My name is Bryce Thompson, and it’s always been my dream to attend a Division I HBCU and play baseball. That dream became reality when I received an offer from Coppin State University. I’m grateful for how Coppin has helped me grow as a student-athlete and as a young man focused on leadership and excellence. I was raised in Prince George’s County, Maryland, a predominantly Black community that shaped my identity. Playing on an all-Black baseball team that competed at the highest level in Maryland was unheard of—until we did it. That experience taught me the power of perseverance and teamwork. I later earned a scholarship to Bishop McNamara High School, a rigorous, predominantly Black institution that pushed me academically and personally. There, I learned the value of discipline, faith, and service. I’ve given back through local food basket programs and toy drives at the University of Maryland Capital Region Health Center. By God’s grace, I’m now a student-athlete at Coppin, where I continue to pursue excellence. After college, I hope to play professional baseball. If not, I plan to earn my MBA and pursue a career in sports marketing with companies like Nike or Under Armour, using my platform to inspire others.

My name is Bryce Thompson, and it’s always been my dream to attend a Division I HBCU and play baseball. That dream became reality when I received an offer from Coppin State University. I’m grateful for how Coppin has helped me grow as a student-athlete and as a young man focused on leadership and excellence. I was raised in Prince George’s County, Maryland, a predominantly Black community that shaped my identity. Playing on an all-Black baseball team that competed at the highest level in Maryland was unheard of—until we did it. That experience taught me the power of perseverance and teamwork. I later earned a scholarship to Bishop McNamara High School, a rigorous, predominantly Black institution that pushed me academically and personally. There, I learned the value of discipline, faith, and service. I’ve given back through local food basket programs and toy drives at the University of Maryland Capital Region Health Center. By God’s grace, I’m now a student-athlete at Coppin, where I continue to pursue excellence. After college I plan to earn my MBA and pursue a career in sports marketing with companies like Nike or Under Armour, using my platform to inspire others. I am completely blessed and would not trade my experience for the world.

My name is Bryce Thompson, and it has always been a dream of mine to attend a Division I HBCU and play baseball at the collegiate level. That dream came true when I received an offer from Coppin State University. I’m truly grateful for the opportunities Coppin has provided—it has opened doors for me academically, athletically, and personally, and helped shape me into the young man I am today. I was born and raised in Prince George’s County, Maryland—one of the most predominantly Black counties in the United States. Growing up in PG County gave me a strong sense of pride, culture, and community. It’s where I learned what it meant to be surrounded by excellence, and where I began building the discipline and resilience that baseball requires. I was part of an all-Black baseball team that made history in Maryland. For a long time, people didn’t believe it was possible to compete at such a high level with a team that looked like us. But we proved them wrong—we showed the state what Black excellence on the field truly looks like. From there, I earned a scholarship to Bishop McNamara High School, a rigorous, college-preparatory school with a mission rooted in faith, service, and leadership. Attending Bishop McNamara was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The academic challenge was real, but so was the support and the sense of purpose it gave me. I learned how to push myself to higher standards and how to lead by example—not just as a student-athlete, but as a young man committed to making a difference. Along the way, I’ve also stayed connected to my community through service. I’ve helped organize and distribute food through the Prince George’s County food basket program, and I’ve volunteered at the University of Maryland Capital Region Health Center’s annual toy drive to bring joy to local families during the holidays. Giving back has always been important to me because I know I didn’t get here alone—and it’s my responsibility to uplift others the same way I’ve been supported. By God’s grace, I was seen by the coaches at Coppin State, and I was blessed with the opportunity to play Division I baseball at an HBCU. I’m truly thankful. I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. After college, I plan to pursue a professional baseball career. But if that path doesn’t work out, I want to earn my MBA. As a business marketing major, I’m passionate about sports branding and creative marketing. My dream is to work with major athletic brands like Nike, Under Armour, or Foot Locker—combining my love for sports with my vision to inspire and connect communities through powerful storytelling and culture-driven campaigns. No matter where life takes me, I’m committed to leaving a positive mark on the world—and it all starts with where I came from.

