Growing up in a single-parent household has profoundly shaped my resilience by making me independent, resourceful, and determined. Being raised by my mother, I have witnessed the challenges and triumphs associated with single parenthood. This upbringing has instilled in me a deep appreciation for perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of community support. Especially uplifting those in need of support in the black community. Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology to make changes that will positively impact the people who use online sites. Creating a non-toxic environment for minorities is what success looks like to me and it is something I am determined to accomplish. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation of black women in social media. Seeing the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. Not only is this negativity seen by famous black women but single moms are seen as lesser than. This idea that black moms are only seen as “baby mamas” is a harmful stereotype that I want to put to an end. This negativity contributes to a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is how using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable. While doing that I want be a living example that resilience is not just about bouncing back from adversity but also about thriving and growing in the face of it. As I said social media is integral in why stereotypes of black women are still being held up in society. And while psychology can help me eliminate these notions so can user experience. User experience focuses on a deep understanding of users, what they need, what they value, and their limitations. Being in a single-parent household has not only shaped my career goals but also fueled my passion for making a positive impact on the lives of those facing similar circumstances. Utilizing both my knowledge of psychology and user experience can help me make social media more user-friendly for black women. This passion will help me pursue my future career as a User Experience Researcher. I am committed to continuing my education to create meaningful change, promoting resilience and empowerment within single-parent households. Receiving this scholarship can further my studies, and my passion to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology to make changes that will positively impact the people who use online sites. Creating a non-toxic environment for minorities is what success looks like to me and it is something I am determined to accomplish. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation in social media that emphasizes that the images portrayed should not negatively impact self-esteem. Seeing successful black women like Michelle Obama and Serena Williams face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. This negativity contributes to a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is how using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. We shouldn’t continue to force these “self-sacrificing,” “Angry,” and “hypersexualized” stereotypes on social media for black girls to feel negatively towards themselves. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I'm a curious thinker and dedicated to research. I thrive on uncovering insights that inform me of what I am trying to find. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable. As I said social media is integral in why stereotypes of black women are still being held up in society. And while psychology can help me eliminate these notions so can user experience. User experience focuses on a deep understanding of users, what they need, what they value, and their limitations. Utilizing both my knowledge of psychology and user experience can help me make social media more user-friendly for black women. This passion will help me pursue my future career as a User Experience Researcher. Though my career path isn't just about work, it's about my curiosity to know more about the human mind and behavior. Receiving this scholarship can further my studies, and my passion to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

Growing up in a single-parent household has influenced my career aspirations and the way I plan to pursue them both during and after my time in college. Being raised by my mother, I have witnessed the challenges and triumphs associated with single parenthood. This upbringing has instilled in me a deep appreciation for perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of community support. Especially uplifting those in need of support in the black community. Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology to make changes that will positively impact the people who use online sites. Creating a non-toxic environment for minorities is what success looks like to me and it is something I am determined to accomplish. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation of black women in social media. Seeing the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. Not only is this negativity seen by famous black women but single moms are seen as lesser than. This idea that black moms are only seen as “baby mamas” is a harmful stereotype that I want to put to an end. This negativity contributes to a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is how using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable. As I said social media is integral in why stereotypes of black women are still being held up in society. And while psychology can help me eliminate these notions so can user experience. User experience focuses on a deep understanding of users, what they need, what they value, and their limitations. Being in a single-parent household has not only shaped my career goals but also fueled my passion for making a positive impact on the lives of those facing similar circumstances. Utilizing both my knowledge of psychology and user experience can help me make social media more user-friendly for black women. This passion will help me pursue my future career as a User Experience Researcher. I am committed to continuing my education to create meaningful change, promoting resilience and empowerment within single-parent households. Receiving this scholarship can further my studies, and my passion to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. I discovered they face two different stereotypes (Oprah, the “comforting” type, and Michelle, the “angry” type). This dichotomy is everywhere on social media - making it feel like, as a black girl, I can only fit into two categories: the angry black woman or the mammy black woman. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology, spanning cognitive, social, and research methods. I want it to be my job to make changes that will positively impact the people who use online sites. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation in social media that emphasizes that the images portrayed should not negatively impact self-esteem. Seeing one of the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. This negativity contributes to harmful comparisons and a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is research by Professor Ruffin, who said using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Professor Kenneth Maton has also discovered ways to empower community settings by involving yourself in safe spaces. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. Professor Billingsley works with black adolescents and how they respond to their environments. Collaborating with her to create positive environments for teens will actively work to empower and uplift black teens. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. Oprah and Michelle shouldn’t be subjected to opposite categories simply because others view one as more aggressive. And we shouldn’t continue to force these “self-sacrificing,” “Angry,” and “hypersexualized” stereotypes on social media for black girls to feel negatively towards themselves. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I'm a curious thinker and dedicated to research. I thrive on uncovering insights that inform me of what I am trying to find. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable. As I said social media is integral in why stereotypes of black women are still being held up in society. And while psychology can help me get rid of these notions so can user experience. User experience is the focus on having a deep understanding of users, what they need, what they value, and their limitations. Utilizing both my knowledge of psychology and user experience can help me make social media more user-friendly for black women. This passion will help me pursue my future career as a User Experience Researcher. Though my career path isn't just about work, it's about my curiosity to know more about the human mind and behavior. Receiving this scholarship can further my studies, and my passion to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

