Education has always shaped my direction, but my undergraduate architecture program at UT San Antonio is what gives my goals real focus and meaning. When I first entered the program, I knew that architecture interested me, but I did not yet understand how deeply it would influence the way I think and move through the world. The courses, projects, and mentors I have encountered so far have taught me how to observe space, consider people’s needs, and approach design with intention. All of these lessons became even more significant during my semester abroad this fall, when I studied in Urbino, Italy. That experience changed not only how I see architecture, but how I see myself, my future, and the kind of designer and person I hope to become. My semester abroad this fall gave me moments that continue to stay with me in ways I did not expect. Visiting monumental works like the Pantheon in Rome, the Duomo Cathedral in Milan, and St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City took everything I had learned in classrooms and brought it to life. I had seen these buildings in diagrams, models, and photographs, but standing inside them made me understand the intentions behind their design more clearly. Feeling the weight of the Pantheon’s history while looking up at its oculus, or walking through the enormous nave of St. Peter’s Basilica, made the scale, craftsmanship, and ambition of architecture real and personal. These were not just examples in a lecture anymore; they were living spaces that shaped the lives and experiences of countless people before me. My studio work in Urbino also influenced me deeply. My classmates and I worked on projects that explored how contemporary design could exist respectfully within historic Renaissance contexts. That required a mindset shift, because the challenge was not just about designing something new, but designing something that could belong to a place with centuries of history behind it. Thinking about old and new together helped me understand architecture more holistically. It pushed me to think about continuity, responsibility, and creativity at the same time, which is something I carry with me even now. Daily life in Italy taught me just as much as my coursework. The busy streets of Rome, filled with movement and energy, showed me how cities can be vibrant, layered, and alive. Milan offered a different lesson with its strong design culture and modern atmosphere. In contrast, Assisi and Perugia had a calm, close-knit feeling that emphasized the importance of community and shared space. And Urbino, with its steady rhythm and smaller scale, showed me what it feels like to live in a place where people know each other and interact naturally every day. These experiences helped me see how architecture influences the way people relate to each other and to their environment. Living them firsthand made me appreciate how diverse and powerful the built world can be. All of this pushed me outside my comfort zone, which I needed. Before studying abroad, I often underestimated my own strength and ability to adapt. Traveling, living in another country, and navigating a world so different from my own showed me that I am capable of much more than I thought. I learned to trust myself, to seek out new experiences, and to be open to learning in unexpected ways. These lessons feel just as important as anything I learned in the classroom. They helped me grow not only as an aspiring architect, but as a young man still learning who he is and what he wants to contribute to the world. Even with these incredible experiences, my educational journey has never been free of challenges. I have faced personal losses that weighed heavily on me. I have dealt with financial hardship as a low-income first-generation student, constantly aware of how much sacrifice goes into my education. I have managed health issues, academic fatigue from long hours of studio work, and moments of mental strain that made the path feel difficult to continue. These challenges are still part of my life, and I carry them with me each day. But I have learned how to keep moving forward. I rely on prayer when I need clarity, on reflection when I need grounding, on speaking up when I need support, and on giving myself time when I need rest. Through every struggle, I have learned that obstacles are not walls meant to stop me. They are moments that teach me resilience, patience, and strength. They remind me why I am working so hard and what kind of future I hope to build. I hope my education leads me toward a career where I can share my passion for design in a way that makes a difference. I want to help create spaces that improve people’s lives, support their communities, and bring meaning into the environments they move through every day. I hope the work I do reflects both the lessons I have learned and the values I hold close. I also hope that my journey encourages others who come from circumstances similar to mine. I want people to know that determination, curiosity, and faith can carry you farther than you might expect. I want to be an example of what is possible when you keep going, even when the path feels uncertain. In the long run, I hope to live a life that feels full, meaningful, and well-lived. I want to be surrounded by people I love, work in communities that feel the impact of my care, and help shape spaces that reflect collaboration and compassion. My education is guiding me toward that future, giving me direction, confidence, and a sense of purpose that grows stronger with every experience. I am still learning, still becoming, and still discovering what my place in architecture will be, but I know that the lessons I have gained so far are leading me toward a future I am proud to work for.

Ever since I was a kid sketching buildings in my notebook, I’ve dreamed of becoming a licensed architect in Texas and using my work to give back to my community. I’m now studying architecture at the University of Texas at San Antonio, and every day I feel like I’m getting one step closer. Outside of school, I stay active with my church’s outreach group and help with local charities around San Antonio. Serving others keeps me grounded and reminds me why I chose this path in the first place. It hasn’t been an easy road. I still remember the eviction notices taped to our door, the worry on my doctor’s face, and the uncertainty of not knowing where the next meal would come from. By the grace of God, I made it through. Those moments taught me what it means to stay strong, to keep faith, and to see struggle as a lesson instead of a curse. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than I can describe. It would relieve a lot of the stress that comes with being a low-income, first-generation student trying to build a future. More importantly, it would remind me that people believe in my dreams, and that support can turn possibility into reality. What keeps me going is my faith, my family, and the people who’ve stood by me through every challenge. I want my story to show that no matter where you start, you can still create something meaningful. Hardship doesn’t have to define you, it can shape you into someone who builds, gives, and inspires.

Growing up Black in spaces where people who look like me were often few and far between has shaped the way I move through the world and the path I’m carving for myself. My identity is not just part of who I am, it’s a lens through which I navigate challenges, recognize opportunities, and contribute to my communities. Being Black has taught me resilience, awareness, and empathy, lessons that guide me in school, work, and life. From an early age, I noticed the ways society treats people differently based on skin color. Sometimes it was subtle, a teacher overlooking me, a class discussion where my voice wasn’t called on, or more obvious, like assumptions about my abilities or interests. These moments weren’t easy, but they forced me to learn how to speak up for myself and assert my presence with confidence. Over time, I realized that my experiences as a Black person gave me a perspective that others didn’t always have, one that allowed me to see inequities, challenge assumptions, and navigate spaces with both care and determination. Being Black has also given me a unique lens to connect with others and approach problems differently. I see the world through both lived experience and an understanding of systemic inequalities. That perspective has taught me empathy and a drive to create inclusive spaces. I know what it feels like to be underrepresented, so I pay attention to whose voices are missing and how I can help amplify them. At times, my presence itself becomes a way to challenge stereotypes, spark dialogue, and encourage others to consider perspectives they might not have thought about before. Education has been an area where my identity has both challenged and empowered me. In classrooms and programs where Black students were underrepresented, I learned to advocate for myself while seeking mentors who understood my experiences. I’ve learned the importance of building community, lifting up others who share my background, and making sure future Black students have more access and support than I did. My journey has shown me that representation matters, not just for me, but for those who come after me. Looking ahead, being Black will continue to shape my path in powerful ways. It motivates me to contribute to spaces where diversity is real, not just performative, and to create opportunities for voices that have been historically silenced. In my career, I want to use my perspective to push for innovation, fairness, and understanding, while breaking down barriers that limit access. My identity reminds me that my success is tied to the responsibility of helping others succeed too, turning challenges into change. Being Black is a source of pride, strength, and insight. It has shaped my resilience, my empathy, and the values I carry into every space I enter. It challenges me, but it also equips me with tools to navigate life creatively and purposefully. My identity isn’t just part of my story, it’s a guide, a motivator, and a responsibility to make the world more inclusive, equitable, and aware of the richness that underrepresented voices bring.

Faith is something many people talk about, but it is only when life brings you to your knees that you truly learn what it means to rely on it. For me, that moment came with the loss of my uncle Charles last year. His passing was not just a loss to my family, it was a breaking point in my heart. I had never fully understood how deep grief could run until I found myself standing in that painful space where words and comfort seemed to fail. The loss left me feeling hollow, uncertain, and emotionally adrift. Yet in the midst of that despair, I discovered that my faith in God was not just something I practiced, it was something that sustained me when everything else fell apart. Christianity has always been a part of my life, but during that dark season, it became my lifeline. My faith was the float that kept me from drowning in sorrow. When I felt like I could not go on, I turned to God's Word for strength and reassurance. Scriptures about hope, restoration, and eternal life became anchors for my soul. They reminded me that grief, while painful, is not without purpose. I found comfort in the promise that this life is not the end and that those who believe will one day be reunited in eternity. Those truths steadied my heart when emotions threatened to overwhelm me. During that time, I began reading verses about grief and healing every day, letting them guide me through the confusion and pain. I thanked God not only for His promises but also for the years He allowed me to share with my uncle. Remembering our time together, the laughter, and the lessons he left behind helped me see that love does not disappear when a person is gone. It lives on through memory and faith. My prayers became less about asking “why” and more about asking for peace, understanding, and the strength to carry on. Through this experience, I learned that grief is not something that fades away quickly. It is a lifelong journey that changes shape over time. There are days when the ache feels sharp and others when gratitude softens it. Yet, in every moment, God’s light remains constant. I realized that even in my darkest moments, His presence shines through, bringing comfort and renewal when I need it most. That realization deepened my faith in ways I could never have imagined. Today, the loss of my uncle continues to influence my faith and outlook on life. It reminds me that no matter how painful the storm, there is always hope in God. His promises are not just words on a page, they are living truths that sustain and restore the heart. Losing my uncle was one of the hardest things I have ever faced, but it also became the moment when I truly understood what it means to rely on faith. In that faith, I found peace, purpose, and the quiet assurance that I am never alone.

My journey with mental health has been marked by struggles with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. For a long time, I believed that as long as I took care of my physical health, I was doing enough. Over time, I realized that true health goes far beyond what can be seen. It begins within the mind and heart, and only when I started nurturing my mental well-being did I begin to experience real balance and peace. This realization has completely reshaped my beliefs and outlook on life. I have learned that taking care of my mental health is not a luxury or a sign of weakness, it is a necessity. Just as we eat well and exercise to stay physically fit, we must also protect and strengthen our mental and emotional health. My struggles have taught me that health starts from the inside and radiates outward. This shift in perspective has helped me become more compassionate toward myself and others who face similar challenges. In the beginning, isolation was my coping mechanism. I often pushed people away, even those who cared about me most. I thought solitude would help me regain control, but instead, it deepened my loneliness and made me feel even more disconnected from the world around me. Over time, I came to realize that healing required connection and openness. The very people I had distanced myself from were the ones I needed most. Rebuilding those relationships helped me rediscover trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging. It also reminded me that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength that fosters genuine relationships. My experience with mental health has also fueled my determination to pursue my career goals. I am currently studying to become a licensed architect, and my journey has taught me to push beyond fear, doubt, and worry. There have been times when self-doubt whispered that I was not capable enough or creative enough, but I have learned to silence that voice with patience, persistence, and faith. Architecture has shown me that balance between structure and creativity mirrors life itself. Just as a building needs a strong foundation to stand tall, a person needs mental strength and emotional stability to thrive. A defining moment in my journey has been my study abroad experience in Urbino, Italy. Living in a new country has tested my strength and independence, but it has also revealed how far I have come. I have learned to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings, communicate across cultures, and embrace discomfort as part of growth. As I reflect on my nine weeks here and the four remaining, I am amazed at how much I have grown emotionally and mentally. I no longer see challenges as threats, but as opportunities to build resilience and confidence. Today, I continue to manage my mental health by prioritizing rest, mindfulness, and balance. I take intentional breaks when needed, use mental health resources and professionals when necessary, and most importantly, hold firmly to my faith in God. My faith has been the foundation of my healing, providing peace in moments of uncertainty and strength when I feel weak. My mental health journey has not only shaped who I am but also the kind of person and professional I aspire to become. It has deepened my empathy, strengthened my resilience, and reminded me that growth often emerges from struggle. Most importantly, it has shown me that taking care of the mind is the first step toward building a fulfilling, meaningful, and purposeful life.

My love for math began in primary school when I first discovered the thrill and challenge it offered. Every time I learned a new concept or successfully solved a difficult problem, I felt as though I had conquered the world. Math was never just another subject for me; it was a journey of discovery, a series of small victories that motivated me to keep learning and improving. What I love most about math is problem-solving. There is something deeply satisfying about taking a complex problem, breaking it down, and finding the right path to a solution. The process itself is rewarding because it challenges my thinking and pushes me to see things from different perspectives. Each equation or formula tells a story, and understanding that story gives me a sense of accomplishment and clarity. One of the moments that solidified my love for math was in sixth grade when I was introduced to algebra. It felt like stepping into a new world, one filled with symbols and unknowns that, once understood, revealed powerful connections and patterns. Algebra showed me that math was more than just numbers. It was a language that could explain relationships, predict outcomes, and solve problems that once seemed impossible. Math has also shaped the way I think and approach challenges in everyday life. I often view problems as equations waiting to be solved. Life, much like math, presents obstacles that vary in difficulty. With careful consideration, logical thinking, and determination, solutions can always be found. This mindset has taught me patience and perseverance, both of which extend far beyond the classroom. As an architecture student and aspiring architect, math continues to play a vital role in my academic and professional goals. The foundation of architecture rests on mathematical principles, from the geometry of structures to the precise measurements required for design and stability. Math allows creativity and structure to coexist, turning imagination into something tangible and functional. Math is more than a subject. It is a way of thinking, a framework that connects logic with creativity. For me, it represents the beauty of order within complexity. Every problem solved and every concept understood reinforces my belief that math is not just about numbers but about the limitless potential of the human mind.

Loss has a way of reshaping the human spirit in ways words can barely capture. When I lost my uncle Charles on August 17, 2024, just days after my twenty-second birthday, my world changed forever. He was more than an uncle to me; he was a father figure, a mentor, and a constant presence in every meaningful chapter of my life. His death was sudden, and the weight of that absence felt unbearable. In those first few months, grief consumed me. Sleep escaped me, food lost its taste, and every thought returned to the emptiness his passing left behind. Uncle Charles was the kind of man whose presence filled a room with warmth and light. He was a devoted minister, a man of faith, and someone who carried himself with grace and confidence. What made him special was his ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. Losing him left a deep void in my heart and in my family’s. We are a close-knit group, and his absence was felt in every conversation, every gathering, and every moment of silence that followed. In time, I learned that even through pain, there is growth. My uncle’s passing taught me the importance of giving people their flowers while they are alive and cherishing the moments we are blessed to share. It reminded me that life’s greatest treasures are not material things or titles but love, faith, and family. This understanding deepened my faith and strengthened my resolve to live a life that truly matters. My uncle’s favorite saying, “Be all you can be,” continues to guide me. My goals remain much the same, but their meaning has grown richer. I want to live with purpose, grounded in faith and service to others. As I pursue a career in architecture, I see it as more than a profession. It is a chance to create spaces that bring people together, where memories can be made and love can be felt—just as my uncle brought our family together. One memory that stays with me is from the Easter weekend before his passing. My uncle joined my mother and me to help pick out a suit for church. He had a remarkable sense of style and an even greater sense of humor. He examined every suit with care, making jokes and turning a simple errand into a joyful memory. That day reminds me that love often lives in the smallest, most ordinary moments. Losing my uncle Charles was the hardest experience of my life, yet it continues to shape me for the better. His life and faith inspire me to live with gratitude, compassion, and purpose. Though he is gone, his spirit remains with me, guiding my steps and reminding me to be all I can be. His love became the foundation upon which I continue to build my own life.

From the very first time I paused to study a building’s façade, tracing every cornice, ornament, and support beam with wide‑eyed wonder, architecture felt less like a choice and more like a calling. I always say architecture chose me. As a child in a low‑income community, I watched how structures around me held stories, shaped lives, and sometimes limited dreams when design neglected people like us. I remember the small but pivotal safety features that were missing, the lack of thoughtful ornament or human‑centered care, and I understood early on that buildings are more than static objects. They are active participants in how people live, breathe, hope. By sketching construction sites, making scale models, and taking architecture courses in school, I discovered that possibility in design is boundless. That discovery led me to declare architecture as my major in the fall of 2021, and every day since, I have been more convinced I made the right choice. What defines my background is twofold, being an African‑American male in a field where people like me are greatly underrepresented, and growing up with the awareness of what it means for sustainable, human‑centered design to be considered optional. In my neighborhood, environmental concerns, accessibility, or design that responds to real human need were often the last priorities. I saw families struggle with substandard housing, heat and cold with inadequate insulation, and public spaces that didn’t feel safe or welcoming. These experiences impressed on me that architecture must respond to human dignity, not just aesthetics or profit. Through my degree, I plan to make a difference by designing with intention, focusing on sustainable practices and human‑centered design that meets the evolving needs of all people, not only some. My goal is to uplift the community I come from, and to extend that impact across Texas, the United States, and globally. By combining my technical learning, my experiences, and my eagerness to adapt, I aim to contribute meaningfully, whether through affordable housing, resilient community centers, equitable public infrastructure, or design that honors culture, climate, and identity. In my program, I represent roughly the 2 percent of architecture majors in the United States who are Black or African American. This statistic is more than a number, it is a reminder of how much work lies ahead, to see people who look like me, from communities like mine, not only in classrooms, but in leadership, certifications, and project management. I believe I can inspire the next generation by unveiling everything architecture and design truly has to offer. Buildings are more than physical objects, they are spaces we all share, they hold significant value. We assign special purposes to particular buildings, we shape schools, homes, places of worship, monuments, all building types serve the needs of our hearts and minds in their innermost desires. Some of the greatest works of humankind have been manifested in the design of space, and some of the greatest impacts have been formed in the creation of a space. I hope to continue this legacy and open wide the doors for those who look like me and come from backgrounds like mine. If my presence, my work, and my voice can shift something even a little, I will have helped increase the odds in our field. As Maya Angelou said, “We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.” I want future young architecture students not only to see defeat, they see possibility, and even when the odds are against them, their ability to imagine and build can turn those odds into architecture that serves us all.

Anxiety has been one of the greatest challenges of my life, shaping the way I see myself and the world around me. From a young age, I carried a constant sense of unease, as if something terrible was always about to happen. In school and even at home, this fear followed me, making me withdraw from others and question my own stability. I felt alone in my struggle until I learned that anxiety is not rare, but something millions of people face every day. That realization, along with my faith, the support of family and friends, and professional help, changed my perspective. I cannot say I have fully overcome anxiety, but I have learned to live with it, to face it with resilience, and to see it as something that shapes me rather than defines me. This scholarship represents more than financial support. It represents an opportunity to grow in knowledge and to give back to my community through architecture. Nelson Mandela once said that education is the most powerful tool we can use to change the world, and I believe this deeply. Through architecture, I want to design projects that reflect the connection between people, nature, and culture. This scholarship will allow me to continue my education, and with it I can turn the lessons of perseverance and empathy into work that strengthens communities and improves lives. Another source of growth in my life has been stamp collecting. I began this hobby with my grandmother on annual trips to different states. At each stop, we would buy stamps to add to our collection, which we called “Nana and Cedric’s Stamp Depot.” What started as a small tradition grew into a way of learning and connecting. Each stamp became more than an object; it was a story, a lesson, and a reminder to stay curious about the world. Collecting taught me patience, attention to detail, and the importance of discovery. One moment from these trips has stayed with me more than any other. On a visit to Little Rock, Arkansas, my grandmother and I stepped off a bus to head to the local post office. The rain had just stopped, and as we walked, she pointed out a rainbow stretching across the sky. She told me, “You see, my dear child, just like the rainbow, life always presents beautiful ways to shine.” At the time, I did not understand her words, but over the years I have come to see their truth. Beauty and growth often appear after hardship. That rainbow has become a symbol for me, reminding me that even in moments of struggle, there is always potential for light and renewal. In the end, my journey with anxiety, my passion for education, and my love of stamp collecting have all taught me to search for meaning, to embrace resilience, and to share hope with others. This scholarship is not only a step toward achieving my goals but also a chance to honor the lessons I have learned by giving back to the community. Just as my grandmother’s rainbow reminded me to find light after the storm, I believe we all have the ability to leave behind something bright, even in the midst of life’s challenges. The question is not whether storms will come, but whether we will choose to shine when they pass.

Faith has never been a distant idea in my life; it has been the very force that has carried me through every moment. My Christian faith is not something I turn to only in hardship; it is the guiding light that gives meaning to my journey and strength to my steps. I cannot think of a single part of my life where God has not been present. He has led me, refined me, and revealed to me a purpose greater than myself. One of the most significant areas where God has revealed His presence has been in my struggles with identity and low self-esteem. These battles weighed heavily on me, often leaving me uncertain of my worth and questioning where I belonged. Yet through prayer and reflection, God has consistently shown me that my value is not defined by circumstances or by others, but by Him. My true identity is in Christ, and that truth has become my anchor. Each time I forget who I am, He reminds me that I am His, and that assurance has reshaped the way I see myself and the world around me. Scripture has been a constant source of strength, and one verse in particular continues to guide me: Psalm 56:3, which says, “But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.” These words remind me that fear is never the end. Even in the face of adversity, I can choose to trust God, knowing He is greater than whatever lies ahead. This verse has carried me through doubt, anxiety, and fear, and it continues to serve as a reminder that God’s presence is steady even when my own strength fails. Because of this faith, challenges and setbacks no longer feel like dead ends. Instead, I see them as opportunities for God to move in my life and demonstrate His power. I have learned that my weakness is often the place where His strength shines brightest. Each obstacle becomes a chance to surrender control and allow God to work in ways far beyond what I could achieve on my own. This perspective has changed the way I face difficulties, giving me the courage to step forward when circumstances seem impossible. As I pursue my degree in architecture and prepare for my career, my faith remains the cornerstone of my work and professionalism. Scripture calls believers to work as if they are working for the Lord, not just for man, and that truth shapes how I approach every task. Whether in the classroom, in a future firm, or in the broader field of architecture, I want my work to reflect not only skill and creativity but also integrity and purpose rooted in my faith. I hope my faith will be evident both in the quality of what I create and in the way I treat others. Architecture gives me the chance to shape physical spaces, but I also want to shape an atmosphere of encouragement, kindness, and inspiration wherever I go. My goal is to live in such a way that others can see the influence of Christ through my character as well as through my work. Faith is not just part of my story; it is the lens through which I see the world and the calling that fuels my future. God has guided me this far, and I trust He will continue to lead me as I pursue my education, my career, and my purpose in serving others.

I was raised in a single-parent household with just my mother and me. I have no siblings, so the bond between my mother and me has always been the foundation of my life. Watching her raise me on her own has shown me the true resilience of a mother’s love. She has been my anchor, my teacher, and my example of what it means to face life’s struggles with courage and faith. Growing up in this environment brought many challenges. We lived in a low-income household, and financial limitations often made opportunities feel out of reach. At the same time, I wrestled with deep personal struggles, including suicidal ideation and anxiety, and the feeling of never quite fitting in. I often questioned who I was and where I belonged, carrying the weight of insecurity and self-doubt. These internal battles were some of the hardest challenges I faced because they were invisible to the world yet so powerful within me. Still, through these hardships, I found strength in my mother's example. She faced obstacles head-on, never allowing difficulties to define her or prevent her from providing for me. That same resilience became my guide. I learned to meet challenges directly, even when they felt overwhelming. I credit my survival and my growth to the grace of God, who gave me strength when I had none and who placed in me a sense of hope for a future bigger than the pain of the present. Through these experiences, I developed a determination to pursue education not simply as a personal achievement but as a path toward purpose. My goal is to complete my bachelor’s degree in architecture, continue my studies in graduate school, and begin working in a professional firm. Architecture, for me, is more than a career. It represents creativity, innovation, and the ability to shape spaces where people live, gather, and dream. It is a field where I can bring my vision to life, combining artistry with function in ways that can inspire others. Yet my ambitions extend beyond professional success. What drives me most is the desire to make a difference in the world through what I build and through the life I live. I want to do something greater than myself, to use my story and my work to remind others that their struggles do not define their future. If I can inspire even one person to discover their own passion and pursue it with courage, then I will have accomplished something meaningful. I want to uplift those around me, to support people as they find their own sense of purpose, and to reflect the strength I inherited from my mother and my faith. My journey has been far from easy, but every challenge has shaped me into someone who refuses to give up. I know what it means to feel broken, and I know what it means to rise again. Through my education and my career in architecture, I plan to build not only structures but also hope, resilience, and inspiration for others. That is how I intend to honor the sacrifices of my mother, the grace of God, and the lessons I have learned along the way.

Sabrina Carpenter is more than just an entertainer to me, she is an artist whose journey has left a deep mark on my life. I first discovered her on Disney Channel in the show Girl Meets World, where her vibrant personality and lively performance instantly drew me in. Her character always made me smile and reflected the same authenticity and warmth she carries in her real life. From that moment, I knew she was someone special, and following her career has been an inspiring experience. What I admire most about Sabrina is her courage. She has built her career by taking charge and following her instincts, never allowing outside voices to dictate her choices or performances. In this way, she reminds me of other icons like Taylor Swift, Beyonce, and Britney Spears, who have all crafted their own unique paths while dominating their respective fields. Sabrina’s determination to stay true to herself is a rare quality, and it is one of the biggest reasons I respect and look up to her. Her music in particular has been a source of joy and inspiration for me. My favorite song is Espresso, with its mesmerizing 80s-inspired sound and her captivating vocals that make it unforgettable. My favorite album, however, is her second studio album EVOLution. I have listened to it countless times, and each track still feels fresh and full of energy. That album, in many ways, became a soundtrack for me, proving the depth of her artistry and her ability to connect with listeners in a way that feels both personal and universal. Sabrina’s career has inspired me to embrace boldness and courage in my own life. Watching her grow, succeed, and make fearless choices reminds me that it is possible to carve out my own path without fear of judgment. She has shown the world how far being authentic and brave can take someone, and I strive to reflect that same spirit in my own journey. Her music, too, adds to this inspiration. Each song holds value, often touching the heart while also sparking reflection in the mind. Listening to her work feels like more than just hearing a song, it feels like experiencing a moment that stays with you long after it ends. Being a fan of Sabrina Carpenter has truly made a difference in my everyday life. Her music provides me with the perfect soundtrack to get through my days, lifting my spirits and energizing me when I need it most. Beyond the music, she serves as a constant reminder that courage is the key to seizing opportunities and creating the life you want. This lesson is one I carry with me always, and I am grateful for the ways her art has shaped my perspective. Sabrina Carpenter is not just an artist I admire, she is a source of inspiration whose career continues to remind me of the power of authenticity and courage. From her Disney Channel beginnings to her rise as a respected musician, she has shown that being true to yourself is the surest way to success. For me, her impact will always extend beyond the music, because she has given me the gift of confidence to follow my own path with the same boldness she exemplifies every day.

Calculus plays a vital role in the STEM field because it provides a way to understand change, motion, and relationships that are too complex for basic mathematics to explain. At its core, calculus is about describing how things grow, shrink, or shift, and that makes it a foundation for solving real-world problems. Whether it is used in physics to track how an object moves, in biology to model population growth, in economics to predict trends, or in engineering to build stable structures, calculus is always working behind the scenes to connect abstract math to the real world. I believe calculus is important because it teaches us how to think in deeper ways. It does not just give answers, it requires us to break problems down step by step and understand why things change the way they do. For someone like me who values detail and resilience, this way of thinking feels especially meaningful. Life is rarely simple, and the ability to analyze situations from different angles is a skill that extends far beyond math class. Calculus builds patience, persistence, and critical thinking, all of which are crucial in the STEM field and in life in general. One reason calculus stands out is because of how universal it is. Even fields that do not appear to be mathematical often rely on it at some level. For example, architects and designers, which is where I see my own future, use calculus to calculate load-bearing structures, optimize material use, and ensure that designs are not only beautiful but also safe and efficient. Calculus allows us to test ideas before they become reality, preventing mistakes and ensuring that the final product can withstand the forces it will face. Knowing that calculus supports such practical goals makes it feel less like a distant, abstract subject and more like a useful tool that empowers creativity. Calculus also shows the importance of connection across disciplines. Physics relies on calculus to describe motion and energy, chemistry uses it to track reaction rates, and environmental science applies it to model climate patterns and predict the spread of pollutants. These examples remind me that the challenges we face today, such as sustainable design and environmental protection, are interconnected. Solutions will not come from one perspective alone, they will require collaboration across fields, and calculus is often the common language that allows experts to work together. On a personal level, I see calculus as a bridge between challenges and solutions. Just as I have learned to face obstacles in my life with persistence and hope, calculus is a reminder that even the most complicated problems can be approached step by step until the answer becomes clear. It is not always easy, and sometimes the process feels overwhelming, but the outcome proves that patience and resilience pay off. This is why calculus is more than just a subject in the STEM field, it is also a way of building the mindset needed to solve problems and make a difference. In the end, calculus matters because it gives us the tools to understand a world that is constantly changing. It connects theory to practice, provides a foundation for innovation, and reminds us that complexity can be broken down into manageable parts. For me, it represents not just a mathematical skill but also a life skill, one that will help me in architecture and in any other field I pursue. By learning calculus, I am not just preparing for exams, I am preparing to contribute to a future where knowledge and creativity can be used to help people and improve the world.

Growing up in a single-parent household shaped me in ways that continue to influence both who I am today and who I strive to become. My experience was often difficult, marked by both financial and emotional struggles, yet it was also filled with joy in learning the value of family and the importance of standing together. Through these years, I witnessed firsthand the challenges my mother faced, and those moments taught me lessons that continue to guide my perspective and goals for the future. From an early age, I became deeply aware of financial hardship. The stress of wondering whether there would be enough money for basic needs was always present. It was not just about going without material things, but also about carrying the emotional weight of seeing my mother’s struggles and feeling powerless to change them. Alongside financial instability, I wrestled with my own challenges, including depression, anxiety, and moments of suicidal ideation. I often felt like I did not fit in with my peers, as though my reality was somehow out of step with theirs. These experiences left lasting marks, but they also gave me a unique perspective on resilience, gratitude, and hope. What I carried forward from those years is not just the memory of hardship, but also the lessons that hardship taught me. I learned to be resilient in the face of obstacles, to hold on to gratitude for the small things that often go unnoticed, and to believe that circumstances can and will improve over time. These values are not abstract to me, they are the foundation I return to whenever I face new challenges. I have come to believe that every struggle contains within it an opportunity for growth, and that perspective continues to fuel my determination to move forward and pursue my goals. This upbringing shaped how I view the future and how I want to use my talents. My goals are inseparable from the struggles I faced as a child. Rather than allowing them to hold me back, I have chosen to let them push me forward. I want to live with a sense of purpose, not only for myself but also for the good of others. My strengths, such as a focus on detail, an unwavering determination in the face of adversity, and a persistent hope that things will work out, are qualities I plan to use in a way that makes a positive difference. While I am still shaping my career path, I feel strongly drawn to architecture as a way to leave a lasting impact. I envision creating designs that are not only functional but also centered on people and the environment. Too often, design serves only some while overlooking the needs of others. I want to help change that. My hope is to design spaces that uplift communities, promote well-being, and embody fairness by ensuring that the needs of many are considered. In this way, I can take the resilience and hope that carried me through my own hardships and transform them into work that benefits others in tangible and meaningful ways. Being raised in a single-parent household was not easy, but it gave me a perspective that I would not trade. It taught me the value of perseverance, gratitude, and hope, and it instilled in me a determination to turn hardship into purpose. In the future, whether through architecture or another field, I want to use these lessons and my talents to help others, to create spaces of hope, and to show that even difficult beginnings can give rise to meaningful impact.

Being a first-generation student is more than a milestone, it is a journey of hope, perseverance, and gratitude. From a young age, I dreamed of attending college, but it often felt like a distant possibility. Now, four years into my undergraduate studies in architecture, I sometimes pause to truly take in the reality of my path. I have grown not only as a student, but as a person. I have learned about resilience, collaboration, and the world I hope to shape through design. Entering college, I worried I might not belong, but the lessons, challenges, and connections I have experienced have shown me that I do. Being first-generation is a privilege I honor, a source of pride that fuels my ambitions. The first year of college tested me in ways I could not have predicted. The pace and complexity of coursework required independent study, discipline, and an inner drive I had to discover on my own. My parents could not guide me through this world because they had never walked it themselves. Joining programs and communities for first-generation students became my anchor. They helped me navigate expectations, find balance, and gain confidence in my abilities. Through this, I learned that seeking support is not weakness, but strength, and that resilience is built one challenge at a time. My dreams are both academic and professional. I strive to maintain honor roll, graduate with distinction, and become a licensed architect in Texas. I hope to create sustainable, human-centered designs and eventually open my own architecture firm, where environmental responsibility and excellence guide every project. My motivation comes from my upbringing. Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household meant facing scarcity and uncertainty, but my mother’s unwavering belief in me shaped my path. She spoke over me every day, “You are the head and not the tail, above and not beneath, greatness lies in you.” Those words have become my compass, giving me courage in moments of doubt and determination in moments of struggle. This scholarship would make an incredible difference. It would help cover tuition and the additional costs of my study abroad program in Urbino, Italy. Spending 13 weeks in the Renaissance city, learning from the architecture that has shaped centuries, will inspire my designs and expand my perspective. Receiving support would allow me to focus on learning and growth, without the stress of financial strain weighing on me. Being first-generation is not simply a label, it is a commitment to perseverance, growth, and purpose. Every challenge I have faced, every barrier I have overcome, has prepared me to seize opportunities and continue building a meaningful future. I carry my mother’s words with me always, a reminder that greatness is nurtured, pursued, and lived.

The decisions we make today often shape the opportunities we will have tomorrow, and nowhere is that more evident than in personal finance. Credit, often overlooked by many young people, plays a central role in determining access to housing, education, and even career opportunities. Building credit early is important to me because I see it as the foundation of long-term financial success. A strong credit score influences crucial life decisions, and starting early gives me the time to establish good habits, learn discipline, and build a financial profile that will support my future goals. One way I am taking control of my financial future is by being intentional with how I use my credit card. Rather than chasing short-term gratification, I focus on long-term gains by using credit responsibly, paying bills on time, and avoiding unnecessary debt. I also recognize the value of budgeting and saving, both of which allow me to maintain balance and stability in my financial life. Beyond saving, I am looking for tangible ways to invest in areas that will grow over time, knowing that patience and consistency can turn small financial decisions today into significant benefits in the years ahead. A smart money move I have made is building and maintaining my savings account. This practice has not only given me a safety net in case of emergencies but has also taught me the importance of discipline. Watching my savings grow reinforced the idea that money is not just a tool for spending but also a resource for building security and freedom. Having that foundation has helped me better understand the value of delayed gratification and the confidence that comes from knowing I am prepared for unexpected challenges. However, I have not always made the best financial choices. In the past, I spent money on items I did not truly need, things that ultimately had little to no return. Those mistakes taught me that spending is not just about the purchase itself but about the long-term impact of that decision. I learned to evaluate purchases carefully, do research before committing to spending, and focus on value rather than impulse. That lesson was costly at times, but it has shaped me into someone who approaches money with more thought and responsibility. Financial freedom does not come overnight. It requires patience, planning, and the discipline to make small but consistent choices that align with long-term goals. For me, building credit early is about more than a number on a report, it is about creating a foundation that will allow me to pursue opportunities with confidence. By combining responsible credit use, intentional saving, and smart decision-making, I am laying the groundwork for a stable and successful financial future. In the end, every dollar tells a story. Some dollars tell stories of careless spending and short-lived satisfaction, while others tell stories of growth, security, and opportunity. I want my financial story to be one of preparation and perseverance, a reflection of lessons learned and goals achieved. Building credit early, saving consistently, and making intentional decisions are not just strategies for today, they are investments in the person I want to become tomorrow.

I think the performance of Taylor Swift’s “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” on Saturday Night Live in 2021 is the one that moves me the most. There is something unforgettable about the way she stood on that stage with her guitar, letting the lyrics carry the weight of the story. It was not about a dramatic stage setup or special effects but about pure storytelling through song. In that moment, Taylor invited the audience into her world, sharing a piece of her past in a way that felt both vulnerable and powerful. To me, this performance captured the essence of what makes her such a remarkable artist. The song itself had become legendary among her fans long before its release. For years, people speculated about the rumored extended version, and when Taylor finally shared it, it felt like an important gift. Performing it live so soon after releasing it gave the song even greater meaning. It showed that she was ready to revisit that chapter of her life and willing to let it live in the spotlight rather than keeping it hidden. That choice added to the intensity of the performance, making it feel like a moment of honesty that was long overdue. What makes this performance so moving to me is the balance Taylor strikes between strength and vulnerability. She never wavers in her delivery, yet the emotion in her voice is unmistakable. Each verse carries a quiet ache, and the gradual build of the song pulls the audience deeper into her memory. The visual choices also elevated the impact. The film reel projected behind her created a sense of timelessness, almost as if the song were a memory being replayed. It made the performance feel personal, yet it was shared with millions of people watching at the same time. I admire how Taylor can command attention with nothing more than her words and presence. She has built a career on both elaborate stadium tours and intimate acoustic sets, but this particular performance stands out because of its simplicity. It was proof that she does not need spectacle to make a statement. By focusing on the storytelling, she reminded everyone that songwriting is at the heart of her artistry. That reminder is what I find most inspiring about her as a performer. Another reason this performance resonates with me is that it represents artistic growth. Taylor has been in the public eye since she was a teenager, and over time she has faced countless changes in both her music and her image. Yet here she was, years later, performing a song written when she was much younger and breathing new life into it. It was not just nostalgia. It was an artist reflecting on her past with maturity while still honoring the raw feelings that shaped the original song. That duality made the performance even more meaningful. Ultimately, the “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” performance on SNL is the one I find the most moving because it shows everything I love about Taylor’s career. It is honest, emotional, and proves the staying power of her songwriting. She turned a story of heartbreak into a collective experience that her fans could share with her. Even though it was deeply personal, she delivered it in a way that made it universal. That quality is what makes her music so enduring and why this performance stands out to me above the rest.

I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, surrounded by a close-knit family and a community that nurtured me. My childhood was full of laughter, games with neighborhood friends, and lively family gatherings. Cousins and I would spend hours running around the yard, teasing, and creating elaborate games that often ended in fits of laughter. Family dinners were loud and joyful, filled with stories, teasing, and traditions that brought everyone together. Though my family did not have great wealth, the love and connection around me made me feel rich beyond measure. From an early age, I understood that the true value in life comes not from possessions, but from relationships, support, and shared experiences. These early lessons shaped my understanding of resilience, empathy, and the importance of uplifting others in difficult times. Despite this strong foundation, I faced one of the darkest periods of my life during my adolescence. I struggled with severe anxiety and persistent suicidal thoughts. Low self-esteem consumed me, and I often felt completely worthless. Each day felt like an insurmountable burden, and I would lie awake at night wondering if life was worth continuing. My mental health began to affect every part of my life. I missed classes, struggled to focus, and my grades plummeted. Activities that once brought me joy, like spending time with friends or playing sports, became impossible. Even my closest relationships felt strained as I withdrew into myself, overwhelmed by fear, sadness, and a sense of hopelessness. At the time, I could not envision a future for myself. It felt as though the light in my life had gone out entirely. Overcoming this challenge required immense support, faith, and determination. My faith in God became a source of strength, providing hope when I felt completely lost. My family’s unwavering love and encouragement were a lifeline; they reminded me every day that my life mattered, even when I could not see it for myself. A friend who consistently checked on me offered comfort and stability, proving that I was not alone in my struggles. I also sought professional help, which gave me practical tools to manage my anxiety, confront suicidal thoughts, and rebuild my self-confidence. Alongside this support network, I discovered an inner drive to survive and reclaim my life. It was not easy, and progress was gradual, but step by step, I learned to navigate my mental health challenges, re-engage with school, and begin imagining a future for myself once again. This journey has profoundly shaped who I am and how I approach life. I now understand the power of resilience, the importance of seeking help, and the strength that comes from combining faith, community, and personal determination. I have developed a deep empathy for others who struggle and a determination to create positive change in the world. My goal is to complete my undergraduate degree in architecture, not only to achieve academic success, but to design spaces that inspire, connect, and uplift communities. I hope that through my work, I can create environments that bring people together and foster the sense of belonging that sustained me through my darkest moments. The hardships I have faced have not defined me, but they have shaped the person I am today, someone who meets adversity with courage, pursues goals with determination, and envisions a future full of hope, purpose, and impact. My experiences have strengthened my resolve to turn challenges into opportunities, to remain steadfast in the face of obstacles, and to leave a meaningful legacy in both my life and my chosen field.

I am currently studying architecture because I am committed to designing human-centered spaces that foster connection, innovation, and discovery. Architecture combines my love for the arts and sciences, allowing me to apply creativity, aesthetics, and design thinking alongside technical problem-solving. I am equally dedicated to sustainable design, creating environments that serve both people and the natural world responsibly. Through my studies, I have gained technical expertise in 3D modeling, CAD software, and Building Information Modeling, which allow me to visualize and test designs with precision. I have developed skills in site analysis, structural planning, and sustainable systems integration, ensuring that my designs are functional and environmentally responsive. Beyond technical knowledge, I have learned to collaborate with peers and mentors, translating ideas into practical solutions. My education has strengthened my research, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities, preparing me to address complex social and environmental challenges through design. I plan to use these skills to benefit my community by creating architecture that serves people first. Too often, spaces are designed in isolation from those who inhabit them, resulting in environments that fail to support connection, creativity, or well-being. This is especially apparent in low-income communities like the one where I grew up. I aim to change this by designing human-centered, sustainable spaces that integrate passive design strategies, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally responsive materials. Green buildings can reduce energy consumption by 30 to 50 percent while improving occupant satisfaction, and I want to bring these benefits directly to the communities I serve. My personal experiences have shaped this vision. Growing up, I observed how neglected or poorly designed spaces affected daily life. Public areas that lacked warmth, accessibility, or opportunities for social gathering limited learning and connection. These observations instilled in me a determination to make a tangible difference through architecture. My faith motivates me to serve others through my work. It teaches that giving is more meaningful than receiving, and I see architecture as a way to give back to humanity by creating spaces that uplift, inspire, and empower. My education has also taught me to listen, engage with others, and incorporate diverse perspectives into design. I have learned that architecture is not only about aesthetics or function but about responding to the lived experiences of people and the needs of the environment simultaneously. My long-term goal is to become a licensed architect in Texas and, as opportunities allow, beyond. I want my work to inspire people, strengthen communities, and demonstrate that architecture can be a force for positive social and environmental change. By combining the skills I have learned with a commitment to human-centered and sustainable design, I hope to leave a lasting impact on the people and places my work touches. Architecture offers the opportunity to serve humanity while shaping the environment responsibly. My education has equipped me with the tools to design spaces that connect people, honor the planet, and improve lives. This is more than a career; it is a way for me to live my values, respond to the needs I have observed, and make a meaningful contribution to the world around me.

I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, in a family where faith and love were ever-present. My parents and relatives have always been my greatest supporters, encouraging me through every challenge and celebrating every success. In our home, faith was not only a belief but a way of life, and kindness was something we practiced daily, not just something we talked about. Growing up in that environment taught me humility, compassion, and a clear sense of purpose that continues to guide me today. My Christian faith remains at the center of who I am, shaping my passions for architecture, family, friends, and serving my community. Architecture, for me, is more than designing buildings; it is about creating spaces that improve lives, foster connection, and give people a sense of belonging. I am inspired by the idea that my work can leave a lasting impact, bringing people together and strengthening the communities around them. One of the most life-changing moments in my life occurred last year when I lost my uncle Charles. The phone call came in the middle of the day while I was in a store, picking something out for myself. My mom had received the news that he was in the hospital, and we rushed there as quickly as we could, only to learn he was in critical condition. He passed shortly after we arrived. In that moment, everything around me felt unreal. His death forced me to confront the fragility of life and reminded me how important it is to cherish every moment with the people I love. It also made me think deeply about what I want my life to stand for. I do not want to simply exist; I want to contribute to something meaningful and lasting. My goal is to become a licensed architect in Texas and use my skills to focus on sustainable design and affordable housing. I want to create spaces that are functional, beautiful, and accessible to those who need them most. I believe architecture can be a tool for change, offering stability for families, bringing dignity to struggling communities, and showing that thoughtful design belongs to everyone, not just those with the resources to afford it. My journey has not been without struggle. In my youth, I battled suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and depression. Those were dark and difficult seasons, and even now I feel their lingering effects. Yet they also shaped me in ways I never expected. I learned empathy for others, patience during hardship, and the importance of noticing when someone else is hurting. Those experiences taught me that true strength is not the absence of struggle, but the courage to keep moving forward despite it. If I had to describe myself, I would say I am humble, loving, and a little shy at first, but warm and open once I get to know someone. I am passionate about helping others, especially those who may be struggling quietly. Whether through my future career in architecture or my daily interactions, I want to bring hope, kindness, and encouragement wherever I can. My story is still unfolding, but its foundation is strong. It is built on faith, strengthened by family, shaped by loss, and refined through struggle. I see a future where I can combine my skills and values to create spaces that truly matter. More than anything, I hope my life reflects love, faith, and the belief that one person can make a difference.

Architecture has always been more than buildings. It is a reflection of how we live, what we value, and where we are heading as a society. My chosen field of study, architecture, empowers me to shape the future of both construction and manufacturing by influencing how the built environment serves people and the planet. Through a focus on sustainable and human-centered design, I hope to be part of a generation that redefines the role of architecture in meeting the complex challenges of our time. I chose to pursue architecture because I want to have a lasting impact on the built environment. The spaces we inhabit affect everything from our mental health to our sense of belonging. I believe that buildings should not only function efficiently but also inspire and support human well-being. This belief has drawn me to the growing movement around sustainable and human-centered design, an approach that balances innovation, beauty, and responsibility. As the climate crisis intensifies and urban populations grow, we urgently need solutions that reduce our environmental footprint while enhancing quality of life. Architecture sits at the intersection of these needs. My future career will engage both the construction and manufacturing sectors. Although my core work will be rooted in digital and physical design, the role of the architect is deeply collaborative. We work closely with engineers, builders, and fabricators to turn abstract visions into tangible realities. The architect often serves as a quarterback, guiding the process and making key decisions that shape the final outcome. This interconnection means that the values embedded in architectural design, such as sustainability and human-centered thinking, ripple through the entire building process. One of the major challenges I want to address in my career is the need for environmentally responsible design that puts people first. Buildings account for nearly 40 percent of global carbon emissions, and many urban developments neglect the social and psychological needs of the communities they serve. I hope to help change this by designing spaces that are energy efficient, adaptable, and emotionally resonant. This includes using renewable materials, integrating passive design strategies, prioritizing natural light and ventilation, and creating inclusive spaces that respond to the diverse ways people live and move through the world. This scholarship would be an essential stepping stone in helping me reach these goals. It would allow me to focus on building a strong academic foundation without being weighed down by financial stress. Architecture is a demanding major that requires significant investment in materials, software, literature, and studio time. In addition, as part of my undergraduate program, I am required to complete a 90-day study abroad in Urbino, Italy. While this is a transformative academic opportunity, it also adds to the financial burden. With this scholarship, I can devote more energy to growing as a designer and thinker, rather than worrying about the costs of my education. In the words of Norman Foster, “As an architect, you design for the present, with an awareness of the past, for a future which is essentially unknown.” This idea captures the core of what I hope to achieve. I want to create designs that honor both human needs and environmental responsibility, even in the face of uncertainty. I want to leave a legacy of thoughtful, sustainable, and human-centered architecture. With the right tools, support, and education, I believe I can be part of the solution. This scholarship would bring me closer to that vision and help ensure that the spaces we build tomorrow reflect the best of who we are today.

Challenge Proposal: “Deep Connection” — A Love Island Emotional Bonding Experience Love Island is best known for its playful games, dramatic twists, and light-hearted romance. But what if the show took a moment to slow down and offer something deeper? The proposed challenge, called “Deep Connection,” is designed to do exactly that. Instead of focusing on physical attraction or quick chemistry, this challenge encourages islanders to open up emotionally and form meaningful bonds through honest and vulnerable conversations. It’s a new way to explore love, connection, and compatibility that goes beyond what we usually see on the show. Challenge Overview “Deep Connection” is a mental and emotional challenge that involves all islanders, working in pairs. These pairs could be current couples or randomly matched to encourage unexpected connections. Each duo enters a calm, comfortable space that feels more like a therapy room than a game set. The environment would feature cozy seating, soft lighting, and warm colors that create a space that feels safe and peaceful. A trained facilitator will be present to help guide the discussion, offer support, and make sure the tone stays respectful and authentic. This isn’t a competition. There are no winners, no penalties, and no public votes. The purpose is simple: to allow islanders to talk about real experiences, personal stories, and deeper thoughts that usually don’t come up in everyday villa life. These conversations can be light at first but will gradually go deeper, depending on what the islanders are comfortable sharing. Structure and Experience Each pair will spend about 20 to 30 minutes in the session. The facilitator will use a series of thoughtful prompts to get the conversation started. For example, islanders might be asked, “What’s a moment in your life that changed you?” or “What’s something you’ve never told anyone but feel ready to share?” These kinds of questions allow islanders to move past surface-level chat and talk about things that truly matter to them. While participation is encouraged, it’s also completely voluntary. No one will be pressured to share more than they feel ready to, and emotional safety will be a top priority. The facilitator will be there not just to guide the session, but also to comfort and support islanders if the conversation becomes emotional. Why It Matters In recent years, reality TV fans have shown a growing interest in authenticity and emotional vulnerability. Viewers are drawn to moments that feel real and relatable, and “Deep Connection” could provide exactly that. Rather than fueling drama, this challenge helps islanders understand each other on a deeper level. It gives them space to be seen and heard, which can strengthen both romantic connections and friendships. It also allows quieter personalities to shine in a space that values honesty over entertainment. Visuals and Atmosphere The setting would be quiet and reflective, with soft background music and minimal props. A few personal touches, such as cushions, candles, or even handwritten note cards, could add warmth to the space. After the session, islanders could be encouraged to write supportive or uplifting messages to each other, adding another layer of kindness and connection to the experience. Conclusion “Deep Connection” brings something fresh and meaningful to Love Island. It offers a space for emotional growth, personal storytelling, and deeper bonding—all things that can lead to more authentic relationships. This challenge gives islanders and viewers a break from the usual antics and reminds us that love isn’t just about looks or chemistry. Sometimes, it’s about being vulnerable, truly listening, and connecting on a level that matters.

Mental health is often spoken about in whispers, yet it shapes so many of our experiences in ways we rarely acknowledge. My journey with mental health has been complex and ongoing, marked by suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and a persistent struggle with identity. These experiences, while incredibly painful, have been central in shaping my personal goals, my relationships, and how I understand the world and my place in it. My struggles began in childhood. From a young age, I felt a persistent weight, as if each day was a burden I was forced to carry without meaning or purpose. It wasn’t just sadness; it was an emptiness that turned daily life into a cycle of dread. I often questioned why I was here, and the absence of a clear answer left me in an ongoing battle with my own existence. This emotional state deeply affected my ability to engage with life in a way that others seemed to do naturally. While others looked forward to the future, I often couldn’t see past the pain of the present. These experiences, however, did not leave me stagnant. They eventually ignited something powerful within me: a desire to heal. I became motivated to understand the roots of my thoughts and feelings. My mental health journey gradually became less about surviving and more about growing. I began setting goals not just for survival but for transformation. One of my most significant personal ambitions now is to develop a healthier self-image. I want to understand myself beyond the shadows of depression and anxiety. I strive to become the best version of myself, not only for my own sake but so I can be fully present for the people around me. Interestingly, these inner battles also strengthened my resolve to achieve my career goal of becoming an architect. The very struggle that once threatened to consume me now fuels me. I see architecture not only as a profession but as a form of creative self-expression and problem-solving. It is a field that requires both vision and structure, two things I have fought hard to cultivate within myself. My mental health challenges have given me the discipline to confront complex problems and the empathy to design spaces that serve others in meaningful ways. However, the toll on my relationships has been real. When I was at my lowest, I withdrew from friends and family, choosing isolation over vulnerability. At the time, it felt safer to retreat than to risk being misunderstood or judged. Unfortunately, this only deepened the divide between me and the people who cared about me. Rebuilding those connections has taken time, patience, and honesty. I am still learning how to ask for help, how to communicate when I am struggling, and how to be fully present with others. However, I now understand that relationships require openness and effort from both parties and that meaningful connections can serve as a powerful support system in the healing process. Through it all, I have discovered a deeper truth: while my experiences are unique, my struggles are not. Many people are silently wrestling with mental health challenges. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness. This shared reality has altered my perspective on the world. I no longer view it as a vast, impersonal place, but as a collection of individual stories, each person carrying their unseen burdens. This understanding has made me more compassionate, more patient, and more connected to others. As Viktor Frankl once wrote, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” That quote resonates deeply with me because it reflects the transformation I have undergone. Today, I still wrestle with mental health. It is not a chapter that has ended but an ongoing process of learning and growth. However, I no longer feel as lost as I once did. I now have direction, purpose, and a growing belief in my ability to rise above challenges. My experiences have made me resilient, empathetic, and ambitious. Most importantly, they have taught me that even in darkness, there is potential for light.

My involvement in both my home church, Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, and my current church, Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church, has shaped the way I serve my community. The foundation laid in my early years at Antioch and the continued growth through Mt. Sinai have instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to not only serve others but to do so with the love and purpose of Christ at the center. These churches have been more than places of worship. They have been platforms for action, compassion, and transformation. At Antioch, my service began early and broadly. I took part in everything from church conventions to food sales, from ushering and choir to praise dance and outreach ministry. I even helped raise funds for our drill team by selling water. That level of immersion allowed me to understand that the church’s role in the community goes far beyond its Sunday services. As I transitioned to Mt. Sinai about five years ago, I brought that same spirit of service with me. There, I became a part of the outreach ministry, helped operate the food bank, and participated in organizing community events. These consistent acts of service have allowed me to stay connected with the needs of the people around me. The service I do is varied, yet always intentional. I have walked through neighborhoods offering prayer, going door to door to share the gospel and invite people to church. I have been involved in food drives, donated goods, and worked at the food bank, ensuring families in need had something on their table. These experiences are not just tasks I complete but personal missions inspired by my faith. The teachings I have received from both churches have shaped my worldview. They have taught me that serving others is a natural extension of a life devoted to Christ. My heart for people, deeply rooted in those teachings, drives me to act. My service is not about recognition; it is about obedience to a higher calling. Still, the impact has been evident. Members of the community have expressed gratitude. Some individuals have even become members of both Antioch and Mt. Sinai through encounters that began with simple outreach. To see someone walk into church because of a conversation we had or a prayer we shared is powerful. Most importantly, I have seen the gospel spread, which is the ultimate goal of everything I do. Personally, community service has been a journey of reaffirmation. It reminds me of my commitment to serve not for myself but for God and His people. It keeps my heart humble and my mission clear. Each act of service, no matter how small, brings me back to why I started, to be the hands and feet of Christ in a world that desperately needs His love. In all, my involvement in my local churches has done more than influence my community service. It has given that service meaning, direction, and purpose. Through Antioch and Mt. Sinai, I have not only grown as a believer but as a servant, committed to a life that lifts others and glorifies God.

There was a time in my life when I honestly didn’t think I’d make it. I was young, confused, and silently carrying more pain than I knew how to deal with. I struggled with identity, fitting in, and just trying to understand who I was. Mental health wasn’t something people talked about around me, and suicide wasn’t just a passing thought; it was something I battled with every single day. Back then, life felt heavy all the time. I didn’t see a future, and I genuinely believed the world would be better without me. I’d lie in bed and imagine disappearing, not out of drama or attention, but because I truly couldn’t find a reason to keep going. My emotions were all over the place. Some days I felt completely numb, and other days everything hit me at once. Isolation and sleep became my escape. I didn’t want to bother anyone. I thought I was the problem, like I was some burden no one could fix. It’s hard to put into words what it’s like to lose your will to live at such a young age. It changes you. It messes with the way you see yourself and the world around you. I didn’t talk about it back then because I didn’t think anyone would understand. But thankfully, some people saw through the silence. My family, my therapist, and my church community pulled me out of that darkness. They listened, they showed up, and they reminded me I had value when I couldn’t see it for myself. I won’t pretend everything magically got better. I still wrestle with self-worth and identity, but now I’m not fighting alone. Going through that has shaped who I am. I’m stronger, more resilient, and a lot more compassionate. I can sit with people in their pain because I’ve been there. I know what it feels like to want to give up, and I know what it takes to keep going. That’s why I share my story, because maybe someone reading this needs to hear that they’re not alone. If you’re in that place right now, please believe me: there is help and hope. Reach out. Talk to someone. It doesn’t make you weak. Asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do. For me, leaning on my faith, staying connected with my family, and talking to a therapist made a huge difference. Mental health is a journey, not a finish line. Some days you’ll feel like you’re making progress, and other days you’ll feel stuck. That’s okay. Keep going anyway. You never know what kind of healing is waiting for you on the other side. I’m still learning, still growing, but I’m here. And if you’re reading this and feel like no one sees you, I see you. You matter. Your story isn’t over. Just hold on.

As a first-generation college student, pursuing higher education is more than a personal goal; it is a generational milestone. My journey has been shaped by perseverance, service, and faith, all of which have molded me into the student and aspiring architect I am today. I believe I deserve this scholarship not because I claim to be better than others, but because I bring a unique blend of life experience, personal growth, and a deep commitment to learning and serving that I believe will carry me far. With a GPA of 3.3, I have consistently worked hard in my studies, earning a place on the honor roll and dean’s list multiple times. These achievements reflect my dedication and resilience, especially while balancing school with community involvement. Since childhood, I have been involved in outreach through my church, and that passion for serving others has stayed with me. Today, I continue to serve through our local ministry and volunteer efforts with organizations like the San Antonio Food Bank and the Salvation Army. Giving back is a core part of who I am, and I always strive to approach service with sincerity and compassion. My path, however, has not been without struggle. I have faced serious mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and deeply rooted low self-esteem. These experiences were not fleeting moments, but long-term battles that I quietly carried while trying to stay focused on my goals. There were times when even getting out of bed or attending class felt like monumental tasks. I often felt invisible, stuck between the desire to move forward and the weight of emotional exhaustion. Through a combination of prayer, therapy, the support of my family, and my church community, I slowly began to heal. I have learned how to recognize my worth, manage my mental health with care, and extend grace to myself in difficult moments. These struggles have taught me empathy, resilience, and the importance of inner strength. I would not wish those experiences on anyone, but I would also not trade them, because they gave me the tools to push forward with a deeper sense of purpose and compassion for others who suffer in silence. Growing up in a low-income household presented its own set of challenges. My family often had to stretch what little we had, and there were seasons of uncertainty when the future felt out of reach. Yet, we always found a way to move forward, and I was always reminded of the importance of gratitude, faith, and perseverance. I never lacked love or support, and those blessings kept me grounded and hopeful, even during hard times. In studying architecture, I have found a field that perfectly blends creativity, structure, and service. I have begun building skills in programs such as Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp, Lumion, and Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop and InDesign. I am learning how to bring my ideas to life through modeling, rendering, and visual communication. I am also gaining a deeper understanding of space, sustainability, and the role architecture plays in shaping people’s daily lives. While I still have much to learn, I approach every project with curiosity and a desire to grow. I am especially passionate about community-focused design and how architecture can be used to uplift and support those in need. My Christian values continue to guide me in this direction, reminding me to use my skills not just to create, but to serve. This scholarship would provide essential financial support as I prepare for a study abroad program in Urbino, Italy, a required part of my degree. It is a unique opportunity to immerse myself in centuries of architectural history and gain a global perspective. However, the costs of tuition and travel are significant. This scholarship would alleviate that burden, enabling me to fully participate in this life-changing experience without financial strain. What sets me apart is not just my academic progress or technical skill, but my character, values, and commitment to serving others. I am a lead volunteer in my church outreach ministry and have spent countless hours giving back through community organizations and personal acts of kindness. I believe in being present for others, whether through architecture or everyday compassion. In conclusion, I do not view this scholarship as a reward, but as an opportunity. It is a chance to continue my education, grow through new experiences, and build a future where I can use my work to make a difference. I am deeply thankful for your consideration and would be honored to carry this support with me on the journey ahead.

Mental health affects us all, yet many struggle to access the care they need. My motivation to make mental health care affordable and accessible comes from witnessing these struggles in my own life, family, and community. I've seen loved ones battle anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts, and I’ve felt the weight of these issues myself. It’s this personal connection that drives my desire for change. The main barriers to care are financial constraints, societal stigma, and a shortage of professionals. Many people can’t afford help, while others face cultural or familial denial, especially younger people. Additionally, the lack of mental health professionals and resources only worsens the situation, leaving many without adequate support. To address these challenges, we need a combination of new technologies, public funding, and increased resources. Platforms like telehealth, online therapy, and AI-assisted counseling can reduce costs while maintaining quality. Expanding mental health facilities and training more professionals is also key. My vision is an international network where anyone, regardless of their location, feels welcomed, heard, and properly supported. Ultimately, making mental health care a universal right requires policy changes, cultural shifts, and greater empathy. With more funding, better regulation, and a commitment to destigmatizing mental health, we can ensure that mental health care is accessible to everyone who needs it. Thank you for considering my application!

Selected Paragraph (Book 4, Meditation 3 – Marcus Aurelius): "Don’t waste the rest of your time here worrying about other people—unless it affects the common good. It will keep you from doing anything useful. You’ll be too preoccupied with what so-and-so is doing, and why, and what they’re saying, and what they’re thinking, and what they’re up to, and all the other things that throw you off and keep you from focusing on your own mind." The central thesis of this paragraph by Marcus Aurelius is that the pursuit of personal development requires disciplined attention to one’s mind rather than a distracted concern with the actions, opinions, or thoughts of others, unless those concerns have direct relevance to the common good. In this short yet weighty meditation, Aurelius speaks to a tension that remains deeply relevant in modern life: the balance between communal responsibility and self-mastery. His words evoke a quiet urgency to reflect inward rather than scatter one’s energy on external matters that ultimately hinder growth. This message continues to resonate deeply, especially in an age of constant noise and comparison. Whether through social media, group dynamics, or even daily interactions, people are often drawn outward, investing their focus in what others are doing or saying. Aurelius’s wisdom reminds us that the mind is a limited resource and that scattering it on superficial concerns leads us away from any meaningful progress. Rather than simply minding our business out of apathy, he is encouraging deliberate inward attention as the foundation for clarity, integrity, and real connection to the world. The writer’s underlying meaning revolves around the discipline of focus and the Stoic ideal of ruling over the self as a pathway to peace and purpose. Aurelius warns that wasting time by obsessing over others leads to a fragmented mind, one incapable of meaningful action. He is not advocating for selfishness but is instead suggesting that one’s first responsibility lies in managing the thoughts and behaviors that arise internally. Only when the behavior of others directly affects the collective well-being should our attention shift outward. This is not cold indifference but a recognition of the value of inner clarity and personal responsibility. The phrase “unless it affects the common good” provides important nuance to his message. There are times when we should be concerned about others, particularly when their actions influence shared environments such as families, classrooms, workplaces, or society as a whole. Aurelius’s wisdom here emphasizes discernment. He is not saying to live in a bubble. Instead, he is helping us prioritize wisely. Most of the time, our fixation on others is not for any noble or productive purpose. It is driven by habit, insecurity, or idle curiosity. Aurelius calls this out and urges us to spend our energy more intentionally. This passage sparks in me a sense of hope and personal resolve. It is not just an invitation to mind my own business but a call to redirect energy toward cultivating my own mental and moral clarity. In a world where distractions are endless and social comparison is constant, especially with the presence of social media, Aurelius’s words offer an almost sacred reminder: your mind is your domain. That statement alone reshapes how I view my daily habits. What I allow into my mental space, and what I choose to focus on, will ultimately shape who I become. In my own life, I have often found myself focused on others to a fault. Whether it was out of curiosity, comparison, or concern, I have spent hours mentally evaluating other people’s choices, appearances, relationships, or flaws. These thoughts, although they felt harmless in the moment, slowly built into patterns of distraction and judgment. I would find myself drifting into thoughts about people’s motives or behaviors without any productive end. Looking back, I can see that this did not enrich me. Instead, it stole time and mental energy that I could have invested in my own goals and growth. Over time, I came to realize this tendency had not led to any sense of fulfillment. It had instead drawn my focus away from personal development. I began to see how this pattern was a barrier to becoming the kind of person I wanted to be. I was more reactive and less present. I would procrastinate, dwell on unimportant details, or compare myself unfairly. Slowly, I began to see that unless someone’s actions were directly affecting my life or the people I care about, it served no real purpose to obsess over them. Aurelius’s words served as a wake-up call to take back control over where my mind was spending its time. In recent years, I have made intentional efforts to reverse that pattern. By being mindful of my tendency to be nosey or hyper-aware of what others are doing, I have worked to shift that energy toward my actions and thoughts. When I notice my attention drifting to people’s lives online or even to small social dramas in real life, I pause and ask myself what I am avoiding in my own life. That question alone often brings me back to the present moment. I begin to think more clearly about what I can do instead—how I can take ownership of my thoughts, time, and behavior. When I think about what “focusing on your mind” means, I think of building a habit of honest self-reflection and paying attention to the choices I make daily. This includes examining what I say, how I react to challenges, and whether I am living according to my values. It also involves checking in with my emotions and asking whether they are based on facts or assumptions. When I practice this consistently, I begin to feel more grounded and less dependent on external validation or opinions. That process can only happen when I stop allowing the noise of other people’s lives to dominate the soundscape of my inner world. This mental discipline has become even more important in a digital culture where we are constantly exposed to curated images, opinions, and updates from others. Social media has amplified our natural tendency to compare and compete. We are shown endless highlights of other people’s lives and are often left feeling that we are behind or not good enough. Marcus Aurelius’s words provide a powerful alternative: instead of consuming content passively, we can choose to direct our attention inward and ask what kind of life we are building. Are we acting with intention? Are we living by our standards or simply reacting to the lives of others? Aurelius’s distinction between idle preoccupation and legitimate concern is a valuable nuance. While I do agree with his sentiment overall, I also believe that part of being human is caring about others. Worrying about people is not always a waste of time. When their well-being or emotional state impacts a shared environment—such as a family, a classroom, or a society—then concern becomes a civic and moral duty. In this way, his caveat about "the common good" holds important weight. Stoicism does not reject community or compassion, but it reminds us that any effort to help others must begin with self-governance. We cannot offer wisdom, care, or support if we are mentally scattered or consumed by gossip and judgment. This is something I continue to reflect on. There is a difference between caring and carrying. When we care about people's health, we support them and show up with compassion. When we carry other people’s problems without boundaries, we risk losing our sense of peace and direction. Marcus’s words remind me that I must tend to my thoughts and intentions before I can offer anything meaningful to others. This is not selfish. It is responsible. It is a kind of emotional maturity that recognizes limits and honors the importance of self-awareness. The relevance of this Stoic teaching extends far beyond ancient Rome. In today’s culture of endless digital exposure, where we can monitor, judge, or compare ourselves to others with a swipe or scroll, the call to focus inward has perhaps never been more needed. Social media invites constant distraction and shallow concern. We often believe we are “staying connected,” but more often we are simply exhausting our attention on curated images of other people’s lives. Peer pressure and group dynamics in educational or work settings also encourage individuals to conform to social expectations rather than ask what truly aligns with their values. Aurelius’s advice, though written centuries ago, is strikingly modern in its implications. When I apply his thinking to everyday situations, I see how much of my attention can be reclaimed. For example, when a friend is going through something difficult, I can offer support without overstepping or becoming consumed by the situation. When I see a post online that makes me feel inadequate, I can step back and remember that it has nothing to do with my values or goals. When I feel tempted to criticize someone’s choices, I can instead reflect on what that judgment reveals about my insecurities. All of these small shifts are a result of focusing inward first. This is why Marcus Aurelius’s teaching has become more than just an idea to me. It has become a practice—a way of living that emphasizes thoughtful action over emotional reaction. It helps me stay aligned with what truly matters and reminds me that I do not have to follow every impulse, comment on every situation, or react to every emotion. I can pause, reflect, and choose my response with clarity. In conclusion, Marcus Aurelius teaches that mental discipline and purposeful living begin by withdrawing our concern from the irrelevant actions of others and centering it instead on our thoughts, behaviors, and responsibilities. This is not about isolation but about focus. By developing the strength to focus inward and act outwardly only when it serves the common good, we free ourselves from distraction and build lives of deeper integrity and usefulness. This idea continues to challenge me as I work on minding my mind first, not out of selfishness, but out of a desire to grow in clarity, character, and contribution. Works Cited Aurelius, Marcus. Meditations. Translated by Gregory Hays, Modern Library, 2002. - Thank you for considering my application and your generosity!