Watching someone you care about live with a chronic medical condition changes your perspective on life. My girlfriend has been battling a serious chronic illness, and it has become a part of our relationship in a way I never expected—but also in a way that has brought us much closer. Every seven weeks, she undergoes infusions to manage her condition. I remember the first time I sat with her after a treatment. She looked exhausted—drained not just physically, but emotionally too. It was difficult to see someone so full of life suddenly become quiet and tired. At first, I felt helpless. I didn’t know how to make it better, and the stress of watching her go through something I couldn’t fix weighed heavily on me. But over time, I realized that my role wasn’t to fix anything—it was to show up, listen, and be present. In the quiet moments—after an infusion or during days when her symptoms flared up—we began to have deep conversations about the future. We talked about marriage, what life would look like with children, and how our priorities might shift. Those conversations were never about fear. Instead, they were about love, commitment, and the power of being there for one another, no matter what life brings. Her strength and resilience are what inspire me to push forward. Despite everything she endures, she continues to chase her goals, support the people she loves, and live with incredible grace. It makes any challenge I face seem smaller by comparison, and it motivates me to bring the same strength to my own life. I’ve learned to be more patient, more compassionate, and more understanding—not just in our relationship, but in how I see the world and how I treat others. This experience has reshaped how I want to impact the world. I hope to be someone who makes people feel supported and valued, especially those going through silent battles. I want to empower others—whether that’s through mentorship, advocacy, or just being a steady presence in someone’s life. Chronic illness doesn’t just affect the person living with it; it affects everyone around them. And through it all, I’ve realized that love, support, and empathy are some of the most powerful tools we have. No matter what the future holds, I’m ready to face it—with her, beside her, and for her. Let me know if you’d like to personalize it even more, like adding your name, where you're from, or specific examples of your conversations or moments together.

My experiences on the field as a Division 1 baseball player have profoundly shaped who I am today, both personally and professionally. Playing at such a high level has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and maintaining a positive mindset regardless of circumstances. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is how to be happy where my feet are. Whether I’m starting in the lineup or sitting on the bench, I’ve learned to accept my role with gratitude and focus on what I can control—my effort, attitude, and continuous improvement. This mindset has helped me stay motivated and committed, even during challenging times, and has reinforced the importance of patience and perseverance in achieving long-term goals. Being part of a competitive team has also shown me the importance of adjusting to different roles and situations. Whether I am in the lead-off spot or batting lower in the order, I’ve learned to embrace whatever position I am given. This flexibility has strengthened my character, teaching me to stay focused and contribute to the team’s success regardless of my individual status. I’ve come to understand that success isn’t just about individual achievement but about supporting the collective effort and making the most of every opportunity. Learning to love my role, even when it’s not the one I initially envisioned, has instilled in me a sense of humility and a strong work ethic that I carry into all aspects of my life. These lessons on the field have directly influenced my future plans and character. The ability to adapt to different roles—whether on the field or in the workplace—is a skill I value highly. In a professional setting, I recognize that situations are often unpredictable, and success depends on how well I can adjust, learn, and contribute in various capacities. Whether I am leading a project, supporting a team, or taking on new responsibilities, I am confident that my experience in baseball has prepared me to handle change with resilience, patience, and a positive attitude. Furthermore, my journey has been inspired by my teammates, coaches, and the discipline required to compete at a high level. Their dedication and perseverance motivate me to carry forward these values—hard work, adaptability, and a love for continuous growth. I am committed to applying these lessons to my academic and professional pursuits, with the goal of becoming a versatile and dependable contributor in whatever role I take on. Ultimately, my baseball experience has shaped my character, strengthened my resilience, and prepared me to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in my future career.