I am stumblebum–the clumsiest person anybody will ever meet. When I walked out of the eye doctor with my first pair of glasses, I was brimming full, anticipating a crystal clear transformation. Through my new frames, the world came into sharp focus. Just when I thought I escaped my clumsy past, I barely stopped my face from hitting the concrete. My newfound optometric experience made me wonder, will clumsiness be part of my identity forever? Before I received glasses, I often strained my eyes during classes, desperately trying to decode blurry letters on the board. But when I finally put them on, I could read with ease. I was still tripping over my two feet, but I could see what the teacher was writing. This immediately unlocked a new appreciation for the depths of coloring. When I selected a colored pencil and shaded flower petals in vibrant purple, the world around me faded into the background. As the pencil hit the paper, I felt relief and a calmness throughout my body. Artistic expression served as personal therapy whenever I became stressed about logarithmic functions and my never-ending struggle to keep up in math. This clarity would become a valuable lesson in dealing with stress and challenges in and outside school. My optimal vision also revealed Psychology class was another comfort zone. Sigmund Freud constantly expanded my understanding of others, Wilhelm Wundt nurtured my curiosity, and B.F Skinner created my sense of open-mindedness. Researching the Tuskegee experiment, I was appalled at the injustice embedded in a discipline I love. But my eyes couldn’t turn off. The ethics in psychology made me love the subject even more. It allowed me to see the importance of evaluating the responsibility behind the psychology profession, recognizing that sometimes restraint is a wiser choice. Clarity remained a guiding light in my life, now making me choose between perspectives. When washing my hair, I notice the natural curls weighed down by straight split ends, prompting me to question whether straightening for the approval of others is worth losing my self-perception. At that moment, I realized the importance of prioritizing self-love and utilized this philosophy to help other young girls like me embrace their true selves. Just like wearing glasses allows me to see clearly while considering the perspectives around me, cutting my hair allowed me to see the balance between self-expression and empathy. While observing how the world works and what my role should be, I still find myself wondering how others perceive me. Like when my teacher waves me down in the hallway, only to discover he thought I was my twin sister. Or when I constantly pressured myself into trends to fit in with my friends. I saw those situations and turned them in a way to find my identity independent of others' views. My quirks and clumsiness were integral to my identity; no pair of glasses could change that. Little stumbles, whether physical or emotional, are stepping stones to personal growth. Just as my new glasses allowed me to see the world more clearly, I gained a clearer understanding of my goals and aspirations. I embrace the opportunity to be my imperfect self, knowing that in these quirks, my true character shines through.

Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. I discovered they face two different stereotypes (Oprah, the “comforting” type, and Michelle, the “angry” type). This dichotomy is everywhere on social media - making it feel like, as a black girl, I can only fit into two categories: the angry black woman or the mammy black woman. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology, spanning cognitive, social, and research methods. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation in social media that emphasizes that the images portrayed should not negatively impact self-esteem. Seeing one of the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. This negativity contributes to harmful comparisons and a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is research by Professor Ruffin, who said using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Professor Kenneth Maton has also discovered ways to empower community settings by involving yourself in safe spaces. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. Professor Billingsley works with black adolescents and how they respond to their environments. Collaborating with her to create positive environments for teens will actively work to empower and uplift black teens. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. This constant sexualization is not only affecting black women but men too. The massive exposure to sexual objectification creates spaces where impressionable young men feel it's okay to justify violence toward black women. In her research, Professor Thekia Cheeseborough found a link between interpersonal sexual objectification and the dehumanizing of women by young black men. Social media has normalized the notion that black women are not as important, justifying violence against them. I want to implement effective strategies on social media to combat this normalization of violence and ensure that black women are protected. As I said social media is integral in why stereotypes of black women are still being held up in society. And while psychology can help me get rid of these notions so can user experience. User experience is the focus on having a deep understanding of users, what they need, what they value, and their limitations. Utilizing both my knowledge of psychology and user experience can help me make social media more user-friendly for black women. This passion will help me pursue my future career as a User Experience Researcher. Though my career path isn't just about work, it's about my curiosity to know more about the human mind and behavior. Receiving this scholarship can further my studies, and my passion to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. I discovered they face two different stereotypes (Oprah, the “comforting” type, and Michelle, the “angry” type). This dichotomy is everywhere on social media - making it feel like, as a black girl, I can only fit into two categories: the angry black woman or the mammy black woman. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology, spanning cognitive, social, and research methods. Creating a non-toxic environment for minorities is what success looks like to me and it is something I am determined to accomplish. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation in social media that emphasizes that the images portrayed should not negatively impact self-esteem. Seeing one of the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. This negativity contributes to harmful comparisons and a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is research by Professor Ruffin, who said using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Professor Kenneth Maton has also discovered ways to empower community settings by involving yourself in safe spaces. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. Professor Billingsley works with black adolescents and how they respond to their environments. Collaborating with her to create positive environments for teens will actively work to empower and uplift black teens. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. Oprah and Michelle shouldn’t be subjected to opposite categories simply because others view one as more aggressive. And we shouldn’t continue to force these “self-sacrificing,” “Angry,” and “hypersexualized” stereotypes on social media for black girls to feel negatively towards themselves. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable. Through my studies of psychological influences perpetuating these beliefs, I hope to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard. As I said social media is integral in why stereotypes of black women are still being held up in society. And while psychology can help me get rid of these notions so can user experience. User experience is the focus on having a deep understanding of users, what they need, what they value, and their limitations. Utilizing both my knowledge of psychology and user experience can help me make social media more user-friendly for black women. This passion will help me pursue my future career as a User Experience Researcher. Though my career path isn't just about work, it's about my curiosity to know more about the human mind and behavior. Receiving this scholarship can further my studies, and my passion to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. I discovered they face two different stereotypes (Oprah, the “comforting” type, and Michelle, the “angry” type). This dichotomy is everywhere on social media - making it feel like, as a black girl, I can only fit into two categories: the angry black woman or the mammy black woman. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology, spanning cognitive, social, and research methods. I want it to be my job to make changes that will positively impact the people who use online sites. Creating a non-toxic environment for minorities is what success looks like to me and it is something I am determined to accomplish. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation in social media that emphasizes that the images portrayed should not negatively impact self-esteem. Seeing one of the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. This negativity contributes to harmful comparisons and a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is research by Professor Ruffin, who said using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Professor Kenneth Maton has also discovered ways to empower community settings by involving yourself in safe spaces. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. Professor Billingsley works with black adolescents and how they respond to their environments. Collaborating with her to create positive environments for teens will actively work to empower and uplift black teens. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. This constant sexualization is not only affecting black women but men too. The massive exposure to sexual objectification creates spaces where impressionable young men feel it's okay to justify violence toward black women. In her research, Professor Thekia Cheeseborough found a link between interpersonal sexual objectification and the dehumanizing of women by young black men. Social media has normalized the notion that black women are not as important, justifying violence against them. I want to implement effective strategies on social media to combat this normalization of violence and ensure that black women are protected. Oprah and Michelle shouldn’t be subjected to opposite categories simply because others view one as more aggressive. And we shouldn’t continue to force these “self-sacrificing,” “Angry,” and “hypersexualized” stereotypes on social media for black girls to feel negatively towards themselves. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I'm a curious thinker and dedicated to research. I thrive on uncovering insights that inform me of what I am trying to find. Finding ways to take my curious mind and use it for good has allowed me to effectively conduct research, synthesize information, and present my findings effectively, underlining a commitment to delivering high-quality work. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable. Through my studies of psychological influences perpetuating these beliefs, I hope to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard. As I said social media is integral in why stereotypes of black women are still being held up in society. And while psychology can help me get rid of these notions so can user experience. User experience is the focus on having a deep understanding of users, what they need, what they value, and their limitations. Utilizing both my knowledge of psychology and user experience can help me make social media more user-friendly for black women. This passion will help me pursue my future career as a User Experience Researcher. Though my career path isn't just about work, it's about my curiosity to know more about the human mind and behavior. Receiving this scholarship can further my studies, and my passion to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