In a world that often feels too fast, too loud, and too disconnected, I want to build something simple yet powerful: a community forum where people can be heard. This space would serve as a local action network focused on addressing social issues like mental health, substance abuse, homelessness, anger, and relationship struggles. The goal is to bring people together to openly discuss the issues that affect us most, to find healing in shared stories, and to collectively pursue solutions. I believe such a space could be a lifeline—something I once needed myself. My desire to build this comes from my own life. I have faced depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and feelings of deep inadequacy. Even though my family was present, they couldn’t always understand what I was experiencing. In those moments, I didn’t need all the answers—I just needed to feel heard, understood, and not alone. What I lacked during those years is exactly what I hope to create for others: a place where honesty is met with empathy, not silence or shame. I’ve begun learning about the wide range of social challenges communities face and how people have responded across the world. Again and again, I hear that connection is what saves people. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness each year. Many suffer silently. But I have also seen how powerful it is when people come together—when a person is simply told, “I see you, and you matter.” I believe the same is possible on a community scale. This vision, if realized, would have a deep impact on my community. It would provide a safe space for people to speak, be heard, and receive real advice. It would also make our community more resilient and united in the face of hardship. People are stronger when they feel supported, and support begins with conversation. For me, building this forum would be a way to give back something I desperately needed. Even today, I continue to wrestle with anxiety and feelings of low self-worth. But I believe healing is possible, and that hearing from others who are growing through these same feelings will help me grow too. This project is not just about others—it is also about becoming who I need to be. I know there will be challenges. Organizing people, managing conflicts, and gaining support from city officials are real obstacles. However, with the help of experienced community leaders, consistent communication, and, above all, faith in God, I believe this dream can become a reality. I want to build something that lasts—something that reaches into people’s lives and says, “You are not alone.” Such a connection has the power to change lives. It certainly would have changed mine.

From the very beginning, it was just my mother and me. My parents separated before I was born, so the concept of a two-parent household was never part of my reality. While I grew up as an only child, I never felt alone in the truest sense because my mother filled every role with unwavering love and quiet strength. She became my provider, protector, teacher, and friend, and it is through her tireless example that I became the person I am today. Our relationship was, and still is, deeply loving. My mother raised me with the kind of intentional care that could only come from someone who had everything to give but often little to spare. She instilled in me the importance of education, faith, compassion, and righteous living. Her guidance wasn’t limited to words. Throughout my childhood, she sacrificed her time, energy, and personal comforts to make sure I had everything I needed. Even when she was exhausted or worried, she carried the weight of our lives with a smile. That quiet courage taught me more about strength than any lecture ever could. Still, life was far from easy. We experienced eviction notices, nights with no electricity, and days when we didn’t know where our next meal would come from. The financial strain we lived under took a toll on both of us, especially mentally and emotionally. As a child, I struggled with identity, often feeling out of place and longing to fit in. It was difficult not to compare my life to others’, and for a long time, I didn't see my circumstances as a source of growth, only of hardship. Socially, I kept much of my reality hidden, but academically, I found purpose. Education became my way forward. I saw it as the great equalizer, my opportunity to build the life my mother dreamed of for me. Growing up this way shaped me in profound ways. It taught me to work hard and to never take anything for granted. It made me compassionate toward others facing financial hardships because I have lived it. It shaped my goals, pushing me to succeed not just for myself, but for my mother, who carried the weight of two people for so long. In relationships, I look for what I grew up with: genuineness and love. I seek out people who reflect the same values my mother lives by, values rooted in kindness, humility, and strength. When I face adversity, I take it on with the same mindset my mother modeled. She taught me, through her actions, to face life’s challenges with grace and persistence. If she could hold everything together with a smile during her hardest days, then I can meet my struggles head-on with courage and faith. My upbringing doesn’t just shape who I am; it shapes who I want to be. I am committed to excellence in education, to building a meaningful and impactful career, and to being a positive role model in life. Most importantly, I want to be a light for children raised by single mothers, especially those who have felt the sting of poverty and the weight of uncertainty. I want them to know that where you start does not define where you can go. There is light at the end of the tunnel and hope around the bend, even when the journey is difficult. What I lived through gave me the drive to succeed, the heart to care, and the vision to dream bigger than my circumstances. That is the gift my mother gave me, and I carry it with me every single day.

From a young age, I learned that resilience is often born in quiet places, in small apartments, single-parent households, and moments when faith is the only thing holding you together. Growing up in San Antonio in a tight-knit but economically challenged community, I experienced the weight of financial hardship early. Yet in those challenges, I discovered purpose. As a first-generation college student, I now walk a path that was never guaranteed, but one that I pursue with unwavering dedication and hope. My story is not just about overcoming adversity, but about turning that adversity into a foundation for growth, service, and a career in architecture that I pray will help shape lives for the better. Architecture first captivated me when I realized how much our daily lives are influenced by the spaces we occupy. Whether it’s a church, a school, a home, or a neighborhood park, every structure holds the power to uplift, inspire, and transform lives. I chose this path not just out of fascination, but out of a desire to serve people through design. As a student at the University of Texas at San Antonio, I’m committed to producing high-quality work, maintaining an honor roll status, and graduating with honors. My long-term goal is to become a licensed architect in Texas, work at a prominent firm, and eventually launch my practice to create innovative and inclusive spaces that serve communities like the one I came from. Financial challenges have always been present, but they’ve never defined me. Being a low-income, first-generation student means every opportunity to support my education matters deeply. I’m currently preparing for a required study abroad experience in Urbino, Italy, an incredible opportunity for academic and cultural growth. However, it comes with increased financial pressure. Receiving this scholarship would ease the burden of travel and living costs, help me purchase essential academic materials, and allow me to focus on learning rather than survival. It would be a tremendous blessing during a pivotal moment in my education. Beyond academics, service is a core part of who I am. I work with local organizations in San Antonio, such as the San Antonio Food Bank and Salvation Army, and I’m actively involved in outreach through my church fellowship. We serve low-income and vulnerable individuals across the city, and through this work, I’ve learned the importance of humility, love, and showing up for others. These values are not just part of my character; they are the foundation of my life’s purpose. There was a time in my youth when I faced profound mental health challenges. I struggled silently, weighed down by feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, and often questioned whether life was worth continuing. But in the darkest moments, my faith kept me grounded. Through prayer, community, and perseverance, I made it through the storm. That season of my life taught me that I am far more resilient than I ever realized, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for life, purpose, and the people who walk alongside me. Today, I’m 22 years old, full of hope, and still growing. I look back and marvel not at my strength, but at how far God has brought me. I carry with me humility, compassion, and a commitment to excellence, and I strive daily to live a life that’s pleasing to God and beneficial to my fellow man. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my academic journey, but it would also be an investment in someone deeply committed to using their education to uplift others. Thank you for considering my application, and God bless!

Legacy, to me, is about doing something greater than yourself. It’s about planting seeds you may never see bloom, leaving the world a little brighter, kinder, and more whole than you found it. A legacy is not just a grand accomplishment carved in stone or a name remembered in textbooks—it’s a lasting impact that ripples through lives, communities, and generations. It’s in the love we give, the people we uplift, and the example we leave behind. For me, legacy is both a personal mission and a reflection of the values I’ve inherited, shaped by the life I’ve lived and the people who’ve poured into me. One of the most powerful shaping forces in my life has been the unwavering strength and diligence of my single mother. Watching her work long hours, overcome countless obstacles, and still come home with hope in her eyes taught me more than any textbook ever could. She was—and continues to be—a living example of grit wrapped in grace. Her tireless efforts to provide for me, even in the face of adversity, instilled in me a mindset that values perseverance, optimism, and resilience. I saw firsthand what it meant to show up every day, even when you’re exhausted—especially when you’re exhausted. Because of her, I’ve learned not just how to survive challenges, but how to face them with faith, compassion, and purpose. Though life was never easy, one thing my family never lacked was love. Through every hardship and triumph, love was the constant thread that held us together. I see this cycle of love as one of the most precious parts of my upbringing, and it’s something I deeply want to continue. In a world that often feels cold or disconnected, I want to be a source of warmth—a reflection of the love that was so freely given to me. Whether it’s comforting a friend, supporting a family member, or simply being present for someone in need, I hope to embody that same spirit of unconditional care. That, to me, is legacy too: being the reason someone feels seen, safe, and supported. Growing up as a Christian has also profoundly shaped who I am and how I see the world. My faith instilled in me values of empathy, humility, service, and integrity. These values are not just beliefs—they are blueprints for how I live and lead. They remind me that success is empty if it doesn’t serve others, that ambition must be grounded in love, and that greatness begins with kindness. My upbringing in faith taught me that true purpose comes from aligning my life with what God has called me to do—and I believe that calling involves making a difference in the lives of others. As I look to the future, I envision a legacy that is larger than life—but as approachable as a warm hug from a loved one. I want to inspire not with grand gestures, but with authentic impact. I want to be remembered as someone who led with love, served with intention, and stayed rooted in purpose. Whether through my career, my relationships, or my everyday actions, I want to leave behind a trail of light for others to follow. In the end, legacy isn’t about being remembered for what you had—it’s about being remembered for how you made people feel, how you lifted others up, and how you helped move the world a little closer to love. And that’s exactly the kind of life I’m working to build.

My plans for the future center around a career in architecture—a field I often say chose me, rather than the other way around. Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by buildings—their form, function, and the way they shape how we live and feel in our environments. This fascination has followed me through the years and continues to inspire me every time I walk through a city or notice the unique lines and shadows of a structure. It’s more than an interest—it’s a calling. Currently, I am in my final year of the undergraduate architecture program at the University of Texas at San Antonio. It’s a pre-professional degree, so the next major step in my journey will be earning a master’s degree in architecture. This is essential in order to become a licensed architect and begin building the career I’ve worked so hard to prepare for. Within five to ten years, I hope to be working at an architecture firm—ideally one that specializes in commercial architecture. I’m especially drawn to how commercial spaces serve both functional and aesthetic purposes on a large scale, shaping how communities gather, work, and thrive. But my goals extend beyond career milestones. One of the driving forces behind my ambition is the deep connection I feel to my community. I want to use my education and future career to give back—sharing the knowledge, resources, energy, and time that others have so generously poured into me. As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, I’ve experienced firsthand how powerful community support can be. My success belongs not just to me, but to the people who helped make it possible. I feel a strong responsibility to pay it forward—to open doors for others the way they’ve been opened for me. The journey to this point hasn’t been easy. Financial hardship, personal struggles, and the loss of loved ones have weighed heavily on me throughout my college years. These challenges, while difficult, have also strengthened my resolve and deepened my appreciation for every opportunity I receive. I’ve worked tirelessly to fund my education through scholarships, grants, and any support I can find. My upcoming study abroad program in Urbino, Italy—an incredible opportunity that is part of my undergraduate capstone experience—will come with additional expenses, making the need for financial assistance even more urgent. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than just monetary relief. It would be a recognition of how far I’ve come and a vote of confidence in where I’m going. It would help me finish this chapter of my academic career strong and allow me to fully embrace the next step without the looming weight of financial stress. Every contribution, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated and plays a real role in helping me achieve something bigger than myself. Ultimately, I want to build more than just structures. I want to build opportunities—for myself, for others like me, and for the communities that raised and inspired me. With continued support, I know I can do just that.

A couple of years ago, I found myself in a place I never imagined I’d be—mentally and emotionally worn down, questioning my worth, and struggling with an overwhelming sense of heaviness I couldn’t shake. I was battling internal storms that had no clear beginning or end, tangled in issues of self-image, identity, and emotional pain. It felt like I was silently fading from the person I used to be. At the same time, people around me—family, friends, even members of my community—were facing their own hardships. It felt selfish to speak up when everyone else seemed to be suffering too. So I did what I thought was strong: I stayed quiet. I smiled when I had to. I kept moving forward, even as I was falling apart inside. But slowly, the signs became harder to ignore. I isolated myself, lost interest in the things I loved, and began spiraling into patterns that didn’t reflect who I truly was. When I reached an emotional breaking point, I realized I could no longer carry it alone. It was time to make a different kind of choice—one that could save my life. I reached out. I started therapy, not just to feel “better,” but to understand myself more deeply. I spoke with my pastor, seeking wisdom and grounding through faith. I began building new habits, like moving my body regularly and speaking more openly about what I was going through. Every step forward felt uncertain at first, but it was movement—and that mattered. Healing, I learned, doesn’t happen in a straight line. It’s slow, often frustrating, but undeniably powerful. One of the greatest challenges I faced during that time wasn’t the pain itself, but the mental shift required to believe I deserved to heal. I had to face hard truths about the way I viewed myself and actively choose to rewrite those beliefs. Learning to see value in myself—apart from what I could achieve or how others saw me—was one of the most difficult and transformative parts of the journey. And yet, through it all, I discovered something that has become the foundation for how I now move through the world: resilience. Not the kind that glorifies struggle, but the quiet, steady kind—the kind that allows you to keep showing up for yourself even when everything feels uncertain. I realized that my past pain didn’t disqualify me from a future of purpose. In fact, it deepened my sense of empathy, sharpened my awareness of others, and reminded me how precious life truly is. Today, I view my mental and emotional health not as a background concern, but as a central part of how I define success. I set boundaries that protect my peace, avoid environments that drain my energy, and make space for self-reflection and rest. I recognize that in order to support others or pursue big goals, I first have to stay grounded in who I am and how I’m doing. This experience didn’t just teach me how to survive a difficult season—it taught me how to live more intentionally. How to listen to my own voice, to honor the quiet strength it takes to ask for help, and to believe in the possibility of growth. As I prepare for the future—academically, professionally, and personally—I carry that lesson with me. Because sometimes, choosing to stay, to try again, and to believe there’s something worth building beyond the pain—that is the most profound kind of courage.

There was a time in my life when simply getting out of bed felt like a battle. I wasn't just tired — I was emotionally drained, overwhelmed by anxiety, depressive thoughts, and even suicidal ideation. As a student, juggling academic expectations while silently battling my own mind felt like carrying an invisible weight. That’s why mental health isn’t just important to me — it’s vital. My struggle with mental health didn’t begin in the classroom, but it affected every part of my life, especially school. At home, I wrestled with deep questions about my identity, my purpose, and whether I even belonged here. I felt like my life was a burden, and there were moments when I truly believed that ending it would somehow relieve that weight. I isolated myself, pulling away from friends and family who genuinely cared. I could see their concern — the way they tried to reach out — but I often pushed them away, believing I had to face everything on my own. That’s a regret that still lingers and one that taught me a powerful lesson: silence can be just as dangerous as suffering. Recovery wasn’t instant, and it’s still not perfect — but it began when I stopped pretending I was fine. I started making room for my emotions rather than hiding from them. I learned to say, “I’m not okay,” and mean it. I began praying more, reading my Bible for encouragement, and slowly allowing faith and hope to replace fear and shame. I also recognized the value of professional help — therapy gave me tools and language I never had before. Most importantly, I realized that vulnerability isn’t weakness. It’s the first step toward healing. Because of what I’ve been through, I’ve made it a point to advocate for mental health in my school and community. I openly share my story with friends, classmates, and others who might be struggling — not to seek attention, but to let them know they’re not alone. I tell people what I wish someone had told me sooner: it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to struggle. What’s not okay is feeling like you have to go through it alone. Whether it’s encouraging someone to seek counseling, offering a listening ear, or simply reminding them they matter, I try to be a voice of hope. Mental health among students is often brushed aside in favor of test scores, deadlines, and expectations. But the reality is that many students are silently carrying emotional burdens that can derail their lives. Some drop out. Some give up. Some, tragically, never get the chance to heal. That’s why I believe mental health needs to be talked about openly — not just in times of crisis, but as part of everyday conversation. We need to normalize asking for help, support each other with empathy, and create spaces where no one feels ashamed for struggling. If there’s one message I hope people take away from my experience, it’s this: your mental health matters. You matter. And no matter how dark things may seem, there is always a path forward. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is simply tell someone how you’re feeling. I did — and it changed everything.

How do I plan to embody the Luminaut values—humble yet hungry, focused yet fun, super yet human—as an architect? These words are not just ideals to me—they reflect the mindset I’ve carried throughout my academic and personal journey. They describe the kind of designer I aspire to be and the kind of impact I hope to make through my work. I stay grounded in the design process by remembering the human aspect of architecture. Design is not about ego—it’s about people. I’m always asking: who will live in this space, how will it make them feel, and how can it support their lives? While I aim for precision and beauty in every project, I also accept that perfection isn’t the goal—because the imperfect is often what makes a space meaningful. The layered textures of aging materials, the irregularity of hand-crafted details, the stories embedded in the built environment—these are reminders that architecture, like life, is most beautiful when it’s honest. Acknowledging my own limitations helps me stay humble, open to growth, and grounded in purpose. At the same time, I’m deeply driven—hungry to grow, explore, and refine my craft. I aspire to contribute to thoughtful, complex, and creative projects that have real-world impact. Whether it's a home, a place of worship, or a shared public space, I want to create environments that elevate the full range of the human experience. That vision pushes me to develop not only my technical skills but also my sensitivity to culture, context, and emotion—because architecture must respond to all of these. Growth, to me, is about constantly evolving as a designer and as a person. Maintaining focus yet fun is also essential, especially in a rigorous field like architecture. I stay focused by connecting each assignment to my bigger goals and constantly reminding myself of the kind of architect I want to become. I also lean on professors, peers, and mentors—because design is never a solo act. But even in the most intense moments, I believe in making space for joy. I work to cultivate a studio culture where everyone feels seen and encouraged, where ideas are shared openly, and where we can celebrate both the process and the outcome. Casual conversations and meaningful connections keep creativity flowing and remind us that design should be collaborative and human at every step. Being super yet human means pursuing excellence with heart. To me, “super” doesn’t mean being perfect or over-polished—it means showing up with care, thoughtfulness, and a deep commitment to quality. I take pride in going the extra mile because every detail matters, and I want my work to speak with intention. At the same time, I never lose sight of empathy. We design for people—for their well-being, their dignity, their belonging. Human-centered design isn’t just a strategy—it’s a responsibility. My passion for architecture began in childhood. Growing up in San Antonio, I was captivated by the buildings downtown—each one telling a story of its time and place. That early wonder grew into curiosity, then creativity, and finally purpose. I often say I didn’t choose architecture—it chose me. And since then, I’ve poured myself into this journey with everything I have. Of all the Luminaut values, humble yet hungry resonates most. I remain grateful for every opportunity while constantly pushing myself toward growth. This mindset has shaped not only my work, but who I am. To further illustrate how I embody these values, I’ve included two selected projects from my portfolio. Both reflect my commitment to human-centered design and my belief that architecture, at its best, connects deeply with the people it serves.

Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect—PLUR—is more than just a slogan from the EDM and rave scene. To me, it’s a powerful way of life rooted in human connection and compassion. Though I haven’t yet attended an EDM festival, I’ve encountered the heart of the PLUR philosophy through people I met in high school and university who were deeply involved in that culture. Their kindness, inclusiveness, and nonjudgmental nature left a lasting impression on me. Some of these individuals remain close friends today, and it’s through them that I began to understand how PLUR can shape not only a community—but a person. Each element of PLUR represents something deeply meaningful. Peace means choosing harmony over hostility, even when emotions run high. I experienced this firsthand during a heated argument with my cousin. We’ve always been close, but in that moment, tempers flared, and it almost escalated into something physical. I don’t remember what started it, but I do remember what ended it: the choice to be the bigger person. I chose peace, even in my anger. We didn’t speak for a while after that, but with time and family encouragement, we reconciled. Our bond is stronger now—not in spite of the conflict, but because we moved through it with grace. Love, for me, is the act of showing up for others, especially in their moments of pain. Recently, a childhood friend in my community was going through a painful breakup. I made time to talk with him and to listen without judgment. Since then, he still reaches out when he’s overwhelmed, and I’m always glad to be there. That’s what love in community looks like: being a steady presence when someone’s world is shaky. Unity is about bridging the gaps between us. I try to promote unity by making sure people around me feel seen and heard—whether that’s encouraging classmates to speak up in group projects, inviting someone sitting alone to join our lunch table, or simply listening to someone’s story without cutting them off. Sometimes the smallest gestures can make people feel like they belong, and that matters. Respect, to me, means celebrating the differences that make us human. It’s easy to agree with people who think like you, but I’ve grown the most when I’ve engaged with perspectives that challenge mine. Whether through university discussions, community service, or even casual conversations, I’ve learned to set aside ego and listen—not to win an argument, but to understand someone else’s reality. These values show up across the communities I’m part of: in the northeast San Antonio neighborhood where I’ve grown up, in my local church, in my university circles, and yes—even in my Minecraft server. Believe it or not, nothing tests your respect for others like someone blowing up your in-game house. But even there, PLUR finds its way in. We laugh, rebuild, forgive, and move on—just like in real life. Ultimately, I believe PLUR is not just for the rave crowd—it’s for anyone who wants to live with purpose and empathy. These values are timeless because they’re rooted in the very best of what it means to be human. In a world that often seems divided, PLUR offers a path forward: one built not on perfection, but on intention. And I intend to keep living it—one peaceful, loving, united, respectful day at a time.

“You are your ancestors’ wildest dreams.” That quote echoed in my mind as I walked across my college campus for the first time. As a first-generation student, I wasn’t just attending university for myself—I was carrying my family, my community, and generations of unspoken dreams on my shoulders. I stepped onto campus with pride and hope, but also with uncertainty, fear, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. Being first-gen has been both an honor and a challenge. I come from a low-income, single-parent household. My mother, the strongest person I know, worked tirelessly to support me. Still, no one around me had experienced college. I had to figure everything out on my own: class schedules, financial aid, office hours, and even how to ask for help. During my freshman and sophomore years, I often felt like I was navigating a world I didn’t fully understand. The academic workload was intense, and the adjustment deeply affected my mental health. I found myself more stressed than fulfilled, constantly questioning how I fit in. What got me through wasn’t a perfect plan—it was my faith and my family. My relationship with God gave me strength when I felt overwhelmed, and my mother’s love grounded me. Her steady support reminded me of who I was and why I started. From her, I learned that perseverance isn’t just about pushing through hardship; it’s about believing that the struggle is building something meaningful. Over time, I learned to adapt. I realized that change is not only inevitable—it is necessary. Growth comes from discomfort, and progress requires effort. I also discovered that no one hands you balance or clarity in college. You have to fight for it—and sometimes, create it yourself. If I could offer one piece of advice to another first-generation student, it would be this: never forget your purpose, but always care for your well-being along the way. Work hard, stay disciplined, and be mindful of your mental health. Don’t sacrifice your peace chasing perfection. Seek balance. Learn when to study and when to rest. Attend campus events, say yes to new opportunities, and connect with your peers. Some of the most important lessons I’ve learned came not just from the classroom, but from conversations, community, and quiet reflection. I wish someone had told me that building relationships would be just as important as earning good grades. Connecting with others helped me feel less alone. It gave me community—and community gave me strength. This advice matters to me because it reflects the guidance I wish I had at the beginning of my college journey. It also represents my deep care for other first-generation students. I want their paths to feel less isolating and more empowering. To any student just starting their journey: know that you are not alone. You are not an outsider. You belong here. And while the path may feel uncertain, you are fully capable of making it your own. As Maya Angelou once said, “I come as one, but I stand as ten thousand.” So stand tall. You carry more than books—you carry dreams.

A time when I made a meaningful impact through service was during my leadership of a week-long community meal initiative organized through my local church fellowship in San Antonio. As the lead organizer for our annual outreach project, I developed and executed a plan to provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day for anyone in need. Hosted at one of our largest member churches, the initiative was designed to nourish both body and spirit—offering food to low-income families while creating space for compassion, community, and Christ-centered connection. What inspired me was both the visible need in my community and the invisible scars I carry from my own upbringing. Raised in a single-parent household on the northeast side of San Antonio, I know what it feels like to face hunger, financial instability, and fear. I know the weight of wondering whether an eviction notice would be the final one. Those experiences could have made me bitter—but instead, they made me compassionate. I committed to being the person I once needed: someone who shows up with open hands and a heart full of hope. Our goal was simple: to feed as many people as possible and remind them they are seen, loved, and valued. But getting there was not easy. We faced logistical challenges, from securing funding to recruiting volunteers. Outreach was especially difficult. Many in our target community didn’t use social media or have reliable internet access. So we went door to door, handing out flyers and speaking face to face. Some doors never opened. Others opened to eyes filled with shame. Whether from past hurts or the stigma of poverty, not everyone was ready to accept the invitation. But we kept going. We kept showing up. Funding, too, was a challenge. Feeding dozens of people for a full week required generous giving from our fellowship churches, and not everyone was initially on board. But through prayer, persistence, and passion, hearts softened. Slowly, we built a team, secured resources, and put the plan into motion. Volunteers stepped up to cook, serve, clean, and pray. City permits were secured. We were ready. The results were powerful. We served hundreds of meals, sparked meaningful conversations, and reminded people that God’s love is tangible—it can look like a warm plate of food, a shared table, or a volunteer who remembers your name. We planted seeds of faith and hope and saw new faces at church the following Sunday. It wasn’t just an outreach event; it was a week of healing and connection. This experience changed me. It reminded me that leadership isn’t about titles or perfection—it’s about showing up, being faithful, and letting God use your past to serve someone else's present. I used to doubt that I could ever lead, but this experience proved that even someone who grew up feeling invisible can become a light to others. It also deepened my understanding of service and faith. I believe to live is to serve, and to die is to have finished serving well. Faith without action is just talk. But when we put love into motion, we reflect the very heart of God. As Mother Teresa said, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” This wasn’t a grand act in the eyes of the world—but for those we fed, it mattered. And for me, it was a glimpse of the kind of life I’m called to live—one meal, one person, one act of love at a time.

Honestly, figuring out the “perfect” ending to The Bear feels kind of ironic, since the whole show is about how messy and complicated life gets—especially in the restaurant world. But after watching the series (and yeah, getting way too emotionally invested in everyone), I do have a vision for how it could all wrap up in a way that feels satisfying, even if it's not exactly tied up in a bow. For Carmy, I don’t think he needs to win some big award or prove himself to anyone anymore. He’s obviously insanely talented, but the thing that’s been holding him back is himself. I think the best ending would be him actually learning to take a step back and breathe. Maybe he finally stops trying to be perfect all the time and instead focuses on being present—with his team, maybe even with Claire again. I don’t need them to end up together forever or anything, but it would be nice if he just talked to her like a real person and apologized for shutting down. Just a small moment of emotional growth would go a long way. Sydney’s journey is probably the one I care most about. She’s been working her ass off and trying to prove herself from the beginning, and it would be awesome to see her fully take the reins in the kitchen. I don’t mean kicking Carmy out, but I’d love to see her finally get recognized for her ideas and leadership, not just as the “second in command.” Maybe she gets her own night to run the menu, or even gets offered a partnership in the restaurant. She deserves it. Richie’s arc surprised me a lot. I didn’t think I’d end up rooting for him, but he really pulled it together. The perfect ending for him is just being comfortable in his role—finally understanding that he does bring something valuable to the team. He’s great with people, and I could see him being in charge of the front of house permanently. I also hope he stays close with his daughter, because those moments showed a softer side of him that really stuck with me. Marcus is someone I hope gets more appreciation by the end. He’s super creative, and even though he’s quieter than the others, he clearly puts his whole heart into what he does. After everything with his mom, it would be cool to see him find some peace and maybe even start developing his own thing on the side, like a dessert line or pop-up. I don’t want him to leave The Bear, but I want him to have something that’s fully his. As for the restaurant, I don’t think it needs to be this huge success with awards and critics. Honestly, I’d prefer it ends with them just… holding it together. The kitchen works. People show up. They’ve built something that’s not falling apart. And it’s not perfect—it never will be—but they’re all on the same page, working together without constantly burning out or fighting. Maybe they never get that Michelin star Carmy dreamed about, but maybe that doesn’t matter anymore. I picture the last scene as a busy service. The music’s playing, everyone’s moving fast but not frantic. There’s a rhythm to it now. Carmy isn’t freaking out. He looks around and realizes they built something real, even if it’s not perfect. Maybe he finally feels okay with that. So yeah, the perfect ending for me isn’t about everything going right. It’s about these people finally figuring out how to keep going—together. Messy, but still standing. Just like the show.

To me, legacy means leaving behind an impact on the world far greater than myself—something that continues to grow and give long after I'm gone. I hope to leave a legacy that is multifaceted: to be a role model in my community, a pioneer in the field of architecture, and a beacon of hope for those who feel unseen. I draw inspiration from many, including my mother, my pastor, local mentors, historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Maya Angelou, and most profoundly, Jesus Christ. Their lives have taught me that true legacy is not measured by fame, but by faithfulness, service, and the lives touched along the way. I envision creating a legacy through a business that fuses purpose with passion: an architecture firm centered on sustainable design and community integration. I dream of designing public spaces that invite connection—plazas, green corridors, mixed-use buildings, and renovated civic centers that draw people together. Too often in the United States, our built environments neglect the need for shared, inclusive spaces. Simultaneously, while sustainability has become a buzzword, there's still a vast gap between ideal and implementation. My firm would not only design with sustainability in mind, but also retrofit existing structures to meet 21st-century environmental standards—bridging past and future, and reviving the places where people live, gather, and grow. This business would not just serve a functional need—it would reflect the principles I hold most dearly. Sustainability and community have shaped who I am. Living sustainably, surrounding myself with people who challenge and encourage me, and pursuing a life in service of others have helped me overcome adversity and discover my purpose. By designing spaces that reflect those values, my work would become a tangible extension of my legacy. In all of this, I seek to shine my light through the gifts and values God has placed within me: leadership, humility, compassion, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I’ve demonstrated these through years of volunteering with charitable organizations, leading outreach programs in my church, and spearheading initiatives in school and university settings. Whether organizing food drives, mentoring younger students, or collaborating on architectural projects, I’ve always sought to uplift others—offering “a way up, not down,” just as Christ offers us grace and restoration. My light shines brightest when I give of myself—through volunteering, almsgiving, and simply being present for those in need. I believe that true leadership is servant-hearted. It’s not just about accolades, but about living with intention: making choices rooted in compassion, justice, and stewardship. I strive daily to embody these values—in my mindset, my routine, and the way I treat others—because I believe our greatest testimony is how we live. Looking ahead, I know that legacy is not built overnight. It requires consistent, faithful work—day after day, moment by moment. Just as one learns an instrument or a language through repetition, I plan to grow into the best version of myself by staying consistent. I will continue nurturing my character, honing my craft, and deepening my faith. I don’t just want to design buildings—I want to design a better world: one act of love, one space for connection, one sustainable choice at a time.

There was a time in my life when I didn’t think I would make it through the next day. I struggled with anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, and every morning felt like waking up under a heavy weight I couldn’t explain. I questioned the purpose of my life—and even my existence. Joy, once a familiar companion, had become foreign to me. I remember feeling isolated in a crowded room, disconnected from the things I once loved. The smallest tasks felt overwhelming, and I wrestled with a voice in my mind that constantly told me I wasn’t enough. The turning point didn’t come in a single dramatic moment, but in the quiet realization that my life had value—that I had value. I began to understand that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. I reached out to those closest to me: my church family, my community, and my relatives. What I found wasn’t judgment, but unwavering love and support. I had people who listened, prayed with me, and sat with me during moments when I couldn’t speak. Therapy and open conversations became part of my journey, and slowly, I began rebuilding a relationship with myself. I found strength in vulnerability, and with each step forward, I learned how to take up space again—without shame. Despite the battles I’ve faced, I’ve consistently stepped into leadership roles—not for recognition, but to be the kind of person I once needed. At my church, I led charitable givebacks through our outreach and fellowship committee, organizing food drives, clothing donations, and community meals. At university, I’ve led group projects with intention and integrity, ensuring every voice is heard. In my family, I’m the person loved ones turn to in times of crisis—whether it’s helping a younger cousin through school or supporting someone through loss. In my community, I strive to be a role model for the younger generation, especially those struggling to find their way. I want them to see it’s possible to fight through darkness and emerge with purpose. The changes I’ve seen because of these efforts are real. In my church, our outreach programs have grown, serving more people with consistent support. At school, my leadership has fostered collaboration and respect among diverse peers. And in my own life, my outlook has shifted from hopelessness to intention. I now live with direction, grounded in a strong sense of self-worth and a commitment to giving back. As someone passionate about architecture, I see how the built environment reflects—and shapes—the spirit of a community. Buildings are more than structures; they are spaces of safety, creativity, and identity. We spend most of our lives in places designed by others—homes, schools, community centers, places of worship. I want to help design spaces that are inclusive, sustainable, and welcoming, especially for marginalized or underserved groups. Architecture, to me, is a way to extend the care I once needed: a shelter, a space to belong, a reason to hope. Overcoming my personal struggles has made me more empathetic—and given me a vision. I hope to channel my experiences into a career where I can design with purpose, lead with compassion, and build a future where everyone feels they belong. Because at the end of the day, we all deserve a place that feels like home—both in the world around us and within ourselves.

Being part of a community has done more than give me a sense of belonging—it has shaped my identity and given me a deeper, lasting hope for the future. I am proud to be part of my local community, church community, and university community in San Antonio, Texas. These spaces have helped mold who I am today. They’ve supported me during difficult times, challenged me to grow, and given me a reason to believe. These communities mean the world to me. I stay involved not for recognition or reward, but because I want to make a difference. What I receive in return is something money can’t buy: the fulfillment of knowing I’ve impacted someone's life. Even during moments of personal struggle, the love and encouragement of these communities have reminded me of my purpose. Their support has kept me afloat when I felt like I was sinking. One experience that solidified this was in 2023, when I led a large Thanksgiving give-back initiative through my church fellowship, which unites several sister churches on San Antonio's East Side. I was serving as the leader of the young adult chapter and felt called to do something meaningful for our neighborhood. While many San Antonians enjoy warm homes and abundant feasts during Thanksgiving, others struggle to get through the holiday season. With that reality in mind, our team organized a week-long effort to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner to those in need at one of our larger fellowship churches. Through deliberate planning and the support of my peers, we were able to serve over 300 people in our local community. Each person who walked through those doors received more than just a meal—they were greeted warmly, treated with dignity, and shown the love of Christ through simple acts of service. It was a week filled with laughter, tears, hard work, and unforgettable moments. I often look back and marvel at all the logistics that were involved, but what stays with me the most is the feeling that I had done something greater than myself. I was moved to take action by my faith and my deep concern for the well-being of others. The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive—our fellowship received strong support, and volunteers showed up in abundance. It was a collective effort, and I was humbled to lead it. That week taught me something I’ll never forget: “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.” – Albert Einstein. That quote echoes the heart of what I experienced. Giving back reminded me that the real reward is found not in what we receive, but in how we serve. From this experience, I learned that kindness is key, because it softens hearts and opens doors; connection creates community, because when people come together with compassion, they build something greater than themselves; and resilience brings hope, because even in the face of need or hardship, collective action can spark meaningful change. Because of this, I do believe I can make a lasting difference in the world. My experiences have shown me that change doesn’t always start on a grand scale—it often begins in small, quiet moments when someone chooses to care. When a community comes together with love and shared purpose, we become stronger than anything we face alone. My hope for the future is rooted in this truth: that light is most visible in the darkness, and that every act of kindness—no matter how small—is a spark that can ignite something far greater. I want to spend my life being part of that spark.

What sets me apart is not just my personality or preferences—it’s my perspective on life. While many people see life as random or accidental, I view each moment as a deliberate act by an intentional Creator. This belief shapes everything I do. Rather than getting consumed by the worries of tomorrow, I strive to live one moment at a time, with trust in God’s plan. My values—rooted in faith, love, and righteousness—guide my decisions daily. While many my age may be swept up in what the world offers, I keep my focus on Jesus. This doesn’t make me perfect—far from it—but it has shaped my life in profound and lasting ways. People often describe me as humble, patient, and wise beyond my years. Whether it's in my interactions with the elderly or how I handle challenges, I try to embody peace and patience. When anger or disappointment arise, I’ve learned to maintain my internal calm, choosing not to let external chaos disturb my spirit. That approach, I believe, is one of the quietest yet most powerful ways to influence others. I remember a moment in high school that reminded me of this. A classmate, Johnny Torrez, was frequently bullied. One day, I decided enough was enough. I stepped in, calmly warned the bullies that I would report them if they didn’t stop, and stood by Johnny. Though it didn’t erase the problem entirely, I noticed a change in him—he stood taller and smiled more. That one act sparked a friendship and taught me how standing up for others, even quietly, can make a big difference. There have been times in my life when I’ve felt invisible or unimportant—like no one noticed the effort I was putting into being kind, faithful, or helpful. But over time, people began telling me they were watching. They were inspired by how I carried myself, even when I thought no one cared. Knowing that my quiet example had such an effect helped boost my self-worth and reminded me that living with intention matters—even when it feels unseen. I try to live a life centered on love, peace, joy, and hope—anchored in the truth of Jesus Christ. In a world that can often feel dark or distracted, I want my actions to be a light for others to follow. I want others to see that righteousness still matters, that joy is possible even in hardship, and that faith can anchor you through life’s storms. Rosa Parks once said, “Each person must live their life as a model for others.” That quote has always stayed with me because it reminds us that influence isn’t always loud or planned. Sometimes it’s quiet, consistent, and rooted in how we treat people and carry ourselves. I believe we all have the power to be that kind of influence. The difference I hope to make in this world is one that lasts long after I’m gone. I want to be remembered as someone who loved deeply, served God faithfully, and lived with purpose. I hope the choices I make today echo into the lives of others—especially those I may never meet, but who might one day say, “Because I saw them live with faith and love, I believed I could too.”

My name is Cedric Pitts, and I am a first-generation college student from San Antonio, Texas. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture at the University of Texas at San Antonio. My journey into this field began with a childhood curiosity about how the world around me was constructed. As I explored my city, I found myself captivated by the buildings, streets, and spaces that shaped my everyday life. That curiosity grew into a passion—a deep desire to understand design, structure, and ultimately, how architecture can serve people. Choosing architecture wasn’t just about design—it was about purpose. I grew up in a single-parent, low-income household, and I remember the eviction notices, the lights being turned off, and the nights when we didn’t know where our next meal would come from. These struggles are part of my story, and they deeply inform my goal to serve underserved communities through sustainable design and affordable housing. I want my work to reflect dignity, hope, and lasting change for families like mine. Representation in my field is still far too rare. As of 2023, only about 2% of licensed architects in the U.S. are Black. That statistic doesn’t just represent a number—it reflects a missing voice in shaping the built environment. It’s also a powerful reminder of why I must persist: to help change that narrative and open doors for others. So far, my journey has included active involvement in youth outreach through my church, where I’ve mentored and supported young people facing difficult circumstances. I’ve also worked with summer programs, helping school-age children through guidance and mentorship. These experiences have been as formative for me as any class or studio session. They’ve shown me that what I do beyond the drafting table matters just as much as the buildings I hope to design. I plan to inspire the next generation by becoming the role model I once needed. Growing up, I struggled with questions of identity and purpose. I longed for someone to look up to—someone who could show me that I mattered and that my dreams were possible. I ultimately found that guidance through my faith and community, and now I want to offer the same encouragement to young people searching for their path. I want every child—especially those from low-income backgrounds and underrepresented communities—to know that they have a place in this world and that their voice can shape it, even in fields like architecture. I especially hope to reach aspiring minority students who may not see themselves reflected in the world of design. Though our presence in the field may be small, our ideas, dreams, and perspectives are powerful and full of potential. I hope to help build a future for architecture that is diverse, innovative, and deeply connected to the communities it serves. In the end, I believe architecture is not just about buildings—it’s about people. And I’m committed to using this platform to uplift others, build equity, and inspire the kind of change that lasts. - Thank you for considering my application. It means a great deal to be able to share my journey and dreams with those who support students like me.

To me, going to college is about more than earning a degree—it’s about transformation, resilience, and creating a future beyond what I once thought possible. I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, in a low-income, single-parent household. My mother, though she never earned a college degree, raised me to believe in the power of education and the importance of doing excellent work. From her, and from the broader community of hardworking, determined individuals around me—many of whom were also low-income single parents or first-generation students—I learned that education is a gateway to opportunity. Our household didn’t have much, but we had grit and support. Still, the journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced serious personal and academic struggles, including anxiety and suicidal ideation. I’ve lived through periods of deep uncertainty—moments when I wasn’t sure how the bills would be paid or whether we’d have power. These experiences impacted my mental health and academic performance. But even at my lowest points, I held onto hope. I believed that my circumstances didn’t define me and that my future could look very different from my past. That belief pushed me toward college—and ultimately, toward architecture. Growing up in San Antonio, I was fascinated by buildings: how they shaped communities, carried history, and influenced lives. This fascination turned into a passion. I chose to study architecture because I want to design the future, especially for communities like mine. I’m particularly interested in sustainable design, Building Information Modeling, urban development, and historic preservation—tools that can help reshape cities and improve lives. In college, I’ve grown in ways I never imagined. I’ve learned to ask for help, build professional connections, and think critically about design and its impact. I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the design process and how it can create spaces that are both functional and inspiring. I’ve also learned how to manage my mental health, advocate for myself, and support others facing similar challenges. I hope to become an architect who gives back—someone who creates spaces that reflect and uplift the communities they serve. I want to bring beauty and intention to places that have long been overlooked and to build environments that foster pride, safety, and opportunity. College is giving me the skills, exposure, and support I need to turn that vision into reality. To me, going to college is about honoring the sacrifices of my mother and my community. It’s about proving that where you come from doesn’t limit where you can go. Most importantly, it’s about using the opportunities I’ve been given to open doors for others—because success isn’t just about what I achieve; it’s about how I use what I’ve learned to create lasting impact.

Failure is a word most people try to avoid, especially when it comes early in life. For me, it struck during what should have been one of the most carefree times—first grade. While most kids were learning to read simple books and celebrating spelling bee victories, I was grappling with the unimaginable weight of failure, identity, and despair. I didn’t just fail a grade—I felt like I had failed at life. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood meant resources were already scarce. But what made things harder was the emotional toll of trying to understand myself in an environment that offered little support or space to grow. At a time when I should have been developing curiosity and confidence, I was instead questioning my own worth. The sting of failing first grade wasn’t just academic—it was personal. I felt exposed, humiliated, and broken. It was as though the world had labeled me as “less than” before I even had a chance to prove otherwise. The academic consequences were clear: I was behind in reading, struggling with comprehension, and couldn't keep pace with my peers. But the emotional consequences ran deeper. I carried the shame of repeating a grade, the loneliness of seeing my friends move on without me, and the anxiety of not knowing whether I could rise above my circumstances. The pressure didn’t just come from others—it came from within. I was trapped in a silent battle, wrestling with self-doubt, thoughts of ending my life, and the haunting question, “What if I’m not enough?” And yet, it was in that darkness that something unexpected began to take root: a desire to fight back—not against others, but against the belief that I was doomed to fail. Slowly, I began to change my perspective. I stopped seeing the repeated grade as the end and started viewing it as a reset. I realized that if life had knocked me down, I could still choose to stand up—even if it was with shaky legs. I dedicated myself to improving my reading skills. I began spending extra time with books, however frustrating they were at first. Teachers and mentors—some of the first people to truly believe in me—helped me relearn the fundamentals I had missed. They didn’t just teach me words and sentences; they taught me resilience. Each small success became a building block in a foundation I never thought I could lay. Socially, I learned to stop carrying the weight of others’ opinions. Yes, failing a grade carried a stigma, but I discovered that my story didn’t have to end there. Instead of shrinking into shame, I began speaking openly about my challenges. In doing so, I found that I wasn’t alone. Others, too, were silently struggling—and together, we became stronger. The most important lesson I learned from failing first grade is that failure does not define you; how you respond to it does. No matter how deep life pulls you down, there is always a way back up. Sometimes, the way forward starts with a fall. That experience taught me that hope is not found in avoiding failure, but in believing that even in the darkest places, light can still find you. Today, I look back on that painful chapter with gratitude. It shaped me, scarred me, and strengthened me. I now carry not just the memory of that failure, but the proof that I can rise—and that I have. That single year, once a symbol of defeat, has become the cornerstone of my strength. - Thank you to the Delta Beta Psi Sorority, Inc. for this opportunity!

To me, being a purposeful, responsible, and productive member of the community means living with clear intention, being someone others can rely on, and using the gifts God has given me to make a meaningful difference in the world. These aren’t just abstract ideals—they are principles that have shaped my life through both struggle and growth. Being purposeful means doing things with intention, not just moving through life aimlessly. It’s about setting goals rooted in values and being mindful of how my actions affect others. Responsibility means being dependable, showing up on time, and following through—even when things get difficult. And productivity is about more than just staying busy; it’s about using my talents in ways that serve others and contribute to something greater than myself. I first learned the power of these qualities when I faced one of my earliest setbacks—failing a grade in elementary school. It would have been easy to give up, but instead, I chose to be intentional with my efforts, take ownership of my situation, and work toward improvement. That experience became a turning point, and I carried those lessons with me into college. A few semesters ago in university, I faced another uphill battle. Adjusting to college life while managing personal challenges felt overwhelming at times. My grades began to slip, and I found myself questioning whether I belonged. But I remembered what it meant to be purposeful, responsible, and productive. I refocused my efforts, created a schedule, sought help when needed, and slowly but surely turned things around. It wasn’t just about passing classes—it was about reclaiming control of my future with discipline and faith. Beyond academics, I also strive to embody these principles through service. In my church’s outreach group, I’ve had the opportunity to put my values into action—volunteering, mentoring, and giving back to those in need. This work grounds me. It reminds me that success isn’t measured solely by personal achievement but also by how we show up for others. Looking ahead, I plan to continue living out these qualities in everything I do. My goals include completing my undergraduate degree, attending graduate school, earning my architecture license, and building a meaningful career in architecture. But I know that my purpose doesn’t end with professional success. I want to remain deeply involved in my church and community, continue supporting charitable causes, and expand my capacity for almsgiving. Even though I don’t have much now, I give what I can—and as my financial situation improves, I intend to give even more. Ultimately, I believe a life not founded on virtuous principles is a life not well established. That’s why I intend to honor these values for the rest of my life. I will continue to ask myself: Am I acting with purpose? Am I being responsible? Am I using my gifts to serve others? These questions will guide me as I move forward—not just as a student or professional, but as a committed member of my community. Thank you for considering me and for this opportunity to share my values and vision for the future.

To me, selflessness means putting the needs of others above my own, even when it comes at a personal cost. It’s not just something I try to do occasionally—it’s a way of life, deeply rooted in how I was raised, in my faith, and in the example set by my mother. Growing up, we didn’t have much, but my mother constantly gave what she could—and often what she couldn’t afford to. I watched her give her last to bless others, even when we were struggling ourselves. Through her actions, I learned that generosity isn’t about having abundance; it’s about having a heart for others. Her compassion shaped me, as did my Christian faith, which taught me the value of serving and loving others. One moment from my youth stands out clearly. After a church service, a family came forward during altar call and shared how they were struggling financially. While some members prayed and directed them to the church’s food pantry, my mother felt led to do more. That afternoon, instead of changing into my usual clothes, she asked me to put on jeans—we were going to the store. We filled a grocery cart with food and basic household items, even though we normally didn’t shop on Sundays. She told me everything we bought was for that family. We didn’t have a car, so we pushed the cart through the neighborhood—and, to our surprise, the family lived just up the street. They were overwhelmed with gratitude. Later, my mother told me she had used the last of our money—what was meant for rent—to help them. I didn’t fully understand how we’d make it, but she had faith. And we did. That day taught me that selflessness sometimes requires risk—but also that when you give with a pure heart, provision will come. More recently, I was walking toward the bus station and passed a man in a wheelchair holding a sign that read, “Need help.” He looked weak and had visible wounds. I felt moved to give him everything in my wallet—hoping he could buy food and supplies to care for himself. As we walked toward a nearby store together, he told me he hadn’t eaten in days. His honesty and condition deeply affected me. I remembered times when I didn’t know where my next meal would come from and how God always provided. That encounter reminded me why I choose to give and reinforced my desire to live a life of compassion and service. Though I may not have much, I give what I can. I’ve volunteered with outreach organizations around San Antonio, and I remain active in service at my church. I view my life itself as an offering—one dedicated to the welfare of others. I am motivated by my faith in God and my desire to honor Him by serving those around me. Through all of this, I’ve learned that selflessness is powerful. It builds stronger communities, encourages others to act, and reflects the love this world desperately needs. I believe selflessness is important—yesterday, today, and always. We are called to love and look after one another, and I will continue to do just that—cheerfully, and with a full heart.

Giving back has always been deeply rooted in my identity—not just as a member of my community, but as a Christian called to serve others. Currently, I give back by volunteering with my local church through its outreach ministry. We serve the homeless, assist families in need, and most importantly, share the Word of God. These efforts are more than charity—they're an expression of faith and love in action. In addition to my work with the church, I’ve also served with reputable organizations like the San Antonio Food Bank and the Salvation Army, helping meet the growing needs of individuals and families across Texas. Yet, some of the most meaningful moments of giving have come through personal almsgiving—giving when I see a need, even when no one else is watching. I don’t keep track of every time I’ve given, but I know lives have been touched. One moment that continues to stay with me happened in a previous semester. I was walking from my college campus to the bus station when I saw a man in a wheelchair holding a sign that read, “Need help.” I felt led—spiritually compelled—to give him everything I had in my wallet. As we walked and talked, he shared that he hadn’t eaten in several days and that the money would help him finally get a meal. That encounter deeply impacted me. It reminded me of the power of compassion and reaffirmed my lifelong commitment to generosity. Looking ahead, I plan to positively impact the world by continuing to be a light in a dark world. I believe in the power of godly principles, hard work, and strong moral character to change lives. As I pursue a career in architecture, I want to design community-oriented spaces that foster unity, dignity, and connection—especially for underserved communities. I don’t just want to build structures; I want to help build a better society. My calling also extends beyond my career. Whether through ministry, outreach, evangelism, or even missionary work, my purpose is to lead others to Christ and serve as a role model grounded in Christian values. As a believer, I understand that I have a responsibility to care for others. Proverbs 19:17 tells us, “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will repay him for his deed.” And James 2:15–17 challenges us not to turn a blind eye to those in need, reminding us that faith without action is dead. One of the causes I’m most passionate about is global poverty. Today, more than 700 million people—about 9% of the world’s population—live on less than $2.15 a day, according to the World Bank. This staggering reality shows us the urgent need to act. As Christians and as people with resources, we are called to be part of the solution. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “There is nothing new about poverty. What is new, however, is that we have the resources to get rid of it.” In his I Have a Dream speech, he described being exiled on a “lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity.” That powerful image reminds me that we cannot be content with comfort while others suffer. We must build bridges of compassion, justice, and hope. My goal is to be one of those bridge-builders. Whether through architecture, ministry, or everyday kindness, I will continue to give back, lead with love, and let my light shine—so that others may see it and glorify my Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).

The foundation of my life was laid not with bricks or blueprints, but with the quiet strength of a single mother and the steady rhythm of Sunday mornings in a Baptist church. Raised in San Antonio, Texas, I didn’t grow up with abundance—but I grew up with faith, love, and purpose. My mother, a devoted Christian woman, taught me that service is sacred and that showing up for others—whether through presence, prayer, or practical help—is one of the purest forms of love. That early exposure to selfless care, both at home and in our church, shaped how I live and how I hope to serve others through my life and career. I grew up in a close-knit family, with cousins who felt more like siblings. We were surrounded by great aunts, uncles, and grandparents who supported and inspired us. Family reunions were a highlight of my childhood and taught me that family is not just about connection—it’s about commitment. Many of my relatives are deeply involved in ministry, and our shared Christian values shaped my understanding of responsibility and community. At home, I strive to be a supportive son, cousin, nephew, and grandson. Though I tend to be soft-spoken, I show love through presence and reliability. My family knows they can count on a call or visit from me during hard times. I’ve helped comfort loved ones through grief, divorce, and emotional distress. I remember one instance when a cousin was going through a painful marital situation. Rather than offering advice, I simply stood by him—present and understanding. That experience taught me that quiet, steady support can be just as powerful as words. Beyond family, I’ve worked to serve my broader community. I’ve volunteered with organizations like the San Antonio Food Bank, the Boys and Girls Club, and the Salvation Army. During high school, I helped organize food drives and advocated for more equitable policies for low-income students. One of my most meaningful experiences was distributing food at the Food Bank. Seeing the relief and gratitude in people’s faces taught me the value of humility and the impact of small acts of kindness. Those moments helped me discover a deeper sense of purpose. After college, I plan to continue this work. I believe service is not just something we do—it’s who we are. I want to use my education, faith, and resources to uplift others. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: what are you doing for others?” I hope to spend my life answering that question with action. As an aspiring architect, I see design as a form of ministry. I want to build spaces that foster dignity, connection, and healing—places that reflect God’s love in both form and function. [Thank you for the opportunity! I answered the prompt in writing above and shared a video on the importance of service to fulfill both requirements without repeating content. God bless!]

I grew up in a Christian home, raised in the heart of a loving Baptist church community. From a very early age, faith was not just a part of my life—it was the foundation of it. My mother emphasized the importance of cultivating a relationship with God, and regular church attendance was a consistent and cherished routine. As a baby, I was dedicated before the congregation—a tradition in Baptist churches symbolizing the commitment of both parents and the faith community to raise a child in the knowledge of Christ. I accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age. While I may not have fully grasped the theological weight of that decision at the time, I felt an unshakable connection to the love of Jesus. I remember being moved by the message that Christ died a brutal death to bring about forgiveness for my sins. Even as a child, I sensed the depth of that sacrificial love—it was more profound than any love I had ever known, and it drew me in. My church life was vibrant and full. I served as a youth usher, sometimes led Sunday school lessons, and competed each summer in the National Baptist Youth Convention of America. These experiences didn’t just give me activities to do—they helped shape my identity, affirming my belonging in the body of Christ and deepening my spiritual growth. Although I have identified as a Christian for most of my life, I trace my true spiritual turning point to when I was about five years old. That was when Christ became undeniably real to me, and I made a personal decision to follow Him with my life. Over time, however, my faith was tested. As I grew older, I wrestled with doubts and difficult questions—about my identity, my purpose, and even my very existence. There were dark moments when I wondered why God had created me and times when I even contemplated ending my life. Yet through all of that pain, God held me. He used my church community to remind me of His love, His truth, and His presence. Their consistent support and unconditional care were lifelines that helped keep me anchored when I felt like drifting away. After graduating high school, my faith deepened even more. I developed a hunger for the Word of God and a desire for a more intimate relationship with Him. One story that has always resonated with me is the account of Job—his unyielding faith amidst suffering speaks directly to my own journey. In Job 1:21, he declares, “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” And in Job 23:10, he says, “But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” These verses remind me that trials are not evidence of abandonment—they are opportunities to trust God more deeply. My faith is now the compass that guides every part of my life. It shapes my worldview, informs how I treat others, and strengthens my resolve to persevere in the face of uncertainty. Christianity is not just my religion—it is my foundation, my purpose, and my hope. I am currently pursuing a degree in architecture at the University of Texas at San Antonio. My dream is to become a licensed architect in the state of Texas. This goal stems from a passion I discovered in my youth—a deep curiosity about how the world around me works and a fascination with the built environment. From a young age, I was drawn to design, structure, and space. That curiosity gradually evolved into a focused interest in architecture, especially during my high school years. It was then that I committed myself to pursuing this path professionally, enrolling at UTSA in the fall of 2021. Architecture is more than a career to me—it is a calling that blends creativity, technical knowledge, and a desire to serve others through thoughtful design. I view buildings not just as structures, but as opportunities to enhance the lives of the people who interact with them. I want to be part of the movement that redefines the way we live, work, and worship by designing sustainable, meaningful spaces that serve communities and respect the environment. My faith is inseparable from my professional ambitions. As I prepare to enter the field of architecture, I carry with me core biblical values—hard work, integrity, compassion, and excellence—that guide how I study, how I collaborate, and ultimately how I will lead in the industry. I believe that our work reflects our worship. Therefore, in all my projects, I strive to operate with a spirit of excellence that honors God. I want my architecture not only to function well but to serve people with dignity and purpose. My faith challenges me to prioritize empathy in my designs, to consider the needs of underserved communities, and to steward God’s creation by advocating for sustainability and ethical practices in the field. My passion has been affirmed through various experiences. I’ve visited architecture firms in San Antonio, spoken with licensed professionals, and gained insight through university lectures featuring reputable architects and designers. Studio work at UTSA has further honed my skills and deepened my appreciation for the discipline. Feedback and mentorship from professors have also helped shape my thinking and creative approach. In the long term, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the field of sustainable architecture. I believe that as architects, we are stewards of the earth’s resources, and we have a responsibility to create spaces that minimize environmental impact while maximizing human benefit. My goal is to help lead innovative efforts in green design and community-focused development, especially in underserved areas. I aspire to let my faith speak through the way I live and work. Rather than focusing solely on verbal expressions of belief, I aim to embody the principles of my faith through my actions—by treating others with kindness, working diligently, leading with humility, and maintaining a spirit of integrity in everything I do. I believe the most powerful witness often comes not from what we say, but from how we live. Through consistent, God-honoring character and a commitment to excellence, I hope to reflect the love and truth of Christ in any professional setting I find myself in. Receiving this scholarship would significantly support my ability to continue funding my education and reaching the meaningful goals I’ve set for myself. One of the most exciting opportunities ahead of me is participating in a study abroad program in Urbino, Italy—part of the signature experience within my university’s architectural curriculum. This experience promises to broaden my global perspective, enhance my design sensibilities, and allow me to study architecture in one of the most historically rich environments in the world. While the opportunity is a tremendous blessing, it also comes with additional financial demands. Winning this scholarship would help offset those costs and allow me to take full advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience without the heavy burden of financial stress. It would give me the freedom to focus more intently on my education, deepen my involvement in my community, and grow spiritually during this transformative period. I am trusting God to provide what I need—during my time abroad and in all seasons of life—and this scholarship would be a tangible part of that provision. Upon my graduation, I aim to honor the sacrifices my family has made and the steadfast support I’ve received from both my church and academic community. I want to enter the field of architecture with boldness and purpose, becoming part of the new wave of professionals leading in sustainable and community-responsive design. My vision is to use architecture as a tool not only for innovation but also for restoration—creating spaces that uplift communities, foster connection, and reflect beauty and intention. I also see my education and career as avenues to give back. I want to be a living testament to what God can do with a life surrendered to Him. Despite the challenges I’ve faced—moments of deep doubt, identity struggles, and even suicidal thoughts—God has never left my side. His presence has sustained me through every season. To have made it this far is a testimony in itself, and I believe my story can be a blessing to others. Through my work, my witness, and my perseverance, I hope to inspire others to trust that their past does not define their future, and that with God, all things truly are possible.

My name is Cedric Pitts, and I’m from San Antonio, Texas. I grew up in the northeastern district of the city, raised in a loving, tight-knit community where, even in the face of financial limitations, we never lacked love, support, or connection. Though I was an only child raised by my devoted mother in a single-parent household, I was surrounded by a larger family of neighbors, church members, and mentors who poured into me and helped shape who I am today. Their presence taught me that true wealth isn’t measured in dollars, but in community, faith, and love. I’m currently pursuing a degree in architecture—a journey I began in the fall of 2021 and, God willing, will complete in the spring of 2026. Architecture has not only allowed me to explore my creative talents, but it has also become a path through which I’ve discovered deeper meaning and purpose. This field has shown me how the built environment can impact lives, tell stories, and create spaces of hope and restoration. Yet the road hasn’t always been easy. I’ve wrestled with questions of identity and purpose, wondering at times if I truly belonged or if I was enough. During these moments, I leaned on the godly principles instilled in me as a child and the unwavering support of my community to stay grounded and press forward. My career goal is to become a licensed architect and build a long-lasting, reputable career that leaves a mark beyond structures and skylines. I want my work to reflect compassion, creativity, and care. Whether it’s designing community spaces that foster connection, building sustainable homes for underprivileged families, or inspiring young people from backgrounds like mine, I want to use my skills to do something greater than myself. I believe architecture is about more than just design—it’s about impact. I want to create spaces that remind people they matter and that beauty and purpose can exist even in overlooked places. Some of my greatest achievements include being baptized—a turning point in my spiritual journey—being accepted into my undergraduate architecture program, maintaining honor roll status, and giving back through volunteering and almsgiving. Each of these milestones reflects the values I hold dear: faith, service, and perseverance. I want to be someone who not only dreams of a better world but takes active steps to build it. Change is essential in a decaying world, and I want to be part of a generation that doesn’t just talk about change but lives it. Using my time, resources, energy, and faith, I hope to do something far greater than myself—and honor God in it all. Being selected for this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden on my family and me, but it would also affirm that the path I’m walking matters—that my dreams are valid and my work has value. I’m committed to using this opportunity to grow, give, and go further in building a future where others, too, can rise.