I plan on continuing my education post-graduation because I believe that ongoing learning is essential for staying relevant and competitive in the rapidly evolving fields of marketing and sales. The digital landscape is constantly changing, with new platforms, tools, and consumer behaviors emerging at a rapid pace. To effectively adapt and make a meaningful impact, I recognize the importance of furthering my knowledge through advanced education and specialized training. Continuing my education will allow me to refine my skills, deepen my understanding of industry trends, and develop innovative strategies that can set me apart in the competitive marketing landscape. My primary goal is to pursue a master’s degree in Digital Marketing or Strategic Brand Management. These programs will provide me with a comprehensive understanding of consumer behavior, data analytics, content creation, and digital strategy—skills that are crucial for crafting impactful campaigns and building authentic connections between brands and their audiences. I am particularly interested in courses that focus on social media marketing, influencer collaborations, and data-driven decision-making, as these areas align perfectly with my passion for storytelling and strategic communication. I believe that gaining advanced knowledge in these areas will empower me to develop innovative campaigns that resonate deeply with target audiences, especially within the sports and sneaker culture that I am passionate about. In addition to a master’s program, I am also open to pursuing specialized certificate programs in areas such as social media marketing, digital advertising, or marketing analytics. These certifications will help me stay current with industry best practices and emerging trends, ensuring that I am equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to excel in the marketing field. I see continuous education as a vital part of my professional growth because it will enable me to adapt to the fast-changing digital environment and provide innovative solutions to the brands I work with. My motivation to continue my education is deeply rooted in my desire to follow in my late uncle’s footsteps. He was a talented digital marketer for Footlocker, and his innovative approach to marketing inspired me from a young age. I want to develop the same level of expertise and creativity that he demonstrated, and I believe that advanced education will give me the tools to do so. I am committed to making a meaningful impact within the industry by developing campaigns that inspire loyalty, foster community, and celebrate individuality—values that are central to the brands I admire. Investing in my education is, ultimately, an investment in my future career. I am dedicated to continuous growth, learning, and innovation. I believe that furthering my education will not only enhance my professional capabilities but also allow me to contribute more effectively to the brands and causes I care about. I see this ongoing learning as an essential step toward achieving my long-term goals of working with influential brands and making a positive impact in the marketing industry.

I am pursuing a career in sales and marketing because I am deeply passionate about the power of storytelling, creativity, and strategic communication to connect brands with their audiences. From a young age, I have been fascinated by how brands build identities, foster communities, and influence consumer behavior. My interest in this field was further inspired by my late uncle, who was a talented digital marketer for Footlocker. Watching his work, I saw firsthand how innovative marketing strategies could elevate a brand’s presence, create emotional connections with customers, and inspire loyalty among diverse audiences. His dedication and success motivated me to follow a similar path, aiming to make a meaningful impact in the industry. My passion for marketing stems from my love of creativity and strategic thinking. I enjoy crafting compelling narratives that resonate with people, whether through social media campaigns, content creation, or digital advertising. I find fulfillment in understanding consumer behavior and using data-driven insights to develop campaigns that not only promote products but also build authentic relationships. The ability to influence perceptions and inspire action through digital storytelling is what excites me most about this career. I see marketing as an ever-evolving field that requires continuous learning and adaptation-traits I am eager to embrace as I grow professionally. My motivation is rooted in the desire to make a positive difference by helping brands connect meaningfully with their audiences. I want to be part of a creative and dynamic industry where I can use my skills to inspire loyalty, foster community, and promote products or causes I believe in. The sports and sneaker culture, in particular, captivate me because they are vibrant, constantly changing, and deeply rooted in self-expression. I want to help brands within this space communicate more effectively, celebrate individuality, and create memorable experiences for their consumers. Getting into sales and marketing is also driven by my desire to develop a versatile skill set that encompasses content creation, social media strategy, and consumer analysis. I believe these skills are essential for adapting to a rapidly changing digital landscape and are valuable in any industry I choose to pursue. My goal is to leverage these skills to work with influential brands like Footlocker, Snipes, or FootAction which are brands that inspire and motivate young consumers through innovative campaigns and authentic storytelling. Ultimately, my inspiration, passion, and motivation come from a combination of personal admiration for my uncle’s work and my own love for creativity and connection. I want to contribute to brands that inspire and empower others, and I see marketing and sales as the perfect avenues to do so. I am excited to continue learning, growing, and making an impact in this dynamic industry.