I resonate with Stanley Hudson from "The Office,". I love his laid-back demeanor, humor, and his unapologetic approach to work. I feel like his humor is the most underrated in the show. Every time I see his unbothered face I laugh, Stanley is known for being calm and collected, often displaying a sense of indifference to the office shenanigans around him. I like to think that I have Stanley’s nonchalant attitude. Not to mention his love for crossword puzzles is another thing that we have in common. I love doing crosswords and word searches all the time. Thorough I love a little fun from time to time in the workplace I do love getting straight to the point when it comes to work. Stanley's character represents someone who's simply there to do his job and collect his paycheck without getting caught up in the office drama. This reminds me of when I’m in school. I simply do my work and try to avoid as much chaos as possible. Stanley and I both value efficiency, enjoy focusing on tasks and prefer a more relaxed approach when working. "The Office" has likely influenced my sense of humor by showcasing the bonds and awkwardness of office life. Stanley's reactions to the chaos around him taught me to appreciate the simplicity of a well-executed eye roll. Additionally, the show's use of everyday situations to create comedic moments shaped my perspective on the diverse personalities and relationships that can emerge in an office setting.

Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. I discovered they face two different stereotypes (Oprah, the “comforting” type, and Michelle, the “angry” type). This dichotomy is everywhere on social media - making it feel like, as a black girl, I can only fit into two categories: the angry black woman or the mammy black woman. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology, spanning cognitive, social, and research methods. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation in social media that emphasizes that the images portrayed should not negatively impact self-esteem. Seeing one of the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. This negativity contributes to harmful comparisons and a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is research by Professor Ruffin, who said using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Professor Kenneth Maton has also discovered ways to empower community settings by involving yourself in safe spaces. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. Professor Billingsley works with black adolescents and how they respond to their environments. Collaborating with her to create positive environments will actively work to empower and uplift black teens. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. This constant sexualization is not only affecting black women but men too. The massive exposure to sexual objectification creates spaces where impressionable young boys feel it's okay to justify violence toward black women. Research found a link between interpersonal sexual objectification and the dehumanizing of women by young black men. Social media has normalized the notion that black women are not as important, justifying violence against them. I want to implement effective strategies on social media to combat this normalization of violence and ensure that black women are protected. Oprah and Michelle shouldn’t be subjected to opposite categories simply because others view one as more aggressive. And we shouldn’t continue to force these “self-sacrificing,” “Angry,” and “hypersexualized” stereotypes on social media for black girls to feel negatively towards themselves. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I'm a curious thinker and dedicated to research. I thrive on uncovering insights that inform me of what I am trying to find. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable. As I said social media is integral in why stereotypes of black women are still being held up in society. User experience is the focus on having a deep understanding of users, what they need, and what they value. Utilizing both my knowledge of psychology and user experience can help me make social media more user-friendly for black women. This passion will help me pursue my future career as a User Experience Researcher. Through my studies, I hope to work towards a society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. I discovered they face two different stereotypes (Oprah, the “comforting” type, and Michelle, the “angry” type). This dichotomy is everywhere on social media - making it feel like, as a black girl, I can only fit into two categories: the angry black woman or the mammy black woman. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. In college, my goal is to equip myself with a solid foundation in psychology, spanning cognitive, social, and research methods. As a psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation in social media that emphasizes that the images portrayed should not negatively impact self-esteem. Seeing one of the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. This negativity contributes to harmful comparisons and a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is research by Professor Ruffin, who said using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Professor Kenneth Maton has also discovered ways to empower community settings by involving yourself in safe spaces. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. Professor Billingsley works with black adolescents and how they respond to their environments. Collaborating with her to create positive environments will actively work to empower and uplift black teens. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. This constant sexualization is not only affecting black women but men too. The massive exposure to sexual objectification creates spaces where impressionable young boys feel it's okay to justify violence toward black women. Research found a link between interpersonal sexual objectification and the dehumanizing of women by young black men. Social media has normalized the notion that black women are not as important, justifying violence against them. I want to implement effective strategies on social media to combat this normalization of violence and ensure that black women are protected. Oprah and Michelle shouldn’t be subjected to opposite categories simply because others view one as more aggressive. And we shouldn’t continue to force these “self-sacrificing,” “Angry,” and “hypersexualized” stereotypes on social media for black girls to feel negatively towards themselves. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I'm a curious thinker and dedicated to research. I thrive on uncovering insights that inform me of what I am trying to find. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable.