Greetings, my name is Cedric Pitts. I'm 22 years old, born and raised in San Antonio, and currently an undergraduate architecture student at the University of Texas at San Antonio. As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, earning a degree isn’t just a personal goal — it’s a milestone that represents the sacrifices my family has made and the opportunities I’m working hard to create for myself and others. I’ve always believed that education is a powerful tool to change the world. The more we learn, the more capable we are of creating meaningful solutions and making a difference in people’s lives. My dream is to become a licensed architect in Texas and use my skills to promote sustainable design across the state. Receiving this scholarship would not only help ease the financial pressures of college but also serve as a reminder that I’m not on this journey alone — and that one day, I’ll be in a position to give back and support others the way I’ve been supported. In the short term, my primary focus is on completing my undergraduate degree in architecture and gaining hands-on experience by securing an entry-level position at a professional architecture firm. I’m eager to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-world projects, expand my technical skill set, and begin building a strong professional foundation. At the same time, I plan to continue my academic journey by pursuing a master’s degree — a critical step toward obtaining my architectural license and becoming a registered architect in the state of Texas. Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to establish myself in the field of commercial architecture, with a specialization in sustainable design and historic preservation. I believe the spaces we design have the power to influence how people live, work, and connect with one another. I want to contribute to creating a built environment that not only reflects shared human values like inclusivity, resilience, and beauty, but also respects and responds to the natural world. Sustainability is not just a trend — it's a responsibility. Whether it’s through adaptive reuse of historic buildings or the integration of cutting-edge green technologies in new commercial developments, I am committed to advancing sustainable practices in every project I undertake. My passion for architecture has been shaped by a range of influences, from the clean, functional lines of the Modernist movement to the layered beauty of Classical, Baroque, and Renaissance design. I’m particularly inspired by architects like Zaha Hadid, Frank Gehry, and Frank Lloyd Wright — pioneers who challenged conventions and expanded the possibilities of what architecture could be. Their work has taught me to value innovation, expression, and bold thinking. I also draw creative energy from the architectural communities around the world, such as those in Copenhagen, Tokyo, and São Paulo — cities that blend tradition and modernity in dynamic, culturally rich ways. Equally important to my development are the day-to-day experiences I’ve had in studio at UTSA. The guidance of knowledgeable professors and the ongoing dialogue with peers in a collaborative setting have pushed me to think critically, refine my designs, and understand architecture as both an art and a social responsibility. These experiences continue to fuel my drive to make meaningful contributions in the field. Receiving this scholarship would have a profound impact on my academic journey by alleviating the financial pressures that often weigh on my mind. The rising costs of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses can be overwhelming, and having the financial support from this scholarship would allow me to focus my attention where it belongs — on my studies and my long-term career goals. With this scholarship, I would be able to reduce the stress associated with the cost of higher education and fully commit to developing the skills necessary to become an architect. In the coming semester, I have the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Urbino, Italy, as part of my university’s signature experience. This program is a pivotal moment in my undergraduate education, offering invaluable exposure to different architectural traditions and design perspectives. However, studying abroad brings added costs, and as someone from a low-income background, these financial challenges are significant. This scholarship would provide much-needed financial support, helping to cover the additional expenses of international study and allowing me to immerse myself in this life-changing experience without the constant worry of finances. I was raised on the idea that it takes a village — a community of people who support, uplift, and guide one another. This scholarship would be a reflection of that village, as it would allow me to feel supported not only by my family and professors but by a broader network that believes in my potential. It would give me the encouragement I need to continue my studies with confidence, knowing that I’m not alone in this journey. It would also reaffirm my commitment to one day giving back to others, just as I’ve been supported. Whether through mentorship, contributing to the profession, or supporting future students, I plan to pay it forward and invest in the success of others. Having the opportunity to share my story and be considered for this scholarship means more to me than words can express. As a first-generation, low-income student, the financial challenges of higher education are ever-present. This scholarship not only lightens the financial burden but also affirms my belief in the power of education to change lives. It would be a significant stepping stone, allowing me to focus on my academic goals without the constant worry of finances. With this support, I could pursue my aspirations with the confidence that I have a community that believes in my potential — and that belief fuels my determination to succeed. My goals are clear: to become a licensed architect, contribute to the field of sustainable design, and preserve the rich history of our built environment. This scholarship will help me turn those goals into reality, supporting my studies, my passion for architecture, and my ambition to make a lasting impact in Texas and beyond. It will allow me to take full advantage of opportunities, such as studying abroad in Italy, while also easing the burden of tuition and living expenses. Above all, I am committed to giving back. I know that the support I receive today will inspire me to help others in the future. Whether through mentorship, community involvement, or supporting other students like me, I will pay it forward. I carry with me the values of hard work, perseverance, and humility — principles I know will guide me as I strive to make an impact in the field of architecture and beyond. As I continue this journey, I am reminded of a quote by Maya Angelou: “When you learn, teach. When you get, give.” This scholarship is not just a financial contribution; it’s an investment in my future, and I am determined to make the most of it, using what I learn to give back to others in the years to come. - Thank you all, and God bless!

The Legacy of Uncle Charles: A Guiding Light in My Life Some people leave behind memories; others leave behind legacies that shape lives long after they're gone. For me, that person was my Uncle Charles—a man whose presence was the backbone of my upbringing and whose memory continues to guide my every step. Though he is no longer physically here, his spirit remains alive in my heart and in the values I carry with me. The lessons he taught me—grounded in faith, perseverance, and integrity—have not only molded who I am today but have also shaped the direction of my future. His influence fuels my aspirations to become an architect who builds not just structures, but also stronger communities grounded in hope and purpose. Growing up, Uncle Charles was more than just a relative—he was a constant source of strength and guidance. The eldest of my mother's siblings, he stepped into a leadership role in our family with grace and humility. I can't recall a stage in my life where his presence wasn’t felt—offering encouragement in tough times, celebrating milestones, and always reminding me of the importance of hard work. He led by example, never boasting, but always embodying the values of a true man of God. His life of virtue and unwavering integrity deeply inspired me and left a profound imprint on my character. In moments when I felt discouraged or lost, it was Uncle Charles who reminded me of my worth and potential. His words had a way of lifting my spirits and redirecting my focus. He taught me that adversity is not a wall but a stepping stone, and that the only way to truly honor your gifts is to persevere with purpose. These lessons have become my compass, guiding my ambitions and shaping the person I strive to be. Today, I aspire to become a licensed architect—one whose designs inspire awe but also serve the needs of the community with care and accountability. My goal is not only to leave a mark on the built environment but also to embody the same quiet strength and humility that Uncle Charles lived by. His life reminds me that success is measured not just by achievements but by the lives you touch and the principles you uphold. In this way, his influence continues to shape my dreams and my understanding of what it means to lead a meaningful life. I plan to honor Uncle Charles’s legacy by carrying the torch of faith, love, and responsibility within my family and beyond. I want to live out the godly virtues he modeled so effortlessly and become a source of inspiration and hope to others, just as he was to me. Through my future career, I hope to design spaces that reflect care, dignity, and inclusivity—values my uncle lived every day. Most of all, I want to live a life that makes him proud, rooted in the lessons he taught me and the love he never withheld. Though my heart longs for the day we will meet again, I find peace in knowing that his legacy lives on through me. Every step I take in pursuit of my dreams is a tribute to Uncle Charles—a man whose life continues to shape mine. Thank you, Ms. Davis, for this incredible opportunity to share my thoughts. I truly admire the way you've celebrated your mother's memory; may her legacy continue to shine brightly.

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” – Martin Luther King Jr. This quote resonates deeply with me, as it embodies the essence of leadership through faith. Faith is not just a belief; it is a guiding force that shapes my decisions, actions, and interactions with others. It provides me with clear, unwavering direction in life—especially in leadership. Through my faith, I have learned to navigate challenges with trust and purpose, relying on God to guide my steps. It offers a solid framework for leadership that is not only effective but also loving, compassionate, and Christlike. My faith compels me to lead with integrity, humility, and a profound commitment to serving others, as I continually seek to embody the character of Christ in everything I do. Faith has molded my view of leadership by providing a foundation rooted in godly principles. While worldly leadership often relies on charisma, status, and social standing, godly leadership is grounded in love, compassion, and empathy. Through Scripture, I’ve learned that true leadership isn’t about self-promotion but about serving others and reflecting Christ’s character. Philippians 2:3–4 teaches us to “value others above yourselves,” a reminder that humility and service are at the heart of godly leadership. Proverbs 4:7 emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom, showing me that effective leadership is rooted in understanding and truth—not fleeting personal gain. As I deepened my faith, I came to realize the profound distinction between secular and spiritual leadership. The former is often focused on external success, while the latter emphasizes a heart for others, making decisions that honor God’s will and lead with integrity. God’s Word continues to guide me, helping me move closer toward leading with wisdom, compassion, and a desire to uplift those around me. As I grew in my understanding of godly leadership, I was given an opportunity to put these principles into practice. I was part of a church group for young adult college students, where we focused on fellowship, spiritual accountability, and growth. Our meetings were regular, but when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, we shifted to online gatherings, which became less frequent. When we were finally able to meet in person again, I was called upon to lead the group, and spearhead its advancement and teaching. I noticed the weight the pandemic had placed on my fellow group members—many had lost loved ones, and everyone had faced significant challenges. I, too, struggled during this time, feeling the strain of the pandemic’s emotional toll. But I understood my unique role in leadership during that moment and relied on God’s Word to provide a remedy for the heaviness that filled the room. It wasn’t always easy—there were moments when I felt the weight of my own struggles—but through constant prayer and trust in God’s comforting Word, I saw the group slowly heal and regain its energy. Leading the church community group deepened my understanding of godly leadership, strengthening my reliance on God in uncertain times. It affirmed that true leadership is rooted in humility, love, and service—not power or status. This experience has profoundly shaped my leadership style and will continue to refine my skills in future opportunities, fostering growth in the lives of others. I hope my example inspires others to embrace godly leadership and build communities centered on love, trust, and service. Faith shapes my leadership, guiding me to serve with humility. Leading the church group taught me that true leadership is about service, not power. I’ll continue to rely on these principles to inspire and transform others.

Adversity often creeps in like a suffocating fog, and for me, it took the form of anxiety, low self-esteem, and suicidal thoughts. It wasn’t one defining moment but a series of struggles that clouded my mind and eroded my confidence. During those times, I felt like the oak in Robert Jordan’s words: “The oak fought the wind and was broken, the willow bent when it must and survived.” I resisted, not realizing that sometimes survival requires surrender—not to the pain, but to the possibility of change. Eventually, I learned to bend. Not by giving in to the darkness, but by shifting the way I viewed it, and in turn, how I viewed myself. That shift didn’t erase the pain, but it did help me start rewriting the story I was telling myself. It was the beginning of healing, of reclaiming my voice and worth in small, determined steps. To understand how I reached that point, it’s important to go back to the early days when the struggle first began and quietly took root in my life. I was raised in a single-parent home by a hardworking mother whose love never wavered, even as we faced constant financial strain. Our neighborhood had a strong sense of community, and I grew up grounded in Christian values that emphasized faith, love, and the importance of relationships. Despite being surrounded by support, I struggled silently with feelings of low self-worth. I often felt like a burden, longing to be in a better place—emotionally and in life. Watching my mother sacrifice so much without relief added to my sense of helplessness and fed the quiet hopelessness that had begun to take root. My struggle with self-worth became an invisible storm that slowly unraveled my peace of mind. I constantly questioned who I was and why I even existed, feeling like I was searching for a purpose that I could never quite grasp. This internal confusion turned into emotional exhaustion—days felt heavy, and nights stretched on with restless thoughts and a sense of emptiness that wouldn’t fade. I would lie awake, weighed down by dread, wondering if the pain would ever lift. There were moments when I didn’t want to face another day, when the thought of escaping it all felt like the only relief. Deep down, I knew the impact that would have on my mother and my community, but the heaviness inside me often spoke louder than logic or love. I was caught in a dark, isolating place, unsure how to climb out. Though my struggle with self-worth didn’t disappear overnight, I began to notice the unwavering love of my mother and the quiet strength of my community. Despite their own hardships, I saw people continuing to move forward, and I realized I was surrounded by examples of resilience. This awareness helped me shift my perspective. Rather than sinking deeper into sorrow, I focused on gratitude—cherishing what I had instead of what I lacked. Through self-reflection, I learned the power of vulnerability and the strength in speaking out. I leaned on those who had always supported me, discovering the healing power of connection and honesty. If there’s one piece of advice I’d give to someone facing a similar struggle, it’s this: don’t suffer in silence. You are not alone. Look around—sometimes the strength to endure isn’t found within, but in the love and support that’s been there all along. Speak up, lean in, and give yourself permission to heal. - A heartfelt thank you to the scholarship organizer and generous donors. May Mr. Humphrey's selfless spirit and enduring legacy continue to live on.

Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household taught me lessons that no textbook ever could. Watching my mother work tirelessly to provide for me instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and perseverance. Though we didn’t have much materially, I learned early on that relationships, love, and community hold far more value than possessions. The strength of my mother—and the other single mothers in our neighborhood—showed me what resilience truly looks like. Their determination taught me that, despite difficult circumstances, we can push forward with purpose. These experiences shaped my mindset and continue to guide me as I face challenges. I’ve learned that perseverance is not just about enduring hardship, but about choosing to rise above it with intention. I now understand that my worth isn’t defined by my household or economic status. Rather, it's rooted in the character I build and the impact I strive to make. My goal is to use my story to inspire others, especially youth from similar backgrounds. I want to be a living example that household dynamics don’t dictate our futures. I aim to uplift and mentor others, helping them see that—with dedication—their dreams are within reach. As Nelson Mandela once said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” I hold onto this truth as I stay consistent in pursuing meaningful milestones and long-term goals—each step a testament to what’s possible. To anyone walking a similar path: your struggles do not limit you—they strengthen you. Let your circumstances fuel your growth, not define your ceiling. With faith, hard work, and a belief in your own worth, there is no limit to what you can achieve. Never forget, our names echo in the chambers of purpose—called forth by greatness and destiny!

"A room without books is like a body without a soul." – Marcus Tullius Cicero I’ve always believed in the power of reading to not only sharpen the mind but also nourish the soul. I read daily, not just as a habit but as a way to keep my mind sharp and my understanding of the world ever-expanding. Books have been a constant presence in my life, offering an outlet in a world full of uncertainty. They’ve served as a refuge, especially during times when I’ve felt lost or hopeless. In my darkest moments, it was often a well-timed story or piece of wisdom that helped me regain focus and perspective. The knowledge I’ve gained from books has empowered me to persevere, see beyond my current struggles, and embrace new opportunities for growth. Reading has instilled in me a thirst for understanding that has shaped my personal development, values, and long-term goals. It has equipped me with a hunger for knowledge and a deeper understanding of the world—something that no other medium or experience has quite matched. Reading has empowered my personal growth by prompting deep reflection on my own life. As I immerse myself in stories, I often find that the lessons within literature act as mirrors, revealing areas in my life that need cultivation or revival. Characters facing struggles and triumphs force me to reflect on my own challenges, urging me to seek ways to grow. Books have also enhanced my critical thinking, teaching me to explore ideas more deeply and appreciate the art of thoughtful communication. As a person of faith, the wisdom of the Bible has provided me with invaluable guidance on righteous living and divine discernment, shaping my values and decisions. Additionally, the writings of philosophers like Plato have challenged my understanding of the world, sparking my curiosity about life’s purpose and inspiring a lasting interest in literature and philosophy. Through these works, I’ve gained not only knowledge but also a deeper sense of self-awareness, further fueling my hunger for understanding and driving me toward continual personal growth. Building on the personal growth I’ve experienced through reading, I’ve also discovered a deep passion for design, particularly architecture. Books on architecture have sparked my desire to understand the architectural traditions of the world, expanding my knowledge of how the built environment reflects societal values. This growing interest has led me to pursue a degree in architecture, where I can explore how design influences the way we live and interact with our surroundings. Reading has shaped my drive to change the world, showing me the power of thoughtful design in transforming communities. It has broadened my understanding of my role in society and inspired me to think about how I can create a lasting impact through the spaces I design. Influenced by the wisdom of ancient philosophers like Plato, I plan to use these principles to lead with integrity and optimism, embracing a vision for the future that is both transformative and community-focused. Reading has shown me that the knowledge I’ve gained isn’t just for personal growth; it’s a powerful tool to shape the future. My passion for architecture stems from the belief that thoughtful design can transform communities and create lasting impact. The wisdom I’ve found in books has deepened my understanding of the world and inspired me to lead with purpose, integrity, and optimism. As I continue to pursue my goals, I am committed to using the lessons I’ve learned to create change, build meaningful spaces, and inspire others—just as reading has inspired me to dream bigger and reach further.

Growing up in a single-parent household with my mother was both challenging and defining. Our family lived on a limited income, and financial strain was a constant presence in our day-to-day lives. My mother worked tirelessly—often juggling multiple responsibilities—to ensure we had what we needed, even if it meant sacrificing her own comfort and well-being. While she provided immense strength and care, I often found myself yearning for a consistent male role model. The absence of a father figure left me feeling adrift at times, unsure of how to navigate certain aspects of life, and even envious of peers who had the guidance of both parents. That sense of longing and instability weighed heavily on me during my childhood. Yet, as I got older, those same experiences began to mold my character. Watching my mother overcome challenge after challenge inspired me to work harder, dream bigger, and build a future that breaks the cycle I was born into. The realities of my upbringing have deeply influenced my goals, values, and ambitions—fueling my drive to make something of my life and create the stability I once lacked. Daily life in a low-income household was a constant challenge. I often watched my mother go without so I could have enough, and there were times when we weren’t sure where our next meal would come from or if the rent would be paid. These moments tested my faith deeply, forcing me to question why someone who gave so much had to struggle so hard. Still, I found strength in the struggle. I began helping around the house however I could and threw myself into school, seeing education as my way out. I took on responsibilities well beyond my age, driven by a desire to ease my mother’s burden in any way possible. These early experiences shaped my values, grounding me in faith and a deep commitment to excellence. The hardships I faced didn’t break me—they motivated me. I learned to use them as fuel to work harder, trust in God more deeply, and pursue a future far different from the one I was born into. Those early experiences of struggle and responsibility didn’t just shape how I lived—they shaped who I became. Witnessing my mother’s relentless commitment to excellence, even in the face of overwhelming pressure, pushed me to work harder in every area of my life. Her strength in adversity wasn’t loud or boastful—it was quiet, steady, and full of love. No matter how heavy life became, she showed up for me every day, and that kind of love taught me the meaning of resilience. I learned to endure, to adapt, and to keep moving forward, even when the odds were stacked against us. At the same time, our hardships instilled in me a deep sense of empathy. I knew what it felt like to have little, so I became more sensitive to the needs of others. Even when I didn’t have much, I believed I could use what I did have—my time, encouragement, or even a listening ear—to bless someone else. It was my way of giving back. I also learned the importance of gratitude. Though life was tough, I came to see that I was blessed in ways money could never measure: I had most of my basic needs met and, more importantly, I had a mother who loved me unconditionally. These lessons taught me to respect the value of hard work, to care deeply for others, and to live with integrity—core values that continue to guide and define me today. Every late bill, every sacrifice my mother made sparked my desire to succeed—not just for myself, but for others facing similar struggles. Education became my way out, a path to break cycles of hardship and build a better future. My goal is to become an architect and design spaces that uplift underserved communities, creating environments that foster opportunity. I also want to be a role model for children from single-parent homes, showing them that their circumstances don’t define their potential or limit their dreams. Through my story, I aim to inspire others, advocate for change, and help break generational cycles, using my experiences to make a meaningful, lasting impact.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household, this quote by Nelson Mandela wasn’t just inspiring—it felt personal. My mother always championed learning as the key to changing our circumstances, and I took that to heart. Education became my way of making sense of the world, challenging what I thought I knew, and finding creative solutions to the problems around me. In a life full of uncertainty, learning gave me purpose, perspective, and the belief that I could shape a different future. My love of learning began unexpectedly—with math. As I started to grasp basic mathematical principles, I began to see the world differently: as a place made up of patterns, logic, and problems waiting to be solved. Numbers gave me structure, and learning how to apply them helped me understand that life, too, was full of calculated decisions and interconnected parts. Science class deepened this curiosity by introducing me to the principles of inquiry—how to ask questions, form hypotheses, and seek answers through evidence. But my journey wasn’t easy. I had to repeat the first grade due to learning difficulties, personal struggles, and issues with anger management that made it hard to focus or retain information. Still, I pushed forward. My family, especially my mother, never stopped believing in me, and that belief became my fuel. Over time, I learned how to channel frustration into focus. With their support and my growing drive for academic excellence, I turned early struggles into stepping stones—and that transformation has shaped the learner, and person, I am today. As I continued my educational journey, learning began to shape not just my intellect, but my perception of the world. Classes like debate and social studies pushed me to think critically and view issues from multiple perspectives, helping me understand that the world isn’t black and white—it’s complex, layered, and full of nuance. Outside the classroom, activities like sports and band taught me about collaboration and human individuality. Every teammate, every bandmate brought a different background, personality, and story, and I began to appreciate how each unique experience contributes to the broader function of society. Volunteering with organizations like the San Antonio Food Bank and the Salvation Army gave me even deeper insight. Working face-to-face with people from different walks of life opened my eyes to social inequality, cultural diversity, and the often-invisible struggles many endure. These encounters sparked a curiosity—and a calling—to better understand the systems that hold people back and explore how education can be used as a tool to challenge and change them. Learning, I realized, isn’t just about personal growth; it’s a pathway to empathy, justice, and meaningful change. These experiences have shaped my path, guiding me toward architecture as a means to create lasting, positive impact. My intellectual curiosity has sparked a passion for sustainable design, social justice, and environmentally responsive practices. As I continue my undergraduate studies in architecture, I’m driven by a desire to design spaces that reflect our collective values and address the challenges humanity faces. I believe in lifelong learning, embracing the idea that, as Socrates said, “Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel.” That flame continues to fuel my quest for knowledge and my commitment to making a difference in the world through architecture. Learning fuels my drive to understand the world and make a difference. It shapes my values and keeps me committed to growth, both in and out of the classroom. With curiosity leading the way, I’m excited for what lies ahead.

Every parent dreams of hearing their child’s first cry, witnessing their first steps, and celebrating the milestones of life. The joy of bringing new life into the world is a fundamental part of being human, compelling us to protect it. Children are seen as the future, which is why we invest so much in their development. This reflects our deep respect for the inherent dignity and value of life. Throughout my own journey, few experiences have shaped me as profoundly as those that strengthened my commitment to defending human life. My pro-life perspective is profoundly shaped by my personal experiences and spiritual beliefs, fueling my commitment to advocate for the dignity of every human being, especially the unborn. Growing up with a single mother gave me a deep appreciation for the strength it takes to choose life under difficult circumstances. I saw her face financial strain, long hours, and moments of uncertainty, yet she remained committed to raising me with love and stability. Around me, other single mothers in our community demonstrated the same resilience—working multiple jobs, making personal sacrifices, and creating loving homes despite limited resources. Their quiet determination challenged the idea that motherhood in hardship is a burden to be avoided. Instead, they showed that with support and encouragement, life can thrive even when the path is far from easy. These experiences helped shape my belief in the inherent value of both mother and child, regardless of circumstance. As a Christian, I believe in the sanctity of life, grounded in the understanding that every person is created in God's image. Genesis 1:27 reminds us, “God created man in His own image,” affirming the inherent dignity of all human beings, including the unborn. Life is not accidental but purposeful, as Psalm 139:13–14 says, “For You formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother’s womb.” These truths show that life begins before birth and is known by God. I believe that terminating life is not our role, as only God is the author of life (Job 1:21). Upholding traditional Christian values means protecting the vulnerable, especially the unborn, and standing for life in a way that reflects God's love, mercy, and justice. To uphold the dignity of all human life, I serve those in need through volunteering with organizations like the Salvation Army and food banks. These experiences have taught me that true dignity is found in compassion, especially during hardship. I strive to encourage others to recognize their inherent worth and potential. My lifelong commitment to almsgiving reflects my belief in caring for the vulnerable, as Scripture calls us to do. Above all, I am dedicated to protecting the unborn, believing that defending life at all stages is a moral duty rooted in biblical truth. Every action I take seeks to honor the sanctity of life, ensuring that every person—no matter how small or vulnerable—receives the respect and care they deserve. I urge readers to reflect on the humanity of the unborn and consider their role in fostering a culture that values all life. Together, we can create a world where every life, no matter how small or vulnerable, is cherished and protected. My hope is for a society where the worth of every human being is recognized, ensuring no life is seen as disposable.

Inquiring peers frequently pose this question to me regarding my college major. People frequently ask how I ventured into the realm of architectural design and what sparked my path to architecture school. Whenever I'm asked about my path, my response remains unwavering: I didn't choose architecture; architecture chose me. From a young age, I've been captivated by the wonders of the world around me. As a child, I was a blend of shyness and curiosity, brimming with awe for the world surrounding me, yet hesitant to venture out and truly discover it due to my lack of confidence. To me, the natural world represented the unknown that I longed to uncover and cultivate. Among the various paths available in STEM, I found the architectural route to be the most enticing. Throughout my childhood, I developed a deep fascination with construction and frequently marveled at how the magnificent buildings around me came to life. Although my youthful mind failed to identify the architects, engineers, and design professionals who created the masterpiece before me, I instinctively understood that these magnificent structures were the product of careful intention rather than mere chance. Like a child captivated by candy, I was entranced by the sights before me. These experiences with what I would eventually come to identify as the built environment laid the foundation for my deep appreciation of architectural design. Throughout the years, my inquisitive young mind had devoted itself to experimenting with small devices, crafting scale models, and exploring every avenue possible to deepen my understanding of construction and the mechanics of the world around me. Architecture, much like other STEM disciplines, offers a distinctive chance to delve into and apply diverse facets of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Architects of the future are challenged to prioritize sustainable and environmentally responsible design by harnessing the latest technological advancements, conducting rigorous mathematical analysis, implementing innovative engineering methods, and adhering to established scientific principles to create optimal building designs. This design emphasis not only promotes a forward-thinking approach to architecture but also empowers students like myself to engage in critical thinking and fully understand the consequences of our decisions at the drafting table. Merely producing intricate illustrations paired with stylish graphics falls short of meeting the architectural needs of the 21st century. A wise person once shared with me, "To make a meaningful impact in the world, you must inspire others." Building on these profound insights, I see my most significant contribution to STEM and architecture as a person of color: to inspire those around me. I aspire to be the driving force behind the realization of people's dreams, highlighting the beauty of diverse experiences and backgrounds within the professional landscape. I hope for my conversations to spark a fire within others and for my actions to inspire those who have lost hope or feel defeated in their journeys. I am determined to challenge the harmful racial stereotypes that frequently afflict people of color, demonstrating that they, too, can defy the odds regardless of what others may say about them. Although we, as people of color, continue to face enduring hatred and bigotry, I am convinced that by collaborating with other committed individuals across both STEM and non-STEM disciplines, we can dismantle the obstacles that hinder our advancement. Ultimately, my mission is to uplift, inspire, and celebrate individuals of color both within and outside of STEM, while also fostering a diverse community dedicated to advancing progress and breaking new ground. I thank you for taking time to read and consider my essay. May God bless you all, thank you!

Greetings! I’m Cedric Pitts, a 22-year-old architecture student currently studying at the University of Texas at San Antonio. As a first-generation college student from the vibrant city of San Antonio, I am immensely proud to be an alumnus of Winston Churchill High School. I love all things faith, art, literature, gaming, and architectural design. These passions have served as the driving force behind my life, shaping who I am today and influencing my career aspirations for the future. As an undergraduate studying architecture, I am committed to achieving my goal of becoming a licensed architect in Texas. Texas offers an incredible opportunity for me to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable architecture and making a meaningful impact across the diverse communities that define this great state. With the state's flourishing industries and its wealth of land and natural resources, I am confident that there is no better place for me to thrive as a future design professional. Career goals frequently emerge as a popular topic of discussion among individuals contemplating their future. Some individuals focus on short-term goals, while others place greater importance on long-term aspirations. I see myself as an individual who seamlessly integrates both short-term and long-term career goals. In the next 3-5 years, my short-term career goals are to secure a position at a reputable architecture firm, acquire practical experience as a design professional, and bring my unique skillset to enhance the team's success. I believe that pursuing this opportunity will serve as a significant stepping stone toward my long-term career aspirations, effectively positioning me for enduring professional success. In the next 10 to 20 years, I aspire to achieve deep expertise in the realm of design, collaborate on prestigious projects, advance to senior positions within my firm, and motivate others to advocate for sustainable architecture and its transformative effects on the community. I am confident that this approach will establish a strong foundation for a successful career in architecture, inspiring my unwavering commitment to diligent work in the present. Having a diverse skill set is a significant advantage in any workplace. Renowned design luminaries like Zaha Hadid, Renzo Piano, and Frank Gehry have achieved remarkable success in their careers, each leveraging their distinctive skill sets and innovative approaches to architecture. By embracing the path they have paved, and leveraging my unique skills acquired both inside and outside the classroom, I am confident that I can approach architecture in innovative ways that will enhance my journey toward achieving my career aspirations. However, any experienced design professional will attest that skills alone will only take you so far. In both design and life, it is often our experiences, inspirations, and communities that fuel our creative minds. When a distinctive skill set is combined with ample experience, diverse inspirations, and a focus on community, it creates world-class designs that stand the test of time. Therefore, seizing opportunities to explore the world, immerse myself in diverse cultures and architectural styles, and engage with my community will allow me to harness my skills to their fullest potential, far exceeding what I could achieve in isolation. In all my endeavors, I consistently prioritize the needs and well-being of others. Community has consistently been a central theme in my life, and it will remain so in the future. I am committed to making a meaningful difference in my community, both professionally and personally. I strive to embody hard work, empathy, humility, generosity, and unwavering faith in God in all aspects of my life. Ultimately, I aspire to inspire others to know that regardless of their circumstances, there's hope waiting at the end.

I was born as Cedric Pitts to my proud parents on August 8, 2002. Just two years into the new millennium, it felt like the perfect time to be alive. In the wake of the profound weight and tragedy of September 11 the previous year, the American spirit emerged more resilient than ever. Conversations about a remarkable American resurgence filled the air, even in the face of pervasive despair. This iconic American sentiment was a constant echo throughout my upbringing, shaping my outlook on life and inspiring my aspirations for meaningful contributions to my country. In addition to my deep sense of pride in my country, I developed an equally profound pride in my faith, nurtured by my upbringing in the church and the teachings of Biblical principles. Collectively, these aspects of my early life have profoundly influenced my perspective and have served as a guiding force in navigating pivotal decisions, as well as in shaping my sense of role and identity in the world. Every aspect of my life, from the company I kept to the activities I engaged in and the knowledge I absorbed, was influenced by the filtering process shaped by my early upbringing. From a young age, I've been driven by an insatiable curiosity. I envisioned what lay beyond my sight and embraced the potential of the impossible. I was that curious child who constantly asked questions and pondered the origins of the world around me. I have always had a deep desire for certainty and yearned for complete understanding of all my questions. Driven by my insatiable curiosity, I imagined making a profound impact on the world and aspired to accomplish something far beyond my own existence. Though I frequently grappled with the path to achieving my dreams, I sensed a deep desire within me for something greater and more expansive than my current circumstances. Though I have many aspirations, they all revolve around my deep commitment to helping those in need and being a positive role model for the younger generation. Like many, I strive for material and societal excellence in life, but I believe that true personal success is measured by the impact of our service to others. Thus, my mission in this lifetime is to illuminate the challenges of our time and to uplift and empower those who find themselves ensnared by the unyielding struggles of life. I am deeply committed to pursuing my dreams, as they play a vital role in enhancing our society. While accumulating material wealth and possessions can be advantageous for individuals, it offers little to no benefit to the community as a whole. Although communities around the globe may seem diverse on the surface, they all grapple with similar challenges of existence. Communities worldwide grapple with pervasive issues including drug abuse, crime, hate, violence, sexual assault, alcoholism, discrimination, and bigotry. These challenges are deeply embedded within the community, fostering an atmosphere that promotes anti-social behavior and cultivates negative outlooks on life. Therefore, I am convinced that it is my responsibility, alongside like-minded individuals, to address the various challenges facing our societies, both locally and globally. By extending a helping hand and serving as a positive role model, we can effectively counter the negative influences that arise from societal fractures. American author and philanthropist Tony Robbins powerfully stated, "Passion is the fuel that ignites the fire of action." As I begin my journey to turn my dreams into reality, I will wholeheartedly embrace the powerful fuel of passion that Mr. Robbins spoke about to drive me forward.

My most significant achievement to date is conquering my battle with anxiety. Anxiety consistently posed a considerable challenge in both my personal and academic life, as I grappled with managing my deepest fears. Behind my calm façade, I was perpetually engaged in a struggle between the desire to confront my feelings and the impulse to flee, driven by the unceasing storm of thoughts racing through my mind. I discovered that my inner tranquility had vanished, leaving me consumed by anxiety every morning, as I dreaded the prospect of experiencing another humiliating panic attack or the unsettling haze of mental fog. I felt trapped by my troubles, which led to a profound decline in my self-esteem and sense of self-worth. My battle with anxiety started during my pre-teen years, triggered by a traumatic event within my family. Growing up as the child of a single mother, I've always shared a strong bond with her. She and I were like two peas in a pod; I shared a deep bond with my mother, earning me the affectionate title of "momma's boy." Overwhelmed by a rising tide of anxiety during my middle school band class, I resolved to seek support by asking to visit the counselor's office. Upon my arrival, I called my mother, only to learn that she had been in a severe car accident. Hearing the news initially filled me with despair, but a wave of relief washed over me when I learned that she had come through with only minor injuries. Little did I know that this event would become the root of my anxiety, as I increasingly worried about my mother's safety and my own in light of life's unpredictability. This traumatic experience lifted a veil from my eyes, revealing that the comfort I once perceived was merely an illusion. I realized that life is often far more unpredictable than I had ever imagined. Before long, the counselor's office felt like a second home to me. My therapist's client chair was perpetually warmed by my frequent visits as I navigated what I now recognize as separation anxiety. The duration of this battle with anxiety lasted long, and my mental health bore the battle wounds. Isolation became my way of coping, as I desired to conceal my struggles from those I loved. Eventually, I found myself in a situation where my fears overwhelmed my rationality, causing my external demeanor to betray the turmoil brewing within. I could no longer keep it under wraps; I realized that if I didn’t act swiftly, I would spiral out of control, jeopardizing my mental well-being in the process. So I began my journey toward overcoming my greatest foe. Unlike other adversaries I've faced, this one had entrenched itself in the deepest recesses of my mind, necessitating bold and meaningful action to overcome. With the support of my counselor and therapist, I started transforming my habits and adjusting my reactions to anxiety. Instead of remaining trapped in my own thoughts, I embraced the support offered to me, reducing my reliance on isolation. I actively sought out and engaged in group sessions to listen to others share their experiences with anxiety, exploring both their struggles and the strategies they employed to overcome them, or their ongoing journey in the process. I also contemplated my steadfast hope, deeply anchored in the power of Almighty God—a hope that has uplifted me through trials and never wavered. Through these combined efforts, I have successfully overcome my separation anxiety, and I now move forward as a proud champion of what I regard as my greatest accomplishment. This experience has shown me that life seldom goes according to our plans, and it is crucial to stay resilient when facing the inevitable storms that come our way. As the esteemed author and behavioral scientist, Steve Maraboli wisely stated, "Life doesn’t become easier; instead, we grow stronger and more resilient." Maraboli brilliantly underscores the notion that growth and resilience stem from life's challenges, a lesson I've deeply embraced from my journey with anxiety. In the future, I aspire to lead a successful life, enriched by the profound satisfaction that comes from a day filled with hard work. I also aspire to be an inspiring role model and exceptional leader within my community and church. I yearn for my story to inspire and empower my peers, particularly young people who are grappling with challenges related to anxiety, self-worth, and self-esteem. I want to assure them that transformation is attainable! Thank you, and God bless!

I am truly honored to have the opportunity to share my thoughts today. It's truly admirable how you all have honored Mr. Chidube's legacy in such a meaningful way. There's nothing more disheartening in life than encountering someone who lacks core values. Their ambitions in life are solely motivated by selfish pleasure, resulting in a perspective that tends to be superficial. Throughout my 22 years on this planet, I have come to understand that core values are essential for anyone aiming to lead a successful life. As Gandhi famously stated, "A man is merely the result of his thoughts. What he contemplates, he ultimately becomes." This sentiment resonates deeply when one reflects on the significance of living according to a strategic set of core values, navigating life with intention and purpose. I exemplify academic excellence through my unwavering quest for knowledge. I am convinced that knowledge is humanity's most potent asset, serving as the cornerstone of any flourishing civilization. No matter the medium I explore in my studies, my unwavering goal is to understand and uncover insights that have long eluded me. I dedicate additional time to my coursework, immersing myself in the intricate details of each problem and exploring their real-world applications. As I progress through my educational journey, I am dedicated to pursuing opportunities that will enhance my understanding and lift me above both ignorance and self-defeating arrogance. Alongside my academic endeavors, I wholeheartedly immerse myself in personal and spiritual development, embracing opportunities for reflection—a practice I consider vital for achieving profound growth. Embracing solitude and cultivating an open heart have empowered me to evaluate the areas of my life that require rejuvenation. These moments of introspection have also enabled me to reconnect with individuals I've wronged in the past, recognizing my duty to heal and nurture these relationships. Moreover, embracing vulnerability has deepened my relationship with God and heightened my appreciation for spiritual growth. In addition to my dedication to academic excellence and my journey of personal and spiritual growth, I take great pride in uplifting my community by serving as a role model and advocating for the most vulnerable members among us. I have seen firsthand the challenges that countless individuals in my community endure, as well as the profound devastation impacting many neighborhoods in my hometown. I am deeply troubled by the alarming rise of homelessness, substance abuse, domestic violence, and social injustice that persistently afflict my community and many others. I've witnessed the fading spark of hope in the eyes of those I cherish within my community, and I've listened to the anguished cries of marginalized members in their struggle. Despite the limitations of my human hands and the scarcity of my resources, I passionately utilize my voice and my life to illuminate the challenges facing my community. I am committed to tirelessly seeking solutions to the diverse issues we face. Considering the increasing challenges faced by my community, I am determined to leverage my education to cultivate a transformative experience for its members. I am dedicated to achieving academic excellence and gaining concrete understanding, always with my community's needs in focus. Despite the obstacles I face as a low-income student grappling with various challenges, I remain steadfast in my belief that my efforts serve not only my personal growth but also benefit my community. I intend to leverage my knowledge and life experiences to advocate for those who are frequently disregarded, igniting a national dialogue about the challenges faced by the poor and working class, both in America and around the world. Doing so, I'm confident a difference will be made.

Reflecting on my educational journey, the first person who stands out for their unwavering support is my mother. No matter the activities I pursued or their repetitive nature, I could always count on my mother's steadfast love and unwavering support. As a dedicated single mother, she invested her heart and soul into nurturing her son, transforming me into a respectful and intelligent young man. She always insisted that I strive for excellence and motivated me to put in the effort to succeed academically. Despite her exhaustion from long days at work and the demands of being a low-income single mother, she consistently prioritized me, nurturing my life with the love and care of a devoted mother. Although I can never fully repay my mother for all she has sacrificed, I honor her by dedicating myself to my academic endeavors, celebrating her unwavering support and efforts throughout my childhood. As I progress through my courses, prepare for exams, and work diligently toward achieving my bachelor's degree, I am motivated by a profound commitment to honoring my mother's passion and steadfast support. My mother's support has shaped and driven me to be successful by giving me a sense of optimism. I recall my youthful days when I faced challenges in several subjects at school, often teetering on the brink of failure. Amidst the relentless waves of doubt that threatened to overwhelm me, my mother stood as a steadfast beacon of hope, consistently encouraging me to "turn things around." I recall her often emphasizing, "It's never too late to make a change; just keep striving for excellence." Her words provided me with solace during those times and inspired me to pursue additional assistance and remain dedicated to my studies. Her nurturing actions revealed the depth of her character, embodying the essence of a mother's love and enabling me to experience the profound warmth that comes from it. It is frequently stated that a mother's love is unparalleled, and these experiences dispelled any doubts I had about the truth of this sentiment. In essence, my mother's relentless optimism cultivated in me a profound sense of hope, inspiring me to perceive the light at the end of the tunnel, regardless of how bleak my surroundings seem. I credit the principle of optimism as part of the foundation of my success, and I deeply admire my mother for her significant role in my growth. Building on the support of my mother, I will continue to work hard to achieve all of my set goals. By embracing an optimistic mindset, I will relentlessly address the obstacles in my life that impede my progress toward my goals, remaining unwaveringly committed to my journey of personal growth. Reflecting on the challenges I encountered in my youth, I choose to embrace a renewed outlook—one that discovers hope amidst adversity and seeks to conquer what may seem insurmountable. I aspire to spread this essence of optimism to others, inspiring them on their own journeys and amplifying the hope my mother instilled in me. I see it as my mission to lift others to new heights, enabling them to revel in the thrilling peaks of remarkable greatness. The unwavering support I have received from my mother has been, and continues to be, a cornerstone of my journey as the child of a single mother. It has inspired me to relentlessly pursue excellence, even in the face of uncertainty. Through her, I have witnessed the remarkable resilience of a single mother, defying the odds and thriving, despite the absence of my father in the home, and the myriad challenges that life presents.

"20250310_135700[1] Cedric Pitts.mp4"

My experience growing up in a single-parent household closely mirrored that of many of my peers. Many children in my neighborhood, like myself, were raised by single mothers, creating a strong bond among us rooted in our shared experiences. In my community, having a father at home felt like possessing a million dollars—an invaluable treasure that only a handful of the neighborhood kids could claim. During my younger years, I grappled with the absence of my father in the home, often questioning why my life couldn't reflect the experiences of those fortunate enough to have both parents present. Despite the challenges, I forged a deep and unbreakable bond with my mother, and we became inseparable. Watching my mother face the challenges of being a low-income single parent has always inspired me to put in the effort and strive for success. I recall the sound of her tears as she cried, contemplating how this bill would be paid, along with the anguished groans that followed a long day of working with children as a preschool teacher. Despite her efforts to hide her emotions, the intensity of her feelings permeated the atmosphere of our home. Despite our limited resources, my mother transformed our home into a sanctuary of love. She resolutely decided that her financial struggles would not impact her household; instead, she transformed her challenges into a powerful testament of unwavering faith. Even during our most challenging times—when eviction notices adorned our door, when the threat of losing electricity loomed over us, or when our refrigerator stood nearly vacant—my mother exhibited a remarkable peace that I struggled to comprehend. It appeared she either overlooked our predicament entirely or was blatantly indifferent to the gravity of our situation. Instead of being swayed by either option, her focus remained steadfastly on her God, with her thoughts centered on the possibility of a miracle. I frequently heard my mother discuss the favor of God and the importance of trusting Him. In those moments, her words were not just talk; they became a powerful embodiment of her faith in action. These difficult moments of my upbringing, while painful, were instrumental in shaping the man I am today. Facing these challenges ignited a strong determination within me to work diligently and reach my aspirations. While I may have wavered in my understanding of life's direction at times, one element remained constant: whatever path I embarked on, I would do so with unparalleled dedication. Reflecting on the years gone by, I'm grateful that the challenges of my childhood have been the driving force behind my achievements today. Although I continue my journey towards achieving my goals, I remain assured that the spark ignited in my youth still shines brightly, illuminating my path to success. My mother's remarkable journey and unwavering faith during my childhood continue to inspire me, fueling my resilience and determination to persevere in all my pursuits. As I approach the culmination of my architectural undergraduate program, I'm committed to putting forth relentless effort, determined to inch ever closer to achieving my academic and professional goals. I aspire to make a meaningful impact on both my community and the world as a whole by becoming a leading member of the new wave of contemporary designers, shaping the built environment of the future. I also aspire to be a source of inspiration for fellow minority designers from similar backgrounds, encouraging them in their journey to make a meaningful impact on the world of architecture. Ultimately, I'm dedicated to a life-long journey of learning, personal growth, and goal achievement, driven by the passion ignited in my youth.

Hello! I’m Cedric Pitts, a 22-year-old architecture student at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Growing up in San Antonio, I take great pride in being a graduate of Winston Churchill High School. I am passionate about reading, gaming, drawing, and any other engaging and thought-provoking activities that can captivate my curious mind. As a committed member of my community, I am enthusiastic about contributing, inspiring others, and raising awareness about the crucial issues that impact us all. In addition to my dedication to my community, I hold a profound commitment to my faith in Jesus Christ and everything that the Christian faith encompasses. Sharing, reflecting on, and studying God's word is one of the most fulfilling pastimes for me; it truly nourishes my soul. I have so much more to share, and I'm excited to convey my vision of making a positive impact on the world with all of you. When I contemplate making a meaningful difference in the world, I envision countless ways to realize that goal. I often contemplate the profound effects this could have on countless lives and consider the lasting impact my actions may create over time. These moments of introspection inspire me to take action, transforming the vision I hold in my mind into reality. I frequently find myself pondering how to initiate a journey or discern the best starting point. Yet, I am reminded of the invaluable lessons history teaches us: the journey of starting truly begins with the daily actions we consciously choose to take. With this in mind, I actively cultivate a lifestyle that aligns with my goals and paves the way toward the vision I've envisioned for myself. This way of life has granted me endless opportunities to transform my ideas into reality, igniting an unstoppable passion within me. My ultimate aspiration is to make a meaningful and enduring impact on the world through my education and career by advocating for sustainable and environmentally conscious architecture. As an aspiring architect, I feel it is essential to delve into innovative design concepts that not only fulfill my clients' needs but also harmonize with the surrounding environment. The International Energy Agency reports that buildings are responsible for approximately 40% of global energy consumption. Moreover, IEA also revealed that the built environment accounts for nearly 36% of global energy-related CO2 emissions. In the modern world with an endless demand for buildings, these figures are alarming. As the impacts of climate change become increasingly evident, the demand for architects and other professionals to actively reduce their contributions to this crisis intensifies. This is why I am committed to leveraging my education and future career to tackle these increasing challenges. I aim to promote sustainable architecture that fosters a brighter future, generating positive impacts for everyone. By employing sustainable design strategies, harnessing cutting-edge technology, and remaining sensitive to the needs of others, I am confident that my future professional endeavors will contribute significantly to addressing the impact of architecture on climate change. As a current student and aspiring professional, it is my responsibility to absorb as much knowledge as possible to effectively address this challenging issue and develop practical solutions. I am eager to connect with like-minded visionaries who share a deep passion for the future of architecture and our evolving world. With each new discovery comes a wealth of possibilities, and I am determined to seize every opportunity available to make a meaningful positive impact. To all my fellow design students, and those currently practicing in the field, let our work resonate with our passion for the environment and our world!

Passage from "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu "All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when we are able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must appear inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near." Sun Tzu was an esteemed military strategist and philosopher from ancient China, celebrated for his profound insights on warfare. Tzu, raised in the eastern regions of China, experienced the dynamic evolution of ancient Chinese civilization during his formative years. His connection to the state of Wu and the enduring impact he had on King Helu of Wu set the stage for his ascent to the rank of imperial general. Sun Tzu, renowned for his mastery in deception and psychological warfare, delved deep into the intricate essence of conflict, effectively reshaping traditional perceptions of warfare. Moreover, Sun Tzu's strategic and philosophical tenets highlight the power of deception, adaptability, and meticulous planning, asserting that these qualities outshine mere brute strength. In this excerpt from his timeless military treatise, Sun Tzu opens with his renowned declaration, "All warfare is based on deception." Deception is defined as the act of misleading or tricking someone into believing something false. In the context of Tzu's work, deception is a tactical tool used to confuse, mislead, or misdirect an opponent. It's interesting to note that this idea of deception was at the core of Tzu's strategic philosophy. Through keen observation and a comprehensive study of history, Sun Tzu recognized the critical value of misleading one’s adversary into accepting a falsehood as truth. By convincing your opponent that you possess something they do not or that you are equipped with resources they lack, you could effectively disrupt the momentum of their forces and gain a significant advantage. Notable instances of this strategy include Gideon's victory over the Midianite army, where he employed divine deception to outsmart and overcome his adversaries. Judges 7 recounts the story of Gideon, while the Greeks employed a cunning strategy with the Trojan Horse to infiltrate the city of Troy. Additionally, during the Second Punic War in 216 BCE, King Hannibal cleverly manipulated the Roman army into a vulnerable position at the Battle of Cannae, resulting in a devastating defeat for them. These examples, along with others, clearly demonstrate the strategic use of deception as a powerful tactic. In a later section of the passage, Sun Tzu articulates the concept of intentionally presenting oneself as inadequate or ill-prepared for combat. Aligning with his central premise, persuading your opponent that you are weaker than you truly are is ultimately advantageous. In life, it's common for us to dislike being underestimated. We aspire for others to acknowledge the incredible potential within us and to be inspired by all that we accomplish. Even within the ranks of the world's most formidable and expansive militaries, grand demonstrations have been staged to showcase national military prowess, sending a clear message: they are an adversary too formidable to confront. Yet, Sun Tzu proposes the opposite approach to this idea, challenging the notions of military prowess and admiration. Rather than revealing your readiness for battle, project an image of unpreparedness to lure the enemy deeper into their own deception. Although this may introduce fleeting uncertainty, the ultimate outcomes yield far greater rewards. Lastly, Sun Tzu explores the idea of deceptive distance. This idea leads one's enemy to believe that they're untouchable. This unassailable viewpoint fosters an environment ripe for pride and arrogance, which are major contributors to national decline. Very often the world's superpowers have sought to let their enemy know they were in their midst. Ancient superpowers established military installations and outposts to extend their influence well beyond their borders. Likewise, today's superpowers strategically employ intricate networks of military installations to exert global influence, offering a robust platform for utilization in times of conflict. Yet once again, Sun Tzu's strategic philosophy challenged this idea, opting for a more discrete approach. Tzu believed that by utilizing this strategy, one could successfully undermine their enemy while instilling a sense of false pride that leads to their own self-destruction. An examination of Sun Tzu's literary contributions reveals that his concepts of strategy were remarkably advanced, surpassing not only those of his contemporaries but also the constraints of his own time. Militaries, businesses, and individuals continue to apply the philosophical principles from his work, underscoring its enduring effectiveness. It has been a true delight to delve into the profound insights of the late Sun Tzu and to share my interpretation of his deeper meaning with you. I am convinced that history is one of life's most profound teachers, and experiences like this only strengthen my belief. In closing, I thank Ronne Gleason and all others who made this opportunity a reality. May God bless you all!

My life has always been centered on community. Throughout my life, I've been privileged to experience a profound sense of community, fostered by the remarkable individuals in my neighborhood, as well as my family, friends, and spiritual leaders. The robust sense of community I've experienced throughout my life has consistently fueled my passion to make a meaningful difference in it. One of the most impactful ways I've contributed to my community is through my commitment to volunteer work and my active participation in freelance charitable initiatives. These actions have allowed me to cultivate a stronger bond with my community members while gaining insight into their evolving needs and how to effectively meet them. My awareness of the growing need for more volunteers and generous contributors emerged from witnessing the profound despair within my community. My local community has been identified as a high-risk, low-income area by the city of San Antonio. Additionally, the city's health network categorizes it as even more vulnerable due to a significant shortage of essential resources and access to healthcare services. Many are going without basic essentials as the cost of everyday goods continues to soar. As government benefits have progressively diminished over the years, there are fewer avenues available for individuals seeking support. I recognized that it was my responsibility to engage actively in volunteering with charitable organizations and contribute through almsgiving to address these increasing needs. I embarked on my journey by seeking out local organizations in need of volunteers. It was quick to discover numerous non-profit organizations actively seeking volunteers. I began my journey with the local food bank and quickly advanced to collaborating with other notable organizations in the city, including the Salvation Army and the local chapter of Feeding America. I also took the initiative to collect essential items to distribute to individuals in need within the community. With the support of my church, I led several initiatives to collect donations for our community members and successfully oversaw the distribution process. As time went on, the number of volunteers expanded, and I found myself increasingly engaged in assisting any organization that welcomed my support. Through my freelance work in charitable giving, I found that many of my initial misconceptions about others diminished, allowing me to develop a profound respect and understanding for those I was helping. In recent years, this challenge has become increasingly urgent as the pandemic and inflation have forced many to seek alternative options while their incomes struggle to keep up with the soaring cost of goods and services. I am confident that my involvement in volunteer work and community almsgiving has significantly reduced the demand for essential resources in my community. Although there's still much to accomplish, I take comfort in knowing that my contributions have significantly benefited my local community. Listening to the voices of those I've supported, as well as community leaders, fills me with pride for the impactful wave of assistance I've contributed to. It has truly made a difference in our community. I strive to place the needs of others above my own, always aiming to be a beacon of hope that inspires those around me. - Thank you to "The Good Samaritan at the Baker Estate" and all others for making this opportunity possible. God bless!

As I pen this essay, I find myself fighting back tears, reflecting on the impact anxiety has had on my life and acknowledging the significant progress I have made over the years. I often find myself reflecting on those late nights filled with introspection, the innumerable counseling and therapy sessions, and the weighty struggles of my mental state. I vividly recall times of deep despair, questioning whether I would ever regain control over my anxious thoughts. My anxiety became so overwhelming that I found myself dreading each new day; all I longed for was a sense of peace, free from any anxiety. Yet, that sense of peace felt distant as I grappled with persistent anxiety. My anxiety significantly undermined my self-esteem, leaving me to grapple with feelings of inadequacy as I wondered what was wrong with me and why I struggled to measure up to my peers. I found myself questioning the very essence of my existence. If my days were merely filled with fear, I wondered what purpose I served on this earth. Clearly, I found myself in a profoundly challenging chapter of my life. As I contemplated how to respond to the prompt, countless thoughts flooded my mind about the various ways anxiety has influenced my life. I truly struggle to pinpoint any aspect of my life that hasn't been significantly affected by pervasive anxiety. Everything from my relationships, mental health, self-esteem, self-worth, identity, and even faith were shaken by my struggles with anxiety. As my panic attacks and triggers intensified, I increasingly withdrew from my friends and family. I was reluctant to let others see the pain I was experiencing mentally, as the thought of their potential ridicule weighed heavily on my mind. My grades started to decline, and my teachers expressed their concern as I spent a considerable amount of class time in the counselor's office, trying to navigate my issues. My therapy sessions consistently revolved around exploring effective strategies to manage my anxiety with my therapist. I likely went through more tissues in her office than any other patient, as tears streamed down my face, confronting the painful reality of my brokenness. Throughout my life, I'd taken great pride in being an exceptional individual, unburdened by worries. However, this chapter of my life had challenged the very beliefs I once held, compelling me to adapt to the transformations unfolding around me. Although much of my journey was shrouded in darkness, a glimmer of light began to emerge as the weight of anxiety gradually lifted off my shoulders. As I started to put into practice the strategies recommended by my therapist, re-engage with social life, and strengthen my faith in God, I found myself cultivating a renewed sense of hope for recovery. Although I still face challenges with anxiety, I have experienced remarkable growth over the years and now feel much more optimistic about my future. The days of waking up weighed down by lethargy are behind me; now, I greet each day with newfound confidence, ready to tackle whatever comes my way. Earning a college degree is crucial for me, as I see it as the pathway to achieving my aspirations and reaching my goals in life. I am convinced that knowledge is a formidable force that empowers us to transform the world. In times of uncertainty, knowledge serves as a beacon of hope and a guiding path through adversity. Built upon the foundation of higher education, I aspire to attain excellence throughout my life and create a lasting impact on my community. - Thank you to the Bell Family and all donor(s). God bless!

Hello! I'm Cedric Pitts, a 22-year-old undergraduate student at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I am currently a junior studying architecture. I find joy in a variety of activities, including playing video games, watching television, reading, and studying the Bible. Driven by my natural curiosity, I have a deep desire to explore the unknown and derive satisfaction from engaging, thought-provoking documentaries. I am fundamentally a man of profound faith, drawing resilience from the values instilled in me during my formative years, enabling me to navigate an uncertain world with confidence. Anxiety, both a blessing and a source of despair, has woven itself into the fabric of my life's journey, and I am eager to share this experience with all of you today. As a child, I lived without a hint of fear. I earned a reputation as one of the daring few, unafraid to challenge the boundaries of what others deemed impossible. I rarely contemplated the world around me, as I existed in a realm untouched by fear. I would hear the adults talk about the troubles of our time, and the news anchors endlessly report on the issues facing our nation, but even then, my mind was void of fear. Even in my home, I rarely saw my mother display signs of fear or worry. She always appeared poised and composed, regardless of the situation. This reality I inhabited endured for a while, yet as my understanding of the world expanded, so too did my fears. For the first time in my life, I experienced a pervasive sense of fear that relentlessly haunted my thoughts. The news reports that used to slip under my radar had now become a routine part of my daily life, as I absorbed the chilling accounts of horrific crimes occurring all around me. My mind went into overdrive trying to process all of this newfound information. Over the years, anxiety has firmly established itself in my life, becoming a persistent struggle that I continue to face. Although I never turned to drugs as a remedy for my anxiety, I encountered numerous challenges on my journey. The counselor's office became a second home to me, as I often found myself missing significant class time to navigate my personal challenges. Even at home, my fears loomed large, as I constantly grappled with anxiety about what the next day might bring and the pervasive unpredictability of life itself. I had experienced more panic attacks than I cared to acknowledge and sought the guidance of a personal therapist regularly to address my challenges. Even with the best support in my fight against anxiety, the struggle continued unabated. I finally reached a breaking point and declared that enough was enough. I grew weary of being held captive by my fears, yearning for a return to the serene realm of my youth. I yearned to experience true freedom from anxiety, liberating my mind from its suffocating hold. I yearned to live without fear again, allowing me to pursue and achieve everything I have dreamed of. During my freshman year of high school in 2017, I resolved to confront my challenges directly and overcome the fears that had haunted me. Since that moment, I have experienced a remarkable enhancement in my overall mental well-being and have effectively diminished the grip of anxiety on my life. Although this struggle with fear led to profound despair, I see it as an essential life lesson that taught me the importance of persevering through challenges. I hold onto these lessons as I advance toward my goal of academic excellence and future workplace acclaim.

Mental health is a growing concern around the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that around 1 in 8 individuals suffer from mental health conditions, which amounts to more than 1 billion people worldwide. Despite the increasing availability of mental health care, there remains a significant shortage of services to meet the rising demand among patients seeking support. Additionally, many public services responsible for helping individuals in mental health crises are unprepared and often lack the vital training necessary to provide effective support for those in distress. In essence, I emphasize that mental health issues are a global phenomenon impacting individuals from diverse backgrounds across the globe. Like countless individuals across the globe, I have faced my own challenges with mental health. As a young child I contemplated taking my own life. I had deluded myself into thinking that the world would be improved without my presence, scarcely acknowledging the profound heartache this choice would inflict on my family. I found myself ensnared by envy and comparison, frequently wondering why my life couldn't mirror that of my peers. I often find myself reflecting on the challenges of growing up in a low-income single-parent household. I couldn't shake the nagging feeling that my existence was a burden to my single mother, particularly as I watched her tirelessly strive to fulfill my needs. While I never actually contemplated suicide, my thoughts frequently battled with the notion, and in every moment of disappointment, I was reminded of the possibility of bringing everything to an end once again. I was in a dark place in my life, and wrestled with these thoughts for many years. In addition to the suicidal ideation I experienced, I was also shadowed by various other negative traits. In an instant, I was overwhelmed by surges of insecurity, diminished self-worth, depression, and anxiety. These overwhelming emotions consumed my thoughts, leaving me with little space for clarity and reason. I’d always been hesitant to seek help or share my feelings, likely due to a sense of pride. I concealed my emotions, wearing a smile to mask the darkness that consumed my world. Over time, anxiety emerged as the overwhelming challenge in my battle with mental health, manifesting as relentless and intense anxiety attacks. Nearly everything triggered my anxiety, resulting in numerous missed classes and a deep feeling of social isolation. In an effort to safeguard my well-being, I distanced myself from the social circle I had built and restricted my interactions with others. At the time, I believed this would be beneficial for me, but it ultimately caused more harm, as I lacked an outlet to voice my concerns. Due to my overwhelming mental health struggles, I realized that I couldn't rely on myself to find the help I needed. Following each panic attack, I experienced a profound sense of shame, embarrassment, and deep self-disgust. I found myself grappling with the question of why I couldn't regain my composure, and inevitably, thoughts of suicide crept back into my mind. It took me many years to finally share what I had been experiencing. In a moment of vulnerability, overwhelmed by shame, defeat, fear, and insecurity, I opened up to my mother about the struggles I had faced throughout the years and my deepening worries about my mental health. My words were met with understanding, compassion, and empathy, prompting my mother to seek the help of a mental health professional to assist me in navigating these challenges. I embarked on my counseling journey, taking significant strides toward healing and personal growth. I was aware, and my therapist reinforced this notion, that while this journey would be challenging, it would ultimately lead to enhanced mental well-being. Despite the tears I shed and the ache in my heart from past pains, I started to face my challenges directly. With each session I attended, I felt the burdens of my past lift more and more. These therapy sessions provided a supportive environment that empowered me to confront my mental health challenges directly. They also profoundly shaped my views on my beliefs, relationships, and professional goals. My personal beliefs have evolved through my experiences with mental health, fundamentally reshaping my perspective. I once thought that internal battles had to be faced in solitude and that reaching out for support was a mark of weakness. Also, I perceived my flaws as a direct reflection of my self-worth and the direction of my life. Yet, as I started to navigate the turbulent waters of my mental health journey, I came to the realization that my previous beliefs were fundamentally misguided. I discovered that seeking help is not a sign of weakness; instead, it is a testament to one's strength. I came to understand that my internal flaws do not define who I am, nor do they dictate the course of my life's journey. Instead, they are merely obstacles I must navigate and overcome. As I previously discussed in my essay, my mental health struggles led me to isolate myself from others in an attempt to protect myself from social judgment. However, my experiences with mental health have led me to reassess this approach, prompting a significant shift in my perspective. I realized that the very individuals I tried to distance myself from were actually the ones I needed the most during my struggles. Drawing from my therapist's words, the most effective path to healing lies within the support of a community. Motivated by her guidance, I discovered the importance of embracing community during challenging times and committing to support others in need. Ultimately, my mental health journey has profoundly shaped my career aspirations, instilling in me a deep sense of compassion. Throughout my journey, I have discovered the profound importance of community and the power of fostering a compassionate environment that acknowledges and embraces everyone. I aim to incorporate these teachings into my future workplace, fostering a compassionate, respectful, and community-oriented environment in the field of architecture. - Thank you for this opportunity. God bless!

1) Hello! I'm Cedric Pitts, a 22-year-old undergraduate student at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, with an anticipated graduation date in 2026. I hail from San Antonio, where I spent my formative years in the vibrant northeast district of the city. I am a proud alum of the Winston Churchill High School class of 2021, part of the North East Independent School District. In my free time, I love diving into video games, exploring YouTube, and engaging with my Bible. As a proud Southern Baptist Christian, I take great joy in attending church, sharing my faith with those around me, and making a dedicated effort to lead a godly life. 2) As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, I believe that this scholarship will offer essential financial support to help me achieve my academic goals. Undoubtedly, college costs are substantial and frequently burden students with overwhelming debt as they strive to reach their academic aspirations. Being a low-income student, the reality of this burden is heightened. Yet I believe that through the generous contributions of organizations like yours, these financial burdens can be alleviated, easing the strain that weighs heavily on low-income students. 3) My academic goals are well-defined and purposeful: to attain outstanding grades and to fully commit myself to every endeavor I undertake. My career ambitions center around creating a significant impact, nurturing an inclusive workplace, and leading the evolution of 21st-century architecture. Having been raised in a household that emphasized the importance of education, I truly understand the profound value of a strong educational foundation and the opportunities it can open up in life. Frequently, some of the most brilliant individuals in our society have achieved their greatness through the transformative power of education. The late Nelson Mandela wisely remarked, "Education is a formidable weapon that can be wielded to transform the world." I plan to leverage this power to advance both my academic pursuits and professional aspirations. 4) I have contributed to my community through volunteering efforts and freelance almsgiving. During my time volunteering with the San Antonio Food Bank, Salvation Army, and various other charitable organizations, I have seen firsthand the profound impact that these initiatives have had on the community. I have witnessed the profound expressions of relief from vulnerable groups receiving assistance without judgment, along with the inspiring tales of triumph that have deeply affected me as I listened to others share their journeys. Even wandering the streets of San Antonio and interacting with individuals in need, while offering them financial support, has deeply moved me. As the Bible says, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also - Matthew 6:21." Therefore, I generously share my treasures with others, for my heart resonates with them and the narratives they carry. 5) My most significant setback in life was having to repeat the first grade. I felt a deep sense of shame and, understandably, embarrassment. I often found myself contemplating how others perceived me, and I frequently felt as though I had let my family down. Yet with time, my mindset began to shift. Ultimately, this experience taught me that setbacks are not permanent, and that perseverance is key. 6) My greatest strengths are compassion, leadership, empathy, faith, determination, humility, and love. I endeavor to embody these values each day, aiming to lead a life untainted by moral corruption. Whenever I stumble, I reflect on these core values and realign myself with the principles that have shaped my identity. - Thank you for this opportunity, and God bless!

From a young age, I have been captivated by the world of design. I vividly recall how I would spend countless hours engrossed in design competitions on television, eagerly engaging in lively discussions with my friends at school about my favorite creations. While some of my friends were confused by our conversations, others shared my enthusiasm for the same shows and joined me in celebrating the creative talents of the various designers. Among all the design shows I loved, one stood out: Property Brothers on the HGTV network. I was always impressed by the incredible teamwork of the two brothers, Jonathan and Drew Scott, as they skillfully renovated homes, bringing them back to their former glory. It seemed no matter what the homeowner requested, the two brothers could deliver. Though I didn’t recognize it initially, this experience planted a seed that nurtured my evolving passion for building design. The inspiring images I witnessed on television ignited a deep desire within me to immerse myself in an industry that brought joy to countless people. My journey into this industry started in the fall of 2021, and it has been a path of unwavering commitment ever since. Architecture, as a dynamic STEM discipline that blends artistry with scientific rigor, has allowed me to thrive in an environment where I am inspired to unleash my creative potential while grounding my artistic endeavors in solid scientific principles. My architectural projects have delved into the intricate complexities of environmental science, integrating them with the artistic forms and embellishments of 21st-century design. Throughout my lecture courses, I have drawn valuable insights from history, utilizing these lessons as a guiding compass to achieve exceptional results in the design process. As I strive to meet the requirements of each design project, I can't help but feel like a child once more, inspired by the Property Brothers passionately working to bring their clients' visions to life. With the incredible creative freedom offered to us as design students, I often find myself feeling like a vital "third member" of the show. It's truly awe-inspiring to reflect on how this journey began with a childhood inspiration and has blossomed into my current academic pursuit. I envision applying the knowledge I gain in school to enrich my community by motivating others to tap into their creativity. The world is a blank canvas, eagerly awaiting its inhabitants to color it with their unique stories. With a spectrum of vibrant colors, captivating blends, and enchanting combinations, the inhabitants of this world possess boundless potential to make their creative imprint on the universe. My university experience has imparted numerous lessons, but perhaps the most significant is the importance of nurturing creativity. Both students and faculty consistently encourage me to tap into my creativity and fully express the visions that come to mind. I aim to be a driving force in my community, reminding people of the vast canvas of life that awaits their brush strokes. No matter their story or the emotions they wish to convey, my goal is to inspire individuals to reach new heights and dare to dream beyond their wildest aspirations. I am eager to inspire fellow design enthusiasts in my community and empower them with the essential tools to achieve their aspirations. We should consistently strive to inspire others, as we can never truly comprehend the impact our encouragement may have on someone's life journey! - Thank you to the Ward Green Family and all others for making this opportunity possible. God bless!