My area of focus in school is Business Marketing, a field I am deeply passionate about because it combines creativity, strategic thinking, and data analysis to build strong brand identities and foster meaningful connections with consumers. Throughout my academic journey, I have developed a keen interest in understanding consumer behavior, digital marketing strategies, and content creation. I believe that effective marketing is about storytelling-crafting authentic, engaging narratives that resonate with target audiences and inspire loyalty. My goal is to leverage these skills to make a significant impact within the sports and footwear industry, specifically with leading brands like Footlocker, Snipes, or FootAction. I plan to pursue my career in digital marketing because I see it as the future of brand communication. Digital platforms provide unparalleled opportunities to reach diverse audiences through innovative content, social media engagement, and data-driven campaigns. I am eager to develop my expertise in areas such as social media management, content creation, influencer collaborations, and analytics to craft campaigns that not only promote products but also build vibrant communities around the brands I admire. My inspiration to follow this path comes from my late uncle, who was a talented digital marketer for Footlocker. His innovative approach to marketing, his dedication to understanding consumer trends, and his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level truly motivated me. Growing up, I admired how he used creativity and strategic insight to elevate brand presence and foster a sense of community among consumers. His work demonstrated how powerful marketing can be in shaping perceptions, inspiring loyalty, and creating lasting impressions. Following in his footsteps, I am committed to developing my skills and making a meaningful contribution to the industry. To pursue my goals, I am actively seeking opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships, projects, and continuous learning. I aim to build a strong portfolio of digital marketing campaigns that showcase my creativity, strategic thinking, and ability to analyze data for insights. I believe that combining my academic knowledge with real-world experience will equip me to excel as a digital marketing professional. Ultimately, my vision is to work with brands that inspire and motivate young consumers, especially in the sports and sneaker culture. I want to craft campaigns that not only promote products but also foster community, encourage self-expression, and celebrate individuality. By doing so, I hope to contribute to brands’ growth and influence while honoring my uncle’s legacy of innovation and dedication. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals by providing the resources and support necessary to continue my education and professional development in this exciting field.

My name is Bryce Thompson, and I am an African American student-athlete from Prince George’s County, Maryland. I am currently a Division 1 baseball player attending Coppin State University. Throughout my life, I have faced numerous challenges, but my determination to succeed academically and athletically has kept me focused on my goals. I am passionate about sports, business, and making a positive impact in my community. This scholarship is incredibly important to me because it would help ease the financial burden my family faces in supporting my education. My parents are hardworking individuals who have always prioritized my and my sister’s education, but with both of us in college simultaneously, the financial strain becomes even greater. Paying tuition and related expenses for two children in college is a significant challenge, and this scholarship would provide vital relief. It would allow me to focus more on my studies and athletic commitments without the constant worry of financial stress weighing on my mind. My long-term goal is to give back to my community and support my family, and receiving this scholarship would be a meaningful step toward those aspirations. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue a career in the sports apparel industry. My goal is to become a regional sales representative, working with major retailers such as Footlocker, Snipe’s USA, and similar companies. I am passionate about sports, fashion, and business, and I believe that a career in sales within this industry will allow me to combine my interests while providing opportunities to grow professionally. I am committed to developing my skills, building strong relationships, and contributing to the success of the companies I work with. Ultimately, I want to be a part of the industry that inspires and motivates young athletes and sports enthusiasts alike. In addition to my academic and athletic pursuits, I am dedicated to giving back to my community through volunteer work and service projects. I have helped organize fundraisers for veterans, which provided essential resources and support for those who have served our country. I have also participated in food basket programs for the Prince George's Fire Department, helping to distribute food to families in need. During the holiday season, I contributed to Christmas toy drives involving the University of Maryland Capital Region Health Center, bringing joy to children and families during a festive time. These experiences have taught me the importance of community service and the impact that collective efforts can have on improving lives. Balancing academics, athletics, and community service has taught me valuable lessons in perseverance, leadership, and empathy. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had and am motivated to continue making positive contributions both within my community and in my future career. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my educational journey but also empower me to pursue my dreams and give back to others in meaningful ways. In conclusion, I am a dedicated student-athlete with a clear vision for my future. I am committed to excelling academically and athletically while making a difference in my community. This scholarship would be a significant stepping stone toward achieving my goals and alleviating some of the financial burdens faced by my family. I am eager to continue striving for success and to one day inspire others to pursue their dreams with determination and resilience.