I am stumblebum–the clumsiest person anybody will ever meet. When I walked out of the eye doctor with my first pair of glasses, I was brimming full, anticipating a crystal clear transformation. Through my new frames, the world came into sharp focus. Just when I thought I escaped my clumsy past, I barely stopped my face from hitting the concrete. My newfound optometric experience made me wonder, will clumsiness be part of my identity forever? I often strained my eyes during classes, desperately trying to decode blurry letters on the board. But when I finally put them on, I could read with ease. I was still tripping over my two feet, but I could see what the teacher was writing. This immediately unlocked a new appreciation for the depths of coloring. When I selected a colored pencil and shaded flower petals in vibrant purple, the world around me faded into the background. As the pencil hit the paper, I felt relief and a calmness throughout my body. Artistic expression served as personal therapy whenever I became stressed about logarithmic functions and my never-ending struggle to keep up in math. This clarity would become a valuable lesson in dealing with stress and challenges in and outside school. My optimal vision also revealed Psychology class was another comfort zone. Sigmund Freud constantly expanded my understanding of others, Wilhelm Wundt nurtured my curiosity, and B.F Skinner created my sense of open-mindedness. Researching the Tuskegee experiment, I was appalled at the injustice embedded in a discipline I love. But my eyes couldn’t turn off. The ethics in psychology made me love the subject even more. It allowed me to see the importance of evaluating the responsibility behind the psychology profession, recognizing that sometimes restraint is a wiser choice. This scholarship can help further my passion for psychology. Allowing me to go to college and pursue a career in the psychological field. Clarity remained a guiding light in my life, now making me choose between perspectives. When washing my hair, I notice the natural curls weighed down by straight split ends, prompting me to question whether straightening for the approval of others is worth losing my self-perception. At that moment, I realized the importance of prioritizing self-love and utilized this philosophy to help other young girls like me embrace their true selves. This new experience allowed me to be a camp counselor. As a summer camp volunteer, I provided children with learning experiences about astronomy. I also engaged children in collaborative projects to build the skills to work and communicate with others. Just like wearing glasses allows me to see clearly while considering the perspectives around me, cutting my hair allowed me to see the balance between self-expression and empathy. While observing how the world works and what my role should be, I still find myself wondering how others perceive me. Like when my teacher waves me down in the hallway, only to discover he thought I was my twin sister. Or when I constantly pressured myself into trends to fit in with my friends. I saw those situations and turned them in a way to find my identity independent of others' views. My quirks and clumsiness were integral to my identity; no pair of glasses could change that. Little stumbles, whether physical or emotional, are stepping stones to personal growth. Just as my new glasses allowed me to see the world more clearly, I gained a clearer understanding of my goals and aspirations. I embrace the opportunity to be my imperfect self, knowing that in these quirks, my true character shines through.

I am stumblebum–the clumsiest person anybody will ever meet. When I walked out of the eye doctor with my first pair of glasses, I was brimming full, anticipating a crystal clear transformation. Through my new frames, the world came into sharp focus. Just when I thought I escaped my clumsy past, I barely stopped my face from hitting the concrete. My newfound optometric experience made me wonder, will clumsiness be part of my identity forever? I often strained my eyes during classes, desperately trying to decode blurry letters on the board. But when I finally put them on, I could read with ease. I was still tripping over my two feet, but I could see what the teacher was writing. This immediately unlocked a new appreciation for the depths of coloring. When I selected a colored pencil and shaded flower petals in vibrant purple, the world around me faded into the background. As the pencil hit the paper, I felt relief and a calmness throughout my body. Artistic expression served as personal therapy whenever I became stressed about logarithmic functions and my never-ending struggle to keep up in math. This clarity would become a valuable lesson in dealing with stress and challenges in and outside school. My optimal vision also revealed Psychology class was another comfort zone. Sigmund Freud constantly expanded my understanding of others, Wilhelm Wundt nurtured my curiosity, and B.F Skinner created my sense of open-mindedness. Researching the Tuskegee experiment, I was appalled at the injustice embedded in a discipline I love. But my eyes couldn’t turn off. The ethics in psychology made me love the subject even more. It allowed me to see the importance of evaluating the responsibility behind the psychology profession, recognizing that sometimes restraint is a wiser choice. This scholarship can help further my passion for psychology. Allowing me to go to college and pursue a career in the psychological field. Clarity remained a guiding light in my life, now making me choose between perspectives. When washing my hair, I notice the natural curls weighed down by straight split ends, prompting me to question whether straightening for the approval of others is worth losing my self-perception. At that moment, I realized the importance of prioritizing self-love and utilized this philosophy to help other young girls like me embrace their true selves. This new experience allowed me to be a camp counselor. As a summer camp volunteer, I provided children with learning experiences about astronomy. I also engaged children in collaborative projects to build the skills to work and communicate with others. Just like wearing glasses allows me to see clearly while considering the perspectives around me, cutting my hair allowed me to see the balance between self-expression and empathy. While observing how the world works and what my role should be, I still find myself wondering how others perceive me. Like when my teacher waves me down in the hallway, only to discover he thought I was my twin sister. Or when I constantly pressured myself into trends to fit in with my friends. I saw those situations and turned them in a way to find my identity independent of others' views. My quirks and clumsiness were integral to my identity; no pair of glasses could change that. Little stumbles, whether physical or emotional, are stepping stones to personal growth. Just as my new glasses allowed me to see the world more clearly, I gained a clearer understanding of my goals and aspirations. I embrace the opportunity to be my imperfect self, knowing that in these quirks, my true character shines through.