I firmly believe that the most significant impacts on the world are those that fundamentally transform the lives of others. When individuals work diligently to create a positive impact in their communities, they spark a transformational wave that resonates throughout the lives of many. This transformative movement nurtures a generation of leaders who demonstrate excellence in every endeavor. As I have expressed before, I firmly believe that the most significant impacts are those that genuinely enhance the lives of others. Therefore, I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the world by transforming the lives of others through dedicated acts of service. From a young age, the desire to serve others has been fundamental to who I am. My mother instilled in me a value system that emphasizes prioritizing the needs of others above my own, while my faith has nurtured a deep desire within me to meet those needs to the best of my ability. From a young age, I recognized the inequalities surrounding me and felt a compelling desire to make a difference. It has always troubled me to witness individuals living without basic necessities, facing the harsh reality of homelessness. I often found myself perplexed by why so many individuals hesitated to take action in easing the suffering of others. This led me to reflect deeply on the ways I could contribute to making a difference. These experiences with the harsh realities of life ignited my passion for a lifelong commitment to service, a path I am convinced will create a meaningful and lasting impact on the world. Throughout my experience working with numerous non-profit organizations and participating in volunteer efforts, I have witnessed my dedication to service flourish. I have witnessed the profound beauty of generosity manifest in ways that touch the heart, and I have listened to the genuine expressions of relief from society's most vulnerable. Although it pained me to witness the deep despair of others, I took comfort in the knowledge that my contributions were making a meaningful impact. These moments not only filled my heart with warmth but also imparted a powerful lesson about life. I've come to understand that life transcends material possessions and superficial pursuits; it truly revolves around how we affect the lives of others. In the words of the esteemed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: what are you doing for others?" I aspire to answer this question through a lifelong commitment to charitable acts and meaningful contributions that will endure long after I'm gone. Additionally, I aim to address this question by showcasing examples throughout my journey, with the hope of inspiring others to recognize and fulfill the needs of those around them. I trust that my words have sufficiently addressed the prompt’s requirements and possess the power to inspire anyone reading this essay to embark on a lifelong commitment to service alongside me. As the scriptures declare, "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed - Proverbs 11:25." Let us all commit to thriving through our acts of kindness, nurturing a new generation devoted to making a significant difference in the world. In conclusion, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the "Our Destiny Our Future Foundation" and everyone else who contributed to making this opportunity a reality. I took great pleasure in exploring a thought-provoking subject and articulating my vision for creating a transformative impact in the world. Thank you all once again and God bless!

During my educational journey, I have faced my share of challenges and obstacles. Throughout my academic journey, I consistently demonstrated dedication and hard work. However, I faced challenges with anger and fear that significantly influenced my experience. I faced significant challenges in managing my emotions, which frequently resulted in disciplinary actions from school administrators. I aspired to improve, yet I struggled to gather the strength needed to reach my goals. As I progressed further in my academic journey, I was suddenly engulfed by an overwhelming sense of fear. I endured a traumatic event within my immediate family that had left me grappling with overwhelming anxiety. Although I made efforts to manage my anger and regulate my emotions, I frequently found myself in the counselor's office, attempting to untangle my issues. These challenges occasionally hindered my educational journey, but I was confident that with the right mindset, I could overcome them. I am deeply passionate about earning a degree in STEM because I am convinced that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are the keys to steering society toward a sustainable future. Every profession holds its own value, but I firmly believe that STEM fields possess a distinct potential that sets them apart. The advancement of STEM has empowered society to foster groundbreaking technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and quantum computing. Additionally, STEM has ignited an extraordinary wave of entrepreneurship, resulting in the impressive success of numerous start-ups such as Nvidia, OpenAI, Anduril Industries, and many more, each excelling in their respective domains. Even as recently as SpaceX's successful re-capture of their primary first-stage booster using mechanized mechanical arms, a groundbreaking move that not only showcased cutting-edge STEM research but also set a new standard in innovation (Space.com, 2024). STEM professions are clearly redefining innovation and breaking through traditional boundaries. This is the primary reason I aspire to join this transformative movement and contribute my own ideas and skills through the realm of architectural design. As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, I am truly grateful for every academic financial opportunity that comes my way. I hold immense appreciation for the extraordinary efforts of scholarship organizers and donors, and I will always be thankful for their dedication. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to attend college so far, and I owe my deepest appreciation to everyone who has contributed to making this journey possible, especially to God above all. I am confident that this scholarship will play a pivotal role in helping me realize my aspirations, providing essential financial assistance for a journey that ignited within me long ago. From an early age, my mother consistently emphasized the significance of education. To her, education represented a pathway to liberation, an unwavering guiding force that transcended all limitations. This mindset has naturally influenced me and has been deeply ingrained in my life for a long time. That’s why I refer to it as a journey that was set in motion within me long ago. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, regardless of the outcome. Winning or not, I truly appreciate the chance I've been given. I learned that when someone shows you generosity, it is important to acknowledge it with heartfelt words of gratitude. So once again, to the scholarship organizer, donor(s), and bold.org, I thank you all for this opportunity. In conclusion, I aspire to honor the remarkable legacy of the late Richard and Rebecca Whiddon. I also hope God grants their loved ones the strength they need during moments of sorrow. Thank you, and God bless!

As a child, I was always eager to participate and get involved in everything around me. I vividly recall darting from one extracurricular activity to another, constantly seeking ways to stay engaged and occupied. I have always valued the deep sense of belonging to something larger than myself, especially when it positively impacted my community. When the position of student body president became open during my high school years, I eagerly decided to enter the race. With the help of several classmates, I developed a compelling campaign slogan and outlined an ambitious agenda to pursue during my term. Despite being a somewhat introverted student, I gained recognition throughout the school. This experience empowered me to launch my campaign and effectively communicate to the student body why I am the ideal choice for their next student body president. From that moment on, I realized that my leadership skills would face a significant challenge. I needed to step out of my comfort zone and fully engage with my potential constituents. As the election day approached, I dedicated myself to passionately engaging with my classmates. I vividly recall dedicating several days to putting up campaign flyers and collaborating with my friends to strategize on how to consistently push the boundaries of our goals. I distinctly recall entering school that morning on election day when the intercom announced my name as the new student body president. As my mind surged with exhilaration, I realized that this was just the beginning. My initial weeks in office were exceptionally smooth as I settled into my new role and built rapport with my fellow elected officials. We met regularly to address our concerns about the school and strategize on how we could implement improvements within our means. I recall a day when our principal entrusted us with a unique assignment: to plan and execute a school-wide charitable initiative. I was thrilled to undertake this venture, yet I recognized the intricate challenges it posed. From that moment on, our council meetings evolved from cordial discussions into fervent debates, as we passionately challenged the fundamental principles of this initiative. We argued over every detail, from the timing and method of the event to the division of responsibilities and what would be expected from the student body. As the council leader, it was my responsibility to uphold order and address these intriguing questions. I accomplished this by creating a robust system of open communication between elected officials and the student body. I frequently organized open-forum council meetings to encourage the student body to share their insights on the issues at hand. Following these discussions, I actively engaged with my colleagues to evaluate and consider the suggestions received. Over time, we reached a unanimous agreement to organize a school-wide field trip to the local food bank, dedicating our time to supporting the community. With the support of the school district, we developed a system that organizes each class into groups. On their designated group day, students would engage in the program's activities. Based on the feedback we received, this initiative not only impacted the local community but also instilled a sense of pride within the student body. Thanks to our commitment, the student council and I proudly received recognition for our achievements within the community. This experience highlighted the crucial role of effective leadership and underscored the significance of actively listening to others during critical decision-making processes. I aspire to always remember this experience and to apply these principles in my future career. Thank you to Realign, inc and all others for making this scholarship opportunity possible. God bless!

Allow me to begin with a brief introduction of myself. I’m Cedric Pitts, a 22-year-old undergraduate student currently studying at the University of Texas at San Antonio. As a proud native of San Antonio and a proud alumnus of the Winston Churchill High School within the North East Independent School District, I embrace my heritage with immense pride. Growing up in the northeastern part of the city, I was surrounded by a community that significantly influenced my development. My childhood joy stemmed from playing outdoors and participating in extracurricular activities. Even though it was just my mother and me at home, I was fortunate to have positive male role models in my community, school, and church to inspire me. Despite coming from a low-income background, my mother consistently prioritized my needs and worked tirelessly to ensure they were met. Her actions illuminated the significance of hard work while offering me a profound insight into the challenges of single motherhood. These insights consistently motivated me to excel academically, with the aspiration of one day elevating both myself and my mother from the challenges of low income to a future of financial stability. I see this opportunity as significant not just for its potential financial rewards, but also for the chance it provides me to share how my faith in God has shaped my life. It is rare to find a space—whether on this platform or in society at large—where such sentiments can be expressed openly and without resistance. So for that, I sincerely thank you all! My faith has been instrumental in guiding me on my journey to success, providing me with a clear direction to follow. In life, it’s common to find ourselves drifting off course. Many of us struggle to uncover our true purpose and identify the steps needed to cultivate the life we envision. Many individuals and organizations around the world recognize this reality and are actively working to propose solutions to alleviate our worries. However, I firmly believe that the ultimate resolution to these pressing issues lies in the hands of Almighty God. I've discovered that as one puts their trust in God, allowing him to guide their path, the mind is put to ease. While some might question this and others may doubt its feasibility, I can confidently say from my own experience that this approach has illuminated my path to success and strengthened my strides. In addition to thrusting me toward success, my faith in God has helped me to prevail through trials. Amid the turbulent waves of uncertainty and the fierce winds of adversity that have engulfed my life, my unwavering faith has been the anchor that keeps me afloat as I navigate through life's stormy seas. Throughout my tumultuous journey with anxiety, my struggles with low self-esteem, my bouts of anger and frustration, and the burden of my past failures, God has remained steadfastly by my side. When others disregarded me and labeled me as insignificant, God shone His radiant light into my life, revealing a pathway filled with hope. For this, I'm forever grateful to the God I serve, and I commit my life to advancing his kingdom. Being led by the spirit, I plan to use my faith as a guiding force in reaching greater heights by honoring God, keeping him first above all else, and sharing with others about the freeing power that his presence brings. Having done so, I'll reach the mountaintop, declaring to the world that Jesus is the answer for the world today! Thank you and God bless!

As a child, my imagination was constantly buzzing with a multitude of ideas. I found inspiration in the world around me and aimed to replicate the actions of those I observed. As a curious child, I had an insatiable mind that rejected superficial understanding; I craved to delve deeper and truly grasp the intricacies of the world around me. Throughout my childhood, I frequently envisioned my future self, shifting between aspirations of becoming a pilot, a race car driver, or whatever other fascinating role I spotted on television. Yet, none of these desires had quite the same impact as my passion for design. I knew early on that I enjoyed tinkering with things and solving complex problems. At the time, I didn't recognize that my deep interest would ultimately be defined as architecture, but as time passed, this realization became clear. There was something about construction and buildings that always fascinated me. While I couldn't quite grasp how buildings were constructed, I felt a unique allure that captivated my interest in them. I would admire the dedicated craftsmanship of the construction workers and, if fortunate enough, witness the architect attentively guiding their creation onsite, overseeing the realization of their vision. I would observe the construction workers skillfully laying the foundation and erecting the structural framework of the building. In a flash, the superstructure would spring to life, its various exterior elements shining with anticipation for the exquisite interior finish that would finalize its stunning transformation. Each observation felt like witnessing a beautiful musical composition come to life as diverse instruments harmonized together, or like a luscious river of chocolate cascading over a warm, fluffy cake just after it has finished baking. In essence, it captivated my attention and left me feeling utterly enthralled. The fire of design that burned in my heart as a child still resides with me today. As an architecture student at the University of Texas at San Antonio, I have had the privilege over the past three years to explore my childhood passion and immerse myself in an environment that truly fosters my enthusiasm for the field. I am grateful to have surrounded myself with like-minded individuals who share my passion for design. Their insights on various aspects of my work have provided me with numerous invaluable opportunities for growth. I am truly grateful to all my design professors for their unwavering dedication and support in cultivating the next generation of talented designers. As an aspiring architect, I feel a profound responsibility towards shaping the built environment. This responsibility entails honoring the principles established by past designers while actively nurturing the emerging movement of sustainable architecture. I aspire for my future work to create a meaningful impact on my community and to inspire aspiring designers to break through limits and dream bigger than they ever thought possible. Additionally, I aim for my future work to serve as a source of inspiration for other minorities aspiring to enter the architecture field, which is in dire need of a diverse array of professionals. In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the scholarship organizer, Zennetta Brazelton, and everyone else who contributed to making this incredible opportunity a reality. I truly admire how you have paid tribute to your loved one. I pray that God grants you and your family strength, healing, and comfort in the midst of tremendous grief. Having recently experienced the loss of a loved one myself, I deeply comprehend the immense and often overwhelming nature of such pain. Yet, I'm convinced that God is able to mend the brokenhearted. God bless you all!

When people inquire about my choice to pursue architecture, I reply that architecture, in a sense, chose me. Since childhood, I have been captivated by the intricate elements of design and construction. In my youth, I would marvel at the magnificent, towering structures that adorned the streets of downtown San Antonio, admiring the remarkable ingenuity that brought them to life. Fueled by these insights, I embarked on my own experiments at home, crafting miniature popsicle stick models, constructing paper skyscrapers, and bringing to life any creation my imagination could envision. While I may not have fully grasped the intricate processes that brought these structures to life, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the sights I encountered as I roamed the streets of San Antonio. This is why I believe architecture chose me, rather than the other way around. I am driven to create a significant impact both in my workplace and in the wider community, fueled by my unwavering determination. This steadfast determination is rooted in divine principles such as love, joy, peace, hard work, and happiness, forming the essence of my being. I firmly believe that by embodying these principles, I foster an environment that nurtures the soul and rejuvenates the human spirit. By arriving punctually, putting forth my best effort, embracing new perspectives, listening attentively to others, and valuing the diverse backgrounds of those around me, I can create an influential legacy—one that resonates beyond my individual self and sets an inspiring example for others to follow. Additionally, I aim to make a significant impact in my workplace and the wider community by serving as a positive role model and a source of support for others. Echoing the wisdom of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?" I am driven to answer this timeless inquiry through acts of kindness, humility, selflessness, and the embodiment of godly principles. Our world undeniably craves positive role models, as the human mind is instinctively drawn to find figures to admire and emulate. I aspire to fulfill the call for positive imitation by guiding a generation towards a future rooted in hope. I firmly believe that my professional goals will be realized through my life experiences, unwavering faith in God, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Despite the seeming distance of my aspirations, I remain steadfastly focused on my goal, driven by an unwavering mindset dedicated to achieving the bright success that lies ahead. Despite the challenges, setbacks, and hardships I face, I am resolute in my pursuit of my professional aspirations and committed to fulfilling my God-given purpose. I trust that my reflections will motivate anyone reading this to recognize that you also possess a God-given purpose. Remember, no obstacle can prevent you from achieving it. In conclusion, I extend my gratitude to the Honor Society Foundation, Bold.org, and all the generous scholarship donors for making this incredible opportunity a reality. God bless you all!

As a first-generation college student, this experience means everything to me and so much more. I wholeheartedly believe that higher education is an influential pathway to creating a fulfilling life and making a profound difference in the world. As the esteemed Nelson Mandela aptly stated, "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world." I genuinely believe that attending university is my path to unlocking this life-changing potential, allowing me to become a source of inspiration for my family, community, and the world at large. As a first-generation college student, I am driven by a strong work ethic and an unwavering determination to succeed in my chosen career path. My story stands as a powerful tribute to the relentless dedication of my two hardworking parents, who, despite not having college degrees themselves, cultivated an inspiring environment that propelled their son to achieve his academic aspirations. The sacrifices my parents made and the challenges my mother faced as a single parent during my upbringing inspire me to work diligently and strive for excellent grades. My goal in my professional life is to excel and make significant contributions to my employer. I aspire to be recognized as a reliable employee who always gives his utmost in every task. I aim to foster a work environment built on compassion, respect, empathy, and professionalism. I also aspire to be a source of inspiration for other low-income, first-generation minority students, demonstrating that opportunities and potential exist for all of us, regardless of our socio-economic background or the challenges we've encountered in our lives. Inspired by the profound words of renowned Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become," I aspire to embody this philosophy in my professional journey. I aim to harness my life's experiences as motivation to achieve academic excellence. As I close, I want to thank Mr. Nguyen and all the various scholarship donor(s) for making this opportunity possible. To my fellow first-generation students reading this essay, I want to inspire you with the reassurance that there is indeed a light at the end of the tunnel. No setback can hinder the greatness that lies within us. I declare victory and triumph over every step of our life's journey, wishing everyone the very best in their academic endeavors. Thank you and God bless!

I could write endlessly in response to the prompt. God has profoundly assisted me throughout my life, unlocking opportunities for me that would have otherwise remained inaccessible. Upon reading the prompt for this scholarship essay, I was momentarily taken aback. It's as if I've stepped into a time machine, allowing me to review the past 22 years of my life in a single glance. Throughout the over two decades of observation, there have been very few moments devoid of the influence of God's hand. Although I could enumerate countless ways in which God has supported me throughout my life, I want to highlight three key aspects where His presence has made a profound impact on my journey. The first would be my education. Being raised in a Christian home, my mother consistently emphasized the significance of prioritizing God in everything I undertook. She instilled in me a mindset that embraced seeking God's wisdom in every aspect of life. She often advised, "Place your hands on your test," or "Say a prayer before writing your essays." At first, I struggled to grasp my mother's reasoning, but over time, I came to appreciate why she made that suggestion. I soon realized the profound importance of inviting God into my educational journey, actively seeking His divine wisdom in challenging subjects. I can confidently say that since I started incorporating this principle into my life, I've experienced remarkable results and have gained a newfound confidence in my academic endeavors. Moreover, God has profoundly supported me throughout my life by instilling a deep sense of hope and assurance. We undeniably inhabit a world filled with uncertainty. In an instant, circumstances can shift from favorable to dire. When this transformation takes place, it's completely normal to experience feelings of confusion, discomfort, and despair. However, I have discovered that when I focus on God instead of my circumstances, and elevate His presence above the weight of my challenges, I initiate a transformative shift that paves the way for breakthrough. The remarkable aspect of this transformative shift is that it relies not on my financial status, my living situation, the car I drive, or my current circumstances, but solely on my willingness to place my trust in God. In parallel with my academic journey, I've found that trusting in God amid the uncertainties of life has significantly improved my mental well-being and instilled in me the courage to keep pushing forward. Ultimately, God has profoundly influenced my life by instilling a set of divine values within me through His word. As I explore the profound teachings of the Bible, I find my thoughts challenged and my heart's intentions called into question. I'm also motivated to reflect on God's role in my life and my commitment to following His commands. Embracing these practices has allowed me to cultivate a life rich in joy, peace, happiness, godliness, purity, and the fruits of the Spirit. This journey has cultivated a profound transformation in my mindset, inspiring me to dedicate myself to serving both God and others. I am confident that my faith in God will play a pivotal role in my career, instilling in me the values of hard work, dedication, patience, and humility. I aspire to create and be part of a future workplace anchored in these godly principles, one that embodies them every single day. I understand that achieving this aspiration begins not in the workplace or merely through others, but within myself! In conclusion, I extend my appreciation to the scholarship organizer and generous donors who've afforded me this remarkable opportunity to share. God bless!

Since the beginning of time, a unifying force has consistently connected diverse groups of people. This force has transcended various dividing factors and has proven its resilience throughout the annals of history. This resilient force is community—an essential element that is frequently discussed yet seldom visualized in our rapidly evolving technological society. While there are pervasive worries about the necessity to rejuvenate community spirit, we frequently observe a troubling lack of authentic efforts to transform this vision into reality. Community has always been the cornerstone of a flourishing society. Most, if not all, prominent dynasties throughout history have thrived by nurturing a robust sense of community. From the bustling ancient marketplaces to the local churches and the streets of the segregated South, the essence of community has consistently thrived. As a representative of the future generation, I feel it is my responsibility to nurture the emerging wave of community. I am confident that by leveraging my diverse and unique talents, I can contribute to fostering a more empathetic and compassionate global community. I firmly believe that my formal education serves as the cornerstone of my endeavors. As I acquire new skills at university, I aim to apply them in both my professional life and my local community. I am confident in my ability to be a catalyst for change within my community, inspiring others to initiate positive transformations in their own neighborhoods. From this vantage point, my actions, along with those of other like-minded individuals, will have cultivated an oasis of transformation grounded in the universal principles of empathy and understanding. I also strive to achieve this goal by leveraging the diverse skills I have developed throughout my daily experiences. A thriving global community relies on the insights and guidance of individuals who have faced adversity and emerged victorious. This community needs strong leaders who can establish a clear vision for the future and inspire those struggling to adapt to this transition toward optimization. The life skills I have developed over the years—patience, generosity, compassion, and humility—serve as a beacon of hope, paving the way for the establishment of a global community founded on understanding and empathy. I firmly believe that information should be freely shared rather than restricted, and that wisdom is most valuable when it is taught openly rather than kept hidden. This endeavor represents a significant part of my passion as I strive to build the global community of the future. Ultimately, in addition to leveraging my skills and talents, I am committed to using my voice to champion the needs of vulnerable community members and advocate for those who have been overlooked. In our rapidly evolving global community, we require passionate advocates more than we need wealth, fame, or accolades. These individuals must tirelessly march the streets of revitalization, continuously raising the clarion call of hope. If we do not accomplish these goals, we have also fallen short of embodying the true essence of community. In conclusion, I am confident that leveraging my personal skills and talents to advocate for the voiceless and highlight the concerns of the hopeless will contribute to the creation of a global community that truly embodies empathy and understanding. I'm confident this commitment will endure over time, much like the great societies of the past.

Growing up in a low-income single-parent household was quite the journey. There were moments when my mother and I soared high, and other times when we faced challenges and felt low. These experiences nurtured my fondness for sunny days, cultivating a disdain for rain, even though I understood that most of my days would likely be overcast. With no father in the home and a financially struggling single mother, I faced significant statistical disadvantages that seemed to stack the odds overwhelmingly against me. This realization haunted me throughout my childhood, as I frequently felt overshadowed by my peers who appeared to possess everything I lacked. I always longed to blend in, yet I seemed to stand out like a sore thumb. Despite facing numerous challenges, there was one thing in my home that always remained abundant. This abundant thing was the unwavering love and support of my single mother. With relentless dedication and fervent prayers, she created a nurturing home for me, working tirelessly to provide everything I needed. The inspiring atmosphere around me fueled my determination to overcome life's challenges, much like I witnessed my mother do, motivating me to aspire for greater dreams beyond my current reality. I came to understand that, while I may not have possessed everything I desired, I had more than enough to stand tall and face the rain with confidence. I aim to leverage my life experiences to create a meaningful impact in my community and beyond. My mission is to empower others to not only face their challenges head-on but also to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. I strive to be a role model by consistently embodying the principles I've shared. This commitment not only enhances my credibility but also inspires those around me, regardless of their current stage in life.

Throughout my upbringing, I consistently felt out of place. Despite my best attempts to blend in, I consistently felt like an outsider. Unbeknownst to me at the time, this experience was the foundation of my fear of rejection and deep-seated insecurity. I longed to be cherished and included, yet my reality placed me in the shadows as an exiled outcast. This prompted me to turn my attention inward, reflecting on the many reasons I felt out of place and the fundamental issues within myself that led to this sense of isolation. I was excessively critical and harsh on myself, which led me to descend into a profound pit of insecurity, diminished self-esteem, and jealousy. I sought solace yet discovered only emptiness, while peace and hope felt like distant dreams. My sole refuge from the chaos was home, but it was burdened with financial challenges. Despite my mother's relentless efforts and her ability to make the most of our circumstances, we faced challenges during my childhood. It was challenging enough to cope with the struggles of my mental health, but the additional weight of my household's financial difficulties made it even more overwhelming. Although drugs, sex, and alcohol were absent from my life, my mind was incessantly haunted by the notion of ending it all. believed that my absence could create a brighter world and that, at last, I could find relief from the burdens that plagued my thoughts. While I am grateful that I never attempted to end my life, I frequently found myself consumed by those thoughts, often without giving proper thought to the impact such a decision would have on my loved ones. I recognized that I was in a difficult phase of my life and required substantial support. These thoughts lingered for a while until my mother, concerned, heard me sobbing uncontrollably behind the locked bathroom door. I never revealed my feelings to her, as I didn't want to burden her with yet another concern in her already overwhelming life. Consequently, I buried my feelings in the hope of lightening the load she was already carrying in life. However, this time was different, as I couldn't conceal the raw emotions and tears that flowed from my eyes. I shared all my feelings with my mother, and I distinctly recall our conversation being incredibly heartfelt; it truly felt transformative. In the weeks that followed, my mother introduced me to a counselor along with a youth counselor from our church, who guided me in exploring and addressing the underlying causes of my mental health challenges. Together, we actively examined and developed impactful strategies to address these challenges, while incorporating positive reinforcements to counter negative thoughts and emotions. Over time, I discovered how to confront my emotions head-on and tackle the underlying issues instead of avoiding them. Although I continue to evolve, I often reflect on my journey of personal growth and development, particularly in contrast to the challenging period I once faced. While this experience caused me significant pain, I am grateful for the valuable lessons it imparted. It has shaped me into a resilient, compassionate, and perceptive individual. I have come to appreciate the significance of mental health and the transformative power of self-reflection and authenticity. If you find yourself in similar circumstances to mine, remember that you are more than capable and deserving. God created you for a purpose and a reason, and wants the best for your life. I aspire for my story to encourage others to seek help during tough times, to be open with their loved ones, and to always hold onto hope!

Ever since I was young, I've loved the story of "The Wizard of Oz". The vibrant personalities of the characters, coupled with the meticulously crafted narrative of the enchanting world of Oz, have always held me spellbound. In her quest to return home to Kansas, Dorothy encounters a host of magical friends, each with their own innermost desires. As she aids them on their journeys, she also assists the Wizard, all with the hope that her selfless acts will earn her a ticket home. The powerful dichotomy between uncertainty and triumph has always been the primary reason I've been captivated by this franchise. "Wicked" delves deeper into the enchanting realm of Oz, unraveling the complex bond between the two witches, Elphaba and Glinda, while shedding light on their compelling backstories. In film and television, it's rare for the audience to truly explore a specific group of characters. When they do get that opportunity, it's often marred by misrepresentation or underdeveloped portrayals. "Wicked" stands out for its profound exploration of the two witches of Oz and the intricate dynamics of their unique relationship. Through watching the musical, I've discovered striking parallels between the decisions, actions, and dialogues of each witch in "The Wizard of Oz," as well as how their individual backstories influence their perspectives on key scenes. This encapsulates my fandom for 'Wicked'. I firmly believe that its transition to film has not only been a remarkable opportunity to bring Gregory Maguire's vision to life, but it will also allow us to explore the intricate narratives of two of the central characters in the enchanting land of Oz even further. I'm also a fan of 'Wicked' because I find its central themes profoundly compelling. The exploration of friendship, the complexities of good and evil, identity, and morality truly resonate with me. Additionally, I believe that 'Wicked' encourages the audience to transcend their preconceived notions of good and evil. It invites a deeper exploration and greater understanding of these concepts, allowing for a more meaningful interpretation of the parallels that exist between them. The central themes of the franchise create a genuine connection with the audience, enabling us to relate our own experiences to the struggles faced by the witches in their fictional universe. For countless reasons, both stated and unspoken, I will remain a devoted supporter and enthusiastic admirer of Gregory Maguire's literary contributions, as well as everyone involved in bringing his remarkable works to life. I believe that writing is one of the most profound forms of expression, allowing the human mind to convey its deepest creativity and share a radiant spark of understanding with the world. I eagerly anticipate the release of the 'Wicked' movie and hope that audiences worldwide will discover the same profound value in its relatable central themes, memorable cast of characters, and enchanting setting that I have. - I thank the bold.org team and all others involved for creating this remarkable scholarship opportunity. May God bless and keep you all!

Championing the cause of the unborn can often feel like an overwhelming challenge. In a political landscape that increasingly favors the pro-choice stance, navigating your own beliefs can be quite challenging. Nevertheless, throughout the majority of my 22 years on this planet, I have ardently championed a pro-life perspective, serving as a steadfast advocate for those who lack a voice of their own. I believe that life is invaluable and deserves to be cherished. Life is not just a series of accidents or random occurrences; it is a purposeful creation, shaped by the will of an omnipotent God. When the Lord fashioned human beings, he did so with intention and honor. Humans were bestowed with dominion over the earth and all the creatures, great and small, that inhabit it. This was not a mere accident; it was a deliberate initiative aimed at offering humanity abundant opportunities to sustain life and nurture the world in a manner that honors the divine. Furthermore, life on Earth has thrived for thousands of years, with creation unfolding its wonders and its creator empowering this remarkable journey. Herein lies the true beauty of life: in wonder and limitless possibilities. Human life is invaluable not only for its existence but also for the extraordinary moments, creations, experiences, and triumphs that emerge from it. Throughout history, both past and present, many remarkable heroes have transcended the limits of their humanity, demonstrating extraordinary courage and strength. They pushed beyond the limits that many were too hesitant to reach, showcasing the incredible potential inherent in human life. Isn't this intricate and beautifully crafted human life truly deserving of our preservation and admiration? As we stride confidently through the halls of "liberty" and "the right to choose," are we overlooking the intricate details of the opposing perspective? Through my deep exploration of the beauty of human life in all its forms, my experiences have significantly influenced my pro-life stance. Through my involvement in local community initiatives, volunteering with charitable organizations, cherishing moments with my family, and exploring new places, I have embraced the authentic essence of human connection. Through my interactions with both like-minded and contrasting individuals, I have developed a deeper appreciation for their distinctive experiences and talents. I've also come to understand that human connection lies at the heart of what makes our world extraordinary and shapes the most profound moments in our lives. These experiences have profoundly reinforced my commitment to the pro-life stance, as I deeply appreciate the beauty of every human life and firmly believe that each individual should have the opportunity to thrive and achieve their fullest potential. With that in mind, I aspire to remain a passionate advocate for the unborn and for individuals from all walks of life. For me, being pro-life means wholeheartedly advocating for the value of all human life, extending beyond just the unborn. By actively advocating for and engaging in more opportunities that enhance the dignity and value of all human life, I am certain that I will pave the way for a life grounded in compassion, love, and a deep commitment to human connection. I aspire to inspire others through my dedication, remaining steadfast in my journey to promote the greater good for humanity. -I thank "Avila" and all others involved in creating this opportunity. God bless!

Throughout my childhood, I was constantly drawn to tinkering with various things. Fueled by my curiosity, I set out to understand the underlying mechanisms of how things operate and to examine the various elements that interconnect to form them. My curiosity was initially focused on everyday objects, yet I found myself captivated by the allure of buildings. As I explored the buildings in my city and the many cities I visited in my youth, I frequently found myself pondering, "How were these remarkable structures constructed?" and "Who played a pivotal role in bringing them to life?" I discovered that the magnificent masterpiece before me was made possible by the visionary architect and a dedicated team of engineers. Although I was unaware of it at the moment, this experience marked my initial foray into the realm of design, a passion I would come to wholeheartedly embrace in due course. From that moment forward, model making and abstract drawing emerged as my primary mediums for channeling my creativity and replicating the structures I observed in the real world. I would seize every resource available to me to transform my creative vision into reality, and I proudly shared my work with my mother and others, experiencing a joy akin to winning the lottery. I enthusiastically engaged in design expos and found great pleasure in listening to podcasts featuring architects who would share their profound insights and experiences in the industry. These experiences ignited an undeniable passion for architecture and design within me, despite my limited understanding of their intricacies. This intrinsic enthusiasm ultimately guided my decision to pursue a degree in architecture. In the Fall of 2021, I embarked on my journey as an architecture undergraduate student, and I’ve successfully completed three years of study to date. My undergraduate studies in architecture have not only reinforced my passion for the field but also enhanced my appreciation for the very elements that initially inspired me to pursue this path. I aspire to create a significant impact in my future professional endeavors, grounded in the principles of collaboration and innovation. By leading with an open mind and open arms, I aspire to inspire and to contribute to an architectural culture that values collaborative discovery. The world is a diverse place, brimming with bountiful diverse voices, experiences, viewpoints, and walks of life. I strive to celebrate the beauty of diversity and advocate for the inclusion of varied perspectives in the workplace. I am convinced that my faith in God, along with my dedication to godly principles, resolute determination, and relentless commitment to driving positive change, will empower me to achieve my goals and establish a professional legacy defined by collaboration, innovation, transformation, and excellence. In closing, I thank the Honor Soceity Foundation and all others involved for creating this remarkable scholarship opportunity. The continuous work you all do is truly inspiring and worth emulating. I hope to pay it forward to the next generation as you all have graciously done so here. God bless!

When I envision the future, a myriad of possibilities comes to mind. I envision the incredible moments I will share with others, along with the exhilarating experiences I'll have while exploring the world. In envisioning the future, my ideas expand dramatically, challenging the boundaries of my current limitations. Through my self-discovery journey, I've realized that I'm a passionate dreamer, brimming with hopes and aspirations for a vibrant future. My aspirations for the future are rooted in a singular principle: Service. I aspire to lead a life dedicated to serving God and others. In all aspects of my personal life, social interactions, and professional endeavors, I am dedicated to leading with a servant's heart in everything I pursue. Raised in a home that emphasized the value of service, I found endless inspiration to give back. Despite facing her own challenges as a single mother with limited resources, she instilled in me the invaluable lesson of selflessly serving others, regardless of the sacrifices involved. Her selfless actions made a profound impact on me, far surpassing any influence that money or a lavish lifestyle could offer. This experience was a pivotal catalyst in my decision to dedicate my life to serving others. To me, service embodies a commitment to giving my utmost in every endeavor. It means arriving on time and prepared to assist, while also demonstrating the grace to appreciate diverse perspectives. I strive to maintain an open mind to the varied experiences of others. It means harnessing my voice to speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves and using my strength to elevate those who carry heavy burdens. While many strive for lavish lifestyles or extraordinary accomplishments, I firmly believe that goals hold little value unless they foster a positive impact on those in our midst. By embracing a servant's heart and diligently addressing my weaknesses, I am confident that I am paving the way to achieve my goals. Additionally, by dedicating myself to my studies and actively contributing to my local community, I am certain that I will achieve remarkable progress toward a future that I can truly take pride in. Undoubtedly, the quest for personal growth and transformative change knows no bounds, and I find myself relentlessly seeking new opportunities to evolve and improve my life. I am truly thankful for everyone in my life who has set a positive example, and I look forward to building future relationships with individuals who can provide me with wisdom, encouragement, and motivation as I relentlessly pursue my heartfelt ambitions. Every journey has its fair share of challenges and obstacles, and my experience in college has certainly been no exception. Navigating the rigorous demands of higher education, the pressure to excel academically, and the financial burdens that weigh heavily on many college students can be overwhelming at times. Despite my commitment to nurturing a positive mindset, there are times when I feel engulfed by negativity and find myself tempted to give up. The shadows of defeat loom over my thoughts, leading me to believe that my journey may come to an untimely conclusion. Yet, I remain steadfast in my commitment to perseverance, anchored by the enduring pillars of my unceasing dreams, hopes, and aspirations. I am confident that as I approach the completion of my degree, I will encounter even more challenges along the way. Yet, I have unwavering confidence in my resilience during difficult times, and I fully trust that my God serves as a guiding light in the darkest of tunnels. - Thank you, "Costonis"/Costonis Family, and all others who made this scholarship opportunity possible, God bless!

When people inquire about my upbringing, I frequently share the incredible resilience of my single mother. I recount the cherished moments from my childhood when my mother went the extra mile to make things special, always ensuring that my needs were met. Every detail I share comes with the utmost joy and deep admiration for the incredible effort my mother put into raising me to be the person I am today. My mother, a woman of unwavering faith and a formidable work ethic, always took the opportunity to share her convictions with me without hesitation. She consistently emphasized the significance of faith, dedication, and education, assuring me that a bright future filled with greatness awaits. I vividly recall the powerful conviction in her voice and her unwavering passion for shaping me into a God-fearing, righteous young man. It was evident to me that she perceived a potential in me far beyond my own understanding, and she dedicated herself to unlocking it. My mother’s laughter, love, and vibrant spirit illuminated our home, creating a nurturing environment that served as a powerful example for me during my formative years. During my hardest times and lowest moments, my mother's uplifting spirit rescued me from my despair and placed me on a path filled with hope. I was privileged to behold the extraordinary light within her, a brilliance that emanates not from her own actions but as a reflection of the God we both honor. Though my childhood in a single-parent household may not have been marked by glitz or glamour, the true wealth I gained from those formative years lay in the invaluable lessons I learned along the way. Inspired by my mother's powerful words and captivating actions, I became enamored with the positive example she set, providing me with a benchmark to follow and emulate. Even when trouble came knocking, I chose not to answer, fortified by a deep understanding of right and wrong and an unwavering commitment to excellence. I recognized that excellence resides not with the foolish or those who act harmfully, but rather with the wise individuals who leverage their wisdom for their benefit. As I matured and the realities of life became increasingly clear, I consistently turned to my mother's wise guidance and uplifting presence, which served as a steadfast anchor in my pursuit of righteousness and excellence. My mother's extraordinary ability to envision a life beyond her current situation has deeply inspired me. A woman of many plans, but of even greater determination. For her, dreams transcend the mere wandering thoughts of the mind; they embody a tangible reality, a cherished vision she embraces and nourishes as if it has already come to fruition. No amount of words or opposing feelings could sway her from her dreams, for she has firmly rooted herself in a realm of wonder. Her steadfast presence in this captivating field has inspired me to follow her lead, allowing my imagination to soar with possibilities and aspirations for future success. I imagine a future brimming with limitless wonder and extraordinary possibilities as I tap into the greatness that lies within me. I firmly believe that this greatness will guide me toward opportunities that enhance the world around me and unlock doors to remarkable achievements in my career, spirituality, social connections, and community engagement. I hope that the insights shared in this essay, along with the positive examples from my youth, will inspire me to remain focused on my goals and strive to reach my fullest potential. - Huge thanks to the scholarship organizer and donor(s). May God bless you all!

The lyric "I am light as a feather, I'm as stiff as a board. I pay attention to things that most people ignore" from Olivia Rodrigo's 'GUTS' album ("all-american expletive") deeply resonates with my own teenage experience, capturing a profound sense of emotional complexity and introspection that truly stands out to me. During my childhood, I was the quiet and reserved one, often seen as introverted or guarded. I was delicate like a feather, yet as unyielding as a board. I frequently experienced a sense of not belonging and turned to isolation as a way to shield myself from the turbulent emotions within. Despite the efforts of a few friends and family members to assure me that I was fitting in well with them, my mind told a different story. This disconnect left me feeling deeply insecure and increasingly dissociated from those around me. These emotions deepened during my teenage years as I faced ongoing challenges in forming social connections with others and breaking free from my shell. I realized that I wasn't truly alone in my feelings, yet I often felt isolated due to my own assumptions about others and my habit of relentless self-comparison. These lyrics profoundly reflect the essence of my teenage years, encapsulating the myriad challenges I faced while navigating the complexities of growing up. They poignantly highlight the universal struggles that adolescents encounter as they adjust to the ever-evolving landscapes of their lives. The pressure to conform and be part of the popular crowd can be overwhelming. Nonetheless, our social skills may not consistently align with these expectations, which can create difficulties in fulfilling such demands. The song beautifully encapsulates the struggle many of us face—being both delicate like feathers and rigid like boards—while we seek the perfect harmony between our extroverted and introverted natures. The latter part of the lyrics struck a deep chord with me, as I was highly self-critical during my teenage years. This tendency made me more attuned to the opinions and actions of others than most people. While my friends believed I was being overly dramatic and my family thought I was exaggerating, I possessed an insight that most either overlooked or deliberately ignored. Each glance, smirk, remark, response, and gesture resonated deeply within me, igniting the insecurities that were battling fiercely within. As my sensitivity deepened, my awareness expanded to encompass aspects of life that others frequently overlooked or undervalued. I longed for the liberation from this dreadful adversary and for a return to the carefree days of my youth, yet I found myself unable to achieve either. I came to the profound realization that my mental state was entirely within my control, and the only person capable of instigating change was myself. Time and again, I realized that I was not alone in my struggles. Many other teenagers faced similar challenges and were engaged in their own battles to either overcome or cope with these issues. Although Olivia Rodrigo may not have intended for her lyrics to lead to the conclusion I've reached, the gracefulness of her writing invites a profound opportunity for self-reflection that alleviates inner turmoil. This remarkable talent showcases Rodrigo's extraordinary songwriting abilities, distinguishing her as one of the rare artists today who can convey profound meaning and forge a deep connection with her audience. I foresee this trend persisting in her future musical pursuits, and I eagerly look forward to another chance to celebrate her inspiring contributions. In conclusion, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the dedicated team at Bold.org and everyone involved in bringing this scholarship opportunity to life. God bless!

I opened my eyes to the beauty of this world on August 8th, 2002. I was born in the Santa Rosa hospital in San Antonio's downtown district to my loving mother and father. While my father played an active role in my life, it was my mother, a dedicated single parent, who raised me. Growing up in a single-mother household left me with countless questions that weighed heavily on my mind. I would often wonder why my parents were not together, and why was I subjected to this particular household dynamic. Despite my mother's deep love and her unwavering efforts to give me the best, my mind was flooded with questions that both of us struggled to answer. Regardless of my family's dynamics, I fondly recall a childhood filled with love, faith, and strong family bonds. My memories are rich with heartfelt moments and the pure joy of childlike wonder that captured my imagination. Family gatherings resembled magnificent balls, filled with joyful moments and heartfelt conversations akin to a poet crafting the narrative of his life. I experienced a truly blessed childhood that my soul yearns to revisit, and I forged familial bonds that even the most powerful force could never shatter. Like a coin with two distinct sides, my experience growing up in a single-mother household revealed different facets of life. Although I appreciated the richness and beauty of my upbringing, my mind was constantly grappling with the underlying truths of my family's dynamics. Beneath my mother's warm heart and loving smile, I could detect the quiet anxiety she grappled with while facing the difficulties of being a low-income single parent. Despite her efforts to mask her true feelings about her financial struggles, I gradually became more aware of the harsh reality she was confronting. Throughout my childhood, despite the numerous challenges we encountered, I held deep admiration for my mother’s extraordinary resilience and her unwavering determination to press on. She refused to let her circumstances dictate her mindset, clinging firmly to her faith in God as her guiding light. My experience as a child of a single mother taught me the invaluable virtues of faith, hard work, determination, and a pursuit of excellence. My mother didn't need to instruct me to embody these virtues; she demonstrated them through her inspiring actions. These experiences from my childhood have significantly shaped my life, underscoring the profound impact of being raised in a single-mother household. As baseball icon Jackie Robinson once eloquently stated, "A life is not significant except in the influence it has on others." I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the world by embodying the values my single mother instilled in me. By embodying faith, showcasing dedication, and cultivating a mindset of excellence, I aim to serve as a positive role model, inspiring others to achieve their fullest potential. Moreover, I am committed to fulfilling the needs of my community through engaging in community outreach programs, volunteering opportunities, and offering assistance during times of need. I firmly believe that by embodying godly virtues and being a beacon of compassion in a selfish world, I can create a positive impact that extends far beyond myself. - In closing, I thank the scholarship organizer and donor(s) for creating this wonderful opportunity. May God bless you all!

STEM is one of the fastest-growing sectors in today's workforce. Approximately 25-35% of undergraduate students are pursuing STEM majors, with these percentages rising in rapidly developing technological hubs like Asia and North America. The emergence of artificial intelligence and machine learning has amplified the demand for STEM professionals to drive the development and innovation of these transformative technologies. In today's world, filled with multifaceted challenges, society is increasingly relying on the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to find effective solutions. Among the numerous tools utilized by STEM professionals to devise solutions, few can rival the remarkable effectiveness of calculus in the realm of problem-solving. Calculus is the systematic exploration of continuous change, emphasizing the concepts of differentiation and integration. Calculus provides a profound understanding of the rate at which change occurs and the cumulative effect of that change over time. Grasping these mathematical principles is essential for the effective implementation of advanced technologies, including quantum computers and sophisticated machinery like modern jet engines. Tasks that once consumed a considerable amount of time have now been streamlined thanks to in-depth calculus-based research and analysis. This brings me to my assertion that calculus plays a crucial role in the STEM fields, as it provides invaluable insights into the various rates of change and their impact on different aspects of modern technology. Since the inception of STEM, it has been evident that the disciplines encompassed by this framework have been deliberately distinguished for their significant potential and tangible benefits in the real world. Institutions and governments alike have actively worked to strengthen STEM education, resulting in increased national innovation and significant advancements across various sectors. Analyzing a variety of international budget proposals and public statements reveals a steadfast commitment to support, as an increasing number of nations and institutions are eager to engage in this technological revolution. Much like the optimistic visionaries of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, who celebrated the possibilities brought by the Industrial Revolution, today's enthusiastic advocates of the 21st-century technological boom embrace an equally vibrant outlook on the potential of emerging technologies. Optimists passionately celebrate the myriad advancements that modern technology and innovation bring, eagerly sharing their excitement about the rapid pace at which these breakthroughs are being achieved. They, along with us, understand that progress will be significantly limited without a strong emphasis on STEM, particularly through the thorough application of calculus-based principles in research and development. As an advocate and aspiring professional in the STEM field, I am passionate about fostering a global embrace of the immense benefits that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics can bring to society. These benefits will promote the well-being of everyone and contribute to the overall improvement of society. Regardless of your identity or location, you benefit from the remarkable advancements in STEM research and development, which contribute to a net positive impact in your life. I aspire to be a catalyst for change through my passionate advocacy and dedicated efforts in my STEM field, inspiring others to recognize and embrace the invaluable benefits that STEM has to offer. In closing, I thank the Learner team and all others who made this scholarship opportunity possible. The tremendous work you all do to provide financial support to students is indeed remarkable, and something worthy of imitation. Once again, I thank you all, and may God bless!

My name is Cedric Pitts, and I am a 22-year-old undergraduate student studying architecture at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I'm in my junior year and excitedly looking forward to completing my degree. I have a passion for design, gaming, and art, and I frequently immerse myself in creative writing for enjoyment. I take great pride in being the product of a strong single mother and a proud native of San Antonio, Texas. Furthermore, I am a steadfast man of faith, committed to living a life devoted to God and serving others. Creating a positive impact on the world is among the most meaningful achievements one can realize in their lifetime. It's undeniable that our world is saturated with poor role models and negative influences; hence, a beacon of positivity is essential to restore balance. Around the globe, countless individuals find themselves cloaked in negativity, surrounded by toxic people, unconstructive thoughts, and limiting mindsets. This pervasive influence fosters a sense of pessimism and cultivates a gloomy perspective on life overall. Even in institutions of higher learning, esteemed status, and religious significance, certain elements can still evoke feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy in the midst of a changing world. In a world rife with despair, maintaining a positive outlook can be quite challenging. Despite the ongoing challenges in our world, I'm passionate about making a positive difference in my community by shining a light on and tackling the increasing issues of socioeconomic hardship. Contemplating the extent of socioeconomic adversity reveals a stark reality that is easily observed. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals positioned at the lower end of the socioeconomic spectrum are more likely to experience chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and mental health disorders. This increased risk can be attributed to various factors linked to their socioeconomic status. a lack of adequate care. Furthermore, information from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and other respected organizations consistently highlight the adverse consequences associated with low socioeconomic status in their specific fields of focus. An examination of credible data alongside a brief observation of social conditions within various communities reveals a concerning trend that is on the rise. I feel it's my responsibility to step forward and advocate for the voices of those who are marginalized. I don’t just want to identify the problem; I aspire to actively contribute to the broader solution. By engaging in ongoing community service, outreach, advocacy, and demonstrating compassion for others, I am confident that I will be propelled further on a path towards meaningful change and renewed hope. Furthermore, I believe that by consistently serving as a positive role model in my community, I can provide valuable support and encouragement to those seeking guidance and reassurance during challenging times. My grandmother often reminded me while I was growing up, "sometimes, people just need a helping hand." I intend to be that helping hand for those experiencing economic struggles, regardless of the challenges involved. My experience confronting socioeconomic adversity has profoundly influenced me in numerous ways. I have witnessed a profound growth in my personal convictions of faith, hope, and perseverance throughout my journey, as well as in the deepening of my cherished relationships with family and friends. Economic challenges have revealed to me the true essence of life and the real treasures that hold significance. My future aspirations are thriving as I work diligently to overcome challenges and become a catalyst for generational change in my family and community.

(Attribute 3) Since my youth, I've felt a deep sense of conviction guide me. I understood the concepts of right and wrong, and I was aware of what I should and shouldn’t allow myself to indulge in. Even though I was eager to belong, I was fully aware of the lengths I would and wouldn't go to in order to gain acceptance from the "it" crowd. I believe this quality has distinguished me and guided me in making thoughtful decisions throughout my life. Even in my darkest moments, when I may falter, I cling to my convictions and make it my mission to realign myself with the principles I hold dear. I am confident that I flourish with an unyielding determination by adhering to principles that stand in stark contrast to societal norms, becoming a guiding light in an otherwise dark and cold world. In my interactions with others, I make it a priority to speak with intention, aiming to inspire and uplift rather than to criticize or demean. In my actions, I aim to lead with intention, ensuring that I conduct myself in a manner that not only pleases God but also serves to uplift those around me. I have discovered the beauty of self-reflection and actively seek to pinpoint areas in my life that need revitalization. I am committed to putting forth my utmost effort in everything I undertake, refusing to settle for anything less than excellence and demanding only the best from myself. I fully reject the malevolent practices of this world and instead choose to embrace the principles of righteousness, dedicating myself to upholding these values even in the most challenging and darkest times. By enhancing these aspects, I aim to thrive with an indomitable will. Although there are moments when my foundation is challenged and my core beliefs are scrutinized, I am unwavering in my commitment to live a purposeful life and to honor God in everything I undertake. I am filled with a resolute and unwavering spirit, believing wholeheartedly that I will continue to flourish with an unyielding will. I embrace the magnificent excellence granted to me by the Most High. (Attribute 8) Historically, I have always viewed taking risks as a foolish endeavor. My limited perception of risk-taking was primarily shaped by my personal interpretation and the doubts expressed by others. I was raised in an environment that shunned calculated risks and any form of risk-taking, as they believed such actions could jeopardize overall stability. Instead, I found myself confined to a monotonous routine, locked within a narrow framework that imposed tedious constraints. As I nurtured a negative perspective on risk-taking, this environment became ingrained in me, leading me to believe that risks only yield rewards for a fortunate few. It wasn't until my freshman year in college that this ideology was challenged, compelling me to reevaluate my convictions. I vividly recall going to my early morning freshman composition class, eager to acquire deeper insights for an assigned essay. While reviewing the list of potential essay topics, a particular subject caught my attention: "What are the pros and cons of calculated risks?" At that moment, I thought, "This essay will be a breeze since there are no advantages to calculated risk." To my astonishment, as I began gathering and examining credible sources on the subject, I quickly realized that there are indeed numerous advantages to embracing calculated risks. I recall a source discussing the mental benefits of stepping outside one's comfort zone, while another highlighted the potential financial rewards of exploring new markets. This experience left me intrigued and opened my mind to the possibility of reevaluating something I had previously considered foolish. In the course of my research and crafting a well-structured essay exploring the advantages and disadvantages of calculated risks, I uncovered a debt that I was resolute in repaying. To settle this debt, I've formulated a strategy centered around the advantages of taking calculated risks. I am fully committed to embracing every opportunity for strategic risk that comes my way. I will not only embrace this profound new revelation but also strive to cement its significance within my family, community, and the broader world. I want everyone to recognize the immense potential of believing in themselves and embracing calculated risks, which can catapult them further than they ever dreamed possible. I firmly believe that ignorance stems from miseducation. Therefore, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be enlightened and to expand my perspective. In conclusion, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the scholarship organizer and all the generous donors for creating this incredible opportunity. Your efforts in shining a light on a topic that frequently goes overlooked in society are truly commendable. Black people, black voices, and black excellence, are and will always be, remarkable, thank you!

Mental health has emerged as one of the most widely discussed topics in contemporary society. Nearly every news channel and television network features a segment focused on exploring the intricate complexities of mental health. Even a mere walk through the streets of both developed and developing regions would quickly reveal individuals grappling with mental health issues. It is clear that mental health stands as one of the foremost issues facing our 21st-century society, driving extensive scientific research and attention. A look at recent statistics indicates a concerning rise in mental health issues globally, while the availability of qualified facilities to effectively tackle these problems is significantly lagging behind the demand. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 1 in 8 individuals globally are grappling with a mental disorder. Furthermore, the World Health Organization estimates that over 280 million individuals across the globe are grappling with depression, and approximately 1 in 13 people suffer from anxiety. These statistics are increasingly alarming as researchers consider the economic and cultural obstacles that impede proper access to treatment. Across the globe, countless individuals are left to fend for themselves, frequently missing out on the essential diagnoses and treatments they require. Alongside the barriers to accessing mental healthcare, a pervasive stigma continues to afflict society and deeply impacts the lives of those grappling with mental health disorders or concerns. Individuals frequently face judgment as "weak" or "inadequate" because of their challenges, leading to feelings of alienation from their peers. This not only exacerbates the struggles of those in pain but also perpetuates an unfair stigma surrounding their vulnerable circumstances. In spite of the significant stigma and limited access to medical care, there is an increasing demand for mental health advocacy. The world is calling for individuals to rise and advocate for the most vulnerable and voiceless members of their communities. Furthermore, there is an increasing demand to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health disorders/issues and to promote better conditions for individuals who are affected. I take great pride in being among those who recognize the issue and have answered the call to advocate for change. I have prioritized mental health because it holds significant importance for me, both as a student and as an individual, given its profound influence on daily life. Just as an engine relies on oil for optimal performance, our brains also necessitate proper care and maintenance to unlock their full potential. Neglecting this care leads us to compromised performance and more difficult coping strategies when faced with life's challenges. This is why I raise my voice and share my experiences to make a difference. I want others to understand that it’s perfectly acceptable to not be okay; seeking help to calm a troubled mind is neither "weak" nor "inadequate." In pursuing this path, I have profoundly affected countless lives, while also uncovering deep insights into healing, hope, and resilience. I firmly believe that we were not placed on this planet to endure suffering or to succumb to defeat; instead, we are here with a meaningful purpose. Our ancestors confronted incredible challenges and endured significant hardships, not so we could succumb to our current trials, but to motivate us to rise and triumph over every obstacle we encounter, just as they did. We are not merely happy accidents, as the late Bob Ross would describe his artistic blunders; rather, we are a resolute species, guided by a clear plan and purpose established by Almighty God. Let us persist in championing the voiceless and the heartbroken, while also striving to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health! Thank you and God bless!

Prior to the commencement of construction, it is essential to develop a comprehensive set of architectural drawings to provide precise guidance for the builders. The drawings provide meticulous measurements and key design features, offering a clear path to completing the design. Likewise, if we want to build or develop something important in our own lives, we must first have a plan in place. Just as modern architects and engineers dedicate hours to meticulously crafting design plans, we must also work tirelessly to craft our vision for the future. Building something requires effort, dedication, and resilience. Anyone who aims to make a meaningful impact in their life knows they will face obstacles as they pursue their goals. While some obstacles can be overcome with minimal effort, others may require a greater amount of dedication and exertion. Nevertheless, we can be certain that obstacles will come along the way. If we aspire to create something significant in our lives, we must approach it with the mindset that it will be a journey, not a sprint. With that being said, my ultimate aspiration in life is to cultivate deep and meaningful connections, both with God and the people who surround me. By doing this, I am confident that I will truly engross myself in the core of community and faith, which greatly enriches my life. Furthermore, I firmly believe that this will empower me to forge profound bonds with fellow individuals, fostering an even deeper commitment to my spiritual beliefs. Building my life in this manner creates a robust foundation focused on love for God and others, and sets a precedent for a lifestyle aimed at enriching the world. I am confident that this approach will pave the way for my successful future and make a positive impact on the lives of those around me. I aspire to create a future brimming with boundless opportunities and a strong commitment to serving others through the pillars of education, faith, relationships, and hard work. Furthermore, through my unwavering commitment to my core values of faith and compassion for others, I am confident that this will pave the way for enduring success and a fulfilling, prosperous life. By fully dedicating myself to the outlined principles and goals, I firmly believe that I can make a profound difference in my community. My efforts will serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, particularly for those individuals who find themselves in the depths of despair. Frequently, we dismiss people based on their current situation or underestimate them due to our preconceived ideas. We often overlook the greatness within people and the beauty in their life's journey. I aspire to become a changemaker and spearhead a movement of individuals who uplift and inspire others, regardless of their life experiences, while also serving as a reminder that it is never too late to effect change. My hope ultimately lies in the incredible transformative power of Jesus Christ. I'm confident in His ability to transform lives, renew minds, and purify hearts!

We frequently hear about the numerous innovative projects happening globally through various news sources. There is a lot of buzz surrounding artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, and numerous other groundbreaking technologies. Despite their differences, all of these technological innovations can be traced back to one unified area of study: STEM. Some believe that STEM will drastically shape the future job market, while others foresee only a modest impact. Regardless of our predictions for this area of study, one thing is certain: our world is in constant flux, and science, technology, engineering, and math are at the forefront of driving this evolution. The transformation is already evident in higher education institutions in the United States, with data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) showing a steady increase in enrollment in STEM programs over the years. Furthermore, this revolution is making a significant impact on a global level, as data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) shows an increasing number of STEM graduates in higher education institutions worldwide. The overwhelming consensus among scholars and academic leaders is that this trend shows no signs of stopping, given the increasing number of students seeking opportunities in STEM fields to secure their position in the future job market. My decision to pursue a degree in STEM was primarily based on the reasons I outlined in my introduction paragraph: it's the future. Wherever I look, I see the incredible impact of STEM professionals and the immense potential of their technologies to revolutionize the world. STEM has proven to be highly beneficial to numerous industries, with its professionals constantly yielding fruitful results in their work. Few fields of study can rival the global impact of STEM while also offering plentiful job prospects for the next generation. Driven by my passion to make a difference in the world, I was inspired to pursue a STEM degree, and I have never looked back. I have a deep desire to contribute to a cause that will push the world forward and improve the lives of numerous individuals. My aspiration to make an impact in the STEM field as a person of color is driven by one simple thing: to inspire others. Throughout our history as people of color, we have frequently been subjected to the disheartening message that we were insufficient and that our contributions were not valued. These lies shaped the collective psyche of our ancestors, erecting barriers that inhibited optimism in this field of study. Although significant progress has been made towards achieving equity in our society, there remains a lack of diverse voices and input in this area of study. People of color account for only a quarter of the overall STEM workforce, revealing a significant underrepresentation in higher education institutions where they make up approximately 46% of students. With the grace of God, I aim to enter the future job market as a STEM professional and break down all barriers that hinder the inclusion of diverse groups. I aim to demonstrate to the world, through perseverance, support for others, and active advocacy, that as a person of color, I possess the necessary skills and determination to bring about positive change in the world. To all my fellow POC peers reading this, always remember that you are destined for greatness and no obstacle can hinder your path. With determination, we can overcome anything because everything is possible with God. In closing, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Learner team and everyone involved in making this scholarship opportunity a reality. May you all be blessed by God!

Greetings to all who are reading this scholarship application. I'd like to begin by introducing myself as Cedric Pitts, a 22-year-old undergraduate student at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I am a third-year architecture student at UTSA, eagerly working towards my goal of graduating with a Bachelor's degree in architecture in the Fall of 2025. I am deeply passionate about all aspects of design and thoroughly enjoy delving into the boundless realm of architecture and urban design. Being a person of faith, I take great satisfaction in leading a righteous life and achieving the numerous milestones that God has prepared for me. Not only that, I am fortunate to be the remarkable result of the unwavering dedication of a diligent single mother. She dedicated herself tirelessly to ensuring that I never lacked anything, setting an example through her actions of what it truly means to live a life devoted to the Almighty. Despite experiencing the unpredictable ups and downs of life, and facing my own share of defeats along the way, I take pride in my resilience and my relentless pursuit of greatness. Since I was a child, I have been constantly reminded of the incredible power that knowledge possesses. During my childhood, my mother always insisted that I pay attention in class and focus on improving in the areas where I struggled. She would consistently emphasize the importance of education and the significant impact it could have on my future. Her words didn't have an impact on me for a while, as I believed that school was simply an additional burden imposed on the young people of America. However, my mother consistently nurtured this perspective in me, and inspired me to strive for excellence. Whenever I hit a low point and the thought of quitting crossed my mind, my mother stood by my side, offering unwavering support and encouragement. Unbeknownst to me at the time, she possessed a profound understanding of the power of education and utilized her voice to advocate for its incredible potential in shaping my life. Besides my faith, I truly believe that this gift from my mother ranks among the greatest ones she ever bestowed upon me, as I now grasp the depth of her perception. Over time, I started to develop a strong appetite for knowledge. As my curiosity expanded, I became increasingly driven to comprehend the world around me and my place within it. I came to the realization that the key to unraveling this enigma lay in fully embracing the power of knowledge and pursuing it with unwavering determination. The determination within me has brought me to my current position, eagerly anticipating the endless possibilities that lie ahead in my future. I am excited to see the magnificent destinations that await, guided by the divine path set forth by God. I firmly believe that God has a purpose for my life, and I am committed to channeling my entire being towards realizing my utmost potential. I am confident that this scholarship will bring me closer to the path of excellence that lies ahead and enable me to contribute to society, inspiring others in the process. I also believe that this scholarship will serve as an added motivation for me to continually strive for excellence in my academic pursuits and uphold the values instilled in me by my mother during my formative years. In closing, I want to thank Ms. Davis and all others involved in making this scholarship opportunity possible. I am inspired to emulate the generous spirit that you all have shown. God bless!

Math is a subject that tends to polarize people, sparking either love or disdain. No matter how we feel about math, its influence is crucial in our daily routines, and we rely on the practicality of mathematics in countless ways, often without even realizing it. In school, my feelings toward math were quite ambivalent, alternating between adoration and disdain. I performed exceptionally well in basic and intermediate problem-solving, but faced significant challenges when solving advanced math problems. Regardless of the difficulties I faced, I found great satisfaction in the challenges presented by mathematics and was driven to discover the most effective methods for solving problems. This is the very place where my love for mathematics was born, as I became captivated by the remarkable ability of my mind to master complex calculations. I am passionate about mathematics because of its inherent complexity, and the tremendous satisfaction that comes with mastering a specific concept. As previously mentioned, I encountered difficulties with math throughout high school. No matter how much effort I put into understanding the subject or how often I sought additional help, I still struggled to grasp it. This bothered me as I felt like I was lagging behind my peers, and my inner drive craved knowledge. I have a strong desire to thoroughly comprehend things, and if I don't, I feel frustrated with myself. It's safe to say, my struggles caused me great dissatisfaction. In the midst of my confusion, I found a part of myself that thrived on the challenge of unraveling the unknown and solving math problems that had once seemed impossible to understand. Whenever I discovered the approach to a specific mathematical topic, it was as if a brilliant idea illuminated my mind, or as if I scaled the peaks of the mightiest mountain. In my classroom, I felt like a champion and knew that I was on the path to gaining a deeper understanding of the world around me. Math has taught me the valuable lesson of embracing challenges and persevering in the pursuit of understanding. Understanding is the key to realizing our dreams, making a difference in the world, and fulfilling our divine calling. I hope the impact that math has made on me continues to resonate and inspire others in their own paths. In closing, I thank the Learner and bold.org team, as well as all scholarship donors for this amazing opportunity!

