Outside of playing college golf, I am an investor. Since I got my first job at Old Navy, I have been extremely interested in financial literacy and learning how to build generational wealth. When I entered high school, my mother took me to the bank to open my first checking account with a debit card. We deposited money I received as gifts over several years. Immediately, I asked her to stop at Chick-fil-A. To me, having money in my account meant I could spend it. As a high school student, I did not really grasp the concept of financial literacy. Then a couple of my friends and I had our first conversation about money. That day, we decided to charter a journey to see who could have the most money in their savings and investment account. We all read Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki and ever since, we no longer boast about how much we spend, but how much we are saving and investing. Like golf, investing has taught me patience, perseverance, and so many more invaluable lessons. Currently, I am studying Mechanical Engineering. This field interests me because engineering is a way of thinking, not just a major. I am an outgoing person, who loves to think critically, therefore, I took a career assessment and connected with engineers and other STEM professionals. Over time, I learned that all companies utilize engineers to make their systems more efficient. There is a business quote that states, “Everything will go wrong all the time.” Engineers solve problems, so you will always have a job and be paid well. Today, I have over 90 credits completed within the engineering program (3.89 gpa) at Alabama A&M University and I am working my second summer internship with Southern Company as a Line Design Engineer. After graduating from Alabama A&M University, I plan to give back to my community through a foundation that awards scholarships and offers educational programs focused on financial literacy, STEM, and golf. While I aim to support all kids, I’m especially passionate about uplifting those in Black and Brown communities. Bi-weekly workshops will help reinforce this knowledge and keep students and families engaged. Growing up, I was fortunate to have parents who introduced me to STEM, taught me money management, and encouraged me to play golf. I understand that, as a kid, the latest NBA 2K or TikTok trend might feel like the most important thing—but access to real-world knowledge is invaluable. Looking back, had I started investing or golfing earlier, I’d be even further than I am now. It is simple math. My goal is to leave a lasting impact—one that inspires students to apply what they’ve learned and believe in their potential. As the current president of the National Society of Black Engineers chapter at Alabama A&M, I’m already working to connect young adults to STEM opportunities and will use that experience to expand my reach and build meaningful pipelines into these fields. One of my favorite quotes is by Tony Geoghegan: “Knowledge only has true value when it’s shared.” By starting this foundation, I hope to let my knowledge be the light for younger generations to follow. Being a recipient of this scholarship will impact my collegiate experience tremendously. First, it will eliminate the student and parent loan option. My goal is to graduate debt free. To do this, I must invest in myself and do my part to earn an education. Therefore, I will continue to maintain excellent grades, apply for scholarships, do my best on the golf course, and secure paid internships. Second, as a student-athlete, my free time is limited after playing nine or 18 holes several times a week. It is crucial that I balance my studies, golf, and time for myself. Receiving this scholarship will assist as I strive to be a well-rounded student and athlete. I will not need to work a part-time job during the academic year. Lastly, the scholarship will support my mental health. The thought of constantly worrying about a financial balance simply is not healthy. I have seen students cry as they come to the realization that they can not afford to remain in college. It is difficult to witness. My parents taught me that there are funds for education, but students have to work and go find them. I am putting in the work. These are just a few ways this scholarship will strengthen my college experience and support my success.