Attending an academy where academics take precedence over extracurricular activities highlighted the importance of schools having balance. Creative outlets were nonexistent, and the administration dismissed clubs and sports without a second thought. Frustrated students often advocated for events and activities to alleviate the relentless cycle of academic stress. As a class representative, I organize various events to strengthen unity and amplify school spirit. Our governing body ensures students' voices are heard and actively incorporated into school-wide decision-making. My student government experience empowers me to instill confidence in others and helps me articulate myself more confidently in unfamiliar settings. Simultaneously, I assumed the role of basketball manager for our varsity team. With an unwavering determination to uplift athleticism, I created marketing campaigns that increased ticket sales and created record-keeping spreadsheets for players planning to play in college. My managerial involvement meaningfully impacted my school and helped me acquire the values needed to advance athletically and academically: teamwork and commitment. I carried these lessons of confidence and commitment into my babysitting service. Temporarily raising kids for hours profoundly enhanced my compassion and patience. I now possess a better understanding of responsibilities and an appreciation for the joy children bring into the world. This experience deepened my mentorship skills and desire to shape the next generation. This new experience allowed me to be a camp counselor. As a summer camp volunteer, I provided children with learning experiences about astronomy. I also engaged children in collaborative projects to build the skills to work and communicate with others. Working at Camp Invention also taught me the power of empathy. When one of my 6-year-old campers cried because she was missing her favorite crayon, instead of giving it to her myself, I encouraged other children to share theirs. Instantly, the tears stopped once she realized others cared about her feelings. Through these experiences, I learned ways to inspire my community, overcome obstacles with a positive attitude, and demonstrate trustworthy leadership. These extracurricular activities can benefit the community as they help with advocacy. The more I and my peers around me advocate to solve issues the better my community will be Also being able to teach the younger generation will hopefully encourage them to be involved in the community too. That way a continuous cycle of people are actively giving back to their community. I am eager to continue this journey to leave a lasting impression on my peers and the world around me.

Oprah and Michelle Obama are both successful black women who receive constant negativity. I discovered they face two different stereotypes (Oprah, the “comforting” type, and Michelle, the “angry” type). This dichotomy is everywhere on social media - making it feel like, as a black girl, I can only fit into two categories: the angry black woman or the mammy black woman. Reinforcing racial stereotypes on social media worsens self-esteem issues among Black girls, highlighting the need for solutions. As a future psychology major, I hope to discover how to promote positive representation in social media that emphasizes that the images portrayed should not negatively impact self-esteem. Seeing one of the most successful black women face ongoing scrutiny on social media influences our perception of ourselves. This negativity contributes to harmful comparisons and a distorted self-image, potentially resulting in depression. A positive influence is needed in enhancing self-esteem on social media. An example of the potential positive impact is research by Professor Ruffin, who said using the hashtag BlackGirlMagic increased the idea of how black women perceived themselves. 69% of the participants reported having higher self-esteem after interacting with the hashtag. Professor Kenneth Maton has also discovered ways to empower community settings by involving yourself in safe spaces. Similarly, I want to create a supportive environment in and outside of social media among black women. The stereotype of sexualizing successful black women also significantly influences many young girls. Professor Billingsley constantly works with black adolescents and how they respond to their social environments. Collaborating with her to create positive environments for teens on social media will actively work to empower and uplift black teens. The constant sexualization of women on social media is causing many young girls to self-objectify themselves, feeling like they need to do this to fit in with others. This is causing body shame and depression in many adolescent black girls. This constant sexualization is not only affecting black women but men too. The massive exposure to sexual objectification creates spaces where impressionable young men feel it's okay to justify violence toward black women. In her research, Professor Thekia Cheeseborough found a link between interpersonal sexual objectification and the dehumanizing of women by young black men. Social media has normalized the notion that black women are not as important, justifying violence against them. I want to implement effective strategies on social media to combat this normalization of violence and ensure that black women are heard, respected, and protected. Oprah and Michelle shouldn’t be subjected to opposite categories simply because others view one as more aggressive. Receiving this scholarship will help me go to college and solve this problem in our society. As a future psychology major, my passion lies in understanding why these stereotypes are ingrained in people's minds. I want to dismantle the notion that these stereotypes are unchangeable. Through my studies of psychological influences perpetuating these beliefs, I hope to work towards a more inclusive society where Black women are respected, protected, and heard.