(1): Being the first in my family to obtain a college degree means a lot to me. Since I was young, I've always been determined to pursue a college education. Although I had some uncertainty about my precise path, a burning ambition to amplify my educational and professional prospects resided within me. I was raised in a single-parent home, facing numerous challenges and hardships along the way. However, my mother, who raised me as a single parent, dedicated herself to instilling in me a strong desire to appreciate the importance of education and to put in maximum effort in everything I undertake. I am constantly fascinated by how my mother, who didn't have a higher education herself, always encouraged me to pursue higher education. I believe this happened because she acknowledged the importance of getting a higher education and comprehended the incredible opportunities it could offer for my future. From my earliest years in elementary and high school, my mother's unwavering commitment to making sure that my academic performance was exceptional and that I put forth my best effort in everything I undertook has remained etched in my memory. Over time, I developed this mindset as I consistently strived to excel in my education. Being the first person in my family to achieve a college degree opens up new opportunities and is a tremendous honor.e mindset that my mother instilled in me years ago. (2): Ever since my junior year in high school, I knew I wanted to pursue architecture. For as long as I can recall, I've been captivated by the art of design and fascinated by the intricate drawings that evolve into tangible structures, providing spaces for people to engage, learn, dwell, and thrive. My passion continued to grow as I approached high school graduation, leading to my acceptance into the School of Architecture at the University of Texas at San Antonio in the Fall of 2021. Reflecting on my three years in the program, I couldn't be more delighted. Not only have I enjoyed unforgettable moments with my classmates, but I have also gained invaluable insights into the captivating world of architecture. The abundance of innovative creativity surrounding me has sparked an insatiable urge to explore the depths of my creative soul even more passionately. I am excited to liberate my imagination and embark on a magnificent journey into the limitless realm of design. (3): As I continue to discover more about myself each day, one thing I know for certain is that I am an individual driven by goals. I live by the motto, "If there are no goals set for the day, something is not right." With that being said, I constantly challenge myself to set daily objectives aligned with the tasks at hand and my ultimate aspirations. Although I make a conscious effort to embrace the present moment and take life one day at a time, I can't help but occasionally peek into the realm of my future. I have high hopes of attaining great success in all aspects of my life in the future. My faith, family, relationships, and career form the foundation of my long-term aspirations. Furthermore, I am confident that by embracing a virtuous lifestyle that exemplifies reverence towards God, kindness towards others, and a strong work ethic, I will be firmly on the path to achieving these aspirations. I am determined to create a positive change in the world and influence the lives of every person I meet, aiming to leave a lasting, positive legacy. -Huge thank you to Dr. Lawther, and all who made this opportunity possible. God bless!

Mental health has always been a topic that is rarely discussed in my community and family. Unfortunately, because of the widespread stigma associated with mental health, many people I knew felt ashamed to open up about their mental health struggles. They feared that acknowledging their challenges would portray them as vulnerable. Due to the prevailing sentiment among my peers, I also succumbed to this way of thinking and fervently attempted to suppress my concerns regarding my struggles with mental health. I recall that this continued for a while until I stumbled upon a compelling Ted Talk titled "There's no shame in taking care of your mental health" by Sangu Delle on YouTube. During the conversation, Sangu boldly challenged the prevailing stigmas associated with seeking assistance, presenting a fresh outlook on addressing mental health issues collectively. He also recounted his personal journey of confronting his own preconceived ideas on the topic, and urged people at the end of his speech to speak out about their challenges and seek support. Honestly, this was one of the first times I had heard someone speak so openly and courageously about mental health and even encourage others to speak out. The discussions led by Mr. Delle and others have helped me realize the importance of speaking up about our mental health concerns and sharing our personal journeys with others. Throughout my childhood, I consistently felt like I didn't quite fit in. I felt like the odd one out, like a black sheep in a herd of white sheep, or a used car in a lot full of new cars. Despite making friends, I always felt like the friendships would be short-lived. Perhaps I couldn't meet their expectations of what a friend should be like, or maybe they would unfriend me due to my awkwardness. No matter which direction I turned, I found myself grappling with profound insecurities. I was aware of the version of myself that I desired to be, but always fell short in reality. I believed my reality couldn't deteriorate any further, but then anxiety showed up uninvited. As soon as she knocked, she announced her presence and forcefully entered the sanctuary of my thoughts, overpowering any barriers that even the most secure locks could not have resisted. Not only was I already battling with insecurities, but I was also contending with crippling anxiety that threatened to dismantle every facet of my existence. Suddenly, my mind was overwhelmed with weariness and dread as I found myself in a constant state of panic over things beyond my control. I struggled to control my emotions and the intense fear I experienced, leading me to withdraw further from people and retreat into isolation. While grappling with the turmoil within my mind, I found myself consumed by bouts of anger and envy amidst the intense battle. I began to feel dissatisfied with the person I had become and realized that I had to make a change. I decided to no longer allow my mental health struggles to impact my everyday life and limit my God-given potential. Recalling the wise words of Sangu, I made a courageous choice to voice my emotions and reach out for the support I needed in my personal battles. This led to a series of visits to doctors and numerous therapy sessions. I felt a strong sense of satisfaction after bravely voicing my thoughts, and this marked the beginning of my path towards recovery. After engaging in meaningful discussions with both my doctor and therapist, I gained valuable insights into the underlying causes of my mental health challenges. Furthermore, they provided me with practical strategies that I can confidently implement in order to address these issues effectively. As my journey with mental health continues to unfold, I am constantly gaining new insights and understanding about myself. I have come to a profound realization that mental health is not only a significant aspect of our lives, but it is also crucial for us to acknowledge and nurture. It has the power to profoundly shape our existence in various ways. My personal journey with mental health has profoundly influenced my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world by illuminating the significance of what genuinely holds value in life, and the worth of those dearest to us during our most challenging moments. In addition, my personal journey with mental health has impacted various aspects of my life by demonstrating that goals emerge from the obstacles we encounter, relationships are fortified through mutual adversity, and our understanding of the world broadens in the face of challenges, prompting us to broaden our perspectives. I deeply appreciate all the relationships and insights that have emerged throughout my journey, and I am unwaveringly focused on achieving all the goals that have come from it. I am fully aware that I am not facing the debilitating effects of anxiety and other mental health issues alone. I have great confidence in the progress of mental health care and advocacy. I would like to express my gratitude to you, Dr. Hayes, for providing this space for applicants to openly share and discuss a topic that is often deeply felt but seldom spoken about in society. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to all the generous scholarship donors who have contributed to this scholarship. Furthermore, I would like to commend the bold.org team for their outstanding and commendable efforts in maintaining this incredible platform. Dr. Hayes, I believe that your mother, Ms. Hayes, would be looking down on you from heaven, filled with pride, as you honor her legacy in such a meaningful way. I applaud your efforts once again and pray that God continues to bless you in all your future endeavors, granting you the strength to walk in the greatness He has in store for you. God bless!

I have always been devoted to pursuing personal growth and development in my life. As responsible members of a civilized society, it is incumbent upon us to make it our mission to address our personal challenges and strive towards becoming the finest version of ourselves. Although we may not be competing against each other, it is essential that we compete with ourselves, continuously striving to meet our full potential and achieve greatness at the highest level. Frequently in the past, I used to be stuck in a monotonous daily schedule. The schedule was exclusively designed to cater to my personal preferences and revolved around my self-interests. Humility and selflessness were unfamiliar concepts to me at that time. For some time, this continued until I underwent a profound shift in perspective that completely transformed my entire outlook on life in ways that are indescribable. Suddenly, a strong desire arose within me to break free from my old habits and acquire life skills that could bring not only personal growth, but also be of great value to those in my community. I noticed a shift in my perspective, moving from focusing on myself to extending my compassion to others, causing my heart to expand. As this transformation occurred, I noticed a significant improvement in my social skills, allowing me to establish more meaningful connections with others. The voice within me, which only rumbled when problems arose in my own life, now rose boldly to confront the stormy challenges faced by others. Additionally, volunteering has given me valuable insights into the importance of building connections and nurturing relationships within my community. I have honed practical skills that allow me to forge deeper bonds with others. In my daily interactions with people from various backgrounds in my community, I am constantly amazed by the ways in which skills and transformations are employed to create a positive impact in someone's life. Assisting others in reaching their full potential is undeniably one of the most rewarding experiences one can have. The joy that comes from realizing how your active participation in someone else's life can be a catalyst for their future success is truly indescribable. It is this joy that inspired me to dedicate my life to helping others be their best. Whether through volunteering, community outreach, social gatherings, or individual interactions, every chance I have to ignite a spark of hope and support in someone's life is another opportunity for me to experience tremendous joy. With my virtuous character and unwavering faith in God, I aspire to use my voice to breathe life into everyone I encounter, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond my own reach. I am aware of the incredible potential that God has instilled in me, and I am eager for others to recognize and embrace the unique greatness that God has placed within them too. With steadfast determination and a sincere soul, I am committed to always celebrating the excellence in others and affirming success in their lives for as long as I live. Scholarships are a powerful testament to the exceptional individuals who establish them and the incredible kindness of those who generously support them. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a part in establishing and nurturing this scholarship. Their exceptional benevolence is truly commendable. I trust that the content of this scholarship application not only meets the prompt requirement(s), but also inspires others to realize their full potential and embrace the innate greatness given to them by God. May God bless you all!

Remembering the last time Billie Eilish ever created a subpar song seems almost inconceivable to me. Every single song she releases always has this indescribable spark that ignites an overwhelming wave of emotions within me. As the song plays, I sense the emotion and passion that inspired its creation, almost as if I were in the studio with her. Today, few artists evoke the kind of emotional experience for me that Billie Eilish does through her music. This is why I strongly believe that this scholarship is the perfect way to pay tribute to her legacy and recognize the immense impact she has made in the music industry. "Idontwannabeyouanymore", "Ocean Eyes", and "Skinny" are my top three favorite Billie Eilish songs. While she has a wide array of music to her name, it is these particular songs that truly strike a chord with me due to their profound significance and exceptional production quality. Billie Eilish has gained recognition for her extraordinary vocal range and her ability to blend her songs, resulting in a one-of-a-kind sound that has been aptly labeled the "Eilish sound". Every time I come across these songs on my playlist or hear them playing in public, I am vividly reminded of the immense efforts and dedication that went into the creation of these remarkable musical pieces. It's difficult to put into words, but when Billie sings the lyrics, it feels as if she is singing them exclusively for me. Moreover, I am able to deeply sense the unique atmosphere that she creates in each of her recordings. Her music, especially these songs, serves as a powerful escape for me. Her music provides a peaceful escape from life's chaos, allowing me to deeply connect with its profound impact on the human soul. Moreover, her music feels like a vibrational wave or a heartbeat, where every note, every breath, every pause, and every moment of the song creates a timeless journey into a realm of universal peace, tranquility, and happiness. I am always amazed and inspired by people who use their innate talents and gifts from God to bring joy and support to others. Billie Eilish undoubtedly employs her remarkable voice to uplift and inspire people on a greater scale than she may even realize. I deeply admire Billie Eilish for the way she harnesses her God-given gifts and uses her influence to empower and motivate others on their own personal journeys. I aspire to follow in her footsteps, making the most of my own talents and spreading positivity to uplift those around me, igniting their own spark for growth and accomplishment. As always, I'm extremely grateful to the bold.org team and everyone else who played a role in creating this amazing scholarship opportunity. May the abundant blessings of God be upon all of you!

If only you could see the excitement on my face when I tapped the scholarship notification bell and saw this scholarship published. I pondered, "Is that truly the person I believe it to be?" and thought, "Oh, I have a special plan in mind for this scholarship." Without a doubt, I am completely captivated by LeBron James. Throughout the years, I have been witness to the magnificence of LeBron James. I have marveled at his triumphs during his time with the Miami Heat, when he led them to consecutive championships in 2012 and 2013. I have been inspired by his incredible redemption story in Cleveland, as he defied all odds and overcame a 3-1 deficit to conquer the mighty Warriors in 2016. And now, I stand in awe of his astonishing accomplishment of becoming the NBA's All-Time leading scorer in 2023. LeBron James is truly a legendary figure in the world of basketball. Despite being 39 years old and having played 21 seasons, LeBron has displayed an extraordinary lack of decline, which is highly uncommon among players his age. Explaining why I am a fan of LeBron James would likely necessitate an extensive amount of content and remarkable patience to encompass all of my reasons. Nevertheless, I have managed to narrow it down to three primary reasons why I am such a fan of LeBron James. I find his dedication to basketball, his unwavering devotion to his family, and his humble nature to be the three defining reasons why he stands out to me. Throughout his career, LeBron has dedicated himself to optimizing his physique to enhance his performance on the basketball court. LeBron has fought through major injuries, obstacles, and hardships, showing unwavering resolve in his relentless pursuit to become the greatest player ever. He has dedicated a significant amount of his personal and family time to wholeheartedly pursue his sport, epitomizing the true spirit of a legendary athlete. Despite being an incredibly dedicated athlete, LeBron has always prioritized his family. LeBron's schedule is undoubtedly one of the busiest, yet he consistently carves out time to be with his family and publicly showcases his support for them in all their endeavors. This definitely speaks volumes about LeBron's character and his fundamental beliefs. LeBron has not only proven himself as a legendary athlete and devoted family man, but he has also maintained a humble spirit in the midst of achieving great success and receiving numerous accolades. He actively participates in his community through various charitable organizations and uses his platform to advocate for social issues affecting those who are often unheard. He is a constant source of inspiration, consistently imparting wisdom and encouragement in his interviews and public appearances. LeBron stands out among the select few who have reached this level of success, yet he has managed to preserve his humility, refusing to let fame or fortune alter his true character. LeBron James has not only inspired me, but countless others as well. I aspire to follow in his footsteps, striving for greatness and leaving a lasting legacy, just like he has. Undoubtedly, I am convinced that LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time due to his unwavering dedication on the court and his advocacy, determination, and humility off the court. We must cherish extraordinary talents like LeBron James and other legendary figures who come along once in a lifetime. These exceptional individuals are precious gifts to the world, and we should appreciate them while we still have the opportunity. A huge thank you to the bold.org team and various scholarship donor(s) for this opportunity. God bless!

Since my earliest memories, there has been a recurring dream that has captivated my imagination. In my dreams, I would gaze upon the beautiful cityscape, marveling at the unique buildings that stretch across the horizon. Every time I would awaken from these dreams, I would find myself in awe of the mesmerizing sights that unfolded before my eyes. It would frequently leave me pondering the recurring nature of this specific dream. Soon, I discovered the true significance of these dreams as I witnessed them unfold right in front of me. Unbeknownst to me at the time, I harbored a profound passion for architecture and design. As I walked along the storied streets of downtown San Antonio, I couldn't help but be captivated by the remarkable level of intricacy and refinement displayed in every building. The diversity of materials used, and the intricate structural techniques employed to support these buildings have never failed to astonish me. I often pondered how humans managed to erect such colossal structures and unravel the secrets of their endurance throughout time. Over time, the awe I felt for the colossal structures in the cityscape transformed into inspiring mini projects that I pursued at home. With popsicle sticks, wooden blocks, and anything else I could find, I embarked on a mission to recreate the exquisite structures I admired in reality. My aim was to delve into the secrets behind their construction and enhance my comprehension of their genius. As time passed, I discovered a deep passion for architecture and design. My realization sparked a strong determination to fully dedicate myself to pursuing my studies as an undergraduate architecture student, beginning in the Fall of 2021. I feel like architecture truly discovered me, and I have been fascinated by it ever since. Making a meaningful impact is of utmost importance to me. Throughout history, the world has witnessed the remarkable achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to enhance the lives of many. Despite facing tests, trials, failures, and setbacks, these individuals persevered and achieved their goals. Similar to those who came before me, I yearn to make a profound impression in both my professional and personal spheres by unleashing my inherent capabilities to the fullest extent. I firmly believe that God has bestowed upon me extraordinary gifts and an exceptional mind, with the ultimate purpose of making a significant impact in the world. Hence, I am fully committed to utilizing these divine talents and working tirelessly in order to create a truly meaningful and desirable influence. Moreover, I firmly believe that my strong personal faith, unwavering determination, genuine humility, and relentless hard work will ultimately pave the way for me to fulfill my professional and personal aspirations. Before I finish, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Honor Society Foundation, the Cochener Family, and all others involved for providing this incredible opportunity to share, and for your generous spirit. May God bless you all, and prosper you in all your future endeavors.

Being raised in a Christian family, I was exposed to the concept of faith at a young age. I come from a lineage of devout Southern Baptists, including a diverse representation of preachers, evangelists, and deacons in my family. I have always been familiar with God, as I knew from a young age who He was and welcomed Christ into my life early on. In my upbringing, attending church was a top priority. My mother made sure that we went to church faithfully, engaging in fellowship with other members of the Christian community. Indeed, my faith is not merely a belief I adhere to - it is and always will be the very essence of my existence. My mother always emphasized the importance of being involved in church. She used to say, "If you have time for worldly things like sports and gaming, then you can surely make time to get involved in the important work of the Lord". She always made sure that I was actively participating and included in our church activities, whether it was leading, singing in the choir, or helping the elderly find their seats before the service. As I matured, I truly began to value the importance of participating in my church, particularly in contributing to the well-being of the community, a value that my mother had instilled in our family. Throughout the years I have worked with my church in several efforts to address the needs of the community. Given the prevalence of low-income families in the area, it became clear that the church had a responsibility to support these vulnerable individuals. Through strategic partnerships with the San Antonio Food Bank and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs), we have successfully offered nourishing meals and vital necessities to families in need. Furthermore, we have developed additional initiatives in addition to the benevolent offering to support members of the community in need. These initiatives aim to assist particularly marginalized groups in areas where additional support is crucial. Aside from my work within the confines of the church, I also endeavor to support the community in my everyday life. As part of the body of Christ, the church is more than just a physical building. It consists of Bible-believing individuals who actively contribute to the well-being of their community. Being a member of this body, I have made numerous dedicated efforts to address the various needs of those around me. By demonstrating selflessness, generosity, and faith, I have positively impacted the lives of people throughout San Antonio, and have sown the seeds of faith. I have complete faith that God will nurture these seeds, leading to marvelous outcomes in due course. I believe the church's role is to serve not only the spiritual needs of the people but also their physical needs. Thus, our vital mission as a community of believers is to actively collaborate within our churches to contribute to the progress of our communities and the world. May we all be inspired by the example set forth by our Lord and Saviour, who dedicated his life to serving others and bestowed upon us the greatest gift imaginable. Let us strive to emulate his selflessness and generosity. In conclusion, I express my sincere gratitude to the Sherman S. Howard Legacy Foundation, Inc. and all the scholarship donors for this amazing opportunity to share. In a world that is increasingly distancing itself from God and the importance of devotion and service to others, conversations like this are absolutely essential. So for that, I thank you all once again.

Having grown up in south Texas, I have always recognized the importance of fostering a strong sense of community. I am the product of the unwavering dedication of a resilient single mother, and a living testament to the divine intervention of the Almighty. I consider myself a resolute and skilled young man of God, devoted to the upliftment of others. I have a wide range of hobbies, including gaming, reading, and writing. Aside from my religious beliefs, I am wholeheartedly committed to my education and unwaveringly dedicated to achieving every milestone I have set for myself. If we were to meet, you would quickly realize that I am a highly driven individual with a strong focus on achieving my goals. I start thinking about my goals and the progress I've made towards achieving them as soon as I get out of bed. Even during the night, my mind wanders ceaselessly, contemplating new milestones and the strategic paths to achieve them. My educational goals are no different, as I'm always crafting new goals and innovative ways to achieve said goals. I am driven by a strong desire to excel academically, and my educational aspirations are centered around several key objectives. First and foremost, I am committed to graduating from college with the utmost distinction, striving for excellence in every facet of my academic journey. In addition, I am determined to achieve exceptional grades, consistently pushing the boundaries of my potential. Moreover, I am wholeheartedly dedicated to producing remarkable work, never settling for mediocrity and always presenting my finest efforts. Furthermore, I see great value in supporting and aiding my fellow students, being there for them in areas where they require assistance, and contributing to a collaborative and uplifting learning environment. As I actively pursue my academic goals, I make it a point to regularly reflect on my progress to ensure that I am still on the right path and remaining faithful to my original aspirations. In life, I have learned that regardless of our family structure, financial status, or proximity to God, we will all encounter challenges throughout our journey. Significant financial and mental struggles have hindered my journey at times. Coming of age in a low-income household headed by a single parent, I gained a profound understanding of the profound hardships that financial struggle imposes on the human condition. Despite her hard work, I witnessed my mother's constant struggle, and I was not immune to the sound of her desperate prayers when faced with uncertainty. Even in the face of our financial hardship, she consistently exuded a positive and hopeful outlook for a brighter future, a resilience I found myself lacking at the time. The abundance of uncertainty within my household had manifested into profound anxiety and depressive thoughts. I started to feel inferior to my peers, and my anxiety grew as I constantly fretted and stressed about our financial situation. I made an effort to maintain my remaining faith, but there were moments when it became challenging. However, my perspective changed as I went through these trials because of the example my mother set. Her profound faith and hope filled me with inspiration to keep pushing through obstacles, and she taught me the valuable lesson of not magnifying my problems, but magnifying God instead. I continue to carry those lessons with me, using my life's journey as a testament to the distance God has brought me and the incredible future He has prepared for me. Finally, I want to convey my sincere thanks to the Lord family and the generous scholarship donor(s) for this amazing opportunity.

Category One: Associated with the POTUS 1) Suit 2) Limo 3) Rally 4) Donation I grouped these words to form a list of four terms associated with the President of the United States. Those familiar with the executive government structure and the facets of presidential life should find this category quite recognizable. Category Two: Things that fly 1) Birds 2) Planes 3) Kites 4) Helicopters I've compiled a comprehensive list of aviation-related terms, carefully grouping together these words for easy reference. Individuals with a good understanding of different aspects of flight should find this category easy to grasp. Category Three: People associated with construction 1) Architect 2) Engineer 3) Interior Designer 4) Project Manager This is a compilation of job roles frequently correlated with construction projects. Although it may initially seem perplexing to see these professions grouped together, a discerning analysis will reveal a distinct correlation among them. Category Four: Types of homes 1) Tudor 2) Colonial 3) Bungalow 4) Victorian This category encompasses different housing types that I think will take participants some time to grasp their interconnections. To those who have knowledge of various housing types, solving this will be a breeze. However, for those who are unfamiliar with them, it may take some time to figure it out. I must say, this was extremely fun. I found it truly delightful to create interlinked word categories, knowing that it could open up the possibility of winning a scholarship. Thank you bold.org and all others involved once again for this opportunity. God bless!

Love Island is a show that has seemed to take the world by storm. No matter where I go, I'm surrounded by discussions about the show's epic moments and differing opinions on the cast. British ITV and American CBS have ingeniously incorporated the captivating elements of romance and adventure into their own adaptations, tapping into people's deep affection for these themes. Thanks to its meticulous creative direction, the show has managed to remain timeless and consistently grow in value year after year for the past decade. Given that, coming up with an exciting new challenge for the show will be challenging, but I am confident in my creative abilities to pull it off. Love Island possesses a truly distinctive social dynamic that, in my opinion, has the potential to be further explored and capitalized on. Based on what I've observed, it seems that people on the show generally get along quite well, despite the occasional minor disagreements. The cast has moments to interact and build personal connections. However, I believe that introducing my new challenge would significantly enhance the show's social atmosphere, while also creating exciting opportunities for people to forge meaningful connections. The name of my brand-new challenge for the show would be called "Honest Circle". The inspiration for this challenge would come from Jubilee's "Middle Ground" and "Perception Box" series on YouTube. In those series, a prompt or internal thought is given, which people can respond in the affirmative or the negative to. The different responses spark meaningful conversations, ultimately leading to the discovery of a "middle ground" or "perception box". My challenge would adopt similar dynamics to Jubilee's, thus fostering even more meaningful conversations. The design would be simple: a large circle called the "general circle" with a smaller circle inside it known as the "honest circle." The game consists of all participants starting by standing in the "general circle" and then taking turns to move to the "honest circle" to share something personal or express one of their convictions. Once someone has shared their personal story or conviction, others within the "general circle" have the opportunity to engage in the "honest circle" and express their agreement or disagreement, as well as offer their own perspectives on the matter. In order to maintain fairness, a moderator would guarantee that everyone's voice is heard by enforcing a rule where only one person can speak at a time and encouraging those who haven't had an opportunity to speak to do so. In addition, the moderator would be responsible for enforcing the prohibition of personal attacks, fighting, and irrelevant comments. The duration of this challenge would depend on the different networks involved. I am confident that this challenge will allow the cast members to develop a profound understanding of one another, forging powerful connections through their shared experiences and beliefs. This is a crucial missing element in society, as many of us are fixated on others' external appearance and the persona they project to us. I understand the importance of truly knowing people for who they are, and delving beneath the superficial standards set by society in our search for meaningful connections. Hence, I am optimistic that this enjoyable and thought-provoking challenge would not only meet the requirements of the prompt, but potentially captivate the attention of the Love Island producers. Lol! I am incredibly grateful to bold.org and the generous scholarship donors for providing yet another amazing opportunity for a scholarship. I can't express my gratitude enough, and I wish to offer my sincerest thanks 100 times over. May God bless all those involved in making this possible!

I couldn't believe it when I came across this scholarship. I have been a devoted fan of Charli XCX for a long time, and I was thrilled to learn about a scholarship created in her honor. I am absolutely in awe of her music and extraordinary sense of style. Words do not do justice to how much I adore them. It is an absolute delight to share my thoughts on a body of work that I genuinely consider groundbreaking. It's quite challenging for me to choose a favorite song from the "brat" album. There is a wealth of material to explore in this album, with numerous layers to delve into. Fortunately, after numerous replays and thorough analysis since the album's release, I have reached a conclusive decision. "Girl, so confusing" is undeniably my favorite track on the album. Its outstanding sound and the sensational "girl" or "ghourl" ad lib, add an exceptional touch that never fails to amaze me, lol. I also believe that this song truly demonstrates the versatility that Charli has developed in her artistry since the mid-2000s, embracing changes in musical preferences and cultural trends. The lively rhythm of this song is impossible to resist. It's like an irresistible force that compels me to move and dance all over my house. Whenever this song comes on my playlist, I can't help but let loose and release all my energy. The beauty of Charli XCX's music, as well as pop music in general, has always resided in its remarkable capacity to inspire and invigorate individuals, compelling them to rise and groove. Not only am I not the only one with these thoughts, but many other fans on social media have also agreed with me. In terms of numbers, the song seems to be performing quite well. I anticipate that this ongoing trend will persist throughout the entire "brat" album, further establishing Charlie as a true legend among artists. I really enjoyed writing on this subject, and sharing a bit of my taste of music with you all. I am truly mesmerized by the incredible artists who have the remarkable talent to create extraordinary works that not only captivate their fans, but also inspire and empower them to make a profound impact on the world. The genuine spirit of music has always been about this, and it fills me with pride to see the current generation keeping this spirit vibrant and alive. A huge thank you to the bold.org team and various scholarship donors for this opportunity. God bless!

The Olympic season is an exciting time when fans worldwide can witness a multitude of athletes competing in their own specific sports. The atmosphere is brimming with excitement and anticipation, as the results of the different sporting events remain uncertain, yet there is joy in the promise of a delightful experience. The 2024 Paris Olympics is set to be a resounding success, with millions of fans anticipated to attend and watch the games in the enchanting French city of love. This exceptional event promises to bring great benefits to both athletes and the local economy. The great anticipation and the preliminary exhibitions have intensified my enthusiasm to witness the matches and unite in the exuberant ambiance of this event. Team USA undoubtedly consists of an extraordinary lineup of athletes, coaches, trainers, and support personnel who proudly showcase the utmost excellence that American sports have to offer. Drawing from the impressive performances in previous games, I anticipate nothing but excellence from the athletes this year. That said, my top athlete to root for on Team USA is LeBron James from the Los Angeles Lakers. LeBron has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the sport of basketball throughout the past two decades, giving his all in every endeavor he undertakes. With an outstanding resume boasting 4 Championships, 4 MVPs, 4 Finals MVPs, and the prestigious title of NBA all-time leading scorer, LeBron brings an immense wealth of talent and experience to the table. His remarkable skills and accomplishments will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in Team USA's quest to secure the gold medal this year. In addition to LeBron's incredible athletic ability, his basketball IQ will also prove to be highly valuable. His exceptional ability to analyze plays and provide wisdom to his teammates will undoubtedly make a significant impact. In the few showcase games that have aired, we've witnessed LeBron playing a vital role, such as his incredible game-winning shot against South Sudan's squad. I firmly believe that he will consistently deliver outstanding performances on the basketball court, playing a pivotal role in guiding Team USA to triumph. As in anything, great things create even greater moments, experiences, and opportunities. LeBron has been, is, and will always be that "great thing" for Team USA and the sport of basketball as a whole. I could talk endlessly about LeBron and his extraordinary impact on the game of basketball, but let me wrap up by simply stating: Let's go Team USA! As an American, I take immense pride in witnessing the brilliance of my nation and seeing my fellow Americans flawlessly represent us on the global stage. I'm confident this year's Olympic Games will be just as exciting as ever, with the Americans impressing the world and winning the admiration of fans across the globe. I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the amazing team at bold.org and all the generous donors for making this incredible opportunity a reality. As always, God bless and take care!

"Until philosophers are kings, or the kings and princes of this world have the spirit and power of philosophy, and political greatness and wisdom meet in one, and those commoner natures who pursue either to the exclusion of the other are compelled to stand aside, cities will never have rest from their evils,—nor the human race, as I believe,—and then only will this our State have a possibility of life and behold the light of day." -Excerpt from Plato's "Republic." (380 BCE) Plato was unquestionably one of the most brilliant minds in history. In the vibrant world of Ancient Greece, Plato, a student of Socrates, embarked on a relentless pursuit of deeper knowledge and wisdom. Plato, like many philosophers of his era, possessed a mind teeming with curiosity and a heart that longed to unveil the most concealed aspects of human reality and the universe. He was a prominent figure in shaping Western thought and a dedicated mentor to influential individuals like Aristotle. Plato's writing consistently reveals his deep desire for a society that embraces the value of philosophical inquiry and its practical application in everyday life. In this writing, we will delve into Plato's quest to strengthen the significance of philosophical rule and governance in order to enhance society. According to Plato, human behavior is driven by three primary sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge. This excerpt introduces the reader to the idea that all three primary sources interact with each other. The excerpt introduces the idea of philosophical rule right from the beginning. Plato argues that only when the ruling class is composed of philosophical enthusiasts can cities truly find respite from their afflictions. Suggesting that society would experience revitalization if the political class were dominated by philosophers is a daring assertion, but it aligns with Plato's perspective on philosophical thought. Human societies across the world have always faced countless challenges throughout history, which have brought tremendous despair and hardship. These adversities have often left people feeling utterly hopeless. Plato was part of a group that rejected pessimism and embraced optimism in the face of the harsh reality they encountered. Instead of embracing a modern approach focused on rugged militarism and intolerance, ancient Greek and other ancient societies prioritized a hierarchical order for societal challenges, with philosophy at the forefront. The intention behind this assertion is not to deny the harsh reality of life under the sun, but rather to propose a more effective approach to the systems through which governance takes place. Plato's next proposal revolves around the harmonious fusion of political power and philosophical wisdom. History has proven time and time again that the formidable leaders of our world seldom seek the counsel of the wise or reflect upon the teachings of the past. Their approach would overflow with ceaseless imperial conquest and plunder, scarcely taking a moment to ponder the profound philosophical realm that lay right in front of them. I believe Plato observed this atrocity within his own society and saw the spread of this illegal perspective as something that would cause more harm than good. Plato advocated for a fundamentally different perspective, asserting that political excellence should be linked to wise counsel, which he believed would ultimately rejuvenate society. Plato's assertion remains remarkably true in modern times, as many states today actively seek the guidance of experts and strive to make informed decisions through thoughtful discourse. Picturing the ideal political candidate and setting standards for those in leadership positions who genuinely work for the public can be quite challenging. Navigating the intricacies of our complex world, with its myriad interconnected elements, presents an extraordinary challenge when it comes to addressing the needs of all individuals. Nonetheless, Plato boldly took a step further, narrowing it down to a single, straightforward requirement. In this excerpt, he boldly stated that individuals who only focus on political power without recognizing the essential connection between political power and wisdom should gracefully make way for those who wholeheartedly embrace both principles, thus enabling them to effectively fulfill the noble responsibilities of higher offices. The purpose of this claim was not to exclude anyone, but rather to embrace the magnificent heights of a society that Plato envisioned and firmly believed would revitalize the entirety of society. It could be argued by some that Plato aimed for an exclusive elite class to dominate the ruling class, but in the Platonian perspective, this was considered a critical step toward achieving an ideal society. This concept has the power to make us contemplate the possibilities of implementing such requirements in the current political landscape and the positive impact it could have on our world. Light and life are often used to articulate prosperity within ancient texts. Life, as depicted in both religious and secular literature, is often portrayed as a realm of boundless light, untouched by darkness. For instance, in ancient religious Hebrew text, heaven is portrayed as a realm brimming with radiant light, untouched by the presence of any evil or darkness. Similarly, in the literature of ancient Neoplatonism, light is understood to emanate from the "One," the ultimate origin and bestower of this luminosity that is often linked with vitality. The themes of light and life emphasized by Plato in his work are in harmony with the commonly explored themes of ancient and future writers. Thus, Plato concludes by asserting that society will only truly thrive when the ruling class is led by philosophically wise individuals, leaving behind power-hungry warmongers, thus allowing the ideal society to bask in the light of truth and reality. Plato clearly recognized the possibility of a brilliance surpassing the current light that illuminated society, and a life that transcended the present existence of society. The core of ancient philosophy revolved around this type of thinking, which is precisely what enabled the enduring legacy of those ancient civilizations. Like Plato and other ancient philosophers, many of us today share a vision of a world that caters to the needs of all individuals rather than just a few. We witness the injustice and inequality that exists in our society and are deeply moved by the immense adversity that countless people face every day. However, the question that remains is: what actions will we take to address this issue? Do we want to simply recognize the problems in our society, or will we, inspired by Plato, take a committed stand to enhance the quality of our existence? I feel compelled to take a stand and remain steadfast in my conviction to see a world full of endless opportunities and provisions for all people. I'm also dedicated to deep thinking and continuously exploring the intricate aspects of our world, unveiling the undiscovered and marveling at the beauty that lies beneath the surface. I hope that the work of philosophers from all generations can serve as a wellspring of inspiration for others, compelling them to join me in the dedication to pursue higher purposes and deepen their understanding. In closing, I would like to thank Ronne Gleason and all the generous scholarship donor(s) for this remarkable opportunity to share. The work that you and others like you do to support college students is unparalleled and deserves the utmost recognition and honor. So once again, I thank all of you for this wonderful opportunity. Furthermore, I want to express my gratitude to the bold.org team for their unwavering support of this platform and its student community. This space truly wouldn't be the same without all of you, so I am incredibly grateful for everything you bring to it. May God's blessings be upon every single one of you, including all my fellow high school, college, and non-traditional peers, as you embark on the unique path that God has chosen for you! Never forget that with God, all things are possible, and there is no obstacle that the Lord cannot help us overcome!

I think self-reflection is a beautiful thing. I believe that the capacity to reflect upon one's strengths and weaknesses is crucial for achieving long-term success in life. In moments of solitude, we're able to explore our innermost selves, with a renewed emphasis on both the aspects of our lives that fill us with pride and happiness, and those that stir up emotions of shame and dissatisfaction. After engaging in self-reflection, we are inspired to make a series of heartfelt promises to ourselves. These pledges serve as a testament to our determination to either stay on the path of personal growth or make necessary adjustments to embark on a more fulfilling journey. Though I have experienced both victories and setbacks, I have pinpointed aspects of my life that I am committed to developing and others that I am dedicated to fostering. I want to make these three promises to my future self in order to ensure a better life: to always remain humble, compassionate, and committed to hard work. I am convinced that embodying these three virtues will empower me to reach my utmost potential and make a significant impact on the world. I've always prided myself on being a man of tremendous humility. Being humble is a powerful way of expressing gratitude towards God for all the blessings we receive, while also acknowledging the plight of the less fortunate. It also means seeing oneself as equal to others, without ever succumbing to the attitudes of the proud or arrogant. Without a doubt, I pledge to uphold this virtue for my future self. Secondly, compassion is something that I've grown to love and share with others. It is often easy to be captivated by the glamour and high-speed tempo of life, frequently overlooking those who are at the bottom of the social ladder. Despite everything, compassion ultimately guides us towards a life of selflessness and benevolence. It is a commitment that I eagerly embrace for the better version of myself that lies ahead. And finally, hard work, which is a universal virtue that has shaped society into what it is today. Thanks to the tireless efforts of committed workers and visionary dreamers, humanity has achieved an unprecedented level of excellence. The modern world owes its countless achievements to individuals who labored tirelessly, refusing to abandon their dreams and rejecting mediocrity. Neglecting this virtue in my future self would mean disregarding a fundamental aspect of my identity. Without a doubt, I am determined to remain steadfast in my solidarity with diligent individuals around the world and uphold this virtue eternally. This scholarship aligns with my future vision by providing me with a platform to express my ambitions and to serve as a constant reminder of the importance of self-reflection and growth. As a low-income first-generation college student, I am constantly empowered by the potential that scholarship opportunities hold. Each possibility to advance myself towards my educational and career aspirations fills me with joy. Growing up in a family that emphasized the importance of education, I have gradually learned to truly appreciate its immense value. I value the opportunity to attend college and pursue higher education, knowing that it is a chance that many people do not have. Every day, I express gratitude to God for the incredible chance to pursue higher education and work towards the life I dream of. I am truly grateful, Ms. Umakanth and scholarship donor(s), for this incredible opportunity and the inspiring prompt that has provided both me and other students with a platform to share our thoughts on a highly valuable topic. May God bless you all!

Who can resist the thrill of an action-packed animated series? I must admit that I can't resist the excitement of anything related to action. I am naturally enthusiastic about action, as I am fond of activities that involve plenty of excitement and movement. I am utterly captivated by the electrifying surge of adrenaline that courses through my veins when the courageous hero fearlessly confronts the villain in an epic showdown, or when the monumental battle reaches its pinnacle after a grueling and intense struggle. The action-packed adventures at the heart of anime quickly captivated me when I first discovered it. My high school friends deserve all the credit for my discovery. I recall how everyone used to gather around the table during lunch, engrossed in different anime series on their phones, while more of our peers joined in over time. I was initially hesitant to join the watch party because I had always thought of anime as a childish or boring form of animation. A whole new world opened up when I decided to uncover the truth behind all the buzz. As I began to watch, my friends responded in amazement as I had never showed interest previously. I inquired about the name of the anime series, and they responded with "Neon Genesis Evangelion". The name initially surprised me, but what really captured my attention was the incredible fight scenes featured in that particular episode we were watching. As I focused intently on the computer screen, my friend pointed out that I was watching what the series referred to as "mecha battles". I replied with a quizzical tone, asking "Mecha what?", and that's when he enlightened me about the overall structure of battles in this particular anime genre and series. Despite my confusion, I found myself eagerly binging this series during lunch with my friends and at home. The more I watched the series, the more I grasped the animation style of anime as a whole. Over time, I'd grown to deeply appreciate the happiness that anime had brought into my life, particularly when immersing myself in the phenomenal series "Neon Genesis Evangelion." "Neon Genesis Evangelion" is, without a doubt, the ultimate anime series for me. It never fails to captivate me, and I highly recommend it to all anime enthusiasts. If you are seeking action-packed adventures with a surprising storyline, then this series is definitely the perfect choice for you. In addition to the thrilling action, I find the profound philosophical and psychological themes in the series incredibly thought-provoking. Not only has it ignited my contemplation on various social matters, but it has also infused me with inspiration to explore different methods in solving real-life challenges. Lastly, I must express my deep admiration for the captivating themes explored in this series. Themes of loyalty, bravery, and dedication resonate powerfully as a group of courageous teenagers unite to combat external threats that endanger their civilization. Although fictional, this series offers countless real-life lessons that can be gleaned, both from this specific series and anime as a whole. Isn't it incredible that we reside in a world where our minds empower us to craft magnificent masterpieces and readily share them with others? I am convinced that this is the true essence of creativity and artistic expression. Furthermore, I firmly believe that anime occupies a unique and significant position within the realm of fictional art, and it will undoubtedly endure as a groundbreaking medium for creative expression. I express my gratitude to the bold.org team and the numerous scholarship donor(s) for making this opportunity a reality. God bless!

K-pop is a one-of-a-kind music genre that encapsulates the distinctive essence of Korean people and their culture into musical masterpieces. At first, I hesitated to explore K-pop, but as I delved into this unique genre of music, it truly captivated me. The energetic rhythm and the captivating nature of non-traditional pop music left me eager to keep listening and delving deeper into this music style. Discovering K-pop has not only opened up a new world of music for me but has also fostered a profound fascination with Korean culture. Zico is, without a doubt, my ultimate favorite K-Pop artist. From his early days as the frontman of Block B, Zico has continuously showcased the reasons behind his current status as a sensational musical artist. I'm absolutely in love with his music because of his extraordinary musical style, blending diverse elements of R&B, Pop, and Hip-Hop to forge genuinely one-of-a-kind songs. With his one-of-a-kind sound, he captivates not only our ears but also our eyes with a mesmerizing sense of fashion, setting him apart from his fellow artists. I appreciate his consistent ability to produce hit songs, such as "Any Song," "Bermuda Triangle," "Pride and Prejudice," "No Love," and my personal favorite, "Sculpture." As a 31-year-old, he has already accomplished so much in the music industry. I'm filled with anticipation to witness what the future has in store for him. Zico's embrace of his inner icon not only had a profound impact on my life but also left an indelible mark on global culture. Each written song, every sung note, and every stage set is a display of Zico's unleashed inner icon. Observing someone confidently utilizing their talents to make an impact on the world is not just inspiring, but truly life-altering. His sheer confidence is incredibly motivating, inspiring me to strive for excellence in every aspect of my life. His unwavering dedication to his music ventures is incredibly inspiring, motivating me to work diligently in pursuit of my dreams, never letting go. Zico wholeheartedly embraces his identity as an artist and, more importantly, as an individual, which I believe truly sets him apart. I aspire to walk with confidence and embody excellence, just like Zico has done throughout his career. Zico's tremendous contributions to the music industry, particularly within the realm of K-Pop, are truly remarkable. I could spend endless hours sharing his incredible achievements and impact. However, I am truly grateful for the chance to express my deep admiration for this incredible musician and the remarkable music genre of K-Pop. I am incredibly excited to delve into Zico's latest project "Grown Ass Kid" and rediscover the beauty of a musical world that I might never have known had I not expanded my musical horizons years ago. I am sincerely grateful to the bold.org team and the generous scholarship donor(s) for this incredible opportunity, and I eagerly anticipate seizing many more in the near future. God bless you all!

In a world full of limitless possibilities, there is a multitude of things that can go awry. The stylish new car may initially deliver a stellar performance, only to abruptly malfunction, just as the captivating woman next door could captivate you for a period of time before unexpectedly turning unpleasant. Given the abundance of choices in life, it is undeniable that each option carries a heightened level of risk. We willingly take on formidable and sometimes futile pursuits to fulfill our deepest desires and life goals, despite the risks involved. I strongly believe that this is at the core of the human experience, and I am wholeheartedly committed to uncovering possible pitfalls. If one were to conduct interviews with a hundred individuals and ask them, "What could go wrong?", one would most likely receive a diverse range of responses. Different people may provide answers that include financial matters, some may focus on health, and others on heartbreak. Regardless of the subject, it is inevitable that something could definitely go awry at the core of every answer. If a similar interview were to be conducted, asking about the frequency of plans going awry, it would probably lead to the same conclusion. It's evident that people can easily recall or imagine a time when things didn't go according to plan. I firmly believe that the unpredictability of life is what distinguishes the human experience and unites us all. I'm certain that we would all relish a world where nothing ever went wrong. We would confidently stroll in the radiant delight of this reality and proudly celebrate the successful realization of our plans. As impressive as this all sounds, how can we grow without facing any setbacks or challenges? Although we may have negative feelings about obstacles, they are essential for our personal growth. How can a race car driver improve their skills without facing any obstacles during the race? Also consider an athlete without weaknesses in their athletic abilities. How would they even be able to grow and improve? While it may seem difficult to take into account possible obstacles in our endeavors, it is essential to do so in order to comprehend the vital measures required to move forward and ensure the continuity of our achievements. The essence of the human mind lies in embracing risks. Every day, whether we are aware of it or not, we encounter risks as we strive to reach our goals, partake in new activities, and embrace uncharted paths. Whenever traders set foot on the exchange floor or power up their personal computers at home, they are fully cognizant of the imminent risks that lie before them. They are consumed by a wave of possibility, their hearts filled with apprehension, fearing the prospect of losing or failing to acquire any revenue. Investors often face shared concerns as they invest their hard-earned resources into opportunities they believe will thrive, despite having no guarantees. They, too, feel overwhelmed by the internal "what if" questions while eagerly anticipating a profitable outcome for their investment. As with investors and traders, we also encounter internal "what ifs" that have a significant impact on our decision-making and perspectives on various aspects of life. While some opt for the comfort of certainty, others dare to take a leap of faith, venturing into unknown realms that may or may not lead to triumph. These individuals are the courageous frontline workers who risk their lives every single day to ensure the safety of others. Even in the face of considerable risks and potential obstacles, they are determined to surpass their limits and achieve something that transcends their own abilities. I strongly believe that acknowledging the potential risks is crucial for the well-being of any society. Simply put, the concept of embracing risks is often associated with envisioning potential rewards or the optimal outcome, thus inspiring individuals to accomplish remarkable feats. Humanity has repeatedly demonstrated its unwavering commitment to fostering extraordinary creations and making remarkable discoveries, regardless of any obstacles that may arise. Instead of being paralyzed by the fear of the unknown, we have fearlessly embraced it, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and transformative opportunities. The chapters of history have yet to be written, and the pen is poised to etch its mark on the pages. As we continue to shape history and advance as a society, it is crucial that we consistently consider potential challenges in order to propel ourselves towards achieving what could be considered favorable. As I conclude, I would like to express my gratitude to the Ferguson Family and all the scholarship donor(s) for making this incredible opportunity possible. Your dedication to honoring your late grandparents in this way and upholding the importance of education is truly commendable. I'm sure they would be proud of your efforts. I am thrilled to have had the chance to express my creativity on a subject that I passionately believe holds immense significance for the future of mankind. May you all continue to be blessed by God!

Facing difficulties has always been a dreaded aspect of my life. The thought of confronting a profoundly challenging situation beyond my control deeply troubles me. Throughout my life, no matter the difficulties I encountered, people were always there to offer their support and encouragement. However, time and time again, I found myself reaching the same dreadful realization. Surrounded by seemingly strong individuals, I couldn't help but feel weak and insignificant in the face of my insurmountable struggles. I was sailing smoothly, completely at ease, until I was suddenly faced with rough waves, pulling me back to the shore I was so determined to leave behind. My "rough waves" came in the form of losing both of my great aunts within the same year. I am elated as I think back on the profound influence that my extraordinary aunts had on my family through their love and laughter. No matter what was happening in our lives, my family and I could always rely on my great aunts to bring an overwhelming sense of calmness that made any trouble seem insignificant. My great aunts were not only full of joy and remarkable character, but they were also incredibly wise and had a profound understanding of faith. While many can simply quote the word of God and share stories of faith, my aunts exemplified it through their actions. They took great pride in being women of God and devoted their lives to a noble cause. Experiencing the consecutive loss of my great aunts was profound and left me with a sense of losing a part of myself. All of a sudden, without their presence, family gatherings lost their spark and the atmosphere became completely different. It was evident that I wasn't alone in feeling this way, as other family members voiced their sorrow and affirmed that our family would be irrevocably transformed by the loss we had experienced. Truth be told, I have never felt lower in my life than I did at that moment. I tried with all my might to rid myself of the torment that was engulfing me and suppress my emotions, but I could not escape the enduring memory of my aunt's deep love, unwavering kindness, and priceless wisdom. The significance of those two women in my life cannot be expressed in words alone. My love for them is so immense that even the lengthiest book would be insufficient to capture it. Undoubtedly, this was a difficult period in my life, one that I struggled with on a daily basis. To be completely honest, I have never truly overcome the hardship of losing both my great aunts. I have simply learned how to cope better. Whenever I feel myself slipping back into a deep sadness, I find solace in the profound wisdom that they imparted to me. I am firmly convinced that God brought them here for a specific time and purpose, and I am sure that they have successfully fulfilled it. To honor the memories of both of them, I am determined to embody the remarkable love, kindness, and joy that they brought into my life. I will consistently demonstrate Agape love by making sure that my interactions with others are genuine, selfless, and positive. Moreover, I am fully dedicated to creating a meaningful difference in my community through my unwavering display of altruism, frequent acts of kindness, and compassion. I am driven to inspire others just as my great aunts inspired me, and to lead a life that honors God and their remarkable legacy. In conclusion, I express my gratitude to all who've contributed to this scholarship!

Confronting a supernatural menace is an incredibly arduous undertaking. In a fictional scenario, pursuing a solo approach could lead to serious harm, while working with a team could bring about additional risks. Although the solo approach appears promising, I am convinced that it's preferable to tackle it with a team. I have formed an incredibly committed team of characters from the "Stranger Things" universe to battle this formidable supernatural enemy, despite the inherent dangers. I would choose Lucas Sinclair as my first pick. Lucas's remarkable strategic thinking and problem-solving skills would be invaluable in confronting an imminent supernatural threat. In the series, Lucas consistently demonstrated his talent for finding logical solutions, often surpassing others who faced the same challenges. To effectively combat a new supernatural threat, it is essential that this team includes someone with the ability to devise a strategic game plan for achieving victory. Lucas delivers precisely what is needed, which undeniably makes him an outstanding first choice for my "Hawkins dream team". For my second choice, I would go with Jim Hopper. His exceptional ability to handle complex situations with great care and his unwavering commitment to protecting others make him the perfect option. To fully maximize Lucas's extraordinary logical thinking, my ultimate "Hawkins dream team" would consist of an individual who possesses the remarkable ability to effectively communicate both the potential dangers and ultimate benefits to all team members, all while flawlessly synchronizing with Lucas's razor-sharp and logical mindset. I am extremely confident in Jim Hopper's capability to address these needs in this matter. I have complete confidence in Jim Hopper's exceptional skills to not only meet but exceed all the expectations. Finally, Jim's commitment to justice will be exceptional in ultimately thwarting the supernatural threat and achieving various long-term objectives. Lastly, for the third and final member of my "Hawkins dream team," my pick would be Nancy Wheeler. Nancy's steadfast dedication to uncovering the truth, as demonstrated in the series, will be essential in the pursuit of fully revealing the extent of the supernatural threat. Her innate curiosity enables her to delve beyond superficial interpretations and uncover profound insight in what others perceive as mundane. I am confident that Nancy is exactly what the team needs to gain insight into the nature and extent of the challenges they would face, and how they are impacting humanity. She would make an outstanding addition to the team with Lucas and Jim, combining their strengths to battle the supernatural foe and secure victory for humanity. Writing about a topic that I truly enjoyed has been an incredible delight, particularly when it involves discussing a show that has completely transformed the realm of fictional series. I am profoundly grateful to the bold.org team and the generous scholarship donor(s) for granting us this amazing opportunity. I'm incredibly excited to embrace the countless opportunities that await us in the future. As always, God bless!

The topic of mental health is a subject of extensive debate but is universally recognized. As cited in the scholarship's introduction, over a quarter of college students have received a professional diagnosis or treatment for mental health issues. Furthermore, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, as of 2023, nearly 21% of adults have experienced some form of mental illness, with approximately 5% experiencing serious mental illness. The World Health Organization also reports that depression is the leading cause of disability on a global scale, affecting more than 280 million people, with approximately 284 million individuals being impacted by anxiety disorders worldwide. You might be wondering about the cause for this. The United Nations has identified "...societal changes, stressors, and increased awareness and diagnosis" as the main contributing factors. No matter our stance on this matter, there is no denying that mental health is a growing concern for countless individuals. My experience with mental health has profoundly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations by demonstrating that strength lies on the other side of adversity. Struggling with overwhelming anxiety, I started to lose touch with my true self. The once sociable guy disappeared, taking my relationships with him. To deal with the inner turmoil, I started to distance myself from others. I believed that by doing so, I would protect myself from the judgment and shame often linked to anxious individuals. To my astonishment, my approach was completely misguided. Through numerous deep conversations and meaningful interactions with loved ones, I came to realize the importance of engaging in open and honest communication instead of withdrawing into isolation in order to truly be heard and understood. I discovered that many of my peers and even family members were facing similar struggles, which allowed us to connect on a deeper level. Just like my relationships, my beliefs were also affected similarly. The overwhelming joy I used to experience from my unshakable belief now shattered, leaving me to desperately assemble the fragments. I felt utterly shattered, like a delicate vase that had crashed onto the floor. My heart longed for an end to this overwhelming despair. This situation persisted for a while, but as with everything, there are lessons to be gained from adversity. With the passage of time, the anxiety that consumed me drew me closer to God and reaffirmed my steadfast beliefs. I have always been a person focused on my career. I learned the importance of a stable career at a young age, witnessing my mother's financial hardships. Every setback that I encountered during my childhood served as a powerful reminder to persistently push forward towards the ultimate goal. Despite the significant impact of my severe anxiety on my academic performance, social life, and beliefs, I remained determined not to let it hinder my career goals. There were moments when I was tempted to give up and surrender, but I constantly motivated myself to persevere. As in my core beliefs and personal connections, I've come to realize that my mental health struggles have compelled me to strive even harder and never confine the inherent potential bestowed upon me. If you're facing mental health challenges, remember that there is always a glimmer of hope even in the darkest moments. I am sincerely thankful to Ms. Davis for the incredible opportunity to share, and I would like to express my gratitude to all the scholarship donors for making this opportunity a reality. We have the power to conquer challenges and recognize the amazing potential that exists beyond our struggles, regardless of the mental health barriers we encounter!

Chappell Roan's music is incredibly captivating, making it impossible to confine. Yet, it holds such an allure that you yearn to hold onto it. I believe that it's her combination of raw emotion and captivating storytelling that truly elevates her music to greatness. Rarely do we encounter individuals as talented as Chappell. When we do, it is imperative that we appreciate the immense value they bring to the world of entertainment. Chappell Roan's music has profoundly impacted me by unveiling the incredible power of music in forging deep emotional connections and acknowledging and embracing one's innermost feelings. We inhabit a world that frequently advises us to suppress or hide our emotions from others. Perceiving vulnerability as weakness and dismissing transparency as illegitimate hinders our ability to perceive and appreciate human strength and authenticity. Honestly, I must admit that I also found myself falling into this way of thinking, trying to adopt the viewpoints of others. The true realization of the profound impact emotion and passion have on the human experience only occurred to me when I discovered Chappell's music. "Pink Pony Club", "Back in Time", and "Pussycat" were songs that greatly enhanced my newfound comprehension of how music has the power to express the intense emotions I experienced deep within me. Gaining my support is no simple feat. I don't follow the latest trend or dance to a rhythm that I don't appreciate. I am very selective about the individuals I choose to support in the entertainment industry and in life in general. Chappell Roan has earned my support through her tireless work, resilience, and exceptional vocal talents. Her remarkable talent is evidenced by her ability to amass a substantial following in just a few years since embarking on her career in 2017. From the moment I heard her debut single "Colors" in 2017, I knew that she was destined for stardom. Since then, I have been captivated by her extraordinary voice and fallen deeply in love with it. I will forever be a proud "Roanie" and wholeheartedly support her extraordinary career. I was pleasantly surprised to discover a scholarship honoring the esteemed Chappel Roan, and I am thrilled to see her legacy being celebrated in this way. I am extremely grateful to the bold.org team for granting me this incredible opportunity, and to the generous scholarship donor(s) who have made it all possible. I hope more people will come to appreciate Chappel Roan's musical talent and realize the significance of staying connected with one's emotions. May God continue to bless each one of you, as always!

Sabrina Carpenter, known for her prominent role as Maya Hart on the popular Disney Channel show "Girl Meets World", has proven herself to be a versatile talent. Not only is she a talented actress, but she also showcases her singing skills, making her a true jack of all trades. Boasting an impressive social media following of more than 47.5 million dedicated fans, she has undeniably solidified her status as an iconic figure in her field. Furthermore, her extensive catalog of chart-topping songs and iconic films firmly cements her status in the entertainment world. Not only does she exhibit exceptional talent in acting and singing, but she also possesses a remarkable fashion sense. Fearlessly, she showcases a rich assortment of vibrant styles across her various social media platforms. I'm an admirer of Sabrina Carpenter because of the dedication she puts into all of her work and her genuine desire to continually improve. Sabrina epitomizes the essence of a multi-talented individual and serves as a prime example of dedication and hard work. A lot of influential figures nowadays struggle to establish genuine connections with others, but Sabrina stands out for her remarkable talent in building deep connections with her fans. I am also captivated by her incredible sense of style and artistic expression, beautifully showcased through her social media presence. I'm always amazed by her ability to blend different elements into an iconic style that not only grabs your attention but also entices you to explore further. Sabrina Carpenter's career has greatly influenced me, teaching me the importance of perseverance and dedication. Throughout her career, she has exemplified the crucial lesson of never abandoning one's dreams and consistently endeavoring to give one's best in all pursuits. I admire her ambitious spirit and the path she has paved for others like her. I firmly believe that the world would reap substantial benefits from the presence of more individuals like Sabrina who, along with others who hold her mindset, are committed to making a positive impact. These people display extraordinary bravery in confronting and surpassing challenges, which is truly commendable. I am inspired to emulate Sabrina's unwavering dedication to hard work, in order to wholeheartedly seize every opportunity and reach my full potential. I want to sincerely express my profound gratitude to the organizers of this scholarship and the kind-hearted donor(s) for granting me this incredible opportunity. Additionally, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the bold.org team for making this opportunity possible. Being a first-generation student from a low-income background, I understand the immense value of these scholarship opportunities. I am genuinely grateful for your commitment to empowering college students. May God continue to bless your endeavors and strengthen your spirit of generosity to spread even further!

Being a first-generation college student, I am aware that I belong to a community of non-traditional students. The fact that I'm the first one in my family to pursue a college degree has provided me with the utmost determination to strive for excellence and give it my all. Statistically, the majority of college students have family backgrounds with college-educated members. Unlike the statistics, my family background differs from most of my peers. Although I may be part of a minority group among college students, I strongly believe that higher education is the vital key to improving the future prospects of families. I take immense pride in acknowledging my status as a first-generation college student and fully embrace my distinctive identity as a non-traditional student. As a young man, I am driven by a multitude of factors. However, nothing fuels my ambition quite like my unwavering determination to attain success. To me, success encompasses more than mere material possessions. It represents a life adorned with compassion, generosity, kindness, and a diligent pursuit of excellence. The foundation of my motivation to strive for more and fulfill my destiny lies in the steadfast drive for success that fuels me, inspiring me to become everything that God has intended me to be. I aim for my life to be a living testament to the countless hours of dedicated effort I have put in, and the unmistakable guidance of a divine force shaping my journey. Education has always played a pivotal role in shaping my life, and it continues to do so. To achieve my goals, I am dedicated to working diligently in school and maximizing every educational opportunity that comes my way. Despite encountering occasional challenges, I have consistently persevered, showing unwavering determination in the pursuit of my dreams. At the end of each semester, I take a moment to reflect on my progress and use it as a springboard to further develop my skills and set even higher goals for myself. With my education and strong faith in God, I am confident that I can make a meaningful impact on this incredible world and bring blessings to the lives of countless individuals within it. Through experience, I've come to understand that there are often alternative paths to the conventional one. I am thankful for all the incredible individuals who have made my college experience so enjoyable, and I am excited about the time I have left at university. I believe that knowledge is a precious gift from God, and I am dedicated to wholeheartedly embracing the joy and richness of this extraordinary blessing. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to the scholarship organizer and donor(s) for this amazing opportunity, as well as to the bold.org team for providing such an exceptional platform. As always, may God bless you all and advance your cause!

Education has always been at the forefront of my thoughts. Having grown up in a family of educators, I have been consistently surrounded by the realm of knowledge. Education was a topic of extensive discussion among my family members, regardless of the setting. The older generation in our family took it upon themselves to make sure that we, as the younger generation, would excel academically and maintain an impressive academic record. This included my mother, a woman of unwavering determination and a strong belief in the transformative power of education. Understanding the incredible power of education to uplift and eliminate the obstacles blocking economic progress, she, being a single mother, was acutely aware of its potential. My family, despite being incredibly supportive of my educational goals, it was my mother who took the lead in this endeavor. My mother constantly emphasized the importance of education, consistently illustrating its power through real-life examples. To be completely honest, I was tired of hearing her constantly talk about the potential of education. But as time went on, I came to realize why she emphasized it so much. Although I saw education as a time-consuming burden that interfered with my free time, my mother saw it as a path to a better future. While I observed it comfortably, my mother saw it with longing. She grasped the challenges of being a single mother and the drawbacks of having a meager income. She was truly a miracle worker, continually balancing the demands of life against limited resources with remarkable skill. My mother, despite her hectic schedule and exhaustion, made it her mission to support me in achieving my educational aspirations. She always found time to sit down with me and help me with my homework, study for exams, locate materials for the topics that were difficult for me, and show tremendous empathy as I made my way through this process. She made sure that I stayed on track to achieve my educational goals, even if it meant working late into the night and sacrificing her own free time. During challenging times at school, my mother's unwavering support and encouragement were crucial in helping me overcome obstacles and succeed. I was amazed by the way she showed so much joy in helping me, despite needing some well-deserved downtime after a long work day. Even now, in my junior year of college, my mother continues to guide and support me just as she always had. I am aware that I can never fully compensate my mother for the immense sacrifices she made in raising me. However, I am determined to wholeheartedly demonstrate my genuine appreciation for her. I show my gratitude by fully committing to my studies and treasuring the valuable knowledge she shared with me during my educational journey. Moreover, I am determined to instill in my future children and the younger generation as a whole, the same appreciation for education that my mother instilled in me. Though my journey is far from over, I owe all of my academic achievements to God above all, and also to the amazing mother he has bestowed upon me. Before I finish, I want to sincerely thank the organizers of this scholarship and the generous donors who have turned this amazing opportunity into a concrete reality. I also want to encourage anyone who might be reading this and has either grown up in a single-parent household like me, or lost a parent, that we are destined for greatness. God has a plan for each of our lives, filled with incredible deeds and eternal happiness. God bless you all!

Being raised by a single mother presented many challenges, particularly because I couldn't fully connect with peers who had both parents' support. Often, I had experienced a sense of being the odd one out, pondering why my upbringing couldn't have been more similar to that of my peers. Not only did I have a complex family dynamic, but I also grew up as a low-income child, witnessing my mother's tireless efforts to provide for our needs every single day. Despite her diligent efforts, it always felt like no matter how much she toiled, we were consistently falling behind. She made enormous sacrifices for me, selflessly prioritizing my needs above her own, and willingly going without many things to guarantee that I had everything I required. Despite my mother's efforts to conceal our struggles, I could still sense the immense difficulties she faced and the overwhelming despair she endured. Even amidst the most profound despair, I recognized the presence of a golden opportunity waiting for me. The key to overcoming our challenges lies in wholeheartedly committing myself to education. It is through this unwavering commitment that I stand here today, on the path of higher education. I have chosen to pursue a STEM degree because of the high demand and market value associated with STEM careers. I am deeply passionate about STEM due to its immense potential in propelling me towards a prosperous career in a field that is reshaping our world in remarkable ways. I selected architecture as my entry point into the world of STEM due to the challenges it presents and its significant impact on the built environment. I yearned to be part of something that would revolutionize the world, and architecture assured me that it would fulfill my immense desire. The immense potential and undeniable importance of my field of study, as well as all STEM fields, has fueled my unwavering passion for them. Being a college student with limited financial resources, I am always on the lookout for any type of financial assistance to help with my education. Despite the rising cost of higher education, I am firmly convinced that there is a caring community of individuals, such as yourself, who deeply value providing support to the younger generation. I firmly believe that being granted this scholarship will provide me with the vital support I need to alleviate the financial burden of my education, allowing me to wholeheartedly focus on achieving academic brilliance. Throughout the challenges I faced while growing up, my passion for education has stayed strong. I am convinced that education serves both personal development and the upliftment of those closest to me. Before concluding, I would like to offer my deepest sympathies to the families and friends of Richard and Rebecca Whiddon, and express my gratitude to all of you for honoring the memory of your loved ones in such a beautiful way. I have a strong belief that they fully embraced the core value of hard work and acknowledged the endless opportunities that STEM offers. Their remarkable contributions to society throughout their lives are a true testament to their greatness. I aspire to walk in their inspiring path and make a profound impact on the world. May you be blessed by God, and thank you once more for this chance to share!

There is no doubt that Taylor Swift is an iconic American and a world-renowned singer. She has garnered an enormous following on social media, capturing the hearts of fans across the globe. Her music compilation is an impressive testament to her unwavering commitment and dedication. She has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her career, making countless sacrifices along her remarkable journey to her current position. Without a doubt, Taylor Swift will be forever etched in our memory as one of the most extraordinary artists in history, an enduring symbol for future generations. Taylor Swift's music, particularly during the Eras Tour, has introduced me to a whole new world of musical pleasure that I hadn't even realized I was missing out on. As a child of the early 2000s, I was captivated by the electrifying pace of the music scene. During that period, I used to rely on artists like Michael Jackson, Usher, Drake, and Eminem as my top favorites. I hesitated to explore new musical genres since I was so accustomed to the sounds I grew up with. I have always been captivated by music that fills me with energy and motivates me to take action, often neglecting music that focuses on themes such as love or emotions. That all changed when I discovered the musical brilliance of Taylor Swift. I have a vivid memory of a time when I found myself sitting at the bus stop. I eagerly scrolled through my playlist, searching for the perfect song to keep me thoroughly entertained while waiting for the bus to arrive. I was taken aback when I discovered that I had unknowingly downloaded a Taylor Swift song onto my mp3 player, and then my skip button mysteriously stopped working. As I sat there, a sense of dread filled me. However, to my utter amazement, the song suddenly began playing, unleashing an overwhelming surge of euphoria throughout my entire being. The blend of vocals and background music had a powerful effect on me, sparking a deep self-discovery that I had never felt before. I'd come to realize that I was truly captivated by emotions, which goes against what I previously believed. Taylor Swift's "Love Story" served as a gateway for me to unlock this realization. As I explored Taylor's music, especially from the Eras Tour, I discovered a captivating revelation that deeply resonated with my evolving musical preference. Not only had I gained valuable insights, but I also discovered a deep longing in my heart to immerse myself in profound emotions and share them with the people I cherish the most. A song that was originally seen as a fluke had transformed into a meaningful reflection of my true self. I'd come to realize that my emotions had a profound influence on my actions. The new awareness I'd gained sparked a range of positive behaviors, prompting me to engage in profound self-reflection and cultivate a steadfast dedication to personal growth in various areas of my life. It never ceases to amaze me how a single song, artist, or musical genre can have the power to transform someone's life, unlocking new discoveries and uncovering hidden parts of themselves. I believe in the power of Taylor Swift's music, along with that of other musical icons, to ignite a transformative process of self-reflection in individuals, inspiring them to fully embrace their authentic selves. I am thankful to the bold.org team for giving me this opportunity to share and for their relentless commitment to supporting college students. May God's blessings be with all of you!

