetology license, I want to open a salon that offers a variety of services such as natural hair care, hair coloring, hair cutting, braids, wigs, and more. My goal is to creat a welcoming space where people can feel beautiful and confident in their own skin. In addition to my salon, I aspire to open a clinic where I can use my degree in psychology to provide mental health support to those in my community and my family. Mental health is an issue that is often overlooked, and I want to be part of the change that brings it to the forefront. By offering counseling and support, I aim to help individuals overcome their challenges and lead fulfilling lives. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals. Financial support would ease the burden of tuition and other expenses, allowing me to focus on my studies and my passion for cosmetology. It would also enable me to participate in internships and other opportunities that would enhance my education and prepare me for my future endeavors. As a Black woman, I am aware of the obstacles I may face, but I am determined to overcome them. I want to be a role model for others in my community, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, dream can become reality. This scholarship would not only provide financial assistance but also serve as a vote of confidence in my potential and aspirations. In the long term, I hope to use my education and skills to give back to my community in meaningful ways. Whether it is through empowering individuals with beauty services or providing mental health support, I am committed to making a positive impact. I am ready to work hard and seize the opportunities that come my way. In conclusion, my plans for the future involve combining my love for cosmetology and psychology to create a business and a clinic that serve and uplift my community. The Bright Lights Scholarship would be an invaluable support on this journey, helping me turn my dreams into reality. Thank you for considering my application.