Pursuing my education has been a journey marked by financial struggles, but it’s also been a testament to resilience, faith, and my mom’s unwavering dedication. My mom is a single parent working a minimum-wage job, and while she gives her all to support me, the cost of college is a burden she simply can’t shoulder alone. She came from a rough background and has fought hard to give me opportunities she never had, but there’s only so much she can do. To afford my education, she’s had to take out loans, which deeply worries me—I don’t want her to be trapped in debt because of my dreams. At first, I wasn’t even going to attend Morehouse because we couldn’t pay for it. It wasn’t until Morehouse stepped in and helped cover my first semester that my dream became a reality. This wasn’t the first time finances almost derailed my education. In high school, I was on the brink of being kicked out because we couldn’t afford tuition. I spent countless nights searching for scholarships, praying, and trusting in God to make a way. By His grace and the support of others, I made it through. My long-term goal is to join the medical field and become a nurse. This scholarship would ease my family’s financial strain and allow me to fully focus on my studies. More than that, it would be another step toward building a future where I can give back and help others, just as I’ve been helped along the way. This scholarship will be a vital stepping stone in my journey to becoming a nurse, a dream I’ve held close since seeing firsthand how compassionate care can change lives. As a sophomore Biology major, I am fully committed to excelling in my studies, but the financial weight of college often feels overwhelming. My mom, a single parent, works tirelessly to support me, but tuition, books, and other expenses pile up quickly. This scholarship would not only lighten that burden but also allow me to focus more on my academics and less on financial stress. Becoming a nurse isn’t just about securing a career; it’s about being in a position to help others during their most vulnerable moments. This drive to serve others stems from my experiences growing up in a community that often lacked access to adequate healthcare. I want to use my education to bridge that gap and provide care to those who need it most. With this scholarship, I can dedicate more time to my studies and immerse myself in opportunities like clinical experiences, research, and volunteer work, all of which will shape me into a well-rounded nurse. It’s an investment that will not only help me achieve my academic goals but also empower me to give back to others in meaningful ways. Thank you for considering me for this opportunity—it would truly make a difference in my life and the lives I hope to touch in the future.

From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by science and its ability to explain the world around me. I’ve always loved learning about how the body works and how science can be used to improve lives. That passion, combined with my personal experiences, has guided me toward a career in healthcare. I believe this field will allow me to use my gifts of empathy and determination to make a meaningful difference, especially for people in communities like the one I grew up in. Being raised by a single mom in an urban area hasn’t been easy. Financial struggles were a constant, and there were times we weren’t sure how we would make ends meet. When I was accepted to Morehouse College as a first-generation student, it was a dream come true. But that dream almost didn’t happen because we couldn’t afford the tuition. Thankfully, Morehouse stepped in to cover my first year, giving me the chance to pursue my passion for biology and healthcare. Even now, I’m determined to make the most of this opportunity, not just for myself but for my family and my community. My desire to enter healthcare became clear during one of the most challenging moments in my life. My mom, who has always been the backbone of our family, developed fluid in her knee. It became so severe that she couldn’t walk for a while, and as a single parent, this made life even harder for her and for us. When we went to the hospital, we had to wait for nearly five hours to see a doctor. The lack of available physicians and resources in our area was glaring. That experience opened my eyes to the healthcare disparities that exist in urban communities like mine. It made me realize just how critical health is—it affects everything. That day solidified my decision to join the medical field. I want to become a doctor not just to treat illnesses but to help bridge the gap in healthcare access for underserved communities. I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for families to get the care they need, and I want to be part of the solution. With my degree, I plan to work in urban areas, ensuring that people in my community receive the attention and treatment they deserve. My mom has always taught me the importance of giving back and helping others, and I carry that with me every day. I believe I have a gift for understanding and empathizing with people, especially those who feel overlooked. Healthcare isn’t just about curing diseases; it’s about listening, caring, and making people feel valued. As an 18-year-old sophomore majoring in biology, I know I have a long road ahead of me. There are still financial challenges, and I work hard every day to stay on this path despite them. This scholarship would mean everything to me. It would allow me to focus on my studies, continue my journey toward medical school, and one day give back to the community that raised me. This journey means more to me than words can fully express. Being the first in my family to attend college is about more than earning a degree. It’s about paving the way for others and showing that no matter where you come from, you can make a difference. I hope to use this opportunity to bring health and hope to those who need it most. Thank you for considering my application.