Although our world is deeply divided, there is widespread consensus that mental health care should be easily accessible and affordable for all. The human mind is an extraordinary network of matter that empowers one to think, act, and display positive behavior. The mind is renowned for its extraordinary ability to efficiently solve complex problems for extended periods of time. However, the absence of sufficient support can actually cause the resilience of the mind to gradually crumble, setting off a chain of negative consequences. Driven by the tremendous significance of the human mind, I am committed to dedicating my time, energy, and resources to make mental health care accessible and affordable for everyone in need. I strongly feel that although many of us recognize the significance of mental well-being, we tend to lack the genuine commitment to actively advocate for transformation. I yearn to abandon this method and instead choose a more intimate approach of unwavering advocacy of demanding that the mental health needs of all individuals are met. Though I am just a single individual, I firmly hold the belief that by uniting our efforts, we have the power to catalyze the essential transformation within our society. In a world where mental health professionals and institutions are extremely scarce, taking no action is not an acceptable choice to promote mental well-being for all. I trust that my words, along with those of other applicants, will serve as an inspiration for others to take the lead in creating a brighter future!

We all encounter adversity, although we often yearn to escape it. Some believe that challenging times build strength, but it's hard to hold onto that belief when we keep encountering difficult situations. The increasing interconnectedness of our world through social media allows us to become aware of and empathize with the adversities that others face. We soon realize that we are not alone in our quest for a better life and a way out of hardship. What sets us apart as human beings is the fact that each of us has a unique story. Given this amazing opportunity, allow me to seize this extraordinary moment to share with you my story. Imagine sitting in a classroom surrounded by unfamiliar faces, feeling an intense internal burning desire that something momentous is about to happen. You attempt to hide your emotions to prevent embarrassment, but the task becomes increasingly challenging with each passing moment. As you glance around the classroom, everyone seems to be handling things perfectly, but inside, you're struggling with an overpowering feeling of unease. This was the harsh reality I faced while waging a relentless battle against overwhelming anxiety. While others were finding pleasure, I experienced uneasiness. While others were finding joy, chaos was my companion. Similar to many individuals dealing with severe anxiety, I chose to isolate myself from others in order to shield myself from the stigma and lack of understanding that often accompanies anxious young people. I understood that others would not comprehend the internal struggle I was facing, so I made a conscious effort to protect myself from difficult interactions and challenging discussions. As the relentless pattern of shielding persisted, I realized I was plunging further into the rabbit hole. My grades were not only dropping because of my lack of focus and performance, but my mental health was also beginning to deteriorate as this struggle continued. The pressure of my reality frequently caused my anxiety to intertwine with the struggles in my household, serving as a constant reminder of their presence. Growing up in a low-income single-parent household, I witnessed firsthand the financial challenges my mother confronted and the countless sleepless nights she endured, hoping for a miracle. Considering the challenges we faced, I committed myself to studying diligently with the ultimate goal of relieving my mother from the weight of her financial troubles. However, I couldn't help but feel like I was disappointing her due to my inadequate academic performance. I was on the verge of despair when a moment of respite arrived, during a church sermon, where the preacher passionately spoke about the unyielding power of perseverance. I don't remember all the details of his sermon, but the main message that stuck with me is the importance of "running your race." He described running your race as overcoming any obstacles with the same determination as racecar drivers do in their races. In that particular moment, it dawned on me that the time had come for me to seize control and bravely face my challenges head-on. So I embarked on a journey of personal, social, and familial transformation and am delighted to have triumphantly defeated the inner demons that once tormented me. I aspire to support my community in the future by becoming a champion for those who are brokenhearted and marginalized. I'm particularly eager to lend a helping hand to members of the community who are grappling with debilitating anxiety and demonstrate to them that there is hope at the end of the tunnel. I conclude by thanking the scholarship donor(s) and bold.org team for this opportunity.

Just imagine it: the stage is set, and you are about to embark on a worldwide tour with millions of fans screaming your name. Or consider the prospect of being chosen as the next leader of a prominent corporation or political office, responsible for fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people. These are often the thoughts of many who envision what a legend is and what leaving a legacy consists of. However, I wonder how many of us would envision a new perspective on legacy if we dared to go beyond our instinctual thinking. While the idea of legacy may vary among individuals, I have gained a profound understanding of its meaning that I am excited to unveil today. To me, legacy signifies creating a meaningful influence that benefits not only oneself but also the broader world. The concept of a legacy may have various interpretations, but one thing remains evident to me: a genuine legacy must undoubtedly enhance and benefit society as a whole. Raised in a close-knit family with deep religious principles, I have consistently emphasized the significance of community. From a young age, I understood the power of unity over division and the effectiveness of selflessness over selfishness in achieving goals. No matter if it was within the confines of my home, the sanctuary of the church, the halls of my school, or the vibrant streets of my local neighborhood, the significance of community was a notion that persistently surrounded me, one that I couldn't ignore nor resist embracing. This experience had compelled me to redefine my concept of legacy and perceive personal accomplishment as something that transcends material possessions, fame, and fleeting beauty. As I have mentioned before, community played a central role in my upbringing. During my childhood, I have vivid memories of constantly being embraced by my affectionate family and supportive community members. The days of infinite social happiness seemed to last forever, and the sense of community was always vibrant and radiant. The experience of being in this environment had a profound impact on me, one that has endured over time and greatly shaped the person I have become as a young man. My upbringing has deeply shaped my life's trajectory, and I am committed to perpetuating a legacy of love, generosity, compassion, and community in the days ahead. I strive to lead a life that reflects the influence of those who have shaped me, embodying their values and serving as a testament to the creation of a profound and enduring legacy. Regardless of whether I attain great wealth or fame, my ultimate goal is to make a meaningful impact on the world that surpasses my own lifetime and the traditional concept of leaving a legacy. A world that lacks love, compassion, and joy is in desperate need of revitalization. I am wholeheartedly dedicated to leading the efforts to revitalize during my lifetime, and hopefully, inspire others to do the same. I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing my thoughts on the prompt with you, bringing delight and satisfaction. I thoroughly enjoy writing about subjects that deeply connect with individuals and have a broad, universal appeal. In the same way as the esteemed Dr. Attoh, our world is desperately longing for academics and intellectuals who exhibit audacious determination to revolutionize possibilities and relentlessly strive to shatter boundaries. I commend the scholarship organizer for recognizing your father in this way, and may his legacy endure. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the generous scholarship donor(s) and bold.org for this incredible opportunity. More blessing upon you all and your future endeavors.

The way movies and shows are consumed has truly transformed in the 21st century. The transformation from the Kinetoscope Parlors of the 1890s to the Movie Palaces of the early 1900s and now the online streaming platforms of the early 21st century is truly undeniable. Streaming services have had a profound impact in the new century, offering an extensive range of films to cater to a diverse audience. Netflix has been a pioneer in the streaming industry, generating an impressive revenue of $34.93 billion and captivating a staggering number of over 200 million active users annually. Having an extensive collection of movies and TV shows can make it challenging to single out a personal favorite. However, I will provide my top recommendation. I highly recommend the "Enola Holmes" series on Netflix for its exceptional storytelling and remarkable message. Frequently overshadowed by her older brother, Sherlock Holmes, Enola embarks on a daring quest to establish her own unique identity. Enola's upbringing in the English countryside during the Victorian Era has molded her into a fascinating person, epitomizing a remarkable combination of independence and expertise. Enola is an extraordinary and brave individual who challenges the numerous social norms imposed upon her in a society overwhelmingly dominated by males. On her quest to locate her mother, she encounters an extraordinary chance that will alter her life forever. Not only does this opportunity reveal the whereabouts of her mother, but it also exposes a multitude of mysterious secrets that surround her prestigious ancestry. Enola Holmes and other similar female characters may be fictional, yet their stories stand as poignant reminders of the long-standing struggles women have endured in their fight for equality and acknowledgment within a society dominated by men. Around the world, people are still advocating for gender equality, making sure that the melody of a fair and just world stays alive. I strongly encourage others to watch this series as it not only offers a gripping storyline but also serves as a poignant reminder of the significant hurdles that marginalized communities have encountered throughout history. Additionally, it emphasizes the critical significance of removing all barriers that hinder the achievement of true social equality. The "Enola Holmes" series on Netflix truly deserves all the love it is receiving. I deeply desire to see a powerful revival of storytelling. The current resurgence highlights not only the struggles that historically marginalized minority groups have endured and still endure, but also brings attention to the dangerous outcomes we may face if we do not act swiftly to alter the current trajectory. Disregarding the tremendous efforts made in recent decades to improve the fairness and inclusiveness of our social framework would be a serious error. I am confident that there is still significant progress to be achieved. I have full confidence that as individuals, governments, organizations, and media companies come together, our society will truly begin its journey towards achieving equality for all. As always, I conclude this essay by expressing my gratitude to the scholarship donor(s) and the bold.org team for their tremendous support of college students. I believe that God will abundantly bless you and that your work will never be in vain.

Rarely do you come across a TV show that seamlessly combines humor and relatability. TV shows such as "Friends," "The Cosby Show," and "Family Matters" have undeniably reached legendary status in relatable humor. However, it is "The Office" that has truly revolutionized the way television creates a bond through its humor and relatability. In the captivating fictional office that graces our television screens, we are irresistibly pulled into the captivating lives of its characters, forming deep connections and truly understanding their diverse work-related experiences. As we forge stronger bonds with the characters and events, we are mesmerized by the intricate interplay of our own lives, both within and beyond the workplace, and how television endeavors to depict them. I strongly empathize with Dwight Schrute, the character from "The Office," because of his unyielding ambition and unwavering determination to succeed. His strong desire to compete and unwavering commitment to hard work truly inspires me. Despite Dwight's strict and disciplined work ethic, he is always a reliable and dependable colleague. In addition, he consistently contributes to creating a workplace environment that is filled with lightheartedness and humor. Like Dwight from the show, I embrace a strong work ethic and excel at ensuring tasks are carried out in an organized and efficient manner. I love participating in the lively atmosphere, but I always make sure to prioritize my work. Loyalty holds immense importance for me, as I deeply cherish the privileges of both giving and receiving loyalty from others. The show has truly molded my sense of humor and transformed my perspective on workplace dynamics. In the larger context, the workplace flourishes when diverse perspectives come together toward a shared goal. I firmly believe that the differing qualities of coworkers are pivotal in creating a truly unique workplace environment and nurturing the proliferation of innovative ideas and strategies. The show delves into the intricacies of social idiosyncrasies and tapestries that shape our uniqueness, showcasing how these differences can blend together seamlessly to create something truly astonishing. I'm certain that numerous skeptics, including the network NBC, had doubts about creating a show centered around office work. "The Office" surpassed all expectations and has become a timeless masterpiece, earning widespread admiration and remarkable success in the media. I am convinced that "The Office" will continue to be embraced by fans around the globe and will serve as a catalyst for upcoming television shows that seek to follow a similar path. I would like to take this moment to convey my utmost gratitude to the bold.org team and its partners for granting me this truly remarkable opportunity to share. As I've mentioned previously, and as I will continue to emphasize, the work you all do is genuinely inspiring. I also extend my gratitude to the generous scholarship donor(s) for their invaluable financial support towards this scholarship. I sincerely pray for God's continued blessings upon you all, showering you with abundant resources so that you may tirelessly pursue your mission of relieving college students from the financial strain of higher education.

It is nearly unfathomable to conceive of our world without the presence of mathematics. From a young age, we are equipped with fundamental mathematical knowledge and its practical use in solving problems. As we age, we are expected to utilize our fundamental math skills to tackle increasingly intricate problems. Math is fundamental to virtually all professional fields, but STEM disciplines rely particularly heavily on mathematical principles. STEM is an incredibly influential domain in the current job market and is expected to undergo substantial expansion in the future. STEM is a diverse field that encompasses a range of components to create a unique and dynamic discipline. Among these, calculus plays a crucial role in ensuring the longevity and continued success of STEM. The study of change and variation lies at the heart of calculus, making it a fundamental branch of mathematics. In today's dynamic world, STEM professionals are regularly challenged to achieve seemingly impossible tasks in ways that are frequently unparalleled. Calculus is essential in the STEM field for its ability to tackle and solve complex problems by addressing variations effectively. Just as elementary school students are expected to use mathematical principles to solve difficult problems, today's STEM professionals face the daily challenge of solving the complex issues of our modern world. In order to thrive, the modern world relies on a complex network of interconnected components that constantly demand innovative transformations. We live in a world filled with complex and advanced technologies that we interact with every day. Our world is filled with an incredible range of wonders, encompassing everything from our handy smartphones and illuminating streetlights to the astonishing advancements in transportation, like cars, planes, and boats. The advancements that influence our everyday experiences introduce a captivating degree of intricacy, all grounded in the fundamentals of variable transformation. Calculus is crucial for solving intricate problems efficiently and economically. Calculus also holds great importance in the STEM field due to its immense potential for driving scientific innovation. STEM professionals from around the world deserve significant recognition for their relentless dedication, which has led to the remarkable level of sophistication present in the modern systems we rely on every day. In order to drive technological innovation, it is imperative that we strengthen the foundation of calculus and explore its wider applications in the professional realm. In order to fully embrace the rapidly approaching age of advanced technology, it is vital to obtain the necessary skills to develop and uphold these state-of-the-art systems. The significance of calculus in STEM is a subject that I could endlessly explore, although my words are limited. Even with the limited words available, I have found fulfillment in expressing my thoughts on the significance of the prompt. I hope that others will also come to comprehend and wholeheartedly embrace it. I would like to express my gratitude to Learner and their team for granting me this incredible opportunity. I would also like to thank the bold.org team for their ongoing support in easing the financial burden of pursuing higher education. Your work is genuinely inspiring, and I fervently pray for God's continued blessings on all your future endeavors.

A community is a group of people who share similar interests, objectives, traits, and live in proximity to each other. Every single day, individuals in various communities worldwide come together, pooling their efforts to streamline and enhance their way of living. Every community is invaluable, possessing distinctive characteristics and elements that contribute to the prosperity of the community. The notion of community has been a fundamental aspect of human existence since the dawn of civilization, yet its significance is diminishing in modern society, largely overshadowed by the prevailing emphasis on individualism. Although we can achieve great things individually, our potential is multiplied when we come together as one. Some believe that rejuvenating the community is a lost cause, but I am convinced that it demands a united front of 'up-standers' who vigorously champion the cause. An 'up-stander' is someone who actively uses their voice to effect positive change within their community. Furthermore, this individual consistently makes the right choices in the midst of adversity and consistently shows compassion in every situation. Being an 'up-stander' is not a simple task. It requires considerable courage to stand alone and challenge the corrupt norms of our world. Nevertheless, your efforts are not futile, since the intended improvements are achieved and lives are truly transformed. While there are many who claim to be change makers, only a small percentage of them actually commit themselves to taking the essential steps towards bringing about meaningful transformation. The continuous trend of prioritizing great ideas over mediocre execution is pervasive in society, negatively impacting the mindset of numerous younger generations. As the future generation, it is our responsibility to revolutionize this trend and substitute it with a more suitable format that emphasizes actions over mere words. I consider myself an "up-stander" due to the power of my voice and the principles I uphold. The ability to speak is truly one of the greatest gifts bestowed upon us by God. Our voices enable us to connect with each other, support innovative concepts, and demand change in flawed systems. I am convinced that my voice holds the strength to confront the detrimental aspects of our society and to advocate for the disadvantaged. I am unwavering in my commitment to championing the rights of individuals who face marginalization or suppression due to the detrimental power dynamics present in our society. My voice is accompanied by a set of guiding principles that direct my words towards the ultimate answer. I firmly believe that the ultimate answer lies in Christ and his message of love, peace, joy, and happiness. His message guides my words in my prevailing advocacy, helping to plant a seed of faith that I trust God will nurture. I aim to utilize the incredible power of God's word, as proclaimed in the Bible, to uplift and enhance our society. The scriptures declare that the word of God is not only alive but also mighty (See. Hebrews 4:12). So, I am determined to lend my voice in order to magnify this extraordinary power for the greater good. With my powerful voice, I will actively contribute to the development of my community by championing the welfare of all its residents, extending a supportive hand to those in need, and always keeping their best interests at heart. The success of my upbringing is greatly owed to God, my parents, and the incredible community I grew up in. I consider myself fortunate to have had exceptional role models in my community who significantly contributed to shaping the person I am today. Finally, I thank the Taha family for this opportunity. God bless!

Greetings! I am Cedric Pitts, a driven 21-year-old student eagerly pursuing an undergraduate degree in architecture at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I am currently in my junior year and I have great expectations for the rest of my time at university. During my leisure time, I derive immense joy from engaging in video games as well as immersing myself in captivating TV shows and movies. I am from San Antonio and a proud graduate of Winston Churchill High School. My aim as a first-generation college student is to not only thrive in the upcoming job market, but also to break through the barriers of generations. I have unwavering faith in the impact of empathy and compassion. I take great pride in lending a helping hand to those in need and dedicating my time to outreach efforts. As a person who holds strong beliefs, I am convinced that Jesus is the solution for the world in our time. As a proud advocate of my faith, I stand as a living witness to the remarkable power of God. Many students find the cost of higher education to be excessively burdensome. The expense of tuition, supplies, housing, and other miscellaneous costs can be a heavy burden on the limited resources of the average college student. As inflation continues to rise, staying financially afloat becomes increasingly challenging due to the exponential increase in costs. Numerous students discover that without financial assistance, they are at risk of dropping out or having to reduce their course load, significantly hindering their potential in the future job market. That's why your work as a scholarship donor is incredibly important. In order to cultivate a society that promotes the importance of education and perseverance, we need to be ready to invest in the next generation of this said society. I can clearly see that you have accomplished exactly that by creating this incredible scholarship opportunity. As previously mentioned, without support, many students will inevitably be held back by the financial limitations of pursuing higher education. The absence of support would be comparable to a car with an inefficient fuel line or an electrical circuit with a short. College students who do not have sufficient financial support are like malfunctioning cars and electrical circuits, since they are incapable of operating at their full potential. I am certain that this scholarship will provide the financial assistance necessary to pursue my educational goals and ultimately achieve my academic dreams. With your support, I am confident that I can achieve the pinnacle of what higher education has to offer, and in turn, make a profound impact on the future job market. I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the "Scholarship Creation Club" and all the other generous donors who have made this opportunity a reality. Your work is truly inspiring and motivates me to give back and persist in my quest for lifelong learning. May the divine blessings of God be bestowed upon you as you commence your noble mission of investing in the future generation!

Truth in society is often regarded as something subjective. People frequently dismiss ideas that challenge their "truths" without considering scientific evidence or empirical data. In a world where ideas are constantly conceived, distinguishing between what is authentic and what is false can prove to be quite difficult. Many times, we trust our instincts to uncover the truth, but regrettably, we frequently come up short in this pursuit. We then encounter methods and individuals who claim to unveil the truth, but frequently fall short of fulfilling their promise. Despite the deception of false promises, I am convinced that there is someone who offers an unparalleled truth. Based on my understanding of the Bible, I believe there is a distinction between our truth and God's truth. The truth that we hold, as mentioned before, is frequently shaped by our personal experiences and emotions, whereas God's truth is rooted in divine wisdom and fundamental comprehension. The work of God commences with the establishment of the boundaries of creation (See. Genesis 1). In the act of creation, God sets the standard of "good" and defines the limits of "goodness" for every being brought into existence (See. Genesis 1). As the creation story unfolds, we are introduced to two remarkable individuals, Adam and Eve. They are entrusted with the responsibility of ruling over the Earth and play a crucial role in God's grand design (See. Genesis 1:26-28). In the Garden of Eden, God gave a direct command to the man and woman, warning them not to eat the fruit from the tree of knowledge or good and evil. By following this directive, they could have prevented the catastrophic consequences that occurred (See. Genesis 2:16-17). Nevertheless, through their disobedience, they violated God's commands, leading to their banishment from the paradise of Eden (See. 3:22-24). The creation story unequivocally demonstrates the limited understanding of man in contrast to the profound wisdom of God. While Adam and Eve were limited to the small picture and influenced by the serpent (See. Genesis 3:1-7), God had the insight to see the big picture and understand the ultimate outcome (See. Genesis 2:16). This emphasizes the fundamental flaw of human "truth," as it frequently fails to fully comprehend the essence and instead depends on restricted reasoning and logic. In the Bible, we witness the unyielding cycle of humanity striving to define its own "truth," as each generation wrestles with its own desires in light of God's will. In the same way, our world mirrors the constant battle between our personal "truths" and the divine truth of God. The more we continue to indulge in crafting our own versions of reality and distancing ourselves from God's divine plan, the deeper we will sink into a multitude of problems. In our society, it is common for us to criticize the mistakes made by the man and woman in Eden without recognizing that we ourselves are prone to committing similar errors. The Bible describes our hearts as "...deceitful above all things and beyond cure" (Jeremiah 17:9), shaping our perception of "truth". That is the very reason we were in desperate need of a savior, to deliver us from the darkness within our hearts and the repercussions of our transgressions against the absolute truth of God's divine message. I am grateful that I have chosen to follow the one who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). I hope that people all over the world will embrace our savior, Jesus, and the profound truth that he offers. Jesus is the source of liberation, healing, and salvation for our minds and hearts!

Undoubtedly, Taylor Swift is one of the most prominent singers and performers of our time. She has garnered an impressive social media following, with over 461.1 million followers across four major social media platforms. In addition, her extraordinary talent has driven her to unparalleled success in the music industry, as evidenced by her impressive sales of over 114 million album units and an incredible 134 million singles units. Her remarkable vocal talent resonates worldwide, drawing people from all corners to experience the sheer magnitude of her work. Taylor Swift has made more than just a musical impact; her contribution to fashion and overall societal culture has been truly significant, expanding her reach even further. Her music and distinctive artistic style irresistibly captivate fans, making her truly compelling. For the soundtrack of my year, I'd select "Welcome to New York", "Out Of The Woods", and "This Love" from Taylor Swift's 1989 (Taylor's Version). These songs perfectly capture the immense joy that has filled my heart as I've achieved incredible milestones and moved closer to my dreams. All three of these songs showcase a dynamic, exhilarating musical build-up that culminates in a sense of victorious elation, captivating the audience with the sheer exuberance present in Taylor's vocals. The songs also evoke a sense of curiosity and wonder when exploring a new land, a feeling unmistakably present in "Welcome to New York" and "Out Of The Woods". This year has been filled with exciting prospects and thrilling adventures, taking me far from the cozy confines of my comfort zone. Stepping out of my comfort zone to connect with new people, cultivate relationships, and create meaningful experiences has been the most rewarding aspect of my year, both academically and socially. The theme of love coming back, depicted in "This Love," deeply resonates with me, evoking the reawakening of love within my community and treasured moments this year. Taylor Swift's "1989 (Taylor's Version)" album, will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most remarkable musical compositions ever created. Taylor Swift's unmatched artistry shines through in every song, with an extraordinary level of detail, focus, and emotional depth. Taylor Swift and artists alike are the true driving force behind the immense greatness of the music industry. Their profound impact on the lives of countless fans worldwide is nothing short of extraordinary. In closing, I thank the bold.org team for this wonderful opportunity to share. God bless!

Ever since I was young, I've always possessed a keen interest in architecture. The process of constructing buildings has always fascinated me, especially considering the positive impact they have on the local community. I found myself fascinated by the diverse geometric shapes of buildings and their intricate inner workings, often pondering the brilliant minds responsible for these ingenious ideas. I discovered that these colossal structures I was analyzing were primarily created by architects, interior designers, and engineers. Motivated by curiosity, I thoroughly investigated different aspects of each profession, meticulously analyzing and evaluating the unique contributions they had to offer. I was amazed by the fields of interior design and engineering, but it was the realm of architecture that truly left me in awe. In my extensive research, I made a remarkable finding: the architect holds the ultimate responsibility for the comprehensive design of a building and plays a pivotal role in its successful execution within a specific site. By employing plans, sections, elevations, and perspective drawings, architects can transform a client's idea into a vibrant reality. These drawings help to produce a series of detailed renderings that enable the client to vividly envision their idea and understand its real-world appearance. This mesmerizing blend of graphic and digital design completely captivated me, and served as the ultimate driving force behind my decision to pursue a degree in architecture. I desired to join a community of individuals who were like-minded and shared a fervor for design. Every ambitious decision necessitates a series of goals to be accomplished in order to attain the coveted level of success. As a highly driven individual, I've set a comprehensive range of short and long-term goals to realize success in my chosen career. To achieve my short-term goals, I will work relentlessly to maintain an outstanding grade point average, pour my dedication into creating extraordinary architectural drawings and models, and highlight my creativity and competence through my studies. In pursuit of my long-term aspirations, I aim to leave a lasting impression on the architectural field, forge meaningful relationships with influential industry figures, attain financial success, empower my colleagues, and cultivate a dynamic environment that values innovation while upholding the rich heritage of architectural foundations. Although achieving these goals will require a significant amount of time, I firmly believe that my unwavering commitment and diligent efforts will ultimately lead me to success. The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) report that only 2% of licensed architects in the industry are black. The gravity of this statistic underscores the immediate necessity for a long-awaited surge of diversity in this particular industry. As an underrepresented minority, my career goals are focused on not only benefiting myself but also empowering all other aspiring black designers around the globe. My goal is to present my work in a way that highlights a wider perspective of the industry, enabling the skills of other black designers who share similar aspirations, and ultimately enhancing the field of architecture. Therefore, in my future profession, I will fervently advocate for the brilliant minds of those who are underrepresented. I consider this scholarship to be an excellent opportunity to support underrepresented voices in prominent fields of study. Undoubtedly, STEM careers are the forefront in our nation's quest to resolve intricate problems and safeguard our way of life. I strongly believe that this scholarship will greatly support me financially, as it will allow me to continue my educational journey without stressing about the burden of expenses. I'm grateful to the scholarship donor(s) for this incredible opportunity. May Glod bless you all!

Being raised in a community where you are part of a minority group poses unique challenges. Connecting with individuals from different cultures or with different communal interests can be challenging. San Antonio boasts a wealth of American and Mexican American culture, yet it faces challenges in adequately representing minority communities, which can detract from the city's overall sense of inclusion. My hometown, like many cities across America, has faced a challenging journey as it strives to fully represent the unique aspects of all its residents. As a member of an underrepresented minority population, I have always deeply valued and taken pride in my culture. I firmly believe that despite the negative stereotypes linked to the black community, there are many commendable qualities that define us, such as our collective embrace of love, compassion, faith, and the appreciation of food. Even though our community represents only 13.4% of the population in the United States and 17%-20% worldwide, its unmistakable influence on the world is evidenced by its exceptional talents and widespread acclaim. Our story is one of achieving victory in the midst of hardship, weaving into the larger narrative of our community's journey. Even though we face difficulties, we are a resilient community that perseveres through challenges without ever giving up. In the past few years, we have made incredible advancements, including the monumental election of the first black President in 2008, the historic presence of diverse voices in Congress, and the appointment of the first black woman as Vice President. We have also achieved significant milestones on the world stage. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala created history in 2021 by becoming the first-ever African woman to serve as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization. Her remarkable achievement not only broke down barriers, but also opened the door to incredible progress. Ursula Burns shattered barriers and motivated numerous individuals by becoming the first black woman to serve as CEO of a Fortune 500 company in 2009. Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett and Dr. Ayanna Howard have made remarkable scientific contributions in the investigation and breakthroughs regarding Covid-19, earning significant worldwide acclaim. These extraordinary individuals' remarkable achievements are a testament to their exceptional talent and expertise. Being a part of an underrepresented minority has impacted me by illustrating the importance of community, faith, and love for others. Although these virtues are not exclusive to the black community, their importance is especially profound given the historical challenges we have faced as a community. No matter our ethnic identity, it's clear that there is an urgent need for greater love and passion for community. I firmly believe that we can cultivate this by emphasizing the significance of revitalizing our communities while fostering compassionate love toward one another. Furthermore, I am confident that the unique virtues of my ethnic community will have a lasting, positive influence on me as I move forward on my life's path. The lessons we learn as we journey through life shape us into improved versions of ourselves. In closing, I would like to express my profound gratitude to the generous scholarship donor(s) and everyone who contributed to the realization of this extraordinary opportunity. May God's abundant blessings pour down upon all of you!

The film industry is brimming with groundbreaking movies that have captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. Watching a movie is a beloved pastime enjoyed by people all across the globe, as they indulge in the latest trends and offerings of the film industry. Movies are not simply packed with exciting action sequences, but they are also enhanced by the notable and sophisticated actors who grace the screen, truly taking the film to new heights. One of the most significant accomplishments in the film industry is its capability to collaborate with literature, bringing the words of a book to life on the big screen. Thanks to the visionary work of directors and authors, iconic films like 'Lord of the Rings', 'Harry Potter', 'The Godfather', and many others have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. This trend seems poised to persist as the film and book industries merge to craft captivating public spectacles. I love the 'Hunger Games' movie adaptation. The thrilling action is perfectly captured and the intricate details of the original books are meticulously followed. From the very start, we are introduced to a world that is unfamiliar to our own. In this fictional realm, there are 12 destitute districts and a capital inhabited by wealthy individuals. Here, a televised battle for survival takes place, with one boy and girl from each district forced to fight to the death. The story of the characters in the film deeply touches the audience, as they navigate a harsh and destitute life, filled with profound poverty, death, and a crumbling sense of reality. The portrayals in these films effectively capture the true essence of our natural world, compelling viewers to form a profound connection with the characters. The setting and atmospheric pressure reflect the anguish experienced as each district sacrifices another individual to face the harsh reality of a corrupt ruling class that delights in oppressing its own people. One might question the origin of the author and director's idea, but the truth is not hard to find. Numerous individuals in our society wield significant power and shamelessly exploit their own people, causing great harm, all driven by their self-serving agendas. They have malevolent intentions that bring harm to the very lives they are supposed to protect. This bold movie adaptation fearlessly confronts the timeless battle that humanity consistently faces, urging the audience to confront it with unfiltered urgency and intensity. Additionally, this adaptation boldly reveals the harsh truths of the natural world, standing in stark contrast to the detached approach commonly found in mainstream media. I firmly believe that the 'Hunger Games' series successfully bridged the gap between reading and watching, by providing a portrayal of an oppressive regime that can be universally understood while remaining faithful to Suzanne Collins' literary mastery. Book-to-film adaptations often stray from the original to cater to current societal trends or please a specific group of people. However, that was not the situation with this series. The seamless combination of literary and cinematic elements created the films that continue to captivate countless movie lovers to this day. I am eagerly anticipating the future of the 'Hunger Games' series and will continue to passionately celebrate the remarkable work of Suzanne Collins and all those involved in bringing the book-to-film adaptation to life. As I finish this essay, I want to express my deep appreciation to the Bold.org team for giving me this amazing opportunity. Your dedication to students is unparalleled, and I want to express my deep gratitude for the work you do. Please know that you are truly valued, God bless!

Responses about one's perception of the nature of the universe are bound to differ greatly. While some may take a philosophical or literal perspective, others might choose to examine the issue through a religious viewpoint. From the outset of mankind, humanity has been driven to unravel the mysteries of the universe in order to gain deeper insight into its own purpose and existence. Many have ventured into the deepest realms of philosophy in pursuit of deeper understanding. The universe, despite our limited understanding, never ceases to captivate and enchant us. Regardless of the obstacles, it is crucial to recognize that humanity's unquenchable thirst for knowledge guarantees an eternal adventure of delving into the mysterious wonders that lie ahead. Similar to the majority of individuals, I adopt a philosophical perspective when considering the nature of our universe. Although comprehending the extent of the known universe may seem unattainable, I firmly believe that there are innumerable wonders yet to be explored and revealed. Moreover, I firmly believe that it is essential for us to work towards achieving a deeper understanding of the profound nature of our universe, as it ultimately allows us to attain a greater understanding of our own existence. Understanding one's origins and the complexity of their creation is a profound and significant realization that should be cherished. A society that fully embraces this deep understanding is destined to surpass other major societal changes and hold the utmost significance. The progress of a society is contingent upon its capacity for innovation and its grasp of the enigmatic. The Holy Roman Empire, Ottoman Empire, and Byzantine Empire all reached unprecedented levels of greatness by demonstrating exceptional innovation and gaining profound insights into their respective realities. Today, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia stand as shining examples of prosperity on the global stage. These countries have achieved extraordinary success by embracing an unwavering spirit of innovation and a deep commitment to unraveling the complexities of the modern world. I wholeheartedly support the idea of promoting a comparable level of profound understanding, a practice that has been embraced by countless esteemed nations throughout history and is still being embraced by many today. We should possess the same level of dedication as individuals when we strive to unravel the mysteries of our vast universe. As previously stated, deepening our comprehension of the universe's nature has the potential to enhance our grasp of our own existence. Around 90% of our collective knowledge as a human race is based on the natural environment that surrounds us. The Wright brothers, renowned for their pioneering in flight mechanics, drew inspiration from their observations of birds. The rich and diverse color palettes used in modern design have been heavily inspired by the vibrant flowers found in nature. And most notable, a significant portion of the world's constructed surroundings incorporates diverse elements of biomimicry, directly inspired by the natural world. As you can see, most of the work we engage in is driven by a pattern of natural observation leading to personal incorporation. Comprehending the nature of the universe provides us with essential resources to develop a deeper understanding of ourselves, ultimately leading to profound personal development. I strongly believe that by assimilating concepts that ignite people's curiosity to delve into the intricate meaning of the universe's complexity, we can undergo extraordinary personal development and trigger a substantial transformation in our self-awareness. For instance, rather than imposing our beliefs on others, we empower them to form their own conclusions and stand prepared to help address any confusion. Furthermore, we must not restrict the number of ideas considered acceptable based on our limited comprehension. We should welcome new ideas and cultivate an environment that encourages the pursuit of fresh insights. Lastly, we should embrace the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about the fundamental nature of our universe, creating spaces where ideas can flow freely and openly, with no fear of judgment or criticism. The potential for further exploration of this topic is vast and largely untapped. However, it is important to note that this is just one of the numerous subjects that will always remain open-ended. We must come together in our unwavering dedication to relentlessly pursue a deeper comprehension of the fundamental essence of our universe, despite differing viewpoints. Let's remain completely open to exploring others who share our same pursuit, without any hesitation. Each of us holds incredible potential to shape the world, ensuring a bright and promising future for all. I am extremely grateful to Sean Carroll and the Mindscape team for allowing applicants to deeply explore and appreciate the wonders of our complex universe. Your work is truly inspiring, serving as a powerful catalyst for empowering the minds of ordinary people by showing them what was once considered unimaginable. I really appreciate the great work you all do on the podcast. Your ability to dissect intricate matters and present them in a lucid and enlightening manner is truly astonishing. I pray for continuous success in your lives, business, and future endeavors. God bless!

Contemplating what lies ahead in the future can feel overwhelming. As children, our lives are predetermined, offering little space for change. As we grow older, we acquire a greater sense of independence, giving us the power to enhance our ability to make wise choices and mold the path of our lives. This newfound freedom we've gained inspires us not only to make plans for the present, but also drives us to envision the life we want for our future. People are motivated by different things - be it wealth, relationships, or family. Nevertheless, in the end, we all possess a unified and positive perspective on what lies ahead in our future. My future plans are so extensive that they would unquestionably fill an entire notebook if I were to write them down. Like many individuals, I possess a relentless determination to shape a future filled with remarkable achievements. I desire for my future achievements to include obtaining a license as an architect, owning a home, traveling extensively, contributing to my community, and serving God in any capacity He deems suitable. Despite the seemingly ambitious nature of these plans, I strongly believe that with unwavering commitment and sheer determination, they can undoubtedly become a solid and unquestionable reality. I am convinced that dreams are a powerful way for our minds to express our innermost thoughts and emotions. When we dream, we are infused with the drive to reach new heights and overcome challenges that once seemed insurmountable. I believe that this scholarship will enable me to transform my aspirations into actual achievements by providing the means to enrich my education. I am firmly convinced that this scholarship will not only enrich my education, but also establish a solid foundation for a future brimming with accomplishments, compassion, and unwavering dedication to my faith in God. Just like in the realm of finance, investors seek assurance that their investment will yield favorable results while having significant impact on the market. I humbly believe, an investment into my education will yield astonishing outcomes, and further reinforce the undeniable societal benefit of investing in the next generation. Regardless of the decision you make, I am grateful to the scholarship organizer and donor(s) for this amazing opportunity. As many are aware, college expenses are significant, therefore, the help of generous individuals like yourself is crucial to guarantee fair access for everyone. In the end, my unwavering commitment lies in wholeheartedly embracing the pursuit of a world where the cost of higher education does not stand as an obstacle for anyone. I aim to perpetuate the ongoing worldwide wave of generosity to support students in overcoming this obstacle. Once again, I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to all those who kindly contributed to this scholarship fund. May you be showered with countless blessings from God, with your kindness spreading and multiplying a hundred times over.

Life, as they say, is teeming with obstacles. In the blink of an eye, everything that seemed harmonious crumbles away, leaving chaos in its wake. Coping with challenging moments in life can be tough, yet it is crucial for our long-term growth and development. As we face challenging times, our true character is exposed, compelling us to push ourselves even further to overcome them. I vividly recall the moment as if it were just yesterday, seated in my homeroom class during my last year of elementary school. In order to adequately prepare us for middle school, my school introduced a class rotation system that involved rotating between three classrooms, each dedicated to teaching different subjects. We relished the freedom we experienced by being able to move around, in contrast to being confined to a single classroom as we were in previous years. The change was widely embraced by students, who appreciated the opportunity to have multiple teachers providing explanations of a subject. This allowed for a greater chance of understanding, as one teacher may be more easily comprehensible than another. As I entered 5th grade, everything appeared to be going smoothly until the challenges of the coursework started to burden me. I found science, reading, and social studies easy to understand, but I struggled the most with math. I devoted myself entirely to my studies, diligently attending numerous tutoring sessions in an unwavering effort to excel in class. However, I encountered formidable obstacles that proved to be substantial hurdles throughout the entire year. My math teacher sent me a troubling message, expressing serious concerns about my performance on the upcoming state standardized test, the "STAAR." All 5th graders are required to take this test, and passing all four subjects is essential to move on to middle school. His concerns deeply troubled me, for I had previously endured the setback of repeating a grade, and I was determined not to allow history to repeat itself. Motivated by the agony of my past setback, I resolutely committed myself to intensifying my studies and conquering the obstacle I faced. Although it came at a personal cost, I made the bold decision to invest the majority of my free time into preparing for the "STAAR" test, and enhance my overall class grade. At times, I considered giving up, but in those critical moments, I discovered strength in reflecting on my past mistakes. This perspective had allowed me to bolster my determination and stay resolute in chasing my goal. As the day of the "STAAR" test approached, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. Due to my thorough preparation, I was confident that I was fully equipped to overcome any challenges the test might present. I successfully completed the test and advanced to the 6th grade. My hard work had finally paid off, teaching me a valuable lesson: never give up. I have always been encouraged to be a leader, not a follower. Throughout my life, I have immersed myself in this concept as I have pursued avenues to become a leader. During my academic and personal journey, I have consistently taken on positions that allow me to grow and thrive. As class president, non-profit community organizer, academic group leader, and in various other capacities, I have actively assumed responsibility and guided others. Although these opportunities were significant in my life, I am confident that I will be given the chance to take on many more leadership roles in the future. My objective is to fully embrace the leader within me and never lose faith in myself or others!

Greetings! I am Cedric Pitts, a dedicated student pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Architecture at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I proudly came into this world on August 8th, 2002, blessed with the love of two extraordinary parents. Nevertheless, it is my extraordinary single mother who has had a substantial impact on molding the individual I am today. As a 21-year-old, I derive immense joy from immersing myself in video games, binge-watching captivating television shows, delving into intriguing books, and skillfully creating thought-provoking scholarship essays. I am looking forward to graduating from college in 2025 and eager to join the professional workforce soon after. Being a Christian, my faith has consistently served as a guiding light in my life, helping me to stay grounded and steadfast in my journey with God. I have decided to pursue a college degree in order to fully immerse myself in a thrilling and unfamiliar setting. I'm determined to acquire the indispensable knowledge that will ultimately lead me to a prosperous and gratifying professional journey. Education has played a vital role in shaping my life, instilled by my parents who have consistently motivated me to aspire for academic brilliance. While I may not have been the perfect student throughout my academic journey, one thing has always remained constant: my unwavering belief in my ability to succeed if I put in the effort and dedication. After finishing high school, I held a strong belief that continuing my education in college would be the optimal route to enhance my knowledge and expand my career prospects. After three years in college, I am proud of the progress I have made in advancing my education. In just three short years, I've successfully forged numerous meaningful connections and gained a wealth of knowledge in my field of study that would have eluded me otherwise. The rich campus culture and diverse perspectives of my fellow students have expanded my horizons and enabled me to establish meaningful connections with people I might not have met otherwise. Even though I have about a year left, I remain optimistic about the potential for growth in the future. If someone were to ask me whether they should attend college, my answer would unequivocally be yes. The countless advantages, invaluable experiences, and extraordinary educational value provided by institutions of higher education make it an absolute must. I take pride in my ability to be focused on achieving my goals. Setting daily goals and reflecting regularly on my progress toward long-term objectives is a habit I have integrated into my daily routine. My career and life goals are no exception, as I am determined to make continuous efforts to achieve them. My personal life goals include exploring the world, providing assistance to children in hospitals and others in need, and maintaining an open and receptive mindset. My career goals are to become a licensed architect, pave the way for sustainable design, and make a significant impact on the world while achieving financial success. Naturally, these objectives can only be brought to fruition through a combination of unwavering determination and hard work. Therefore, I am fully devoted to exerting diligent effort in order to successfully accomplish my aspirations. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the generous scholarship donor(s) for their invaluable support, which has given me the opportunity to share my thoughts and experiences in this essay. Thank you. May God bless your work continually and may the results of your efforts never be in vain!

In my neighborhood, it was the norm for most children to grow up in a single-parent household. I grew up in a neighborhood where most residents had limited financial resources, yet we shared a deep sense of community and sincere affection for one another. My mind is filled with nostalgic memories of the vibrant neighborhood, alive with the contagious sounds of joyous laughter. When we were children, we used to completely immerse ourselves in never-ending outdoor play, while the adults enjoyed captivating conversations. While we all faced similar challenges, our diverse perspectives on life fostered deeper mutual respect and personal growth. In the heart of the community, dedicated single mothers like my own, worked tirelessly each and every day to ensure a better future for their children. The dedication of our mothers made them the real-life heroes we had always envisioned. Being raised in a single-parent household had a profound impact on my educational journey. At first, the disadvantages I faced compared to children from two-parent families were the fuel that drove me to push myself even harder. I've always despised the thought of falling behind and had consistently refused to let my circumstances define my potential. I believed that putting in extra effort at school would not only help bridge the gap, but also move me closer to the life I had imagined. I had started arriving earlier to class, asking more questions, and studying for longer periods of time. I made sure to meticulously review my work and turn to my classmates for guidance whenever I needed clarification on concepts that I didn't fully understand. The higher grades I achieved were a direct result of my increased effort, and my mother's approval was a clear indication that I was heading in the right direction. Furthermore, my upbringing in a single-parent household had instilled in me a deep regard for the value of education. My mother consistently emphasized the significance of education and frequently stated that "education is power." Initially, her words went unheard, but as time went by, I gradually grasped the profound meaning behind her message. I was suddenly struck by a deep realization of the extraordinary transformative potential of education, going beyond merely a governmental duty and emerging as a catalyst capable of revolutionizing our entire existence. Although my mother did her best to hide this from me, I was still aware of the financial struggles we were going through. After a long day of work, I could hear her tears and her fervent prayers, pleading with God for a miracle. In spite of the excruciating pain, these experiences acted as a transformative force that compelled me to reevaluate the significance I placed on my education. I had finally come to understand the true power of education that my mother had been talking about. It ignited within me a strong passion to fully harness its potential. My mother always emphasized the importance of being generous. Even though she was experiencing financial difficulties, she made a genuine attempt to help those less fortunate. I was inspired by her generous nature, which led me to also appreciate and strive to contribute. I intend to give back to my community by sowing the same seeds of hope that my mother planted in me. I desire for the entire community and even those outside of it to comprehend that their challenges do not determine their worth, and there is hope at the end of the dark tunnel. I also want to emphasize my dedication to assisting, supporting, and praying for them. We will emerge triumphant and victorious!

I didn't always feel like I had the qualities of a leader. I frequently found myself lacking the necessary qualifications and social finesse possessed by many distinguished leaders. I used to doubt my ability to lead and shied away from taking on leadership positions until I was compelled to take action by circumstances. Our professor gave us the responsibility to create a captivating 10-page essay on a topic of our choice. Every member of the group had a distinct responsibility and was assigned a particular role. Surprisingly, I had been appointed as the leader of the group, with full oversight for the entire operation. Even though I was taken by surprise and felt unprepared, I had to rise to the occasion and take on the responsibility, as the roles were non-negotiable. The next day, the group and I wasted no time and immediately started brainstorming ideas for our essay topic. Following a comprehensive analysis of multiple subjects such as politics, entertainment, and sports, we had chosen to delve into the critical topic of the U.S. economy. We thought that this would be the easiest and most widely accepted topic for us to potentially write about. We then divided the essay into sections, assigning each part to a specific team member for completion. We'd agreed to meet regularly to ensure the process would run smoothly and provide assistance where needed. This system functioned for a while, but like everything, it eventually collapsed. As meetings became more frequent, team members started experiencing discrepancies in their focus and scheduling issues arose. Being the leader of the group, I took it upon myself to address these issues and ensure that we reached a mutual agreement to move forward. I implemented multiple strategies to unify our writing and established a meeting system that benefited all group members. After a period of observing encouraging outcomes, we encountered fresh concerns regarding reliable sources and data. Certain members of the group expressed their desire to rely exclusively on information from the U.S. government or government-backed sources. However, some people vigorously supported the idea of embracing diverse sources, as long as their credibility could be verified. The division lasted for days until I ultimately decided to convene a general meeting. In this meeting, both parties had the chance to express their ideas and contribute significantly to achieve an outcome that was mutually advantageous. We persevered on the path to completing our essay and addressed any lingering concerns during our final meeting. During the meeting, I expressed my gratitude for the openness to my leadership and extended my best wishes to everyone in their future ventures. The moment arrived to submit our essay, and ultimately, our hard work was rewarded with an A+. We congratulated each other on our hard work and vowed to stay in touch. Despite my initial reservations, I firmly believed that my leadership made a substantial impact on the outcome of our group. I had managed to successfully problem-solve, unify the group, and fairly collect everyone's opinions. Although the experience was uncomfortable at times, it taught me the importance of leadership. Being a leader doesn't require knowing all the answers, speaking eloquently, or captivating a crowd. True leadership lies in uniting people, listening to them, and taking action for the benefit of everyone. In my future career, I desire to epitomize these leadership principles in order to make a compelling and positive impact. Through God's grace, I aspire to inspire others with my endeavors, creating an environment that values genuine leadership. We all have the power to change the world; it begins with us!

Growing up in a low-income single parent household brought with it numerous challenges and moments of uncertainty. During my early years, I faced the challenges commonly associated with being raised by a single mother. Though compassion guided my words, my mind was consumed by envy and jealousy. I felt that the structure of my household was unfair and biased. But, as you'll see, I learned valuable lessons from this once deemed, "unfair" and "biased" home. As with many children raised in single-parent households, my early life was characterized by significant challenges. I credit my ability to overcome those challenges to the divine grace of God and the inspiring example set by my mother. As stated in my bio, I proudly embrace my faith. From a young age, I have been deeply rooted in the conviction that God is my ultimate source of comfort in difficult times and a firm foundation on which I can fearlessly confront any challenge. Despite the tumultuous events that have occurred in my life, God has steadfastly remained the center of my joy. It was my unwavering faith that genuinely guided me through the hardships of my early years, shaping me into the resilient young man I stand as today. In times of hardship, when my single mother faced various challenges and everything seemed lost, my unmovable faith guided me to find comfort in the divine presence of the one entity who I always depended on - God. An example is frequently regarded as a powerful tool for achieving profound understanding. Learning from clear examples is incredibly beneficial for many of us. These examples not only enhance our understanding, but also enable us to communicate and assist others in grasping difficult concepts more effectively. My mother was my guiding example during my formative years. Despite her struggles, she consistently displayed a positive attitude. Her graceful actions clearly demonstrated that God was the wellspring of her strength, propelling her forward despite the pains and sorrows nestled within her heart. Instead of complaining or blaming external factors for her hardships, she held onto the promises that God made to her for deliverance. In everything she pursued, she exhibited an unwavering commitment to hard work, while also managing to inspire others with a ray of hope. She was always ready and humble enough to assist those who needed it, and consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong commitment in all of my endeavors. My mother's example, combined with God's grace, was crucial in helping me endure the challenges we encountered. From my mother's actions and words, I discovered that adversity does not define us; rather, it empowers us to become stronger. I aspire to use my life experiences to motivate others to never lose faith in God, and to actively seek inspiration in challenging moments. While my tale may resonate with many, my goal is for it to make a profound difference in my community and beyond. My aspiration is to assist individuals in recognizing, just as I have, that facing difficulties is not an indication of feebleness, but rather a driving force for fortitude. The values instilled in me during my upbringing will always motivate me to strive for my dreams. I achieve these goals by committing myself to my studies, staying well-informed, and fostering a positive mindset in all circumstances. May my story serve as an inspiration to others and may God's blessings shower upon you! P.S. I want to sincerely thank Fiona Chen and the generous scholarship donor(s) for their invaluable support, which has made this incredible opportunity possible. May God continue to bless you!

Everyone aspires to reach success and hopes for the same for our future descendants. Success is frequently described as reaching a "peak" in life, associated with material prosperity and prominent social standing. When people think of successful individuals, they often think of LeBron James, Kim Kardashian, and Drake, due to their significant wealth and high social standing. Success is also attributed to significant achievements in academic and religious pursuits. Clearly, society has established a standard for success, and it seems this standard will persist. Success, to me, means embracing a well-rounded lifestyle that not only enriches one's own life, but also leaves a positive impact on those around them. I diverge from the predominant view of success in the world because I find it to be superficial and lacking in consideration for the multifaceted elements that contribute to a person's true success. Frequently, society teaches us that the more wealth and possessions we have, the more successful we are perceived to be. This ideology disregards individuals who may not have accumulated significant wealth but still contribute value to their community in other ways. Despite making significant impacts in communities around the world, people such as community leaders, clergymen, first-responders, educators, and essential workers are often overlooked in these conversations. Success is truly achieved by leading a meaningful life that enhances the quality of life for both yourself and others. Success does not solely encompass those in Hollywood, the White House, or even Wall Street. The true essence resides within everyday people who value the welfare of others and work to create a beneficial influence on society. The local school teacher's success stems from their unwavering commitment to going the extra mile, guaranteeing their students' acquisition of knowledge and paving the way for their future endeavors. The local firefighters' success is instrumental in ensuring the safety of their community, as they work tirelessly to extinguish fires, enforce fire safety regulations, and establish essential guidelines to prevent physical harm in fire-related incidents. The local clergymen's success abides as a source of inspiration for the community, skillfully nurturing the minds of the faithful and providing upliftment during challenging moments. Regardless of their worldly riches or social standing, all of these people epitomize success through their selfless acts. Furthermore, their contributions are always duly recognized and rewarded. Engaging in acts of selflessness creates a powerful and lasting bond with another person, forming a remarkable and enduring connection. These connections provide countless opportunities and enhance the lives of both the beneficiaries and the givers. I am confident that this scholarship opportunity will pave the way for my success. It will empower me to further my education, thereby allowing me to attain the very core of true success. Achieving success, much like any significant accomplishment, does not occur suddenly. It requires continual effort and enduring dedication over a prolonged period. Your support is crucial in helping me on this journey and getting me one step closer to success. Mr. and Mrs. Carnduff, I deeply admire your generous spirit and willingness to create a space to share. Your generosity is truly admirable. I am motivated to follow your lead and aspire to be a shining example of kindness and support in all of my future undertakings. May God bless both of you abundantly!

Mental health is a subject renowned for its diverse and intricate nature. It has captivated the national media and is increasingly capturing the attention of people around the globe. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that approximately 1 in 8 people globally are affected by a mental health disorder. The World Health Organization has also reported a significant rise in anxiety and depression rates due to the Covid-19 pandemic, intensifying this alarming trend. According to the most recent 2023 Consumer Survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Treasury, the global economy is projected to suffer an astonishing annual loss of approximately 1 trillion USD. This substantial economic downturn can be attributed to the severe repercussions caused by mental health challenges. During my childhood, I was surrounded by a particular set of beliefs. My beliefs shaped my interactions with the world and guided my choice of activities. Having a solid set of principles to live by and a local community that mostly embraces these principles made life seem more manageable. Suddenly, my mind was flooded with unfamiliar thoughts, and everything shifted in an instant. The familiar world I once knew had vanished, leaving me in an unfamiliar reality. I found myself engaged in a fierce struggle against overwhelming anxiety. As I was pulled further into the tumultuous waters, I realized that the belief system I had once prided myself in did not provide the help I desperately needed. I had an urgent need to reassess my approach, which led to a profound expansion of my core beliefs. At that moment, I realized the need to free myself from relying only on my own efforts and abilities. I had to place my trust in something greater than myself, someone who could not just offer explanations but also provide solutions to my problems. Although the struggle with mental health was challenging, I learned to appreciate the personal growth that resulted from it. By relying on God and actively working to counteract my severe anxiety, I started to see positive outcomes. This experience has deeply impacted my beliefs, revealing to me the profound importance of something greater than myself. It has ignited a passion within me to wholeheartedly acknowledge the necessity of healing and revitalizing my mental well-being. Above all, it has served as a powerful reminder that resilience remains attainable, even in the face of tremendous adversity. Maintaining relationships has always come naturally to me. I found pleasure in the company of those around me and endeavored to craft increasingly unforgettable experiences with them. My perspective on relationships underwent a transformation, mirroring my beliefs, as I battled relentlessly with my overwhelming anxiety. I kept my internal experiences to myself, leaving everyone in the dark about what I was going through. Although it appeared to be the correct choice, my personal relationships were adversely affected as a result. My friends and family were puzzled by my growing distance, and as time went by, their concern deepened. Whenever they inquired about my well-being, I downplayed their concerns as a method of preserving the connection and keeping everything running smoothly. I was scared that if they found out the truth, they might not want to be associated with me or feel ashamed to be in my company. Struggling to maintain my sanity, my mind raced at an extraordinary speed, laboring ceaselessly to protect me from further anguish. After a long period of enduring in silence, I finally found the strength to open up and confide in my loved ones about the truth. This action sparked profound and heartfelt conversations, ultimately culminating in a mutual understanding. I was immensely pleased that those I hold dear were able to understand my struggles and were ready to support me. Through my relationships, I learned how crucial it is to have a strong support system when facing mental health challenges. Furthermore, I discovered that being open with others brought about greater positivity than concealing my true emotions. During my formative years, I frequently heard a prevailing belief that after completing high school, one must either pursue further education or enter the workforce. Regardless of the path you opted for, the ultimate objective was to obtain financial stability. Throughout my upbringing, my family instilled a strong appreciation for the importance of financial success and understood the crucial role that education plays in achieving this goal. This experience sparked a profound longing within me to pursue success, while simultaneously igniting the creation of my own career aspirations. Having my goals firmly in place, I believed that nothing could hinder my path. That was until anxiety forcefully knocked on the door, determined to witness my failure. I found myself in an unfamiliar place, feeling vulnerable as I sat among a group of strangers. Every passing day, my uncertainties regarding my abilities intensified, making me question whether I truly possessed the necessary qualities to pursue my professional aspirations. I couldn't help but ponder whether the moment had finally come to release and embark on a new journey. Despite everything, I was resolute in my determination to overcome any challenge and prevail against all odds. I'm incredibly proud to say that anxiety has not been able to shatter my career aspirations, but has actually served as a powerful force, compelling me to hold onto them with even greater determination than ever before. I have realized that my mental health struggles will not hinder the greatness within me and the guiding hand of the divine in my life. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the generous scholarship donor(s) for their immeasurable support and unwavering dedication in promoting the academic development and achievements of college students. Furthermore, I want to extend my deep appreciation to Mr. Rosser for his tireless dedication and consistent support for students on this platform. Your mother would undoubtedly be filled with joy, looking down from heaven, witnessing the remarkable work you are accomplishing. My prayer is that God's blessings continue to be upon you and your mission.

Hello, my name is Cedric Pitts, and I am an enthusiastic undergraduate student. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, I am the sole offspring of a resilient single mother. Upon graduating from Winston Churchill High School, my unwavering dedication led me to embark on a remarkable journey at the University of Texas at San Antonio in the Fall of 2021, where I'm wholeheartedly pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. I'm a passionate 21-year-old with a deep love for video games, reading, and urban design. I used to be an athlete, having played various sports throughout my lifetime. Currently, I am an enthusiastic volunteer involved with multiple non-profit organizations in my city. Lastly, as a proud Christian, I take great pleasure in immersing myself in the life-giving words of God. I find immense joy in reading, contemplating, and eagerly spreading His divine message. I am confident that this scholarship will enable me to further my academic pursuits. Since my early years, I've been instilled with the value of education. My mother was determined to guarantee that I always maintained high grades and remained open to new opportunities. In my household, education wasn't simply a part of life; it was ingrained as a fundamental way of life. Embracing this "way of life," I boldly pursued higher education to expand my knowledge and seize valuable opportunities, just as my mother had encouraged me to do from a young age. Therefore, your investment in my academic journey would help me achieve academic success and uphold the principles of my upbringing. As a savvy investor, it is vital to carefully assess the implications of each investment decision and contemplate the potential for a rewarding return on investment. I would like to offer you all, my potential investors, the assurance that investing in my education will yield favorable outcomes. These accomplishments would not only enrich my life, but they would also bring a positive influence to the lives of those who are connected to me. I admire your dedication to providing financial support to the next generation, regardless of the decision you ultimately make. In a society rife with selfishness, self-centeredness, and immorality, each one of you has made the remarkable choice to generously share your invaluable resources for the betterment of humanity. This not only reveals your character, but also reflects a broader culture that prioritizes the value of education. As the esteemed Ghanaian diplomat Kofi Annan once said, "Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family." Your steadfast support provides me with the confidence to unleash the full power of knowledge, clearing the path for remarkable achievements and abundant opportunities. I conclude by extending my heartfelt condolences to you and your loved ones. I hope that God's blessings provide you with comfort and strength in all aspects of your life! -(Psalm 34:18)

The experience of being raised in a single-parent household had a deep and lasting influence on my childhood. With only my mother and I, I always felt a strong drive to make her proud by excelling in school and being a well-behaved child. Even though I didn't completely grasp the challenges of being a single mother, I made every effort to alleviate my mother's burden in any way possible. As I matured, my mother became the driving force behind my ambitions, for I saw my success as a shared victory for both of us. The experience of being raised in a single-parent household has profoundly influenced my educational and personal path, compelling me to strive for nothing less than excellence. The concept of greatness was a central theme in my household, and it became a principle that I gradually adopted as my own. From the earliest moments of my recollection, my mother filled my ears with words of profound meaning. She declared that I was not just meant for average, but destined for greatness. She encouraged me to fully embrace my potential and strive to become the very best version of myself. Inspired by her words and motivated by her examples, I was propelled to exert myself even more in school, courageously confronting any obstacles that came my way, and persisting without ever surrendering. Not only did my educational journey benefit from her inspiring words and actions, but they also had a profound impact on my personal life, allowing me to recognize my true potential and value. Her words and actions continue to inspire me, serving as a guiding light in moments of uncertainty. Similar to many others who grew up in single-parent households, mine was not exempt from facing its fair share of challenges. Although my mother made tireless efforts to provide for us, we still encountered periods of hardship. At times, it appeared as though we might not prevail, and all hope was lost. However, my mother stayed determined to achieve a breakthrough. Despite our struggles, she taught me that adversity does not define us and that hardships ultimately help us to grow and endure in the long run. Her remarkable perseverance, even in the most difficult moments, has profoundly shaped how I tackle challenges in my academic pursuits and overall life. So you see, despite the numerous challenges that accompany growing up in a single parent household, I actively sought to embrace and extract the maximum potential from this part of my life. I aspire to complete my education, embark on a successful professional career, and ultimately become the best possible version of myself. Despite the considerable effort, determination, and persistence needed to achieve these goals, I'm fully dedicated to making these dreams come true. I am eager to make my mother proud and to assure her that her efforts in raising me well were not in vain. While I may never be able to fully repay her, I am determined to uphold Tupac's wise words and show my deep understanding of her value, proving that she is truly cherished (Derived from "Dear Mama"-Tupac Shakur). I am absolutely certain that this scholarship will serve as the gateway to a realm of boundless opportunities. This opportunity will give me the drive to relentlessly pursue my dreams, as it offers me valuable resources toward my education. Regardless of your decision, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the scholarship donor(s) as I conclude this essay. You are the reason why college is accessible to so many students. May God bless you all, and condolences to Dimon's family.

Deciding on a career can be quite intimidating at times. Talented individuals from diverse backgrounds are urgently required to fill dedicated positions within the workforce. As our work methods keep evolving, there will always be a need for skilled individuals to lead this transformation process. I aim to pursue a career in architecture. Since I can remember, I've been captivated by construction and design. I frequently found myself monitoring various construction sites in my hometown. Despite my limited understanding, I would attempt to track their progress while analyzing the construction site through live webcams. Not only did I observe construction in action, but I also found great inspiration by watching construction time lapses online. Those videos inspired me to delve deeper into the process, fully immersing myself in it by utilizing Legos, popsicle sticks, and building blocks to gain a practical understanding of construction. In the Fall of 2021, I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to the field of architecture as a student. Becoming a licensed architect requires a demanding journey, but the process is clear: fulfill the necessary education, pass exams, and gain experience in a firm. I am completely focused on pursuing this path and fully committed to giving my best throughout the journey. Despite the obstacles along the way to becoming an architect, I am fully dedicated to navigating the initial essential steps. If I approach my journey into the professional field of architecture with a determination to learn, receptive mindset, and a commitment to gaining valuable experience, I will be on the path to achieve my future aspirations. In addition, my intention is to acquire valuable hands-on experience through engaging in an internship program and utilizing the abundant resources offered by my university to enhance my skills in areas where I need further development. In architecture school, we are often encouraged to seek inspiration from others and engage in active collaboration with our peers to enhance our understanding of challenging subjects. The reinforcement of team collaboration not only provides me with a sneak peek into the profession, but also grants me an invaluable opportunity to accomplish my goals. My experience, skills, and interests perfectly align with my chosen career in architecture, as they greatly contribute to my strong work ethic and determination in achieving my goals. The construction experiences I had as a child have been invaluable to me as a student and will undoubtedly assist me as I continue to move forward. In the career path I aspire to, my capacity for critical thinking, generating innovative ideas, and seamless collaboration with others will undoubtedly prove to be vital factors. These skills are indispensable and will greatly contribute to my success in pursuing my professional goals. My greatest passion lies in design and construction, which is why architecture is the ideal career path for me to follow. Leveraging my skills, education, and experience, my ambition is to make an impact in the field of architecture. By cultivating a culture that embraces diversity of thought, nurtures collaboration, and fosters innovation, I will undoubtedly make significant progress in realizing this ambitious goal. Similarly to many historical great designers, I aspire to spearhead a sustainable design movement that meets the needs of all while contributing a net positive environmental impact. According to the United Nations-Environment Programme and the World Green Building Council, the built environment is responsible for over 39% of the carbon emissions related to global energy consumption. If we don't take action, this percentage will rise dramatically. That is precisely why I am determined to disrupt this pattern and promote the development of sustainable design approaches.