As a Division 1 baseball player at Coppin State University, I have the unique opportunity to blend my passion for sports with my commitment to social change. My education is crucial in building a better path for Black people in the business world, and I am dedicated to leveraging my experiences and knowledge to create meaningful impact. Coppin State University, as a historically Black college and university (HBCU), has provided me with an environment that emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and empowerment. Being part of the Division 1 baseball program has taught me invaluable lessons in teamwork, leadership, and perseverance—qualities that are not only essential in sports but also critical in the business realm. The discipline and work ethic required to compete at this level are qualities I intend to carry forward into my professional life. My academic journey allows me to gain insights into business practices, marketing strategies, and entrepreneurship, equipping me with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the corporate world. However, I believe that education is not just about personal advancement; it is also about lifting others along the way. I am committed to using my education to advocate for diversity and inclusion in business, particularly for Black individuals who have historically faced systemic barriers. One of my most impactful experiences has been volunteering and raising $1,100 for homeless veterans. This initiative opened my eyes to the struggles faced by marginalized communities and reinforced my belief in the importance of giving back. It showed me that economic empowerment begins with understanding the needs of those around us. This experience has inspired me to create initiatives that support underrepresented groups in the business world. I want to develop mentorship programs that connect young Black individuals with professionals in various industries, providing them with guidance, resources, and networking opportunities. Moreover, I envision creating workshops that focus on entrepreneurship and financial literacy, aimed specifically at young Black entrepreneurs. By equipping them with essential skills and knowledge, we can empower them to start their own businesses and navigate the challenges they may encounter. I want to create a community where diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation. As I pursue my degree, I plan to engage with organizations that focus on social equity and economic empowerment. Collaborating with these organizations will allow me to amplify my efforts, creating a broader impact on the community. I also aim to use my platform as a student-athlete to advocate for policies and practices that promote inclusivity in sports and business, highlighting the stories of Black entrepreneurs and professionals who have made significant contributions to their fields. In conclusion, my education at Coppin State University is a vital tool in my mission to build a better path for Black people in the business world. By combining my experiences as a Division 1 athlete with my commitment to community service, I aim to create opportunities for empowerment and success. I am dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion in business, ensuring that future generations of Black individuals have the support and resources they need to thrive. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, I aspire to make a lasting impact that honors the legacy of those who came before me while paving the way for those who will follow.