Growing up, it was just me, my mom, and my little sister. Our family was small but close-knit, held together by my mom’s unwavering determination. She was a single parent, and while she worked tirelessly to provide for us, financial challenges were a constant reality. There were days when I could feel the weight she carried, and even as a kid, I understood that we were navigating life on limited resources. When I was accepted into Morehouse College, it felt like a dream come true. As a first-generation college student, I was proud to achieve something that felt monumental, not just for me, but for my family. However, reality set in quickly. My mom didn’t have the money to cover the tuition, and while she wanted to help, the burden of paying for Morehouse was heartbreaking. I made the decision to act independently. I applied for scholarships and did a ton of research. I knew that was the only way to realize my dream, even if it was stressful and frequently overwhelming. In order to alleviate some of my mom's stress and assist her with bills, and took on part-time jobs. By the grace of God, Morehouse stepped in and helped cover my first semester. That blessing was more than just financial support—it gave me hope that I could make this dream a reality. Still, when my second year approached, we were struggling again, unsure how we’d get through it. That’s when Kyrie Irving stepped in. Through a GoFundMe my mom had set up, he donated $24,000, covering my second year. That moment was surreal. To know that someone believed in me enough to help like that made all the hard work feel worth it. It wasn’t just about the money—it was about knowing that people cared about my future. Today, I’m a proud Morehouse student, driven not only by my aspirations but also by the sacrifices my mom has made and the generosity of those who have supported us. It’s still just the three of us, and while we don’t have a lot, we have each other and a deep appreciation for the kindness we’ve experienced along the way. As a sophomore biology major at Morehouse, I’m more determined than ever. I want to use my education to give back to my community, especially people like my family who may feel like the odds are stacked against them. I know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what’s next, and I want to help others find their way. This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s taught me so much about resilience, faith, and the kindness of others. It’s not just about earning a degree—it’s about using my experiences to make a difference. I may only be 18, but I know I can turn these challenges into something meaningful for myself, my family, and my community. This scholarship will help lead me closer to legacy and breaking this financial burden on my family. It will not be taken advantage of. This scholarship won't just expand my stay at Morehouse but it will be reassured that every penny in this scholarship will be a great use and meaningful. Thank you for reading and considering my anpplication and believing in students like me.

December 30, 2005, 12:15 am , a boy named Caleb Ratliff was born. Kings County Hospital, for the ones who thought they'd go home early that day... man were they in for a surprise. Every time I look at the healed cut from my mom's stomach, I look at her and smile. She put her whole body on the line to have me, and still does. One of the main reasons why I have still been working my butt off since Leadership Prep Brownsville Elementary and now currently the Morehouse College. My mom has been working her butt off for 18 years, taking care of me and my little sister all by herself. I just want to take some stress off her shoulders, therefore I am writing this essay in need of the Milan Alexander Memorial Scholarship. I am currently this first generation in my family to ever go to college, and going to one of the top HBCUs at that. My major is Biology and I'm looking forward to becoming an occupational therapist and opening up my own practice. I also want to become a good investor in the future so I have been teaching myself how to trade and invest in stocks, mainly ETFs. I set a future plan which is to open a LLC and have over 50,000 in my investments when i'm in late 20s. I am in 18 right now and I believe that I have been doing a good so far to reach that goal. Being from Brooklyn, New York especially Bedstuy. It's in our blood to be community friendly. I want to give back to the community, I want to help people, and I believe Biology was a great fit for me because I get to care for others health. Back home I was in a program called EDGE where young black men joined together and spread service around the community. We went to our local health centers and packed food for the less fortunate and also cleaned up our nearby parks and gardens. I have also participated in a Toy Drive ran by my cousins in South Carolina, Myrtle Beach. It was a great experience seeing everyone smile and kids laugh and enjoy their early Christmas gifts. One of my closest cousins died during this time so the family was a little down but giving back to the world is what helps us feel better. In Morehouse College I joined a club called Lytehouse and so far we have cleaned picked garbage from local urban areas, and mentor younger children because everyone needs guidance. My experience in Morehouse College is a blessing. And with this scholarship this will help me extend my stay. I wasn't supposed to be here first semester but with the blessing from GOD, Morehouse decides to pay for my freshman year. This gave enough time for my mom to get a job. However I fear that I will not be enough to pay for the rest of my undergraduate years. Receiving this scholarship will be in appreciation and will not go to waste, 100%. Please take this essay into consideration. My name is Caleb Ratliff, from the home of Spike Lee and this is my application essay to the Milan Alexander Memorial Scholarship.