My grandfather drilled into me that reading is essential for growth. Every summer, we went to the library, read five books, and had an in-depth discussion. At first, I thought it was annoying, but I'm glad I became a bookworm ten years later. Volunteering at Camp Invention allowed me to engage children in various academic activities. As a summer camp volunteer, I provided children with learning experiences about astronomy. I also engaged children in collaborative projects to build the skills to work and communicate with others. Working at Camp Invention also taught me the power of empathy. When one of my 6-year-old campers cried because she was missing her favorite crayon, instead of giving it to her myself, I encouraged other children to share theirs. Instantly, the tears stopped once she realized others cared about her feelings. Through my leadership abilities, I passed down the joy of science. The minute we started constructing rocket ships out of cardboard, asteroids out of paper plates, and aliens out of pipe cleaners, their faces lit up. It’s taught me how to teach young minds and allowed me to contribute more effectively to different clubs I'm in at school. This experience revealed my passion for creating unconventional learning experiences outside the classroom. Allowing me to carry these lessons of confidence and commitment into my babysitting service. Temporarily raising kids for hours profoundly enhanced my compassion and patience. I now possess a better understanding of responsibilities and an appreciation for the joy children bring into the world. This experience deepened my mentorship skills and desire to shape the next generation. Through these experiences, I learned ways to inspire my community, overcome obstacles with a positive attitude, and demonstrate trustworthy leadership. While discovering my likeness to inspire kids psychology class became a comfort zone for me. Sigmund Freud constantly expanded my understanding of others, Wilhelm Wundt nurtured my curiosity, and B.F Skinner created my sense of open-mindedness. Researching the Tuskegee experiment, I was appalled at the injustice embedded in a discipline I love. But my eyes couldn’t turn off. The ethics in psychology made me love the subject even more. It allowed me to see the importance of evaluating the responsibility behind the psychology profession, recognizing that sometimes restraint is a wiser choice. I am eager to continue this journey to leave a lasting impression on my peers and the world around me. I plan to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology to not only expand my knowledge of children but of everyone to better understand the intricate workings of the human mind. Through this, I will create an impact on the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

The text compares the challenges faced by the Greatest Generation and Millennials-Gen Z highlighting the nature of generational challenges. Each generation inherits a set of problems that need to be resolved. With these problems, I feel that the older generation handled it differently than Millennials-Gen Z. Like the ode said “The older generation typically wishes that the newer generation would “do it” their way.” This emphasizes the difficulty older generations might have in accepting that the younger generation operates differently. Every day I hear that my generation is “too sensitive” or that “we complain too much”. When in reality we are protesting outdated social norms that need to be dismantled. The theme between tradition and change is a very big topic in this text. The ode also mentions even though the new generation is still facing many societal and economic struggles they still have hope. Many people are still excited to get into the real world and have an experience for themself. This resilience in Millineals- Gen Z suggests a willingness to confront problems rather than succumb to them like past generations. Which again brings up the theme of tradition and change. The ode encourages reflection on the responsibilities each generation carries and the potential for positive change through collaboration and resilience.