Attending college is frequently the next significant milestone for high school graduates. College is often seen as a hub of excitement, brimming with new learning opportunities and a multitude of unfamiliar faces. Transitioning to college can be tough, but the opportunity to delve into a specific field and immerse oneself in new experiences is a strong incentive that attracts many to pursue higher education. This is the very thing that drew me to attend college and further my education. Going to college means a lot to me. For starters, I am extremely thankful for the chance to pursue higher education and enhance my knowledge. I understand that there are numerous individuals worldwide who are unable to pursue higher education and would be extremely grateful for the opportunity that I have been given. Hence, expressing my gratitude and demonstrating it through my academic achievements is of utmost importance to me. Moreover, attending college has granted me the invaluable opportunity to engage with individuals who possess a wide range of perspectives and lead remarkably distinct lifestyles. I am constantly amazed by the rich life experiences of others and captivated by the cultural connections they share when engaging in conversations. Attending college, to me, is all about embracing the complete experience it offers. I am thoroughly relishing my college experience and cherishing every moment, as each experience holds immeasurable value to me. I aim to excel academically, explore new opportunities, and ultimately earn my degree. These are the goals I have set for myself and eagerly anticipate accomplishing in the near future. Despite being close to finishing, there is still a substantial portion of my journey that awaits, ready to be explored. Therefore, I am dedicated to staying focused on my goals and striving to reach my maximum potential as a student. Apart from my academic aspirations, I aim to achieve significant milestones in the realm of social networking. A university is a powerful hub where ideas are shared and lives are transformed. It's a recurring pattern: distinguished universities continually spearhead revolutionary breakthroughs and advancements that greatly impact society. The sharing of ideas is the true catalyst behind their seemingly magical discoveries. Exploring a vibrant culture that fosters fresh perspectives can not only enrich me personally, but also contribute to my professional growth. Ever since the establishment of the prestigious University of al-Qarawiyyin in 859 AD, located in the vibrant city of Fez, Morocco, the growth of higher education establishments has not ceased. Throughout generations, countless individuals have pursued the prestigious achievement of obtaining a college degree in order to enhance their professional lives and immerse themselves in a transformative journey. History has consistently demonstrated that knowledge is power and is vital for achieving success in life. Regardless of the path we've taken in our education, let's keep advocating for the importance of education in all its aspects and empowering the future generation of dreamers, learners, and innovators! Closing Remark: I want to express my sincere appreciation to the scholarship donor(s) for their generous support of the future generation of students. Your willingness to invest in others' education truly reflects your profound character. May we find inspiration in your exceptional deeds and may we wholeheartedly pray for God's blessings, enabling you to thrive in your commendable pursuits with abundant resources at your disposal.

Whenever I'm asked why I chose architecture as my field of interest, my response is often, "I didn't choose architecture, it chose me." From a young age, I have always been fascinated by the different aspects of design and construction. I used to watch live camera feeds of construction sites in my hometown to stay updated on their progress. I remember watching videos that showcased a dynamic mix of men and women working tirelessly at the construction site. With a wide range of specialized tools and state-of-the-art technological devices at their disposal, they were completely ready to tackle any obstacle that came their way. That's when my passion for architecture really ignited, and by the time I was thinking about college, I had already made up my mind about what I wanted to study. It will not be an easy task to make a significant impact in the world of architecture. The world is already graced with the contributions of outstanding architects like Zaha Hadid, Kengo Kuma, David Adjaye, and many more. Simultaneously, the role of the architect is evolving to address the needs of sustainable design. As society continues to push the boundaries of what was previously thought impossible, and as clients' aspirations become increasingly ambitious, the future of the built environment is set to become exceptionally intricate, exceeding even our present imagination. Despite the challenges, I am determined to make a meaningful impact in the field of architecture by constantly seeking out new opportunities and remaining receptive to change and feedback. A common idea taught in architecture school is that change is good and critique is necessary. Failing to adapt to a changing world and refusing to accept constructive criticism will only lead us to perpetuate the errors of the past while remaining trapped in a cycle of madness. Hence, my ability to make a significant impression lies in my profound curiosity and openness to receiving constructive criticism. My personal reasons and goals have been what motivate and propel me towards achieving my ultimate goal of becoming a licensed architect. I aim to make a meaningful contribution to the field, achieve financial stability, and contribute to society by creating and improving public and private spaces. The reasons that drive me are perfectly aligned with my goals, serving as a constant reminder of why I strive for greatness. Ultimately, by maintaining a clear focus on my objectives and striving for exceptional performance, I will not only achieve my goals but also overcome any uncertainties that may arise.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math are essential subjects that are shaping the world today. Since its inception in the early 2000s, thanks to the National Science Foundation, educators and students have eagerly embraced the countless opportunities that have arisen from it. STEM has sparked a worldwide surge in technology-driven industries and companies like OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, and Apple. STEM has played a vital role in the advancement of artificial intelligence applications like OpenAI's Chat-GPT and Microsoft's Co-Pilot software, contributing to the thriving growth of the industry. It is evident that this is just the beginning, as the opportunities are constantly expanding. When people inquire about my decision to pursue a STEM degree, I consistently respond with optimism. I see STEM as a rapidly expanding field of study with the potential for substantial future earnings and a profound impact on society. Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Bill Gates, along with others, exemplify how STEM-based industries can produce exceptional public figures. These men, along with other remarkable individuals in their respective industries, are true pioneers who are leading the path towards a world of unparalleled technological sophistication. I want to be part of this technological breakthrough that I truly believe will revolutionize the world. I decided to pursue architecture as my personal path within the vast realm of STEM, attracted by its immense power to influence both the physical world and the well-being of individuals. The solid financial stability that a STEM degree offers in the job market also greatly drew me towards pursuing this field. Based on data from the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations boasted an impressive median annual wage of $101,650 in the fiscal year 2023. World-renowned online coding institute, CodeWizardsHQ, estimates that open positions for STEM-based jobs will grow by 10.8% between 2022 and 2032. A degree in STEM is an obvious choice when considering job market availability, salary potential, and societal impact. As a person of color, I aspire to make a significant and lasting impact in my chosen STEM field. Within the world of architecture, there are countless brilliant individuals who exude an unquenchable passion for creating revolutionary structures and enchanting public spaces. An architect's primary responsibility is to transform a client's vision into a captivating space that seamlessly meets the practical needs of its inhabitants. As I embark on this journey, my goal is to create a masterpiece that not only encompasses the principles of extraordinary design, but also caters to the ever-changing demands of our world. I firmly believe that with my strong work ethic, unwavering commitment, and eagerness to acquire knowledge, I will not only succeed in this endeavor but also pave the way for other individuals of color who share my passion for this profession. STEM is a limitless field that presents countless opportunities for individuals who fully engage with its diverse areas. I am convinced that it represents the future of the job market and is one of the key factors influencing our long-term survival on this planet. Failure to innovate and grow as a society will inevitably condemn us to repeating the past mistakes and indefinitely delaying our path to success. As Steve Jobs once said, "Innovation is the ability to see change as an opportunity, not a threat." By considering Job's words and applying the principle of embracing change in our lives, I am confident that we will ultimately end up in a better place, igniting a necessary change in the world.

We all face adversity, yet we frequently struggle to recognize its presence. Acknowledging and discussing the challenges in my life has been a necessary step in my healing process, although it's often difficult for me. In my formative years, I consistently identified as an outsider. Despite having a good number of friends, I frequently felt like I didn't quite fit in. I wasn't captivated by the different social groups or the activities my peers were involved in. I have always seen myself as a lone wolf, someone with unique interests who has come to embrace this over time. Attending middle school marked a significant milestone in my life. Although it meant being surrounded by fewer familiar faces compared to my local middle school, I successfully met all the requirements to attend a school of my choosing within my district. Once more, I found myself in an unknown location, encircled by unfamiliar countenances and distanced from the individuals I was once acquainted with. During my 6th grade journey, I had the privilege of encountering a handful of individuals who not only turned into cherished companions but also helped me conquer the overwhelming anxiety that often accompanies stepping into a new school environment. Everything was going smoothly until I reached seventh grade. I remember that moment so clearly, as if it had just happened yesterday: I was in band class, feeling deeply unsettled and overwhelmed. I sensed something was amiss, yet I couldn't pinpoint its origin. I was suddenly overwhelmed by a strong desire to visit the counselor's office. To my astonishment, I learned that my mother had been in a car accident. Fortunately, she was in standard physical condition, but I couldn't shake the lasting impact of that harrowing ordeal. I had developed a profound form of separation anxiety that kept me constantly preoccupied with the recurring possibility of such an event happening once more. These thoughts plagued my mind and had a profound impact on my social, academic, and spiritual lives. School administrators had reached a point of concern regarding my ability to pass the 7th grade. This was the most challenging situation I had ever faced, and it often made me feel hopeless. Every day was an unending struggle, as I fiercely battled against the overpowering impact of anxiety and the terrifying ambiguity that accompanied it. Through extensive therapy, prayer, and unyielding determination, I was able to improve my ability to deal with my anxiety. By utilizing coping techniques and dedicating myself, I successfully passed the 7th grade with outstanding achievements, and I earned a place on the honor roll. Over time, I gradually acquired the skills to effectively address my anxious thoughts. I effectively overcame the immense pressure I faced years ago, resulting in substantial improvements in my social, academic, and spiritual aspects of my life. To be completely honest, despite despising the challenging circumstances, I acquired priceless wisdom from the ordeal. I now realize the crucial importance of embracing healthy coping strategies, fostering unwavering faith, and developing a resilient support network. Moreover, my perception of the world has undergone a remarkable shift, from an intimidating realm to a realm brimming with optimism, profoundly shaping the individual that I am today. To anyone facing similar challenges, my message is to hold on to hope and understand that there is a silver lining at the end of the tunnel. Every one of us is destined for greatness, and no matter what challenges life presents, we have the power to overcome and fulfill our true potential!

It is a common occurrence to witness celebrities and public figures returning to their communities in order to give back. Nipsey Hussle, the gifted rapper from Crenshaw, joined forces with the prestigious German design firm Puma in 2018 to revitalize a basketball court at the 59th Street Elementary School in his community. In an extraordinary act of generosity in 2020, the renowned American rapper and actor, 50 Cent, made a significant donation of $10,000 to the dedicated employees of a nearby Burger King restaurant, showcasing his immense kindness. Celebrities, public figures, governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals all strive towards a common objective: creating a positive influence in their communities. Contributing to marginalized communities can bring immense relief and serve as a poignant reminder of our humble beginnings. Just like the various celebrities, governmental and non-governmental organizations, I also consider giving back as a means to bring relief to marginalized communities and to remember my own roots. I think it's crucial to assist those in need, as it contributes to the overall well-being of society. I perceive my contributions as a meaningful way to commemorate and pay homage to my own origins and the obstacles I have triumphed over in my personal journey. I believe blessings are not to be kept, but to be shared with others so that they too may pour out a blessing onto others as well. I've also discovered there's so much beauty in the ability to give back to someone in need. In a world filled with self-centered messages that encourage us to disregard the well-being of others, it is crucial to rise above this noise. When we manage to surpass these messages, we can genuinely comprehend the extraordinary beauty and immense impact of a compassionate and generous nature. Currently, I give back by meeting the needs of those I see in need. I take great pride in giving back to the community, whether it's by volunteering at the local food bank, providing monetary assistance to the homeless, or simply spreading a message of positivity. A majority of my efforts are individual acts with people I see as I stroll through the city. When I encounter someone in need, whether it's a man on the curb asking for food or a woman struggling to catch the public bus, I am committed to providing assistance to the best of my ability. Whenever I provide assistance to those in need, I make a habit of saying "God bless you." I do this, so they're aware that someone is in their corner and that they're not alone. Like Jesus told the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well, the water in the well will only provide a limited substance. However, the living water that the Lord provides will never cease to run or dissatisfy (See. John 4:1-26). Just as the water in a well has its limits, my resources also have their limitations. I am convinced that the provision offered by the Lord is abundant and inexhaustible. I strongly believe that sowing the seed of God's light while helping those in need is the most meaningful form of giving back. My mind is brimming with ambitious plans that could possibly take us to the moon, but none rival my burning desire to make a positive impact on the world. I want to be a positive role model for generations to come, and be attributed as an exemplar of generosity. I want my life's work to reflect that of my Lord, and for others to be drawn to his light and love that is at work within me.

Achievement is something that we're all striving for. We want to be the best at what we do, and soak in the admiration of others for our accomplishments. Human nature drives us to create, discover, and push the bounds of the unimaginable. My aspirations fall in line with the expectations of many in the world. I desire to accomplish great feats and push the bounds of the unimaginable. As I reflect on my achievements, I'm filled with a sense of pride. I know the level of dedication that was required as well as the journey to the finish line. While I'm led by humility, I succumb to moments of pride looking over all the victories. I liken every success to a battle that's been won. While each successful victory holds dear to my heart, none compare to the affirmation of my faith. As far back as I can remember, I was always in church. I grew up a Southern Baptist, raised on Jesus, prayer, and fellowship. I remember every Sunday my mom would make me carry my Bible to church. She was adamant that I valued my faith and took an active role in understanding the God we serve. At home, the same sentiment remained. It wouldn't take much for my mother to remind me that our home was a place filled with "...love, joy, peace, and God." I pledged to scream if I ever heard that phrase again, but over time, my admiration for it grew. As I grew older, there came a time in life when God became real to me. When I say "real," I mean someone who is truly prominent. I had always believed in God but lacked understanding of who he was. At a time, the elders praise and worship didn't resonate with me nor did the teachings of the religious hierarchy. In essence, I was just going through the motions, wandering in faith, of a God that I didn't fully understand. It was at the moment that I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior that he became real to me. The days of minimal understanding were now gone. I believe this expression of my faith was my greatest achievement to date because of its eternal implications. I was now set a part and called to live in accordance with a higher standard. God made a covenant with his servant Abraham, promising him the ancient land of Canaan and a great nation (See. Genesis 15:17-21). To affirm this covenant, God instructed Abraham to circumcise himself and his house (See Genesis 17:10-11). This became an everlasting covenant with the entire house of Israel following suit in obedience to the covenant (See. Genesis 17:12). Similarly, God has made a new covenant with men which he affirms through his son, Jesus (See. Hebrews 9:13-15). By confessing my unwavering belief in the life, death, resurrection, and divine nature of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I, like the faithful Abraham, establish a sacred covenant with God. The sacred covenant I embrace liberates me from eternal suffering and solidifies my identity as a citizen of the Kingdom of God (See. Revelation 21:1-4, Revelation 21:27). Can anything else compare to the everlasting significance or the immense honor that comes with being the righteousness of God (See. 2 Corinthians 5:21)? This experience taught me a lot about myself. I learned that I'm not worthy to achieve salvation on my own. My sins have a cost, yet by the grace of God, I don't bear them (See. 1 Peter 2:24). Another thing this experience taught me about myself was my need for a belief structure. We all need something to believe in, regardless if we're religious or not. It's our belief system that guides our actions and moves our hearts to do good in the world. I pride myself in being connected with the infinite wisdom of God, which is the foundation of my belief structure. In the future, I hope to lead others to Christ. I want my life to be a living example of the transformative power of the gospel and the Savior. I must uphold my end of the covenant by deciding to live for God through my words and actions. God wants to continue to work through and on the hearts of men. He has placed something special in each of us to share with the world. It's my hope that we all embrace our God-given gifts and truly walk as children of the light (See. Ephesians 5:8-9)!

Selflessness is the exceptional quality of prioritizing the needs and desires of others over one's own. It is the virtue that says "I'll give my last to someone in need" or "How could I be a blessing to someone today?" We live in a world full of self-centered individuals and constant promotion of selfish values. We are told to suppress our desire to help others and instead, ridicule them for their shortcomings. We've become an image-driven society, merely focusing on the outward appearance. We often overlook the essence of individuals, causing us to categorize people superficially based on our limited understanding of them. I consider myself a break from the mold or an odd one out from the selfish ways of the world. I refuse to subscribe to the notion that life's all about me, or that the needs of others are not my concern. I pride myself in embodying selflessness by putting others needs before my own. Donating to the homeless and participating in community organizations has been a fulfilling part of my life, bringing me immense joy. By generously sharing my resources with others, I have not only forged meaningful connections with people but also gained an invaluable insight into their unique perspectives and experiences. You see, while some exist in a world full of joy and abundance, there are those who live in a world of despair and turmoil. Their days are riddled with dread and their nights are left weary. In their confined mental status, they wrestle with the idea of victory and defeat. Yet, my generosity can be a light at the end of a tunnel that appears to grow dimmer. While I've had many touching moments helping those in need, this one individual left a visible mark on my heart. As I was heading to the bus station following the conclusion of my class, I noticed a man on the shoulder of the road. He was confined to a wheelchair and held a sign pleading for assistance. As I approached, a deep sense of compassion compelled me to lend a hand. At that moment, I became aware of the man's frail figure and the painfully visible sores that engulfed his entire body. The thought of this man out on the streets in this condition disturbed and enraged me. I thought to myself, "How could this man be left in this predicament?" I called the man's attention and gave him all the change I had on hand. With immense joy and relief, the man thanked me and began walking with me to the bus station. As we walked, he shared that he hadn't eaten in many days, and that this money would provide his substance for a few days to come. My heart was broken at his words, but overjoyed that my generosity could meet his need. The encounter with the man near the bus station, and others like him, have only strengthened my conviction about the significance of selflessness. Although I am just an individual with limited resources, my unwavering passion to assist others will never be extinguished. Some people are in favor of my work, but others argue that not everyone can be assisted and that ignoring those in need somehow benefits them. My response is that the needs of the less fortunate can't be ignored. God has gifted me with blessings, not to harbor, but instead, pour out onto others. Therefore, I will continue to sow generously into others, and embody the true essence of selflessness.

Growing up in a single-parent household was nothing out of the ordinary in my community. The topic of kids discussing their experience growing up in a household with both parents was quite uncommon, as this was not the case for most of us. While some kids seemed unfazed by the lack of their father in the home, I, on the other hand, was always bothered by this. While I was grateful for my mother's unwavering determination to raise me by herself, I struggled with the idea of growing up in a single-parent household. I often envied the other kids who had both parents at home and pondered why that wasn't my reality. My experience growing up with a single mother was delightful at times and difficult at other times. My mother was a hardworking teacher who devoted her life to the education of young children. She would often spend most of her free time working on classroom decoration, activities, and lessons for the children. Even to this day, she still maintains a vigorous routine of working at home. A devout woman of God, she made it her mission to instill Christian values in me while leading by example. Even though she faced financial difficulties, she consistently ensured that I had everything I needed, often placing her own needs as the last priority. At her highest and lowest moments, my mother remained consistently steadfast on the power of prayer. No matter if times were good or bad, my mother routinely talked to God about what she needed. She celebrated every milestone in prayer, and dealt with every defeat also in prayer. Observing my mother's unwavering dedication in the face of adversity gave me a profound admiration for her and deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by single mothers. There were moments when I was unsure where our next meal would come from, if the rent would be paid on time, or if the lights would still be on, yet, my mother always had faith. When I doubted her belief in overcoming uncertainty, she gently reminded me of the countless occasions when God had guided us to victory. She had a faith that was unbeknownst to me and a sense of determination that I'd rarely seen in others. My mother prided herself in being attentively active in my school and extracurricular life. She always pushed me to do my best and encouraged me in areas where I struggled. No matter where the extracurricular event took place, my mother was always there cheering me on. Despite her limited free time due to work, she always made an effort to help me with my adolescent pursuits. The gratitude that I have for my mother is forever unending. From all the sacrifices she made to ensure I had a good childhood, I would be remiss to not honor her. Her efforts as a mother helped to shape the person that I am today. I learned the value of faith, prayer, hard-work, determination, and sacrifice. She didn't just express her love for me with words, but proved it with her actions. Thanks to my mother, I've come to realize that love is not just about words, but also about actions. Lastly, she molded me into a God-fearing young man. Her faith inspired me to grow in faith and establish a personal relationship with God. I conclude this essay by extending my gratitude to my mother and all other single-mothers. Even when the road gets tough, we can depend on our mothers to be by our side!

Social justice is a topic that has been at the forefront of public conversation for centuries. All throughout time, people have sought ways to combat the growing inequalities and adversities many underprivileged people face. The world has become awoken to the systematic oppression that plagues the lives of many. This awareness has prompted us to consider ways to address the various social justice issues and halt their proliferation. The social justice causes that resonate with me the most are economic inequality, mental health, and healthcare due to the significant scarcity of these resources in marginalized communities. Economic inequality is a growing concern within many public and private conversations. It's hard to imagine the last time economic disparity wasn't mentioned at a government summit or public forum. It's an age-old issue that many have sought to answer, but only few understand. A research article titled "Economic Inequality" published by Our World in Data highlighted that "...economic inequality in many countries is very high and, in many cases, has been on the rise." The researchers also discovered that "Global economic inequality is vast and compounded by overlapping inequalities in health, education, and many other dimensions (OWD)." As the researchers have pointed out, economic inequality has a profound impact on numerous individuals and is intricately linked to various other social justice concerns. Mental health is a concern that has often been overlooked. Our limited comprehension of the human mind and the insufficient focus on mental health services have led to a society that undervalues the significance of mental well-being. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar-Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Schizophrenia, and others, have been on the rise. As of 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that approximately 970 million people, or 1 in 8 individuals, are living with a mental disorder. This figure is expected to rise. According to data from Harvard Medical School, it is projected that up to half of the global population will confront a mental health disorder at some point in their lives, with the statistic stating that "One out of every two people in the world will develop a mental health disorder in their lifetime." Healthcare is a complex issue with varying degrees of outcome. While the average cost of health services varies based on location, the overall cost has risen in recent years. Patients are expected to spend more on services that provide little or no added benefits. Additionally, access to healthcare facilities is a concern for many in both developed and undeveloped nations. Transportation and fundamental infrastructure are often neglected in the development of healthcare facilities. Scarcity remains a decisive factor in treatment approaches, even in locations with relatively developed healthcare infrastructure like the United States. The prevalence of infectious diseases such as Influenza, Covid-19, and Hepatitis is increasing, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). The alarming trend emphasizes the critical importance of enhancing healthcare infrastructure and providing adequate resources to effectively tackle these growing healthcare challenges. I believe it's important to get involved in social justice work because it promotes equity and longevity for all. It's not just politicians, experts, and influencers who should be tasked with the social justice fight, but all of us. I believe that engaging in social justice advocacy is a powerful means of empowering my community and raising awareness about the pressing challenges we confront. We all have a responsibility to shape the future of our world. Therefore, let's join forces and confront difficult questions, address complicated problems, and exceed the boundaries of what was once thought unattainable!

I'm Cedric Pitts, an ambitious undergraduate student at the University of Texas at San Antonio, passionate about pursuing a degree in architecture. I'm in my junior year and have high hopes of joining the profession in the near future. I'm a proud native of Texas, residing in the state's second most populous city, San Antonio. I'm a 21-year-old gamer and lover of all things design. I'm passionate about various hobbies, including gaming, playing board games, and immersing myself in intriguing construction and political documentaries such as PBS's 'Frontline' and National Geographic's 'Mega Projects'. Additionally, I'm a proud person of faith who believes in the transformative power of the gospel. I believe this scholarship will support my educational goals by enabling me to continue my educational journey. Education is a door that opens to a world full of discovery and innovation. Human nature has an innate drive to discover the unknown and pursue the greatest depth of understanding. There's a fire that burns in all of us to know more which in turn enables us to reach our full potential. Throughout history, people have consistently shown an unwavering desire to gain deeper insights into the world around them, regardless of the immense adversities they may face such as death, persecution, or exile. I also possess an intense drive to comprehend the world that surrounds me and make a significant impact in the field of architecture and urban design. In the words of the late South African President and anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." I am committed to harnessing the powerful "weapon" of education to positively impact the world, as Mandela once stated. While my educational journey must be walked alone, I cannot reach my destination without support. Similar to a house relying on its foundation and structural members for support, I require the backing of like-minded individuals dedicated to shaping the future of college students, leading the way to a new era of achievement and success. Whether I'm selected or not, I want to extend my gratitude to the Mattson Family for this opportunity to share. I admire the work you all are doing to support college students while honoring the legacy of your late relatives. I'd imagine they are smiling down on you from heaven as you advance their legacy of greatness. I sincerely pray that God grants you abundant strength to radiate brilliantly in every aspect of your life as you embark on your personal quest to transform the world!

Life is a game that consists of various moves. Like a game of chess, we are all expected to move forward, however, this can be done several ways. Some people are able to move swiftly and with little ease, while others require more time to get to their next move. Furthermore, there are those who carefully weigh their options, considering the consequences of each decision, and then there are those who navigate without direction, seemingly unaware of the potential outcomes. In my 21 years of life, I've discovered that life is much like chess in the sense that we're all forced to make significant moves that will either make or break us. My career goals are to become a world-class designer, innovator, and industry leader. I aspire to become a licensed architect with a keen focus on transforming the built-environment. I visualize my goals as a long ladder that must be climbed to reach the top. My ambition drives me to strive for the best and defy any obstacles set before me. I aspire for my work to inspire others and drive them to their full potential. In addition, my objective is to provide an avenue for fellow ambitious black men to unleash their creative prowess in the captivating realms of architecture and urban design. I am dedicated to cultivating an environment that wholeheartedly embraces the boundless potential of imaginative individuals. To some these goals may seem far stretched, but to me, they're the essence of what drives me to succeed. As I mentioned previously, I visualize life as a game of chess, consisting of various moves. In this sense, the opposing pieces of the board represent my goals. My mission is to capture all the opponent's pieces and achieve a decisive victory over them from the very beginning of the game. In these decisive moments, I must be committed to making the right move to ensure I secure the opponent's piece. Every time I drive for more, push harder than before, and unlock new capabilities, I set myself closer toward victory. By observing a chess match, I have come to appreciate the significance of strategic calculation and unwavering dedication in pursuit of my objectives. Chess has also taught me the importance of patience. Many times in life, we're in a hurry to keep up with the upwind of an ever-changing world. Like a chess match, life comes with moments where one must contemplate their next move. Moving a piece to a random location is not as simple as it seems; it's actually a test of the mind's capacity to focus on strategic points in order to gain an advantage. While my career goals drive me to work harder, they also make me appreciate the journey to success. As quoted by the great Indian independence leader and author, Mahatma Gandhi, "Losing patience means losing the battle." My aim is to win the battle, therefore, I must remain patiently steadfast toward achieving my goals. It amazes me how much a simple game of chess can reveal to the curious mind. But as they say, revelation takes on multiple forms and comes in multiple ways. With unwavering focus, I am dedicated to fulfilling my utmost potential and demonstrating the greatness that resides within me to the world. Every single day that God blesses me with life is a chance to progress towards the captivating vision of a prosperous, influential, and prestigious future that I have devised for myself. I'm committed to achieving my goals and to never stop dreaming!

An environment is defined as "the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates." Moreover, the environment is the physical space where both biotic and abiotic entities coexist. The combination of living and non-living elements has the potential to create something truly magnificent. Nevertheless, there are occasions when this harmony transforms into something harmful, as people prioritize their own desires without taking into account the needs of others. In my opinion, the most urgent environmental challenge is the scarcity of safe drinking water, which is largely due to poor policy choices and insufficient water conservation techniques. Cities all across the world are facing a surmounting water shortage. Governments have been struggling to keep up with the increasing demand for clean drinking water, falling behind the urgent necessity to ensure safe access to this vital resource. In supposedly "developed nations" like the United States, cities like Flint, Houston, Newark, and Detroit are facing an imminent water crisis. Despite the attempts made by their respective governing authorities to tackle this crisis, their efforts have proven to be ineffective in making a significant impact on the crisis as a whole. According to the UN-SDG Report 2022, an alarming statistic has been revealed: approximately two billion individuals around the world lack access to safe drinking water. Moreover, approximately half of the global population will face a dire scarcity of water for half of the year in the upcoming years (UN-SDG Report 2022). The earth possesses roughly 3% of freshwater according to the United States Bureau of Reclamation. A limited supply of freshwater is drawn from the earth, directed to water treatment facilities, and then transformed into single-use products or used for public water supply. Metal pipes are used to transport water from one location to the next. This process surpasses the efficiency of ancient water transport methods, yet, remains a growing concern for water safety. Modern plumbing techniques have undoubtedly brought about a revolution in the world as we know it. Despite these impressive advancements, there have also been growing concerns about the presence of harmful elements in these processes. Metal pipes have been found to contain harmful substances like lead, arsenic, pesticides, and various microbial contaminants. These hazardous elements are closely monitored and regulated by environmental authorities, such as the EPA. The path forward is complex, but can be achieved with an unwavering amount of dedication. I want to lead a coalition to increase the availability of safe drinking water around the world. My strategy involves collaborating with individuals who share similar values to push for reforms in water storage and safety policies. I not only want to continue with these efforts, but I also aim to establish or adopt a mutually agreed-upon action plan that will effectively tackle the water crisis. I praise the efforts of both governmental and non-governmental organizations that are tirelessly battling to stop the escalating water crisis, but I am convinced that more needs to be accomplished. Finally, I am committed to holding governments responsible when they neglect their obligation to ensure safe drinking water for their people. Even though access to drinking water is limited, we have the power to advocate for changes in the management and distribution of water resources for the benefit of all!

From the dawn of creation, humans have sought to explore. Whether it be a new rock, creature, landscape, or even continent, the drive for human exploration has never waned. The ability to travel the earth has exposed mankind to an array of new discoveries. Christopher Columbus, filled with adventure, set sail from his beloved Italian hometown on a journey of a lifetime to discover the "new world". In doing so, he discovered a group of people and a way of life unbeknownst to his own. Similarly to Columbus, the late American aviator, Amelia Earhart set out on an advantageous journey to circumnavigate the world. Although this attempted feat led to her demise, one would be foolish to ignore her internal drive to uncover the unknown. Travel can be a transformative experience for individuals because of its ability to expose us to different walks of life. As we go about our daily routines, we become persistent in doing things as they've always been done. Our receptiveness to do something different or view something from a new perspective decreases over time. In a sense, we're stuck in our ways. Traveling counteracts this stubbornness by broadening our limited view of the world, and creating an opportunity to engage in heterogeneous experiences. In the words of the late British publisher and editor, Nicholas Ling, "Ignorance is voluntary misfortune." Passing up opportunities to be exposed to worlds dissimilar of our own is indeed misfortune. Like the great Christopher Columbus and Amelia Earhart, we too can tap into our internal drive to explore. Our explorations will expose us to different cultures, perspectives, and environments, bearing the potential of personal growth and development. As we indulge in societies unlike our own, we're able to glance into their human experience. Additionally, as we partake in their cultural activities and customs, our former stubborn ways begin to dissolve. Personal growth and development occur on the individual level but, is cultivated at the societal level. While we inherently march to the tune of a one-man band, we desperately need one another to grow. A student provides little use to the world without a teacher, and a teacher lacks utility without a student. We are the students and the world is our teacher. Just as a student solicits the guidance of their teacher in moments of uncertainty, we too, should seek opportunities to expose ourselves to various cultures, perspectives, and environments. I believe one of the greatest God-given abilities we possess is our ability to travel. Travel alone accounts for more than 9.1% ($9.9 Trillion USD) in the global economy, according to fiscal year 2023 data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). This number is expected to rise, resulting in more moments of growth and development. I hope in my lifetime that I'm able to explore the world and broaden my horizons. I don't want to be content with my limited view of the world, but rather, learn to understand and appreciate all walks of life.

I was a big town kid with a funny personality and a lot of heart. I grew up in San Antonio's northwestern district where I was extremely involved in my local community. It seemed as the wheels of life turned, there I was somewhere in my community. I graduated from Winston Churchill High School and am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Texas at San Antonio, specializing in architecture. I'm an avid gamer, sometimes making it hard for me to get off the game, but with the right proposal you've got me steppin'. Growing up in a single-mother household was a challenge to say the least. While other children benefit from having two parents at home, I have often felt at a disadvantage due to the absence of my father in the household. At times, I have felt inferior to my peers and have often pondered what it would be like to grow up in a two-parent household. Additionally, there were times when my household finances became questionable, and I wondered how we were going to make it. My mother would assure that I would work out, but knew at times that she wondered the same as I did. Despite the adversity that we faced, my mother made it her mission to do the best she could with the amount she had. I attribute my virtue system to my mother as I watched her selfless lifestyle before my very own eyes. Even though she couldn't purchase everything I wanted, she gave me something priceless: hope. It was mesmerizing to see the hope my mother had. Even in the most difficult times of my childhood, she always seemed to persevere. Overall, coming from a single-mother household impacted my life positively. In spite of the challenges that accompanied this family structure, I acquired a profound understanding of the significance of diligent effort, resolute determination, and steadfast faith in God. I hope that the lessons and values I learned in my childhood will have a positive impact on my children and others in my local community. Furthermore, I aim to create a meaningful change in the world by nurturing the same faith that was instilled in me since I was young. I'm a firm believer in the power of God and know that with him nothing is impossible. I am convinced that the source of my mother's unwavering hope, despite the challenges she encountered throughout the years, was not her own strength, but rather the indomitable power of the mighty God residing within her. To the reader, I say, no matter what your family looks like, always remember that you are cherished, desired, and destined for extraordinary achievements. God has his hand on our lives, and he will order our steps according to his glorious will. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to the bold.org team and the scholarship donor(s) for their unwavering dedication to empowering the future generation of college students!

Ancient Text (Bible) Portion: The Word Became Flesh 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome[a] it. 6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. 9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and[b] is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known." -John 1:1-18 Essay Portion: Given the quotation above, my understanding of the writer's underlying meaning of the text is the fullness and deity of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. In the very beginning of the quotation, we are presented with the statement, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1)." Immediately, one could make a connection back to the creationary words God spoke in the Book of Genesis, and draw a clear distinction of the second dispensation of almighty God being referenced. Continuing on, the author begins to express the full and/or complete nature of Christ by stating, "Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made (John 1:3)." In order to create, one must first be whole in and of themselves and similarly, to not create suggests likewise the fullness of Christ in this scenario. Early on the author makes it clear to me that he's prefacing his desire to make known the complete fullness of Christ to further advance the reality of his divinity. Secondly, it can be observed further on in the quotatation of Christ being referenced as the Word became flesh (Emmanuel) among the likes of his creation (John 1:14). In the introductory portion, we were told that the Word was God; therefore, good reason would suggest that the author mutually intended to continue this proclamation of the second person in the God-head as non-other than the living God himself. Old Testament literature assures us of his coming in a future time, and with conviction the author delivers this decree that what the prophets of old diligently spoke of has occurred among men in his lifetime. The "Word" would carry truth to men and deliver sinners of their burdens, yet, the people misunderstood the essential purpose of his coming. Therefore, the author, without reservation, commits himself to establishing an understanding of the complete fullness and deity of Christ. While debate remains around the coming of the "Son of Man" and his impact on society at large, the author John makes it clear to the reader of the Messiah's great arrival and impactful actions. Just within the first chapter of his account of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, he successfully conveys his desire to create an understanding of who Christ is, while simultaneously laying the groundwork for the entirety of his gospel. This pattern of literary structure inspired others in John's lifetime and continues to inspire authors today. Moreover, this passage highlights the need for "close reading" as a way of obtaining new understanding and digging deeper than what's presented at face value.

Books are tokens into a new world of adventure and mystery. Every page leaves the reader wanting to know more and every chapter leaves the reader full of awe. Society holds great value in books, which are the "storage" of our history. The epic battles, challenges, historical periods, and victories of the past have been meticulously documented in books, ensuring that their impact will never be lost to memory. Reading enables us to learn from the actions of others while shaping our goals. The things I've learned from the books I've read are virtue, conviction, and possibility. Every author seeks to convey his or her sense of virtue, conviction, and possibility in their book to the reader. The renowned physician's words on the harmful effects of a dangerous chemical could inspire a sense of virtue in sobriety, instill a strong conviction regarding the chemical's detrimental impact, and foster hope in the prevention of widespread outbreaks. Alternatively, a scientist who communicates the necessity of human intervention to mitigate climate change can inspire a sense of moral duty, a strong belief in urgency, and a feeling of potential in reversing the detrimental impacts of climate change. Like the author, I too am deeply intrigued by delving into the significance of virtue, conviction, and possibility within the literature I immerse myself in. I'm a product of my environment, in which books have taught me to seek these principles. As a man who embodies virtue, determination, and potential, my goals are driven by the desire to forge a sustainable path that ultimately leads to triumph. Just like the numerous characters in the books I've read, possessing an unwavering determination to accomplish my goals, a firm moral code of integrity, and an optimistic mindset, will ultimately empower me to attain them. It's a matter of mind over matter and my willingness to reach the highest level of greatness. There's a call that many hear, but only a few answer. This call is to the next level, exclusive to those only willing to work hard for it. Nothing is ever handed, rather it is earned from the sweat and agony of diligent labor. I'm committed to answering that call with unwavering might and influence others to follow suit. A single word, a smile, a day, or even a year has the power to transform someone's life, just like a book has the potential to enrich the mind with vast knowledge that not only impacts the reader but also influences others.

Living sustainably is a task required of all humans to ensure long term success. Making intentional choices to live sustainably and reduce our carbon footprints is in our best interest. However, some proponents argue otherwise, suggesting that we can continue on our same path of harmful productive consumption. Rest assured, this couldn't be further from the truth. Anyone suggesting such an idea is unworthy of your attention. Reducing waste, reusing materials, and avoiding impulsive spending are intentional choices I make to live sustainably in my daily life. Waste is a by-product of things created in the public market. Everything that is sold has a lifetime expectancy. Mastering the art of maximizing products that I use has helped me to reduce waste. The influence of social media and extensive advertising campaigns often triggers an uncontrollable desire to spend in consumer markets. Consequently, if we are not vigilant, we may easily succumb to the detrimental habit of excessive consumption. Therefore, monitoring and improving my personal spending habits has in turn enabled me to reduce waste. Secondly, reusing materials that otherwise would attribute to waste has been helpful in maintaining personal sustainability. Often times, we are prompted by society and proponents of consumerism to buy new instead of reusing what we have. Research has shown that approximately 75% of consumer products available worldwide could have been reused or refurbished to be used continuously. Furthermore, I contribute to reusing products that I would otherwise throw away. This action benefits the environment as well as my pocketbook. Thirdly, avoiding impulsive spending habits has been helpful in improving sustainability in my life. As we're all aware, our world is built on the pillars of supply and demand. Manufacturers supply the goods we need and want, while consumers purchase those goods and services, making for a mutual relationship. The free market concept of buying and selling has proven to be ideal and has effectively served societies for many centuries. However, we are now facing the challenge of transitioning into an unsustainable model. Our current trajectory is headed for financial disaster if we continue to recklessly spend while prompting producers to raise prices. The intentional choices that I make to be a conscious consumer have helped to mitigate the effects of illicit consumerism. I've made it my mission to thoroughly examine the products and services that I use and measure their cost. It's important to reduce my carbon footprint to ensure the viability of future generations. We often hear older generations telling us, "the actions we make today affect the reality of future generations." While many wrestle with this idea, its truth is irrefutable. Every step, every action, and every decision that we make has a direct impact on the viability of future generations. Not only should we seek to improve our reality, but that of others as well. The steps I am taking to decrease my carbon footprint will contribute to creating a cleaner world for both current and future generations. I hope that my actions will inspire others to find ways to decrease their carbon footprint and live a more sustainable lifestyle. (I thank the scholarship donor(s) and bold.org for the opportunity to share and pray God blesses you all!)

Leadership is defined as the action of leading a group of people or an organization. Throughout the world's historical eras, leaders have emerged to skew the public in a specific direction. During the Civil War era in the United States, President Abraham Lincoln's leadership was put to the test to preserve the union. Similarly, in the Civil Rights era, many black men and women such as the late Dr. King, were called into action to address the detestable adversity people of color experienced. Leaders have led their nations into war, and they've garnered peace at diplomacy tables, and other great feats, but, one must wonder where they derive the courage to do so. In Dr. King's 1963 letter from the Birmingham Jail, he wrote, "Beyond this, I am in Birmingham because injustice is here. Just as the eighth-century prophets left their little villages and carried their "thus saith the Lord" far beyond the boundaries of their hometowns; and just as the Apostle Paul left his little village of Tarsus and carried the gospel of Jesus Christ to practically every hamlet and city of the Greco-Roman world, I too am compelled to carry the gospel of freedom beyond my particular hometown. Like Paul, I must constantly respond to the Macedonian call for aid." Notice in his letter his call to action was prompted by injustice and his belief that like the great prophets of old who stood up to insurmountable power, he too would stand against the power structure oppressing his people. While many loved and marveled at the expansive vocabulary and conviction from which Dr. King spoke, his words came with adversity. He received threats on his life, his livelihood was affected, and his family lived with unending uncertainties, and even backlash from his own community. Nevertheless, Dr. King continued to progress the wave of hope and equity throughout the nation. "Let freedom ring" was the message heard throughout the nation as America wrestled with its longstanding history of discrimination. Martin Luther King Jr. inspired many dreamers of his time and continues to inspire dreamers of present day. His words and actions continue to inspire people to reach new heights and confront the oppressive realities of life under the sun. Dr. King's words have inspired me to be the best version of myself while standing firm on my convictions and confronting injustice. A wise man once said, "A good man looks out for himself, an ever better man looks out for others." Like Dr. King and many other historical black leaders, I aspire to selflessly act in favor of all people to ensure equity and justice. My hope is that my actions will captivate the minds of other dreamers to rise up and take their rightful place as changemakers in a broken world!

As a son, student, Christian, friend, and volunteer, I'm many things to several people. Born on the 8th of August, 2002, I'm an early 2000s kid raised on Jesus, southern living, and television. Growing up in the south (San Antonio, Texas) offered opportunities to explore the region's rich heritage and indulge in Texan traditions. Walking through the historic districts of San Antonio taught me about the sacrifices made in the old days and their respective losses. I'm a product of the North East Independent School District (NEISD), graduating with my Winston Churchill High School diploma in May of 2021. In my spare time, I enjoy playing video games, watching television, studying my Bible, and reading. Nothing brings me more satisfaction than helping someone in need. Volunteering has always been a way of life for me and my way of giving back to my community. Despite where I volunteered, I experienced the same satisfaction in serving others. I cherish my time spent volunteering because of the valuable people and lessons I learned. Making connections with community members while embracing the idea of selflessness shifted my life's perspective. In the realm of community service, I hope to spread awareness of housing concerns upon completion of my degree. As an architect student, I'm deeply concerned with the longevity of the built environment. I believe design elements should suit all and not just some. Working with community housing organizations has given me a first-hand look into the developing housing crisis in my community. Rows of neighborhoods have been destroyed or decayed due to poor upkeep and lack of investment. The residents of these neighborhoods are affected by these disparities, leaving them with little chance of long-term success. I desire to terminate the trend that plagues my community of insufficient investment and upkeep. Therefore, I plan to advocate for the needs of underprivileged communities and support the steps toward revitalization.

Traveling the world and seeing new things can be a rewarding experience. As we ascend above the horizon, travel down the complex network of roadways, or propel onward in a series of tracks, we're filled with a sense of discovery. Fresh experiences provide us with new insight into things we'd never imagine or places unbeknownst to us. For many centuries, humans have roamed the earth in search of new inspiration, discovery, settlements, art, history, resources, and much more. Through the advantageous exploration of wanderers and dreamers alike, formally uncharted places became beacons of inspiration and splendor. Take, for instance, the late Venetian merchant and explorer Marco Polo, who journeyed along Asia's Silk Road in the late 1200s. His venture led him to write his book entitled: "Book of the Marvels of the World and II Milione, c 1300." If Marco Polo were before us today, he would likely agree that his journey transformed his life and view of the world. Similarly, our lives can be transformed by traveling to new destinations and engaging in unique experiences. The modern era has enabled us to travel by more avenues than ever before. With just the click of a button, we could be boarding a plane on its way to the other side of the world. Additionally, improved fuel economy allows us to travel longer distances while having to make fewer stops. The former constraints that once plagued adventurers have been removed with the advent of modern technology. Taking advantage of technological advancement has the potential to lead to discoveries. As we're submerged in a new environment, we're able to explore the unknown. Introduction to new foods, customs, and cultures enhances our perspective of lives apart from our own. Traveling bolsters our understanding of the world and is the greatest transformative experience for individuals because of its ability to broaden our understanding. Being in an environment where everything is unfamiliar might appear overwhelming at first, but is essential in the mental growth process. As our brain begins to process what we see and hear, we can't help but fall into this sense of curiosity. Our curious nature drives us to indulge in foreign societies to familiarize ourselves with the lifestyle presented before us. Although we may not realize it immediately, our exposure to different cultures, perspectives, and environments has led to personal growth and development. No longer is the world viewed solely from our lens, but that of others as well. As we journey back to our native regions of the world, we feel compelled to incorporate our experiences into our lives and communities. Some achieve this by starting a business based on foreign cultures, others seek to educate about foreign perspectives, while few seek to transform their environment to embody the essence of their foreign experience. The ability to be inspired by new experiences and use those experiences to transform our communities is one of the human mind's greatest gifts. Our personal growth and development cause a trickle effect where others are influenced to seek out their unique encounters with cultures, perspectives, and environments dissimilar to their own and grow and develop as well. No matter how much you think you know or how many places you've visited, there's always a new experience right around the corner. With an open mind, we're able to seek places we'd never thought we had before. This is the beauty of travel that I aspire to indulge in and hope others will also.

Mental health is "...a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community" (World Health Organization- WHO). Additionally, worldwide mental health concerns have risen by 13% and stem widely from concerns of demographics, socioeconomic, and cultural changes, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). If we continue on our current trend, we're destined to reach alarming levels of mental health cases irrespective of the level of care a nation can provide. While most of the developed world has or is currently implementing the infrastructure to address mental health concerns, many developing nations are struggling to meet their demand. Even amongst the top economically prosperous countries, the demand for mental health care facilities is broadening, yet the supply remains lackluster. The state of our mental well-being is vital to our development. If our minds are unhealthy, we cannot embody our full potential and bring value to our communities. I believe mental health is important because it correlates to how we're able to adapt and problem-solve in crucial moments. The brain's ability to process information is essential in the various functions it carries out. Poor mental health interferes with the brain's ability to function, as we're often sentimental and deprived of essential needs. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders, etc., can all be symptoms of poor mental health. Balancing everyday life and the effects of penurious mental health can take its toll. Discovering ways to mitigate mental health concerns is a necessary step toward recovery. I maintain my mental health by avoiding negativity, engaging in fulfilling activities, and staying persistently in God's word. With the hustle and bustle of being a busy college student, I often forget to evaluate my position mentally. In the rare moments that I do, I reflect on how I'm feeling and what changes need to be implemented to improve my mental state. In conjunction with self-evaluation, I pride myself in eschewing negative things and persons. I've found that negative emotions deplete the mind of its joy, resulting in a lower mental state. Additionally, remaining knowledgeable of scripture reminds me of my identity in Christ and provides the strength to keep going. While the debate around mental health wellness persists, we can concur it's a crucial concern in our world. Just as we strive to maintain physical health, we must also strive to sustain our mental health. Moreover, we must do our part to support the central component of our bodies just as computer hardware supports its CPU. Three critical steps must be carried out to ensure continuous mental wellness: Education, Awareness, and Implementation. Educating others about mental health, spreading awareness of its effects, and implementing resources to address mental health concerns can usher in a new era backed by the premise of sustainability. In closing, let us embrace the words of world-renowned author and psychologist Noam Shpancer: "Mental health...is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going."

Facing an ongoing battle with mental health places a burden on the mind and drains the heart of its energy. At each passing moment, you're constantly bombarded with the thoughts of your battle while residual scars proliferate. As a result, your relationships worsen, and your understanding of the world grows dim. It appears your life is meaningless, and you're better off not living up to your full potential. You hear others utter notions of impending change and so-called "light at the end of the tunnel," yet you see it nowhere near. These thoughts sum up the reality of battling with mental health, which has played a role in my life's story. My experience with mental health has shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world by making me goal-oriented, prioritizing relationships, and expanding my knowledge. The journey of becoming freed from the grips of crippling mental health can last a long time. Some people can recover swiftly, while others require more time to bounce back. It took me several years to get to the place I'm at today. The journey was not easy, as I spent my time laying the foundation from which I could propel myself. Each layer consisted of several tasks that required me to dig deep and shake up the ground in dry places in my mind that needed restoration. With my mind, body, and soul, I gave my all to keep progressing out of the grip of crippling mental health. Step by step, I ascended closer to my ultimate goal and learned a valuable lesson. Though I retain the scars of my ascent, learning to set goals while progressively working toward them has benefited me. Not only did this strategy improve my mental health, but my life overall. When I encounter obstacles, I remember to set goals to conquer them one step at a time. As I was on the frontlines of my battle, I neglected many of the relationships I once cherished. Like clockwork, my relationships with my family, friends, and God began to tank as I was in the midst of war in my mind. This trend continued for many years until I decided I'd had enough. No longer would I allow my mental health to destroy the connections I'd created with others and God. I'd worked too hard all those years establishing these relationships and growing my faith in God. Despite being in the lion's den of my mind, I uncovered another truth. The truth I uncovered was to embrace the relationships while in the storm rather than push them away. It's not often you see someone deny a helping hand in times of trouble. Instead of abandoning those close to me, I realized the need to draw near to those closest to me and God to bolster the healing process. This experience taught me to value my relationships and being supported by them. It's safe to say that in battle, your view of the world becomes dim. Ask any soldier what they thought of the world post-war, and I assure you their answers wouldn't come as a surprise. Similarly, my understanding of the world shifted from the innocent perspective of my youth as I struggled with mental health issues. Gone were the days of a euphoric worldview as pessimism left its mark. Seeing others happy and what appeared to be mentally free enraged me. I'd concluded that if I felt terrible, so should others. This toxic thinking continued until I realized the world wasn't the issue but my very own self. All of the built-up emotions from my mental health struggles had spilled over into my perspective on life. Not only was I mentally bound, I was emotionally scarred. While my understanding of the world continuously evolves, I've obtained respect for the world. Being mortal permits me to select knowledge, yet with a healthy mind, my understanding will grow with time. Overall, this experience taught me to understand the world from multiple lenses. No matter your religion, culture, socio-economic background, gender, race, or origin, we all have a few obstacles that will emerge in our lives. Instead of appearing frail toward our goals, relationships, and understanding of the world, I propose a new course of action involving goal-setting, relationship prioritization, and worldview growth. Staying on this course won't make the battle go away, but, will make it more tolerable as we work through it. Lastly, please bear in mind that we're all in this together and we will prevail victorious in the end!

Community is at the core of any great society. Without communities, the social apparatuses that connect us would cease to exist. Many scientists and philosophers have sought ways to understand the origins of communities and their role in society. While their conclusions differ, it's universal that communities are necessary in any functioning society. Humans can uniquely connect with others based on shared interests or experiences. Moreover, this ability enables us to create a community of shared values, interests, and experiences. The days of singular focal points have passed as we emerge into an era of communities striving to understand the world and make an impact. Finding my role in this community-enriched era has been challenging. However, bolstering diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice in my community is among my top priorities. I believe a community that lacks diversity is a community that's headed for disaster. Diversity is the lifeblood of any great community and is the primary factor in its growth. I've positively impacted my community through efforts related to diversity by encouraging others to broaden their understanding. Traveling to different places around the world, exploring new cultures, and being open-minded increases diversity within a community. As people learn about other walks of life, their knowledge expands, resulting in communal diversity. Additionally, I aspire to work with organizations and community members to implement strategies to diversify my community. A person who is equitable and/or fair and unbiased is a person society deems as just. Now imagine this person multiplied into hundreds or thousands of persons living in a shared space. This space would be considered the exemplar of ethical communities. I suggest that this can be a reality for us all if we dedicate ourselves to furthering equity in our communities. I believe that leading by example while encouraging others is the optimal way to advance equity in my community. Being a person of moral integrity enables me to be fair and impartial with other community members and the world at large. A community is only as strong as its weakest link. Similar to a car engine, if all the parts are not operational, the automobile will fail to operate. Therefore, fostering methods to promote inclusion within my community is unnegotiable. From the youngest to the oldest, I strive to encourage members of my community to engage in their civic and communal duties. As a result of my ongoing relationship with my neighbors, I've been able to spread awareness of the need for inclusion in our community and, have seen positive results in return. Ensuring wealth, opportunity, and resources are proportionately allocated to all members of my community has been a challenge. Like many other communities across the world, my local community has experienced a decline in investment leading to decreased communal morale, flight, and unity. To counteract these effects, I devote my time to educating myself and others about the importance of continual wealth, opportunity, and resources. While a larger portion of this conversation resides with the government, I believe there's work at the local level for us all to pitch in. As a result of my efforts to bolster diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice in my community, I've learned more about myself and obtained a greater respect for my community. I plan to continue to advocate for positive change in my community while encouraging others to do the same.

Question One: Being the first in my family to obtain a college degree means the world to me. I think of all my parents' sacrifices to get me where I am today and all the hard work I put into my public school academics. Often in school, I struggled with various areas such as math and reading, and required extensive assistance to keep my grades afloat. In addition, crippling anxiety made class time difficult as I struggled to ease my racing mind. I sometimes felt that I wasn't good enough or might as well quit. However, I used my parents as motivation to keep going no matter what and thought if I quit now, college would be out of the picture. The value of a college education was always emphasized in my home and I knew I would be college-bound post-graduation from high school. Therefore, being the first in my family to obtain a college degree is my path toward greatness and dedication. Question Two: It wasn't until my junior year in high school that I decided what I wanted to pursue in college. I had entertained the idea of several majors such as aeronautics and engineering, but had reservations about these areas of study. Looking back over my childhood I realized that I had an obvious passion for construction and design; committed myself to study architecture. As an architecture undergraduate student, I can say I'm proud I chose this path and look forward to my future role in the profession. I couldn't imagine pursuing anything else and am appreciative of the opportunity to study architecture at my university. Question Three: My long-term goals are to grow spiritually, become an architect, earn good money, develop family and friend relationships, and serve others. The most important aspect of my life is my belief in God. As a Christian, I desire to broaden my relationship with God as I go through my life's journey. Secondly, obtaining my license to practice architecture in the state of Texas is a long-term goal because it's my passion. I'm excited to uncover what architecture has to offer and am eager to offer my talents to the professional world shortly. It would be hard to survive in the world without money. Nothing in life is free, therefore, I desire to earn a decent living to support my lifestyle. Lastly, serving the needs of others is a current and long-term goal for me because I want to see everyone win. I believe it's my moral duty as a Christian and individual to see the needs of others met. I hope that as my income increases, I'll be able to bless more people.

During the height of racial tension and discrimination in America, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr devoted his life to the needs of others. Instead of complacency, Dr. King sacrificed his time, energy, and life for the betterment of all people. I believe he embodied the purest form of selflessness and devotion to his community. Similarly, after a hard day of work, Ms. Parks saw fit to stand up for the right of colored folks to sit toward the front of the public bus. She could have complied with the bus driver's command to relocate to the back, yet her devotion to her people outweighed the fatigue state of her body. Throughout history, Dr. King, Ms. Parks, and many others have shown the works of passion, but are these virtues still alive today? We often hear of the world changing like the speed of light, but does this include our virtue system as well? I'm here to tell you while some may have departed from their concerns of others, my concern grows each day. With a new understanding of the ills that plague society, I'm better able to understand my role in thwarting its effects. Like Dr. King, Rosa Parks, and others past, I too must intervene to serve the needs of my community. However, I'm useless to others if I lack the necessary skills to address their needs. Developing my skills has been an ongoing task that I've worked tirelessly to progress. Whether it's writing, speaking, listening, organizing, time management, etc, my goal has been to improve these abilities each day. My skills allow me to make better connections with others while highlighting the issues that they face. If I'm able to provide my neighbor with food while exposing active food insecurity in my neighborhood, my impact is greater than merely sowing. In the words of Dr. King, "True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar; it comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring." The restructuring Dr. King spoke of requires skills to effectively communicate, comprehend, instruct, and inform those in positions of authority. Hence, developing my skills remains at the forefront of my daily activities. The next part of developing my skills is putting them into action by helping those in need. I believe help comes in many forms, and the more compassion we extend to one another, the stronger our connection becomes. As Maya Angelou once said, "They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel." Our actions possess power far greater than we can imagine and can be felt in ways more complex than the human mind can fathom. Leading with a heart of compassion has enabled me to help others see the light they possess and embrace their best selves. I aspire to be like the Apostle Paul, even while in Roman imprisonment, continued to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ and enthrall his audience to embody their best selves as the Lord would see fit. Moreover, I hope that my words, actions, and reactions to the flow of life inspire others to be their best. It's when we're at our best we produce remarkable things and achieve marvelous feats.

The definition of a community is a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. Communities can be found globally as people unite to address shared issues. Within defined communities are sub-set communities such as gamers, farmers, ranchers, influencers, socialites, etc. It would be nearly impossible to envision our world without communities because of their societal prevalence and significance. The thing that inspires me to get involved in my community is the people. I pride myself in looking after the well-being of others and believe it is the ultimate factor in a community. Without people, there is no community; without compassion, the community will wither. Many literary works have been crafted talking about the need for community and often, you hear similar sentiments in mainstream media. Some argue that the days of family and community have long passed but, I believe these values are still alive. In the words of the late Dutch priest and author, Henri Nouwen, "Community means that people come together around the table, not just to feed their bodies, but to feed their minds and their relationships." It's the nourishment of rich conversations, courteous gestures, and selfless acts that make a community flourish. We the people of our various communities are the central piece in our communities' prosperous longevity. The work I've set out to influence change in my community is simply connecting with others. I've discovered among the greatest gifts of the human conscience is the ability for one to connect with another. It's because of connections that people come together to work, live, study, embrace, love, and restore. Taking time to better understand the people in my community and establish personal connections with them enables me to spark change. Another way I've influenced change in my community is through my generosity. I believe that it's a blessing to be a blessing to someone else even when they can't offer you anything in return. I find it difficult to turn a blind eye to the needs of others as I feel a moral responsibility to look after those in need. Volunteering with local food banks, and homeless shelters, and freelance donations have alleviated some of the burdens that linger in my community. Community is at the forefront of what makes a society great. History has shown that when people with similar characteristics and goals join together, they achieve a higher level of success while lasting longer. If you haven't done so already, I urge readers to take the time to meet the people of your community and make connections. You never know what may come out of it and you could potentially make a new friend.

When I imagine falling, I think of flowers dropping from their high vantage points and crops separating from their stems, marking the beginning of harvest. Fall is a season of harvest where the air is full of blissful wonder as we steadily head into winter. Of the four seasons, fall is unique in that while there is natural decay, there's still harvest all around. It's a wonderful reminder that decay isn't always bad and newness is destined to arrive. In addition to the essence of a season, a warm or cold beverage is usually suited to the spirit of the time of year. A fall-inspired drink from Starbucks that holds a special place in my heart is the Pumpkin Spice Latter w/ 3 espresso shots & vanilla sweet cream because of its rich taste and colorful design. Walking into a Starbucks is like entering the gates of nose heaven. Immediately as you enter, you are met with the aroma of coffee, pastries, and soothing music. The display of sophisticated artistic masterpieces enhances the vibe of the coffeehouse, which draws you in as you ponder on what to order. Utilizing optimized marketing strategies, Starbucks has a keen advantage over its competitors in the way it embraces seasonal changes. Among these yearly changes, is the introduction of their seasonal fall-inspired drinks and pastries. Starbucks's Pumpkin Spice Latte has become a character in my fall narrative through the joy it brings. According to the Starbucks website, the fall-inspired latte is among the top-selling items during their fall product roll-out with millions of fans worldwide. With countless five-star reviews, the latte has continued to be a staple through the years. I aspire to embody the spirit of joy so that others can have a source of joy in difficult times. We all need someone that we can lean on when times get rough and I want to be that person for my friends, family, and others around me. No matter what our favorite fall-inspired drink from Starbucks may be, we can all agree that fall is a special season of harvest that reminds us of the year's hard work we put in sowing. As the old saying goes, 'You reap what you sow', so let us sow seeds of joy and hope to a dying world in desperate need of healing. Instead of making excuses and complaining about issues, let's work toward uncovering solutions and putting our words into action!

It's always interesting when you read a book or watch a movie and can learn something from it. As you settle into your novel or film of choice, we often don't expect to be informed, just merely entertained. However, literature and film have a keen ability to convey meaning substantially greater than other mediums of entertainment. If you asked people what they learned from a recent book or film they've watched, it probably wouldn't take long for them to reply. This highlights the influence that books and films have in our lives and their ability to affect social viewpoints. In all honesty, I've never considered myself to be a habitual reader. I've always viewed reading as a laborious task that took up too much time while depleting my energy. Although my mother ensured reading was integrated into my daily routine growing up, I never grew to appreciate it until later on in life. Film was the opposite; I've adored great films since as far back as I can remember. Little negotiation was required to convince me to watch a movie or television show. At first glance, I aimlessly scrolled through the pages of my books and watched the scenes of the movie play out. Then one day, a light bulb was turned on and I began to notice the hidden messages within the books and films. Obtaining an enhanced understanding of the main idea allowed me to see the lessons the author(s) and writer(s) were trying to convey. I have learned several virtues from the books I've read and the films I've seen. These virtues include kindness, patience, love, loyalty, humility, and generosity. For instance, through the literary works of Biblical authors such as Moses, Paul, James, etc, I've learned the value of devotion to God and service to others. Another example would be in the writings of the late Dr. King, who wrote about exhibiting joy and triumph in the face of immeasurable adversity. In addition to literature, films such as 'The Amazing Spider-Man' and ' The Pursuit of Happyness' have taught me the importance of selflessness and contributing to your community more than what you take from it. Understanding and demonstrating these virtues in my life has shaped my goals by broadening my appreciation for others and my potential in the world. I'm a 21-year-old college student who dreams of making it big and helping others. I plan to make a positive impact on the world through the virtues I live by. I want my life to be a testament to the God I serve and the diligence in my upbringing. I believe through my education and virtuous leadership, I can provide a source of inspiration to my community. My Bible teaches me that with God all things are possible (Mattew 19:26), so I remain steadfast as I continue on my journey toward greatness! In closing, I thank the scholarship donor for the opportunity to share and pray God continues to bless you and your future endeavors!

Growing up, the value of education was frequently discussed in my home. No matter where we were, my mother found the opportunity to highlight educated people in public. She would say, "Look at the man with the suit over there" or "Notice the woman riding by with the nice set of wheels...this is the result of education." My mother believed that education wasn't just something you learn in a classroom or read in a textbook, but also, the lessons learned in life. Because of my mother's sentiments, I developed a greater appreciation for education and committed to excelling in and out of the classroom. The thought of attending college after graduation was a no-brainer for me. As the conclusion of my senior year approached, I was certain higher education was my next step. I'd already decided what I wanted to pursue (architecture) and which schools to consider applying to. I viewed higher education as a way of propelling myself into the professional work field while broadening my opportunities. Additionally, a larger student body, campus, and curriculum would bring new challenges that I believed would enhance my post-graduation experience while bolstering my future professional life. With great stride, I began my college journey in the Fall of 2021 and have enjoyed the journey since. Despite my immense excitement to attend college, it was an overwhelming experience in the beginning. For starters, the class sizes were triple what they were in high school and the open-campus format took time to adjust to. Trying to maneuver around an influx of students while trying to find your classroom is no easy task, just ask any college student. Nevertheless, I put my best foot forward to navigate this new journey in my life and began to embrace the added changes. To better prepare myself for college as a first-generation student, I sought after other first-generation students, soliciting their experiences while taking note of their preparation. Speaking with university staff and advisors also helped me prepare and enabled me to view various approaches to adjusting to college life. Even as a junior, I still make a habit of discovering new things to better prepare myself as I continue my college journey. To all my fellow students out there, keep going and know the sky's the limit. The moment is now and the time has come for us to embark on great journeys and embrace the fullness of who we were created to be. There's no better you than yourself, and no one can live your life but you. Therefore, let us make it our mission to continually put our best foot forward in both school and life, changing the world and others simultaneously!

Sometimes, it can be hard to imagine how we as individuals can impact a ginormous world. If we're not careful, we can fall into the illusion of thinking our contribution made no difference or there's no value in making a difference. As far from the truth as these ideas are, many people share these sentiments hindering their efforts. To those who may feel this way, may I offer for your consideration a new approach: just do it. Yes, as Nike said, "just do it." Putting it into perspective, we have nothing to lose, and trying is better than doing nothing at all. I plan on making a positive impact on the world by exemplifying good virtues. I want to be known as a man of character, intelligence, competence, and of God. If my living doesn't reflect the God that I serve, then my living has been in vain. Without a doubt, this world lacks real role models. Instead of prominent people to look up to, we are overwhelmed with nonstop toxicity that plagues our minds and destroys the pillars of our society. If I asked you to name the last bad influence that you witnessed in public or on the internet, it would probably take you no less than a minute to do so. On the flip side, if I asked the same question instead of opting for a positive role model, chances are you would struggle to identify one. Even if you were able to find one swiftly, I'm assured they would be outnumbered by bad influences. What we consume is vital to our growth and development. If we consume negativity, we can expect to produce negative thoughts and actions. Moreover, if we consume positivity, we can joyfully expect to produce positive thoughts and actions. Instead of agonizing about the lack of role models in the world, I aspire to become one. With sharp leadership qualities and profound characteristics, positively influencing others would be my primary goal. The good news is, that I don't have to wait to be elected to public office or stand behind a lectern to influence others, my work can start within my community using the voice God gave me. My voice is a powerful tool that can be used to impact the lives of others. By speaking life, sowing seeds, and living by example, my impact on the world can be felt through righteous virtues. While many have given up and lost hope, I still believe in this world's potential and know that we are destined for greatness. Through the lessons of our troubled past, I affirm that we can continue to move forward as the "great society" President Lyndon B. Johnson envisioned in the early 19th century. The only question left to answer is, are we ready? Are we ready to positively impact the world through our living and embrace the needed change? If so, let us commit ourselves to continual excellence in all that we do bolstering our communities and glorying God! - To the family of Ms. Mcclain, I pray that God continues to give you all strength in the loss of your dear loved one. Additionally, I thank you all for this opportunity to share and commend you all's efforts in keeping her destiny alive!