Economic empowerment and business innovation are vital tools for uplifting underrepresented communities and creating lasting change. My experiences as a Division 1 baseball player and the influence of my late uncle, who worked in marketing at Foot Locker, have shaped my vision for how I can contribute to this important mission. I believe that through education and a career in business, I can drive social equity and justice in ways that honor my uncle's legacy while addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Economic empowerment begins with education, which serves as the foundation for opportunity. By pursuing a degree in business, I am not only equipping myself with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the corporate world but also positioning myself to advocate for those who may not have the same access to resources. My uncle often spoke about the importance of understanding market dynamics, consumer behavior, and branding—knowledge that can be leveraged to create businesses that prioritize community impact over profit alone. I envision using this knowledge to develop initiatives that empower underrepresented groups, helping them gain confidence and resources to succeed in the marketplace. Innovation plays a crucial role in addressing economic disparities. By fostering a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship, we can create business solutions that meet the unique needs of underrepresented communities. My goal is to engage in projects that not only drive profitability but also promote social change. For instance, I could work on developing marketing strategies that highlight products made by local artisans, ensuring that profits remain within the community. This approach not only supports local economies but also elevates the voices and talents of individuals who have historically been marginalized. My career goals align closely with my desire to drive social equity and justice. I aspire to work in sports marketing, where I can leverage my passion for baseball and my business education to create campaigns that promote inclusivity and representation. By partnering with brands that prioritize social responsibility, I can help develop initiatives that support youth programs in underserved areas, providing access to sports, mentorship, and education. This not only creates opportunities for young athletes but also fosters a sense of community and belonging. Furthermore, as a Division 1 athlete, I understand the power of visibility and representation. I want to use my platform to advocate for policies and practices that promote equity in sports and business. By highlighting the stories of underrepresented athletes and entrepreneurs, I can inspire others to pursue their dreams and challenge systemic barriers. My uncle’s career in marketing taught me the value of storytelling, and I believe that sharing these narratives can drive empathy and awareness, ultimately leading to greater support for initiatives aimed at social justice. In conclusion, my vision for economic empowerment and business innovation is deeply intertwined with my personal journey and aspirations. By pursuing a degree in business and a career in sports marketing, I aim to uplift underrepresented communities through education, innovative practices, and advocacy. My commitment to driving social equity and justice reflects not only my desire to honor my late uncle’s legacy but also my belief that lasting change is possible when we empower individuals to rise and thrive in their communities. Through this work, I hope to create a more equitable future for all.

Education is a cornerstone of personal and professional development, especially for someone like me who is currently playing baseball at the Division 1 level and aspires to achieve success in the business world. My late uncle, who worked in marketing at Foot Locker, profoundly influenced my understanding of the value of education. His experiences and my passion for baseball have shaped my perspective on why education is essential for my future. Growing up, I was surrounded by my uncle's stories about how a solid educational foundation opened doors for him in the retail and sports marketing industries. He emphasized that combining passion with knowledge is crucial. I realized that excelling in Division 1 baseball requires not only physical skill but also strategic thinking and teamwork—qualities that are nurtured through education. Playing at this level has taught me discipline, perseverance, and the importance of setting goals. These qualities reflect my academic journey as well. Just as I train rigorously on the field, I understand that achieving academic success demands the same commitment. Pursuing a degree in business is not merely a means to an end; it is a pathway to fulfill the ambitions my uncle instilled in me. He often highlighted the importance of understanding market dynamics, consumer behavior, and branding—knowledge essential in today’s sports industry. By obtaining my degree, I will be equipped with the tools necessary to excel in these areas, honoring his legacy. Moreover, education provides a safety net in what can be an unpredictable athletic career. While I strive to succeed on the baseball field, I am aware of the challenges and uncertainties that come with a sports career. A business degree prepares me for opportunities within sports marketing and equips me with transferable skills valuable in various fields. This safety net allows me to pursue my passion for baseball without sacrificing my future. In my pursuit of a Division 1 baseball career, I have also learned the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Education enhances these experiences by teaching me effective communication, critical thinking, and how to work with diverse groups. These skills are invaluable both in sports and business. Engaging with peers in the classroom allows me to further develop my ability to collaborate essential skills on the field and in the workplace. My late uncle’s dedication to marketing and his career serve as a constant reminder of what is possible when education and ambition intertwine. He often said that success comes to those who are prepared. I interpret this as a call to arm myself with knowledge and skills that will empower me to reach my goals. Achieving my aspirations, whether in baseball or business, necessitates a strong educational background. This commitment to lifelong learning will enable me to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. In conclusion, education is not just a stepping stone; it is a vital component of my journey as an athlete and a future business professional. It intertwines with my goals in baseball and the teachings of my late uncle, who instilled in me the belief that knowledge is power. As I continue to work toward my aspirations, I understand that a degree in business will be instrumental in achieving success both on and off the field. It is the bridge that connects my passion for baseball with my desire to honor my uncle’s legacy in the world of marketing. Through education, I am not just preparing for a career; I am preparing to make an impact.