My grandfather drilled into me that reading is essential for growth. Every summer, we went to the library, read five books, and had an in-depth discussion. At first, I thought it was annoying, but I'm glad I became a bookworm ten years later. Volunteering at Camp Invention allowed me to engage children in various academic activities. As a summer camp volunteer, I provided children with learning experiences about astronomy. I also engaged children in collaborative projects to build the skills to work and communicate with others. Working at Camp Invention also taught me the power of empathy. When one of my 6-year-old campers cried because she was missing her favorite crayon, instead of giving it to her myself, I encouraged other children to share theirs. Instantly, the tears stopped once she realized others cared about her feelings. Through my leadership abilities, I passed down the joy of science. The minute we started constructing rocket ships out of cardboard, asteroids out of paper plates, and aliens out of pipe cleaners, their faces lit up. It’s taught me how to teach young minds and allowed me to contribute more effectively to different clubs I'm in at school. This experience revealed my passion for creating unconventional learning experiences outside the classroom. Allowing me to carry these lessons of confidence and commitment into my babysitting service. Temporarily raising kids for hours profoundly enhanced my compassion and patience. I now possess a better understanding of responsibilities and an appreciation for the joy children bring into the world. This experience deepened my mentorship skills and desire to shape the next generation. Through these experiences, I learned ways to inspire my community, overcome obstacles with a positive attitude, and demonstrate trustworthy leadership. While discovering my likeness to inspire kids psychology class became a comfort zone for me. Sigmund Freud constantly expanded my understanding of others, Wilhelm Wundt nurtured my curiosity, and B.F Skinner created my sense of open-mindedness. Researching the Tuskegee experiment, I was appalled at the injustice embedded in a discipline I love. But my eyes couldn’t turn off. The ethics in psychology made me love the subject even more. It allowed me to see the importance of evaluating the responsibility behind the psychology profession, recognizing that sometimes restraint is a wiser choice. I am eager to continue this journey to leave a lasting impression on my peers and the world around me. I plan to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology to not only expand my knowledge of children but of everyone to better understand the intricate workings of the human mind. Through this, I will create an impact on the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

My grandfather has drilled it into my mind that reading was important for growth. Every summer he would take me to the library and make me get five books to read and tell him what they were about. At the time I thought it was annoying but I realized he was doing this for my own good. It's important to continue education over the summer so kids aren’t suffering from any disadvantages at the beginning of the school year. This inspired me to volunteer at a camp where I can teach young children over the summer. As a camp volunteer, I provided kids with learning activities related to outer space. I helped them make creative assignments to improve their education in science. I also created collaborative projects so they could build the skills needed to work in groups. One time at the end of the day a kid came up to me and gave me a blue and purple bracelet made out of rubber bands. She told me she wanted to be an astronaut because I taught her about Neil Armstrong. At that moment my heart warmed knowing the impact I had on her. It also taught me how important empathy can be. I couldn't just stand there while a 6-year-old was crying because someone took her favorite colored crayon. But I also wanted to teach the idea of being empathetic among her peers. Instead of handling it myself, I allowed some other children to give her the crayon. Instantly the tears stopped once she realized there were others that cared about her feelings. I was even able to pass down the joys of critical thinking. Many of the children thought science was boring. But once we started making rocket ships out of cardboard, asteroids out of paper plates, and aliens out of pipe cleaners, their faces lit up. I realized how much I love creating ways for people to learn outside the classroom. So I joined NHS knowing that I could create informative posters about various cultures that people could look at in the hallway. It also taught me that with rewards students are even more eager to participate in a lesson. Joining the PBIS committee I create rewards for the students in my school designed to recognize positive behavior. Activities like movie and game nights reinforced positive behavior among students. As I continue to work towards being a leader, the knowledge I have gained from this service experience has not only given me the ability to teach young minds but also allowed me to contribute more effectively to these different clubs and organizations. Volunteering with kids has always been my favorite thing to do to influence my community. And I hope that I will continue to do it throughout my life.

The dream version of my future self is an individual committed to embracing challenges as opportunities and making and positive impact on the lives of others.

The book “Cat and the Hat” is a timeless classic that has been passed down from generation to generation. I know it may seem like a book for little kids but simple books like these can change the world. If I could have everyone in the world read this book, it would encourage imagination, promote literacy, and unite individuals across generations. "The Cat in the Hat" brings imagination to all people. Its rhyming verses and crazy characters transport us to a world where anything is possible. It's fun and enjoyable for everybody! Encouraging everyone to read this book would allow creativity and new innovations. By introducing this book to everyone in the world, we can also create a love for reading from an early age. The book's easy words and engaging storytelling make it an ideal choice for emerging readers. Promoting literacy for everyone not only empowers individuals but also helps end educational disparities. If we want more people to love reading why not start with a simple book? Like I said "The Cat in the Hat" has been around for generations, captivating the hearts of readers young and old. By introducing this book to everyone, we pass down a piece of literature that connects grandparents with grandchildren. It becomes a conversation starter, allowing for many meaningful interactions among family members and friends. In a world that often seems divided, "The Cat in the Hat" offers a profound solution to inspire imagination, promote literacy, and unite people from all walks of life. Encouraging everyone to read this book is an investment in a brighter future. That’s why I would want everyone in the world to read this book.