"What's your story Caleb?" "What made you choose Morehouse College?" The question that's always answered first with a relief sigh. I tend to start off with God. God is the reason why and how I chose Morehouse College. This is his doing. I'm the oldest out of my fathers 4 kids, the oldest out my moms 2. My mom told me that what you think could be a disadvantage will soon be used as an advantage... which is true. They broke apart when my little sister was born, Tiana. I was 8 during this time, not knowing why my mom was so mad that I had a little sister. Callow and naive I was not knowing that my Dad was hurting my you . " I wanna be like you Dad". Na, times changed old man but I still love you though. You didn't show me what was right, but you showed me what was wrong. Time went on, isolated from my other family members, kept in my mothers care. This is when character starts to create itself. And it all begins on 281 Malcolm X Blvd, in Bedstuy, Brooklyn, New york. 2012, my little sister Chloe was born. My mother had no problem with her in my arms therefore maybe because we all shared the same blood. I felt more of an older brother because I actually shared the same roof with her. My mom who I thought was weak, all because the man of the house wasn't around anymore. I was easily influenced, looking up to the older male figures not knowing what was right or wrong. I thought they would help me be strong to protect my family. Well of course not. Why would my mom feel safe with a flag around my neck? I just wanted to help you mom. I wish I was strong enough to protect you from that fist that Dad threw at you. But I was strong... strong enough to hold back my tears and prevent Chloe from seeing you too fight. We were already going through enough. From walls tearing down, no water, no heat. Only a air mattress to sleep on Times where I thought things weren't able to get better, but yet it did. All my mom ever wanted was for me to live a life she wish she could. A foster child, not able to live her dreams because she had to take care of her mothers burden. But through God, we moved out to a better place. A 3 apartment bedroom, beds big enough for your cousins who need to get back on their feet to lay on. Through God I got into that private high-school. Through God I got accepted to Morehouse College, I got a chance to break this curse. The first one through generations who was going to college. When she told me. " Son... Im sorry but you might not be able to go... I don't think we can afford it." I broke down. But so many times I've been broken down and we've found a way to get back up. Out of the blue, Morehouse decided to pay for my first semester. Out of the blue Kyrie Irving sent my mother 24,000 dollars to go back again for my sophomore year. This was all through God. I wasn't supposed to be here, but I AM supposed to be here. So I'm willing to keep on fighting and working because I'm here for a reason and I will build a new legacy. My disadvantage was never a really one to begin with.

Attending an HBCU was one of the best choices I ever made in my life... But it was a hard choice to make. I currently attend Morehouse College going on my second year majoring in Biology. I chose to attend an HBCU because it makes me feel good about myself. I wanted to break this family curse of not attending school. I wanted to make my mom proud. A single mother who wasn't able to go to college because she had to focus on taking care of her siblings. I wanted to remind myself that there is a reason why I work so hard. The way I grew up I always stayed to myself but knowing I have a chance to meet people the same color as me and also working for that degree influenced me to be apart of the community. So far this experience is helping learn more about myself and how bad I really want to win. And I want it bad! I've met so many people, talked to so many people, being able to share your story with people from other places is a blessing to me. My favorite memory here has to be my first homecoming of course. I'm from Brooklyn, New York so of course I had to get fly. And just being the handsome young black man my mom always told me I am, it felt great. The food, the music, the smiles, the laughs everything. It was amazing.