A raindrop descends from the heavens onto the earth, accumulating with other raindrops. Together, these individual raindrops emerge forming puddles that begin to cover the terrain in water gradually. Similarly to a raindrop, societal issues emerge as one person is afflicted and advances to others. Unlike the rain, societal issues have no set endpoint, instead, they continue to grow as a result of human incompetency and ill will. This draws into mind the question, what has society done to improve the lives of others? We hear of all the relief from D.C. and the promise of hope from the 1%, but, have we sincerely taken the steps to make a difference? I believe one of the biggest issues plaguing America today is homelessness. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), roughly 582,000 Americans were facing active homelessness in 2022, and roughly 18 per 10,000 person(s) will experience a housing crisis on any given night (HUD). For a country the size of a continent, filled with vast riches, this is utterly unacceptable. Just think of all the women, children, veterans, elderly, disabled, and other vulnerable individuals who roam America's streets without a place to call home. Living on the streets is not only uncomfortable but also unsafe for many as criminals seek easy targets to afflict. Moreover, if we continue to ignore or prolong aid toward the issue of homelessness in America, we in turn will hasten our nation's demise. While many solutions are being proposed to solve the homelessness crisis, I believe education should be the first step. By education, I mean, countering the falsehoods spread by society about homelessness and encouraging others to take steps toward alleviating homelessness in their communities. Secondly, I would aspire to work with various organizations such as the Salvation Army, HUD, U.S. Veterans Initiative, etc, to construct more homeless shelters and provide more affordable housing options for low-income Americans. Thirdly, I would work with special NGOs to help those experiencing homelessness access healthcare services, community events, donation centers, and employment for those able to work. I believe ending the notion of rugged individualism and championing the idea of compassion would invoke change in this nation and around the world swiftly. In the words of the famous Irish playwriter, George Bernard Shaw, "Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything." If we are serious about changing the course of history and the trouble of this world, we must equally be committed to being change makers. In my 21 years of living, I've learned it's easy to identify a problem, but it takes significant wit to change it. I hope that others are inspired by the words of this essay and join me as we change the world! In closing, I thank the scholarship donor and contributors for this generous opportunity to share and pray that God continues to bless you all in your future endeavors.

From as far back as I can remember, I repeatedly tinkered with something, trying to figure out how it worked. Whether it was my mother's watch or my father's car keys, it wouldn't take long for me to get something in my hands to explore. I was unsure of the source of my curiosity but was confident my tinkering discoveries would lead to a greater understanding of the world around me. Each moment I spent taking apart the various pieces of the item in my hand was like putting pieces of a puzzle together. As each element came from its corresponding piece, my understanding of how it worked grew. Additionally, I discovered my mind was the center of my creative passion and discovery, which was something to cherish and not suppress. My creative passion is architectural design because I enjoy blending the elements of urban design with the nuances of everyday life. To some, a building is just something that stores people or things for a prescribed purpose. However, to me, a building is an expression of creative passion woven through the collision of graphite and paper. Each wall, door, window, pillar, column, etc, all play a role in developing the mythology or meaning behind each architectural work. Throughout history, designers and engineers alike have discovered and created innovative ways to implement new elements of design into architecture, improving the lifeline and sustainability of the built environment. The trend continues as urban designers discover methods of constructing energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and sustainable buildings. I believe my creative passion for architectural design makes the world a better place by adjusting the way we view and construct buildings. Without a doubt, buildings are at the forefront of what makes our cities and towns great, as they fill the vast landscape. In addition, buildings provide us with shelter and private spaces to commune, dine, worship, celebrate, and seek shelter. A world void of buildings would be a world not fit for mankind. Therefore, it's our duty as the world's future contemporary designers to promote sustainable architectural design that benefits both its inhabitants and the environment. Taking the necessary steps would allow us to ensure the longevity of the built-environment for generations to come and provide a blueprint for future generations seeking inspiration. While we march forward into the future, we must also bear in mind the lessons of the past that enabled us to achieve our many successes. If I had an extra 24 hours in a day, I would spend it perfecting my creative passion and learning from others. I believe the best lessons in life are learned through the experiences of ourselves and others. Hearing how others cultivate their creative passions would inspire me to cultivate mine and strengthen others. Not to mention, all the architectural software that would improve my drafting ability while permitting me to create significantly advanced models. Lastly, I would conclude the latter half of the additional hours reading textbooks on contemporary architectural practice and application. I feel most creative when I'm in an environment surrounded by inspiring people, things, and actions. Often, in my college architectural studio courses, I feel inspired by my peers hard work and dedication. Their drive for excellence captivates me to work harder and study longer. Creativity is a gift bestowed to man from God to enhance the world making it truly unique. To all my fellow creative minds out there, keep putting your best foot forward in all you do, and know hard work pays off!

Ahh the Big Apple, America's cosmopolitan marvel of the world full of busy streets, citygoers, and lots of pizza joints. From the glamor of 5th Avenue to the breathtaking splendor of Central Park, New York City is the place everyone wants to be. But, what's that, a bird or maybe a plane, no it's Spider-Man coming to save the day. He swings through the city with ease and defeats bad guys with class. One of the MCU's oldest superheroes, Spider-Man can be recognized all around the world for his unique style, sense of humor, and combat arsenal. Having had a long-standing history within the Marvel Comic Universe, Spider-Man has been portrayed by many actors, most notably Toby Maguire, Andrew Garfield, and Tom Holland. While each actor gave a phenomenal portrayal of the webbed superhero, my favorite Spider-Man is Tom Holland because of his seamless configuration and style in the MCU. Peter Parker is a young kid trying to balance the trends of school life and personal life at home. While harboring supernatural abilities, he's still a kid trying to find his way in the world. I believe Tom Holland's youthful and witty nature fits into the role of Spider-Man best as this is Peter's true nature. Additionally, every actor offers something new to a studio or film. In comparing the three prominent Spider-Mans', we can see that each provided their unique nuance to the film, prompting the audience to uncover their influence in the film. Tom Holland, in my opinion, provided a new influence in the film as he differed from the other Spider-Mans and faced new challenges that they didn't. I would argue, in part, that he ushered in the new dynamic of Spider-Man in the post-early 2000s era as Marvel also achieved with the Avengers and Ultron. No matter who our favorite Spider-Man is, we can all agree that Spider-Man is a one-of-a-kind character. It's hard to imagine the trademark ever being discontinued from the MCU based on its growing influence and vast popularity. I think it's safe to say, that the webbed superhero of New York City will remain a cherished figure and testament to the excellence of American film production.

You know that feeling when you enter a library full of books. It's a feeling of awe and wonder as you search the shelves for the right book. For the bookworm, it's as if you've teleported into another dimension filled to the brim with your favorite things: books. The smell of fresh ink and paper collided to create literary works of art combined with the quiet yet noisy ambiance of the library building. It's safe to say nothing is more rewarding than reading a good book. If I could have everyone in the world read one book it would be Bible. A collective set of books written by various author who all faced their hardships and trials. With persecution and affliction right at their doorsteps, all hope appeared, until the Lord of Heaven's armies intervened to save the day. A book of rich history and wise lessons for all generations to bear and guaranteed promises for all to accept. The Bible is no ordinary book written from the confines of an author's imagination, rather it's a telling truth of the history of mankind and its interactions with a mighty God. No other book on earth achieves the literacy excellence and potency to transform lives. While written many ages ago, its truth remains consistent over time. A guidebook like no other that instructs man how to live righteously before a righteous God and put to death the illicit ways of man. I believe with a clear heart and mind, the world would benefit from reading the Bible. Through the reading and spiritual digestion of God's word, lives would be changed, minds would be transformed, and souls would be saved. Additionally, learning how to walk with God by removing the influence of the world would result in improved societal living. Simply put, we would transition into a space of vulnerability allowing God to move on our hearts while clearing our eyes to see the light that lies ahead. While our world is submerged in darkness, the light remains for those who seek it. God desires to heal, restore, and uproot his people to elevated heights making them victorious over the plot of the enemy all the while revealing to them his character. The question is, will we commit ourselves to this higher call? If so, let's take steps today to grow and fully embrace all God has called us to be!

Our minds are like a machine that generate complex ideas while simultaneously controlling a large network of functions within our bodies. Our conscience is confined within an internal organ known as the brain tasked with sustaining thought, memory, emotion, touch, motion, etc (hopskinmedicine.org). Just like the other parts of our bodies, our brains must be cared for to ensure long-term longevity. This idea of "brain care", more formally known as mental health, is a widely contested topic. Scientists, researchers, physiologists, parents, teachers, religious leaders, and individuals alike, are all attempting to further comprehend the vast complexity of mental health and its implications on the human body. While debate persists on the topic of mental health, we can all concur that it's an issue known by many that requires immediate action. Between balancing congested schedules, lengthy homework assignments, and pop quizzes, the life of a student can be stressful. Sometimes it seems no matter how many "mental breaks" you take, it's not enough to appease the uneasy mind. You continue on this prescribed cycle of intense study and schoolwork until you reach your breaking point. It's at this breaking point where you contemplate dropping out or making less effort to terminate the dread of student life. You value your education and understand the benefits of higher education, but, the stress is eating away at your determination. This is the reality for students all across the world who strive day in and out to achieve academic success while battling crippling mental health concerns. If left unchecked, the pillar of our academic-enthused society will crumble as the necessary support won't be sufficient. Mental health is important to me as a student because I understand the complexity of student life. Moreover, I understand the many tasks students are given to balance at such a young age and with little to no support. Not only must students keep their grades up, study, and apply themselves to pass, but they must also face the conditions of their world outside of school. Take a moment to consider the implications of this and put yourselves in others' shoes. To deny the importance of mental health in the life of students is to deny the very nature of the student altogether. Not only do I understand the effects of mental health, but I'm also an advocate of mental health awareness. I believe when society commits itself to understanding the mental health challenges faced by members of its communities, then it will begin to alleviate the burdens plaguing so many lives. Using my voice and leading by example are the ways that allow me to connect with others removing the stigma of mental health and broadening the conversation leading to the promotion of mental health awareness. It is okay to say that you're struggling or not alright. We are all humans who need and depend on one another to support our way of life. And above all, we have a great and mighty advocate, the creator of heaven and earth: God, graciously helping us in times of despair and affliction. United we stand and isolated we fall. I hope to live in a world someday, that embraces the true value of mental health awareness and provides the necessary resources for all persons to receive the care they rightfully deserve. And while we wait on this hope, let us do our part in eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health and usher in a new era of mental health awareness and care. May God bless the scholarship donor and potential readers, and please remember with God all is possible!

When we think of success, we often consider those with amassed wealth or notoriety. A simple Google search of the word success results in endless names of those attributed to this notion. However, we rarely consider success a multifaceted idea and instead opt for the traditional view of success based on cultural and societal norms. Moreover, while society continues to cling to the vague notion of success, there's a growing movement of people pushing the boundaries to broaden the scope of success. In my view, success is the ultimate set of achievements that one makes to better their life and world. Additionally, I believe success is a multifaceted idea that can be pursued in many ways. For instance, a farmer can be successful in the way they grow their crops, and a teacher can be successful in the way they connect with their students. Simply put, being a successful human being has more to do with what you give to the world as opposed to what your bank account or social media following takes in. When society transitions from a linear viewpoint of success to a complex viewpoint, then it will be able to destroy societal norms and refocus the attention on output instead of input. As the late President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, put it, "My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." In keeping with the giving spirit of President Kennedy's word, I propose we can all achieve tremendous levels of success when we seek to contribute, putting the needs of others before ourselves. This means each day God enables me to rise, I seek ways to better the condition of my neighbors and encourage others to do the same. No matter the task, our commitment to excellence should be unwavering, and our drive for greatness unmovable. This is what makes us successful and enables our world to continue to thrive. Like most if not all people on earth, I aspire to be successfully the best version of myself with enduring ways of righteousness and humility. I want to leave my mark on the world for generations to come and hopefully inspire others to do the same. But, like most things in life, the road to success is a long journey that must be followed with time. Success can't be expedited or cheated through as there are no shortcuts to it. Rather, due diligence must be applied to everyday living in correlation with determination to reap the full harvest of a successful life. It's safe to say, I'm in it for the long journey that will consist of defining moments of my life where I'll be able to bolster my aspiration of success. And while my journey is long, my companions are not few. Being endowed with a financial contribution toward my education would greatly help me move along my journey. Without a doubt, education is a tool that leads further development of change-makers and dreamers, and I believe this opportunity will provide another step for the dreamer and change-maker that I'm confident I am. However, no matter the results, I formally thank both the scholarship organizer(s) and donor(s) for your continued support of students and this opportunity. Lastly, it is my hope that God continues to give you the resources and tools to continue your work. May God bless and keep you all is my prayer!

Learning something new can be a challenge. Just like anything unfamiliar to us in life, learning new subjects requires an extensive amount of dedication and perseverance. It is said that many of the world's greatest mathematicians and philosophers become so not because they innately knew all but because they persevered to understand all. While many of us might not have the drive of the great Socrates or Archimedes to know all, we certainly benefit from learning new things as we age. Being fully submerged in the digital age has enabled us to access countless online platforms, tools, and resources to advance our understanding of various subjects. Using these platforms effectively aids our learning growth and supports higher academic achievement. The online platforms that I use to further my understanding of various subjects are Quizlet.com and Brainly.com. Quizlet.com is an online platform that enables students to create flashcards that can be used to help memorize and conceptualize study material, and Brainly.com is a nationally recognized AI-based study help software that helps students conceptualize their study material lucidly. Throughout my years in high school and my current venture in college, these two applications have helped me effectively grow and apply my knowledge by improving my memory of course material, increasing my accuracy rating, and broadening my overall comprehension of the subject material. In turn, my grades have improved, and I feel more confident while taking examinations and quizzes. The online tools I utilize to further my understanding of various subjects are Grammarly.com and Dictionary.com. Grammarly, Inc. is an American cloud-based typing software that reviews and suggests edits for spelling, grammar, punctuation, engagement, and delivery while detecting potential plagiarism and general errors (grammarly.com). Dictionary.com is an online dictionary database with an open editor concept based on Random House Unabridged Dictionary (dictionary.com). Both these online tools helped me to better apply my knowledge by ensuring that my writing and reading comprehension are on par with academic standards, my word selection is appropriate, and my literary sequence is smooth. Being a long-time user of these online tools has helped to improve my writing and reading skills while propelling me toward higher grades. Lastly, the online resources I use to further my understanding of various subjects are my university's library and Google Scholar. The University of Texas at San Antonio (Personal College) offers a wide array of academic resources and databases that help develop research while providing academically sound answers to complex questions. Similarly, Google Scholar is an accessible web search engine that indexes text or metadata of scholarly literature across an array of publishing formats and disciplines (wikipedia.com). Jointly, these online resources ensure that my sources of information and understanding of various subjects are aligned with scholarly recognized material. By using these resources, I minimize the time spent double-checking for accuracy, as I have access to an expansive volume of peer-reviewed academic material to aid in my studies. As a result, I'm well-equipped to confidently apply my knowledge in essays and other course material without reservation. No matter the platform, tool, or resource students use in their academic lives, we must appreciate the beautiful gift of the internet and its many outlets that make learning easier. Compared to many generations before us, we have it relatively easier with the advent and prominence of the World Wide Web. Let's never take this gift for granted and commit ourselves to being lifelong learners who inspire and change the world for the better. In closing, I thank the Learner team for the opportunity to share and for their continuous support of students. May God bless you all!

Math is one of those subjects that you adore one day and dread the other. Walking into math class or completing math homework could go two ways: you excel with minimal effort or flop with a huge plunge. Regardless, math is essential to our way of life and is virtually ingrained in every facet of society. I love math because it allows me to solve basic problems and understand how the global economy works. I'm a big finance enthusiast who enjoys finding new ways to earn and spend money on things that benefit me. In addition, I enjoy watching my money grow over time and benefiting others around me. Math allows me to understand how to continue to make my money grow over time and viable ways to invest my money over time. Using basic and complex mathematic formulas enables me to effectively make wise financial decisions that bear good results in the long run. Another reason I love math is because it's a subject and/or area of study that can bring people together. The idea of a complex problem consisting of various numbers, letters, and even symbols urges people to come together to solve a common issue. In doing so, people can establish new friendships and perspectives on people that otherwise would be strangers. There's a beauty in unity and math bolsters it.

The value of education was a frequent topic in my household growing up. My mother constantly found ways in our daily life to illustrate how far education could take you. I often remember my mother would point to the high-rise office buildings and courthouses as we strolled downtown saying, "See how far education took them and imagine what it could do for you". My mother's words moved me and caused me to realize education was the key to success. At a young age, I had an understanding that the effort I put into my schoolwork would benefit me in the long run. I strived to move with a purpose by turning my work in on time, studying diligently, and paying close attention in class. Amid distractions such as social popularity and disruptive classmates, I remained focused on keeping good grades. My peers would often tell me, "You're working too hard" or "C'mon man, it's just one party," but I resisted peer pressure because I knew the value of education. Additionally, I understood that when friends departed ways and all the partying ended, my education would remain and manifest in significant dividends. In all honesty, taking the high road was not always easy, and I often wanted to opt for the fun. However, when I arrived at this crossroads, I reflected on my mother's words that motivated me to stay committed. After graduating high school, I knew my educational journey was not finished. I was confident all those years spent in primary and secondary school couldn't result in a mediocre job. Instead, I envisioned furthering my education to open new opportunities toward a career where my passion and hard work combined to make a difference. Having found great joy in the design process, I began my higher education journey as an architecture undergraduate in the Fall of 2021. Looking back, I reflect on all the moments that led up to where I am now and how the lessons learned in my youth motivated me to continue this journey. While hard work and dedication lead to educational success, financial contributions are required to keep the train going. This scholarship would help me continue to pursue my educational goals by providing me with resources to continue my higher education journey. The role of future design professionals is in great demand all across the world. Therefore, sowing into my educational journey would not only benefit myself but also society at large. Moreover, despite the outcome, I want to thank the Malcolm Family for this generous opportunity to share and pray that you all continue successfully in your future endeavors!

Zendaya has taken the internet by storm through the years because of her breathtaking acting roles and mesmerizing fashion looks. Zendaya prides herself in sharing her artistic passion with others through media, fashion, singing, activism, etc. From her first role in Disney's original movie 'Frenemies', to the red carpet, Zendaya has made quite a name for herself in Hollywood and the fashion world. Wearing several hats, Zendaya has propelled her career far ahead of her peers and continues to make history with each move she makes. The aspect of Zendaya's multifaceted career I admire most is her fashion because of her artistic sense of style, flashy looks, and outright beauty. It seems almost any look that she puts together turns out beautiful, with vibrant colors and palettes evident in the attire. Zendaya prides herself in creating looks that utilize various color schemes as well as exploring new trends. Her sense of style excels in these moments as she pushes the boundaries set out by traditional media and opts for something groundbreaking. In addition, most of her fashion pieces feature brighter shades which contrast with her physique and radiate her natural glow. Zendaya is not afraid to put in the effort to acquire the most flashy looks to wow her audience. In her recent Fashion Week look in Paris, France, Zendaya wowed onlookers with her Louis Vuitton zipper-based stitched dress. The look was iconic and earned her the admiration of her peers in the fashion world. Another example was her pink fluffed two-piece dress and pink heels that turned heads at the American Music Awards. No doubt the dress took a while to design and craft, but nothing less would be suitable for the upcoming queen of fashion. No fashion attire would be fitting without the beauty of the model wearing it. Zendaya is a beautiful woman who enhances her fashion looks. Each fashion piece appears to fit seamlessly and does a tremendous job communicating the idea behind the look. Her days in the film scene have aided in her fashion career as she is set to become a titan in the fashion industry. I also admire how Zendaya embraces who she is and doesn't conform to the pressures of Western beauty standards. Being a uniquely talented individual has enabled Zendaya to achieve great success in her multifaceted career and inspires folks like me to embrace ourselves as well.

Living sustainably starts from the moment we are conceived into the world. We're aware that our world consists of scarce resources allocated to growing demand. If we direct one metric tonne of said resource here, we must also re-direct supplemental resources to adhere to the deficit. This trend of balancing resources to meet demand has been at the forefront of our society and motivates us to consider sustainable alternatives. Living sustainably is important to me because I recognize my desire for things is much, yet, resources are few. Therefore, I make intentional choices to live sustainably in my daily life by understanding my needs and wants, rationalizing waste, and reusing what I can. Finding ways to accomplish these choices in my daily life helps me to reduce my carbon footprint as well. Understanding what I require to survive and what I desire while I survive is sometimes a challenge. Often, I'm influenced by the toxic culture of consumerism and overspending to relate to my peers or fit a particular social status. As I've grown older, I've withdrawn from this culture and begun to embrace simplicity. I realized that a part of living sustainably is being able to determine what you need and want, and to what extent each is required. The world doesn't need any more landfills at the cost of human indecisiveness and wasteful spending, rather, it needs more like-minded people to embrace simple living and sustainability. Having an improved perception of my needs and wants has made living sustainably more feasible. The pure volume of waste that humans contribute to the environment is astronomical. We pour out millions of pounds of waste in only a single month and billions more in a year. Moreover, I would be remised to cast judgment onto my peers when I'm a part of the problem as well. Somewhere in those landfills is my waste which degrades the environment and destroys ecosystems. Just as I desire to keep my home clean, I desire to keep the world's environment and ecosystems clean as well. Avoiding wasteful habits and spending practices has helped me to rationalize and reduce waste, aiding in sustainable living. Lastly, as the old saying goes 'reduce, reuse, and recycle', I must remember to do all three every day to bolster the environment. Of the three, reuse is one of the most important aspects of sustainability. Being able to reuse something just like new, saves resources and money. Water bottles, cans, plastic wrapping, and other reusable items have revolutionized the waste management industry by allowing cooperation with the private sector to make new of that which was once old. In comparison to waste management and the private sector, making intentional choices to reuse minimizes waste and supports my effort toward sustainable living. In addition to taking steps toward sustainable living, we must also understand the importance of our carbon footprint. Every new resource that is extracted from the earth and formed into a product, leaves an impact on our environment. If we neglect the need for sustainability in place of mass production, we risk losing the very thing God blessed us with, our world. So I urge anyone who may read this essay to consider your carbon footprint and begin to take steps to live sustainably. As history has shown, when people with a common goal join forces they are unstoppable and unmovable. Let's be unstoppable and unmovable for the betterment of our environment and enable future generations to inherit a world full of beauty and splendor!

Minecraft is a game that allows players to build and experience an expansive world full of endless possibilities. In a moment, a player could be in the end battling the Ender Dragon and, in the next moment, in the overworld defending their home from a hoard of Zombie Villagers. With the addition of plug-ins and add-ons in recent years, the possibilities have grown tremendously as the Minecraft community continues to develop innovative tools and creatures to make the game more interactive. The Minecraft Marketplace also adds ways for content creators and players to exchange their creativity and desires with one another while creating new tales and enjoying unseen worlds. Growing up, I've always enjoyed discovering ideas for small-scale building projects and crafting them with Legos, blocks, popsicle sticks, etc. I considered model-making my favorite hobby and spent most of my childhood creating miniature models of structures. While I enjoyed models and often used my imagination to envision them in real-life applications, I often wondered what it would be like to watch them come to life. This thought became a reality with the introduction of Minecraft into the gaming world. I mean, the game flew off the shelves like a whirling wind as everyone was trying to get their hands on a copy of Minecraft. At first, I didn't understand the hype surrounding the game, but I soon realized all the hype after testing it out at my local Gamestop. I was instantly mesmerized by all the unique items in the crafting inventory, plus the expansive world. At that moment, I discovered how combining my passion for model-making with Minecraft could satisfy my desire to bring my models to life. My favorite aspect of Minecraft is being able to create a virtual world that I'm in control of. In the beginning, I enjoyed making small houses or a large mall to get a sense of how to play. But, as I became more familiar with the game's controls, my focus shifted toward creating towns and cities. Being able to access an infinite amount of building materials such as stone and bricks, the ability to fly, static needs, and openly roam around your creations made my passion grow. I devoted hours of in-game time developing my cities and grew to love the story behind each of my creations. At the time, I didn't realize that Minecraft was fueling my passion for design and Architecture but, I always knew that this was where my passion resided. Making large sets of creations in Minecraft resonated deeply with me because it bolstered that inner child who loved building structures in his spare time. It was also an escape for me from the troubles of the outside world into a world created for me that encompassed peace, solitude, joy, and creativity. I commend Microsoft and the Mojang team for their efforts in keeping the essence of the Minecraft community alive and inspiring players from across the world. It's not often that we see video games that enable players to create and explore on their terms and publish their work for others to see and enjoy. Minecraft will go down in the history books as a one-in-generation type of game for its continued support of its fanbase and in-game development. I hope to inspire others the way Minecraft inspired me and allowed me to explore my life's passion.

Going against the grain of a constantly emerging culture takes its toll on the mind. In our youth, we're taught that life is a simple apparatus of creating with building blocks and playing on the playground. However, as we grow older, we realize life consists of various complexities. What was once socially acceptable is no longer so, and what was the combined "it" factor no longer remains in one accord. In her hit studio album "Guts," Olivia Rodrigo bombards her listeners with emotions and wonder as they listen through the tracks. Each song presents its touch on the changes and challenges of adolescence and the general teenage experience. Her emotions are raw and vivid as she attempts to convey her sense of entanglement within the essence of adolescence while trying to make sense of it all. She writes in 'Making the Bed,' "...and I'm playing the victim so well in my head. But it's me who's been making the bed" and in 'Teenage Dream,' "...when will it stop being cool to be quietly misunderstood." These lyrics boldly detail the dilemma Olivia Rodrigo finds herself in between embracing young adulthood while still longing for the spark of her adolescence. In addition to her lyrics, the album's artwork detail bolsters the central message of the teenage experience being complex. A birthday cake featuring the number 19 can be visualized along with a low-grade purple background. These details are not merely a design perk but work in correlation with the central messaging of the album. Interestingly enough, Olivia's line in 'Ballad of a Homeschooled Girl' resonates well with my teenage experience and many others. In the opening portion of the song, she says, "And I hate all my clothes. Feels like my skin doesn't fit right over my bones. So I guess I should go. The party's done, and I'm no fun, I know, I know x2." Very often in my teenage years, I felt like the odd one out and the sore thumb among my friend group. My interests matched many of my peers: gaming, girls, money, etc., but my mind told me otherwise. I found myself on a quest to discover who I was and what life looked like on my terms. The answer to this question never came lucidly, and my dismay grew more potent as the days elapsed. I wanted to be the "fun of the party" in the prime of my adolescence, but I felt like "...my skin doesn't fit right over my bones." It was clear that I was experiencing an identity crisis as I saw no way out of this slump. No matter my efforts of self-discovery or trying to "fit in", I stuck out like a sore thumb. The added intense pressure of conforming to societal standards made the journey more difficult as I faced many turns discovering myself. I eventually realized that I was "...on the outside of the greatest inside joke" finding no apparent way to get in. My hope dimmed as time went on, but I remained optimistic that eventually, I would no longer wrestle with my identity. I envisioned living a life where who I am was not defined by societal pressure or norms but by God. Additionally, I found comfort in the fact that my struggles were not uncommon or indicative of my incompetency, instead, they were present to uncover a valuable lesson. I commend Olivia Rodrigo for her effort in the creation of her album and the Bold.org team for creating a space for students to share. I hope that we all embrace our true identities and live joyfully!

As human beings, we long to feel loved, embraced, acknowledged, and respected. When we are seen as one of one, we are often better able to reciprocate mutual respect for others. Among all the values of mankind, kindness has been woven into all aspects of society. It's out of the kindness of our hearts that we give to the poor and look after the elderly. It's virtually hard to imagine a world void of kindness and compassion toward fellow man. I've given and received many acts of kindness in my lifetime that resonate with me. Rather, it was the kind word of a friend during a difficult time or the inspiring message of an adult in my adolescence, kindness is no stranger to me. Of all the moments of kindness in my life, one woman's kind words remain a vibrant memory. A God-fearing woman who never took less than for an answer and always put her best foot forward. A woman that I love very dearly and regard as mom. The genuine kindness of my mother has impacted my life by highlighting the virtues of a kind person. You see, kindness is not a one-time thing that we act on when it's convenient for us, instead, kindness is a daily virtue that should be lived by. Through the words, actions, and examples of my mother's kindliness, I've been well-equipped with the outline of what makes one kind and the true meaning of its virtue. Hearing things such as "Greatness is in you" or "Be the best you can be" motivated me to continue in my life's journey. My mother's kind gestures spoke life into me and uplifted me when I felt low. She never allowed me to waddle in pity where I was at but, encouraged me to look forward to where I was headed. As her touching words continued to pour into my life, I realized that my thought process began to evolve. Suddenly, I understood why she continually encouraged me because she saw the greatness in me. They say a mother's love has no bounds and I believe this to be true of my mother. I felt a transformation occur in my life and I subsequently sought to encourage others. I learned that speaking to the greatness that lay ahead in others' lives helped them to press through detestable times. Additionally, I understood the power of kindness transcended any obstacle placed before it. It's from the heart that we formulate our thoughts and through the mouth from which we speak. Combined with a pure heart and genuine speech, I helped others realize their potential and discover the power of kindness. It still amazes me that the kind words of one person trickled down to affect countless lives. I believe our greatest superpower is kindness which stands firm against all opposition. If we commit ourselves to living life with the well-being of others in mind, we will truly understand our influence in life. God has given all of us a voice to spread the message of hope and potential into the darkest crevices of society. It should be our duty to extend kind words and acts to everyone we encounter for the benefit of society and the glory of God!

Growing up in a single-parent household comes with many of its problems. The everyday struggle of balancing minuscule budgets while still striving to keep a smile on your face is hard. Oftentimes, single parents do not receive proper recognition for stepping up to the plate and molding their children to the best of their ability. Despite all the added challenges of raising a child on your own, many mothers and fathers make it their mission to see their children grow up well amid their hardships. Living in a single-parent household was not the "it" factor in my youth. Most kids I knew growing up came from a two-parent house, so often, I felt like the odd one out. My mother worked diligently to ensure my needs were met, but it was no secret that this was done with sacrifice. Despite my growing awareness of the "real world", I understand the toll being a single parent had on my mother which made me appreciate her more. Tupac Shakur said very famously in his hit song "Dear Mama", "There's no way I can pay you back, But the plan is to show you that I understand, You are appreciated". His words, while written so long ago, resonate with my conscience as I reflect on the many sacrifices my mother made in my youth. Growing up in a single-parent household shaped my career goals by showing me that the sky is the limit and that education is my tool for a prosperous future. I always knew that I would pursue higher education but was unsure of what to study. As the years went on, I embraced architecture as my desired field of study and fully committed in the Fall of 2021 at the University of Texas at San Antonio. This was a big leap for me, yet I knew that it was necessary to reach my career goals. Watching my mother work hard day in and out, with the little she had, inspired me to give my all toward my studies. My career goals were not just for my gain but also that of my mother, who sowed diligently in my life to get me to this point. I realized hard work doesn't start in the workplace, rather, it starts each day as you strive for excellence. I plan to be persistent on achieving my goals during and after college by committing to life-long learning. I believe that learning never ends and soaking up knowledge at every turn makes one informed. Using my skills learned in college and lessons learned in my upbringing, I will embark on a life-long journey of pursuing goals no matter the obstacle. I'm assured with God on my side and a "can do" attitude, my dreams will become a reality. To all other students from single-parent households who may stumble across this essay: Defy the odds, wow the skeptics and statistics, we can do all that we put our minds to no matter what!

It's hard to imagine doing anything more relaxing than popping a movie into the DVD player and plopping your feet on your couch as you enjoy your favorite film. From the big screen to the flat screen, movies have played a significant role in our culture and continue to influence society. As we watch more films, we establish a sense of favoritism toward one over the other, leading to one being deemed a favorite movie. If I could watch only one movie for the rest of my life, I would watch "Top Gun: Maverick". The mixture of high-intensity training and aviation made for a great film. The movie rarely leaves the audience without suspense and wonder as the plot unfolds as you watch. With the introduction of key characters and their backstories, you begin to understand the ethos each fighter pilot lives by and the goals they've set out. The movie features wonderful story development that allows the viewer to understand the world of a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and the challenges they face. While we often glamorize the accolades and successes of many of our American aviation heroes, we often don't understand the work required to make them what we visualize them as today. The movie's writers worked to implement this into the film by giving various instances where aviators were tasked with tough decision-making. This, in turn, tied back to each pilot's ethos as they either worked for self-gain or team gain. A few of the operation training missions exposed this discrepancy between aviators as some sought to show out to improve Maverick (Tom Cruise), while others viewed their efforts toward the advancement of the flight team. While watching this movie, it remained quite difficult to stay seated as I was overcome with passion and emotion from the storyline. The idea that a group of actors, writers, producers, etc. could create such a masterpiece without ever having been an active fighter pilot is mesmerizing. In addition to superb acting, the moral lessons learned throughout the film add to its value. At every corner, you were hit with wise words or a new way of thinking or working through something. These takeaways were relatable in many ways and allowed me to connect with each key cast member more intensively. Even after the movie, I reflected on ways that I could implement these viewpoints into my life. This task wasn't easy as several great movies could be watched for eternity. However, 'Top Gun: Maverick' was my all-time pick for its elegance in conveying a compelling story. I appreciate the Top Watch Newsletter for its investment(s) into the future of college students and look forward to applying to many more of your scholarships!

As an early 2000s kid, playing video games was a part of the daily routine of many during this time—no matter the time of day, video games were at the top of our minds. Some kids would even bring their gaming devices to school to break their records, and others would sneak them into church to achieve the next in-game milestone. Simply put, you were not an early 2000s kid if you didn't enjoy playing video games. With the introduction of the Nintendo DS lineup of handheld gaming devices, many of us flocked to the stores to get our hands on one. I remember begging my mother to buy me one, which she obliged after countless days of pleading. A shiny dark blue Nintendo DS Lite was the one she picked and the device that I spent countless hours playing. The new gaming device was also a big hit as every kid in America seemed to own one as well. While we kids loved the idea of having these gaming devices, our parents and teachers protested them at times due to our negligence in determining the proper use of time with them. Nevertheless, the Nintendo DS was another staple to what made our childhoods great. My favorite co-op mode game to play was Mario Kart DS. The game featured all the classic characters from the Super Mario universe such as Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Toad, Bowser, etc. Each character came with a unique racing kart and special in-game ability. The game was truly ahead of its time with its user interface and player experience. Every summer, I would attend the National Baptist Youth Convention hosted in various cities across America with my church. We would practice for our competitions and fundraise all year to sponsor our trip in the summer. Being a youth convention, the trip consisted of a lot of youth who mainly were video game enthusiasts as well. We would travel to the year's hosting city by coach, which depending on the city, could take several days. To pass the time, we youth would plan to bring our Nintendo DS systems to play Mario Kart DS as we knew it was multiplayer friendly. I remember being lost in the game with my peers for hours as we traveled the long highways of America's Interstate system and seemed to never be bored all the way. Sometimes I would forget to bring the game token for my personal DS, but, the device had a special game share application that allowed me to join other games without having the token on hand. My favorite character to play was Yoshi as I enjoyed his special jumping ability that took out many opponents with ease. For others, Donkey Kong was their main selection due to his super strength ability in the game which made him hard to counter nearby. Aside from the joy felt playing video games with my fellow peers, getting to know more about one another was a bonus to the fun of playing the game. It was in these moments that I learned to value social time with others and seek it in more areas of my life. In my eyes, the Nintendo brand will go down in the history books as not just a phenomenal video game console developer, but also as a beacon of social revival. In a world that is more divided, we need beacons of unity to bring us back together in love and fellowship.

@cedricpitts1

In our youth, we learn to speak, read, write, and draw, but often we miss valuable lessons about money. Money is essential to our everyday lives and is the foundation of our emerging global interconnected world. With over $5.8 Trillion in circulation as of 2022, Americans are tasked with deciding how and what we spend our money on. In addition, financial literacy is the cornerstone of our financial decision-making and often determines the longevity of our financial futures. The best lesson about money that I received on my financial literacy journey is to save. Yes, that's right, "save as much money as you can" was the most prominent financial advice I've ever received. While the notion of saving money might appear cliche, it's the suremost way toward achieving our financial goals and ensuring our financial longevity. Anyone who offers you financial literacy advice without mentioning saving is not worthy of your time. Whether we like it or not, must save money for something. That could be for a new car, a new house, or a phone, the overall idea is that saving money is inevitable. Learning to embrace the idea of saving my money has helped me tremendously along my financial literacy journey. For starters, saving money has allowed me to create a greater sense of need and want. Essentially, I'm able to decide more efficiently between the things I desire and require based on my budget. Additionally, saving money has led me to view my work in a more considerate way. I no longer view my time spent earning money as daunting, but as another opportunity to build toward my goals. Lastly, learning to save money has made me consider further ways to invest my capital toward growth. Money does no good just stored away sitting idle, it needs to be moved and mixed up to bear a rewarding result. Sure, investing your money is a risk, but the dividends can return greatly in the end. In short, saving money helped me to better decipher my wants and needs, appreciate my work, and consider investing. I believe that with an ounce of knowledge, we all can change the world. We don't have to be geniuses or Billionaires to be financially literate, we can be just so right where we are. Let us continue to march toward greatness in all that we do and establish a relationship with money that best suits us!

Growing up watching Disney Channel as a kid was always fun. I remember sitting in front of the television all day, watching non-stop classic Disney shows and movies. Occasionally, the shows would feature crossover episodes where Phineas and Ferb would interact with characters in the Mickey Mouse Universe, or Handy Mandy would appear in one of Disney Jr's shows. These crossover episodes were highly anticipated and were the talk of the school the next day. Other television networks followed a similar format, but no one did it better than Disney. If I could pitch a crossover episode to the Disney Network, I would suggest blending 'Cory in the House' with 'Phineas and Ferb'. I believe the blend of animated and non-animated would make for a great storyline and draw the audience in. This process has been achieved by other Networks such as Warner Brothers and Nickelodeon, so, the idea is not impossible. 'Phineas and Ferb' would offer the animated chaos and freedom that an audience would expect from a traditional animated show. While 'Cory in the House' would draw upon the audience's real-world experiences allowing the audience to contemplate various solutions as they watch. It's a no-brainer that combining the limits of reality with the endless possibility of animation would make for a great television series. I would title the episode "Cory's World Meets Phineas and Ferb's Mayhem" and the plot would be centered around helping the President in Cory's universe using the technology of Phineas and Ferb's world. The initial portion of the storyline begins with Phineas and Ferb discovering a portal which they enter leading them into a new world. As they roam around this world, they discover that they're different from those around them leading them to solicit help from the locals. As they ask around, they discover a young man named Cory who happens to be connected to the Leader of the Free World, being the son of his chef. The three head back to the White House where Phineas and Ferb acquaint themselves with the other cast and start their line of questioning to uncover where they are. Eventually, President Martinez tells the boys all they desire to know and offers them a way home if they agree to help him. Phineas and Ferb agree to help the President and they're assigned various tasks to complete by the end of the day. While Phineas, Ferb, and President Martinez were speaking, the President informed the boys that he was having trouble with the air conditioning terminals and that the White House's mechanics couldn't find the solution. With temperatures reaching over 90 degrees, the President required a quick solution to continue his Presidential duties. The White House consists of 4 terminals that Phineas and Ferb must fix by the end of the day to restore the building's a/c. After examining each terminal, the boys discover that the terminals' crankshafts are broken beyond repair. In response, Ferb gets to work on drawing the plans for the new crankshaft and Phineas begins gathering the tools needed for the repair. Together they work on the new crankshaft and add a special adhesive from their world to hold it together longer than would be in the real world. With the a/c functioning and the installation complete, President Martinez honors his word and sends Phineas and Ferb back to their world using a special United Nations Interdimensional portal. Back home, Phineas and Ferb reflect on their visit to the real world and applaud one another for their efforts. They tell their sister Candice who proceeds to tell their mother, but...

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is devastating. It hurts more than the worst headache, and its pain is reminiscent of a mother giving birth to her child. While some find peace in loss, being their loved one is "free," I often have trouble finding that peace after their passing. I'm a lover, so naturally, I hold tightly and love diligently those I regard as family and friends. Yet, there is a beauty that loss brings in those of us who are left behind. Losing my great aunt recently has flooded my mind with emotions. As I think back to our greatest moments shared, I find it hard to accept that she is gone. The mere utterance of her name brings back the painful reminder that she is no longer here on earth. I thank God for the years that she was alive and all the moments we shared, but, I'm saddened at her passing. My aunt's personality flooded the room with great joy and her cheerful spirits encouraged hope in times of uncertainty. She was an amazing woman of God who strived to live a life pleasing in his sight. Love must have been her middle name because she loved everyone in our family dearly and supported us in our endeavors. The loss of my great aunt has caused me to re-focus on what matter most in my life, which is time. Time is something that is spent and elapses, but not something that we can ever get back. While I still struggle with the pain of losing my great-aunt, I'm reminded of the time I spent with her. I'm overjoyed that she received her flowers while she was living and knew she meant a lot in my life. I now have begun to consider the time I spend with my loved ones and cherish each moment more purposefully. Even in this moment of grief, I want to fight to achieve greatness as my great-aunt would encourage me to. She always stressed the importance of education and was an educated woman herself. Continuing my education while being an upstanding student would please her. In her honor, I will continue to fight toward achieving academic excellence both now and forever!

Going through life, we often confide in others to comfort us through difficult phases. Like a child who cries out for their mother, we cast our cares on trusted individuals for reassurance and security. Hardly anyone lives their life without the influence of another guiding them through both hardships and successes. We realize that life presents us with many options, and to compensate, we value influential people in our lives to make these decisions easier. The most influential person in my life is my mother. My mom is one of six siblings being the baby girl of the family. My grandmother raised my mother to be a courteous God-fearing woman who glorifies God in all she does. From a young age, she began public speaking in the church and competed at prestigious Baptist church conventions. An honor-roll student, she worked diligently to give her all toward achieving the maximum results in school. Having worked with children over the last 25 years as a preschool teacher, she continues to excel in the virtues instilled in her upbringing. Growing up in a single-parent household had many of its challenges. At times, our household finances would become worrisome, and making ends meet grew harder. Nevertheless, my mother held a conviction that God would see us through. This was my mother's typical response to our hardships and one that I often lacked faith in. At the time, I failed to understand how my low-income mother could remain faithful in the most detestable times. Yet, while I didn't understand her reasoning, her faith spoke volumes into my life. I soon realized that my mother believed with every fiber in her body that God is her ultimate source of help. I remember my mother praying and crying out to God at various hours of the day for a breakthrough. With every word she spoke and the tears she shed, it was evident she knew help was coming. These influential moments revealed to me the value of prayer and close communion with God. There were other times in my life were the road got bumpy, and all hope seemed to slip away. Yet again, my mother's godly wisdom encouraged me through these rough patches while influencing me to continue. It was like her words spoke life back into my decaying spirit as I was encapsulated with the tender love of God. As I grew spiritually, my relationship with God grew stronger as I now understood the sheer passion of which my mother cried out. I'd grown up in church all my life and had been baptized at a young age, but no other moment felt as personal with God as this one. And just as my faith grew, my mother continued to swoop in to uplift me along my journey. She spoke over my life, declaring the Lord would instill a spirit of prayer and determination. Eventually, I realized that work had begun on the inside as I transform into the man of God he's called me to be. I thank God a hundred times over for blessing me with a loving, caring, and devoted woman of God, whom I call mom. She has always been in my corner encouraging me when the world said otherwise. Yet, while my mother exhibits many great qualities and left an influential mark on my life, her effort was leading me closer to God. Her lively spirit spoke revival into my hungry soul that longs for optimal communion with the Father. I can proudly say that I am a better man today and thank God for my influential mother.

The "Ode To Millennials-Gen Z" offers many concerns that my generation faces. From government bankruptcy to predatory lending and all-out war, we're given a lot to consider. Our primary focus over the years has been to complete our education and get a "good job." Yet, in the grand scheme of things, our "good jobs" may not be enough to counter the weight of all that is at stake. Conversations surrounding generational issues have plagued societies from their conceptions and are inevitable. However, coming to the table to discuss these issues can be the start of evolutionary change. The prominent theme in this conversation revolves around money. It's no secret that our world heavily relies on money to function, and many attach their identity to how much of it they possess. People from my generation and generations past have always stressed the livelihood of the economy to preserve its longevity. In addition, governmental authorities have established several means to also support economic stability in their respective jurisdictions. Yet, despite our efforts, we seem to continue to fall short of the target when addressing the needs of economic longevity and instead further move the goalpost. With each passing day, our economy remains in disarray as we chunk on more debt. According to data from the United States Treasury Department, the national debt stands at around 32.66 Trillion USD and has demonstrated exponential growth within the last five years. Personal loan debt is on the rise and is estimated at roughly "$225 Billion in consumer debt in the first quarter of 2023, a $47 Billion increase from the same quarter in 2022" (Nerdwallet.com-TransUnion: Credit Bureau). Additionally, collective student debt staggers around $1.75 trillion with 92% attributed to the Federal government and the remaining 8% to private lenders according to the Chamber of Commerce. Lastly, medical debt has run rampant as more insurance companies and medical facilities increase their costs. "The latest data suggests that nearly 100 million adults in the U.S. are saddled with medical debt, ranging from under 1,000 U.S. dollars to over 20,000 U.S. dollars" (Statista.com). All these debts combined are inherently a part of the troubles of my generation and are battles that we are tasked with facing. Like the generation of the early 1900s, Millennials and Gen-Z will have to rise to the occasion to address the needs of our time. While debate remains about who is to blame for all of the chaos in our world, non of it will solve the issues we face. In addition to financial strains, we also face global warming, natural disaster, and humanitarian crises. Every generation can see before their eyes the world withering away as time elapses. Therefore, I propose we gather to contribute mutual solutions instead of aimless discourse that continues to exacerbate the core issue(s). God created and cultivated the earth for us to dwell in it. This beautiful place that we call home should be treated as such with the utmost respect. We all have a part to play in creating a suitable world where all can live joyfully. Moreover, instead of judging the actions of past generations, I encourage my generation to seek out the drive in our own. If we seek better financial, tax, environmental, and societal norms, we must make these things a reality. Simply sitting back while hoping for change will bear no reward. If we are serious about changing our world, we must embrace our call to destiny. Just as the Eastern pioneers roamed the Western world in search of gold in the name of Manifest Destiny, we too must break barriers in our lifetime for the sake of humanity. What makes a generation, a people, or a person great is not how much money they have or their talents, what makes them great is how hard they are willing to invoke change. To my fellow Millennial and Gen-Z generation, let's take heed to the message written in the "Ode To Millennials-Gen-Z" and be the destined generation of change!

Growing up in South Texas has taught me many things. For one, I've learned that Texas has a vibrant conservative culture full of endless splendor. Secondly, I've discovered that the Bluebonett State shares a rich history of bravery and limitless determination. Not to mention its enormous size, it takes practically several hours to leave the state in any direction from my hometown of San Antonio. Nevertheless, Texas' warm sense of community has always kept me in tune with the needs of others. Community service was not a daunting task for me growing up, instead, it was a way of life. I come from many community organizers and activists who gave their very last to ensure others were treated fairly. So naturally, this ideology was instilled in me at a young age and has emboldened me to give back. I plan to make a positive impact in my community by meeting the needs of others to address rampant socioeconomic adversity. While Texas is home to many of the nation's leading industries, we still have one of the highest poverty rates in America. Just a stroll down the sidewalks of downtown San Antonio and you'll discover countless numbers of homeless men and women and packed shelters. This is why volunteering has been the lifeline of my efforts to help people in my community. My plans include working with non-profits to ensure the most vulnerable in my community are fed and supplied with sufficient resources. In addition, I plan on increasing my contributions to my community by sponsoring giveaways of essential items such as blankets, canned foods, Bibles, and gift cards. I understand that relying on my past efforts to appease my inner self that I'm making a difference isn't enough, I must continually abide by the principles I was raised with every day. My community is depending on me and others to step up to the plate to make a difference and ignite a spark of change in our world. A wise man once said that a teacher understands their student as they were once a student themselves. Similarly, I understand and resonate with many of the needs in my community. Growing up in a low-income household bears many of the same challenges seen within the vulnerable depths of the community. At times, most necessities would be hard to come by as budgets were balanced to account for long-term stability. As you can imagine, a child being told the reality of their household finances can be heartbreaking. While I knew my household faced many forms of socioeconomic adversity, I refused to allow that to be my story. Instead, I used my struggles to help mold my beliefs, relationships, and plans. Those times were rough, but, my socioeconomic adversity strengthened my belief in God's word. I relied more on his promises of deliverance and breakthrough and less on my current situation. As a result, my relationships with others improved and my future plans were broadened as I looked toward where I was headed and not where I was. While socioeconomic adversity is no stranger to many of us, it doesn't have to be our story. If we wake up each day dedicated to seeing the promises of God and pouring into his people, we'll never be defeated!

Anxiety is defined as an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worry, and physical alterations according to the American Psychological Association (APA). The APA also estimates that 1 in 5 persons has or will experience a form of anxiety or panic disorder in their lifetime (APA). Statistics like this reveal that anxiety is all too common in our society even if we don't recognize it. I was one of those people who didn't recognize what Anxiety was. I had lived most of my childhood trouble-free with little worry. However, anxiety eventually made its way into my life and my life has never been the same. The internal battle between anxiousness and resolve has been an unending war of mine for years. Despite my efforts toward healing, nothing seemed to calm the beast that roamed in my head. As the years went on, this beast took up more room in my mind while simultaneously destroying everything in its path. My life transitioned from easygoing to constant dread. I would often hear people talk about light at the end of the tunnel, but my struggles never seemed to play out that way. I experienced many of the physical and mental phenomenons of anxiety that depleted my ability to function. As I was overcome with fear, my mind sought to shelter me by urging that I remove myself as far away from potential triggers. I figured my brain was right as it sought to do the best it could to prevent panic attacks. Yet, my brain failed to consider the long-term effects of this solution. As I began to isolate myself from friends and family, my anxiety diminished also taking with it my social skills. Talking to others was now challenging as social anxiety joined the beast in my mind. I avoided people as much as I could to prevent these beasts from causing more damage and assured myself this would work out in the end. Nonetheless, my anxiety only grew worse no matter my brain's efforts to appease it. Additionally, I learned that certain surroundings were also triggers. Loud noises, packed crowds, sketchy areas, and news were all culprits to my anxiety. As you can imagine, it's virtually impossible to escape these situations as noise, people, and shady individuals roam everywhere. In my younger years, the schoolhouse had always been a place of peace where I learned, hung out with buddies, and tested my luck with pretty girls. But things had changed because of new complexities surrounding my anxiety. Gone were the days of worry-free life and present were the days of constant trepidation. I felt like a homeowner that had just been robbed of all his or her valuables or like a child whose favorite toy was snatched by another classmate without cause. My joy of learning was gone and my hope of recovery went with it. Nevertheless, throughout my struggles, I remained steadfast that there was hope. I decided no matter how long it took, I would remain optimistic. Eventually, my time had come as I drew near the light at the end of the tunnel. I remain in its shadows but the light is brighter than ever before. While anxiety is still a part of my story, I refuse to allow it to write the next chapters. I am the author of my story and I will use my story to help others continue their own. Through higher education, I will continue to write the story of my life and inspire all to never give up. Lastly, I encourage all going through anxiety or depression, never give up!

Learning to recover from past failures can be difficult. Our minds are flooded with reasons for getting into our position and the possible solutions to get out. Nevertheless, despite our prominence in society, we are all destined to face obstacles in our life. My biggest setback in life was my second year (1st grade) of primary school. Throughout the year, I struggled with meeting reading intervals and my reading level was comparable to a kindergartener. Due to anger management issues, I lacked respect for my teachers which resulted in significant missed class instruction. The principal's office was my second home and I was its primary occupant. Eventually, the end of the school year arrived and the teachers began to schedule meetings with parents to discuss their child's performance. The time came for my meeting and what awaited me was the shock of my life. I remember my mother coming out of the meeting with the biggest expression of disbelief. The walk home was quiet that evening as my mother had not uttered a single word. When we got home, she sat me down at the kitchen table to inform me that I wasn't moving on to the second grade. She explained, with careful consideration, my teacher, her, and the school administration felt it was best to hold me back a year to develop my reading ability. As my mother continued to speak, I remember balling my eyes out as the thought of not advancing to the next grade was mind-boggling. My mother reassured me that everything would work out but I was steadfast that all hope was lost. That year, I spent my summer break in summer school along with reading assignments to prepare for the following school year. Despite my sad state, I worked hard that summer to improve my reading in preparation for the fall. The fall arrived and I worked my hardest while giving my all to ensure I passed at the end of the school year. Sure enough, my hard work paid off as I passed with flying colors and never repeated another grade level in both my primary/secondary education. Looking back at this moment in my life brings to mind lots of emotions, but, I knew that this experience helped to make me stronger. With time, my mindset changed as I strived to give my all in everything I did. Though this moment was hard, it instilled in me the spirit of hard-working persistence and taught me to never give up as light awaits at the end of the tunnel. For anyone who may have experienced a major setback or currently is, please know that there's always light at the end of the tunnel. While we may not possess all the answers we can rest assured in the one who knows all: God. The scripture teaches us to lean on his understanding and not our own, and by doing so, we can rest assured that all will work out in the end (Ref. Proverbs 3:5-6).

It seems no matter where we turn, we're always reminded of the latest fitness trends. With the click of a button, we instantly emerge into a world of high-intensity training and athletics via social media. After seeing all these trends, we begin to contemplate our fitness journeys and what steps we're taking to stay healthy. As I was scrolling through my feed on Tik Tok, I kept coming across fitness routines that promised to reduce weight in so many days. I usually ignore these posts but, I considered giving the workout routine a try. The workout consisted of 25 pushups, 10 minutes of planks, and 5 jumping jacks at the end. In all honesty, I barely made it through the first 5 push-ups and gave up on the rest of the exercises. This surprised me because I was assured I could complete the exercise with ease. Nevertheless, I continued day after day to complete the workout routine, and on the 10th day, I completed the workout. I remember being overjoyed as I had fulfilled a once-challenging fitness goal. As time went on, I returned to my old habits of exercising little and eating too much. I thought accomplishing that fitness feat was enough and that I would revisit fitness in the future. However, as I began to finish this thought, another idea popped up in my head. I thought to myself, could I seriously continue down this path of unhealthy eating and minimal exercise? Would these habits benefit me in the long run or would they detriment me? The weight of my conscience was resting on me as I knew a change was required to improve my lifestyle. That night, I wrote a list of daily exercise goals and posted the list on the foot of my bed. Morning came and I began to work steadily on the goals I set out: 10 minutes of light jogging, 10 pushups, 5 minutes of planks, and 10 jumping jacks. As time went on, I progressively improved my effort and time spent on each workout. In addition, I started going to bed earlier to be well-rested for my workout routine in the morning. Eventually, I increased the duration of my workout routine by adding more minutes to each exercise as my tolerance had doubled. This trend continued as I felt confident with the results of my workout routine. One day as I was sitting with my buddy Samuel, I started telling him about my workout routine and how he should consider starting one. He jokingly insisted that he had one, and at that moment, his older brother Ernesto walked into the house. Ernesto overheard my conversation with Samuel and instructed me to consider altering my diet to reap the full harvest of my workouts. He explained that working out is best suited to a well-balanced diet. I took his advice and began to eat more fruits and vegetables instead of sugary sweets. Additionally, I cut out soda from my diet replacing it with fruit smoothies. I rewarded myself here and there with a sweet snack but, I remained committed to my fitness goals. Essentially, working out and eating better helped me to reach my fitness goals. While this journey was not easy, I realized the importance of sustaining a healthy lifestyle and implementing ways to stay committed to healthy living.

Starting college was a big step in my life filled with a roller coaster of emotions. At times I felt joyful as I was starting a new journey, while other times I felt lethargic because I wasn't aware of the courseload. Nonetheless, starting college was the next step into adulthood which I was determined to begin. The thing that excites me the most about college is learning new things. For starters, college campuses are enormous compared to high school campuses which wowed me in the beginning. Secondly, the freedom within the college structure was mindblowing with the ability to set your schedules, determine what you'll eat for the day, and how often you'll study was a lot to take in. In addition to the freedom and scale of the college, the amount of dedicated staff was remarkable. The idea of a college being divided into various departments which are then filled with staff was mesmerizing. But of all these things, the ability to learn new things on the post-secondary level was the cherry on top. Having access to a library full of resources and amiable staff readily available made my first two years in a college a breeze. Additionally, being emerged in a vibrant student culture added to my desire to learn new things. Within my major (Architecture), I've been able to meet new people and understand new concepts that add value to me in the marketplace. I mean, at a glance, college is everything that a young education-seeking individual could ask for. However, what's rarely mentioned is the toll college can bring in our lives. From fast-approaching due dates to lengthy textbook material, the life of a student can quickly turn overwhelming. As one begins to contemplate improvement, balancing suddenly comes to mind to counteract the effects of higher education. Creating a sustainable balance was my primary challenge when I started college. My attitude was to get the work done fast leaving little for later on. And just as I was completing assignments swiftly, I was also quickly approaching a tipping point. At the time I didn't realize that college requires a new level of thinking and creating a college/life balance was essential in this new form of thinking. With a new understanding, I began to structure my school/life balance by creating study breaks, getting full sleep, and taking adequate notes in lectures. These changes allowed me to better maintain a healthy mind, body, and soul amidst the challenges I faced in school. In addition, my mindset changed as I grew more aware of due dates and applied an improved work ethic to my tasks. No longer did I view my body as a machine that never stops, instead, I embraced the humanity of my body by creating a sustainable school/life balance. No matter if you are in an Ivy League school, private school, public school, or community college, establishing a sustainable school/life balance will benefit you in the long run. We can not expect optimal performance while neglecting the fundamental aspects of our bodies. Like a race, if we desire improved results, we must commit to maintaining healthy minds, bodies, and souls despite what's thrown our way!

From the mighty Moses who led the Israelite's exodus from Egypt, to the steadfast George Washington who forged the American cause, and the late Dr. King who led the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, the world has had its fair share of leaders. Each leader leads their nation/group with a specific viewpoint that guides their decisions. It's these decisions that mark the course of history impacting all who inhabit it. Leadership is the set of qualities that one takes on for the betterment of others. Notice how I said qualities instead of rank or positioning. I believe being a leader starts on the inside and not when we are in positions of authority. I also believe anyone can be a leader if they choose to be grounded on ethical principles and draw others to these principles. Dr. King not only argued for the black cause in Jim Crow America, but he also lived and believed with every fiber of his body that colored folk were just as equal as non-colored folk. It can be seen in the way Dr. King spoke in front of crowds and the way he lived in private. His leadership qualities elevated him to a prominent position in the Civil Rights Movement where he was able to enthrall the conscious minds of those who spared an ear. However, his leadership didn't start when he became the face of the movement, rather, his leadership started when he stepped out on faith for the sake of his comrade. Another instance of proactive leadership could be viewed in the life of Jesus. The scripture teaches while Jesus is the Son of God, he lived a life among others. He was not appointed to a high-ranking position within the Roman power structure or to be served, rather, he gave his life in service of others. Jesus demonstrated in his roughly 33 years of living true leadership qualities through the way he lived and the people he helped. Not only did Jesus perform miracles, he also led people to the Father(God), for he know the treasures of the earth couldn't satisfy the hunger of the righteous soul. Many people were blessed by Jesus's leadership and many others were spiritually transformed having had an encounter with Christ. Out of the leadership of Jesus, Dr. King, and others, we can lucidly comprehend the importance of leadership. Leadership is important because it helps to nurture character while enriching the lives of others. Whenever we walk in a mindset of leadership, we equip ourselves with the necessary tools to accomplish our mission of impacting the world. The world can never have too many leaders as there will always be a need for enlightened individuals to lead those astray. Rather we are sitting on the throne in a royal palace, working behind a desk in a corporate office, or cleaning public spaces, we can all embrace the leadership qualities within us. Once we begin to reimagine authentic leadership, we too will become leaders shaping the world one step at a time. So for all my fellow leaders out there, I encourage you to keep going on your journey, the world needs you!

What we put into our bodies plays a significant role in how it performs. Just like in a vehicle, if we desire better performance, we must consider what's being consumed. It's no secret humans require food to survive like a computer requires power to function. The food we eat is scientifically categorized into several food groups known as the "Food Pyramid". It's this pyramid that provides the essential quantities of each food item to determine healthy eating standards (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles). I believe it's important to sustain healthy eating habits to ensure long-term longevity. As I've said previously, our body acts as an engine that performs based on what it's fed. If we are committed to long-term health and sustainability, we must equally be committed to long-term healthy consumption. In the traditional North American household, individuals consume meals at 3 intervals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Between these feasting intervals, the average person consumes upwards of 2,960 calories, up 9% from last year's margins (2022) according to data from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The organization also predicts this number to grow by upwards of 15% in the next two years alone (FAO). However, what's not often discussed is the type of nutrients that each of these calories worth of food provide us. It's not commonplace for everyday people to decipher the specific nutritional data of the hamburger they're about to order at Burger King or the amount of sugar in the ice cream sundae they ate at Dairy Queen. We live in an irrational culture that pushes over-consumption as opposed to critical consumption. This strategy of over-consuming things may work in video games but the contrary is certain in the food we eat. As the old wise man once said, having too much of a good thing is a bad thing. Therefore, we must transition to being critical consumers who take an interest in dietary facts to benefit our decision-making. I'm not suggesting that we suppress ourselves from the sweetest colas or the yummiest of candies, instead, I'm suggesting that we create a balanced diet that preserves the longevity of our mortal bodies. I like many others, have struggled with maintaining healthy eating habits. While I'm aware of the benefits of "healthy foods", at times I slip into an unhealthy eating routine. However, once I'm able to shake off the rubble of bad eating habits, a noticeable difference sprouts on the inside of my mind. Suddenly I feel much lighter having dropped a few pounds, and my body functions more optimally. For instance, climbing a flight of stairs no longer feels like a dreading task, and running a mile doesn't bear the same physical exhaustion it once did. Overall, my body transforms into a new healthy version of itself due to improved eating habits. In addition to my physical body, my mental health improves as well as I receive greater clarity. It's as if my mind opens up allowing me to interpret more and withstand greater. No matter our journey toward better dieting, we can rest assured that we're not on the journey alone. There are millions of people globally who share analogous wellness ambitions as we do while striving each day to fulfill these goals. Ultimately, we know as were assigned a time to live, we're also assigned a time to perish. So let's do our best to live sustainably with the time we have while encouraging others to do the same!

Giving is taking one's resource and sharing it with another. Giving is also expressed through an emotion such as kindness, or virtues such as attentiveness. We've all experienced moments where we gave something to someone else and moments where we received it. Therefore, it's fair to say that we're no strangers to giving or receiving. Giving back to others has always been a way of life for me. I often saw my parents take the little they had and share it with others joyfully. As I got older, I began to understand the value of their efforts and joined my parents in helping others in need. I found joy in my work and knew that step by step I could make a difference. I'll never forget the smiles on people's faces when my parents and I would hand out blankets, or the admiration of the elderly when talking with them at the senior centers. Giving back warmed my heart and molded me into the man I am today. Another reason for my giving spirit is my faith. As a Christian, I believe we're called to assist the needs of our fellow peers joyfully. Additionally, Jesus teaches us that when we've done to the least of our brothers and sisters in Christ, we've also done unto him, which pleases God (See. Matthew 25:40). So in acting upon my faith, my goal is to help someone in need at every opportunity that presents itself. Simply quoting the scripture won't do, Instead, I must live by the scripture applying it in my life daily. Therefore, whenever I see someone who is hungry, thirsty, lonely, and melancholy, I make my best effort to meet their need. I plan to positively impact the world in the future by walking in the light God has given me. The Bible says in Ephesians 5: 8-9, "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth)". This means that whenever I'm living by example of the virtues God has given me by sharing them with others, I'm simultaneously impacting the future world. While I may not see it, there is work happening on the inside of everyone I encounter transforming lives. You see, the "fruitage of the light" is not exclusive to me, rather, it's for all who embrace who God has called them to be. This is where my superior impact resides which I merrily embrace. Giving back and impacting the world is no small feat. It requires the continual effort of the mind and heart to succeed. When we feel minuscule in our journeys, let us remember that we do not tread our paths alone. We have a Holy and righteous God who's at our side eager to highlight our path helping us along the way. I pray that God continues to give me the strength to positively impact the future world by giving back and that he instills in us all the "...fruitage of the light that consists of every sort of goodness and righteousness and truth" (See. Ephesians 5:9)!

Taylor Swift, a musical icon who's rocked the world since her debut album entitled 'Taylor Swift' released on October 24, 2006, while garnering the love of millions and admiration of her peers. She is undoubtedly the queen of pop/country having amassed 11 Grammys', 21 platinum singles, and 3 people's choice awards. She is no stranger to the BillBoards Hot 100 list in addition to Forbes's top 10 list of singer-songwriters in her respective genre. Her estimated net worth is over 740 million USD and she continues to sell among the elite in the industry while topping the charts (Forbes.com, Genius.com, Google.com). With the addition of the studio album '1989' to Taylor Swift's discography, we fans have been gifted another set of songs to enjoy. The album's standard edition features 13 songs while the deluxe edition features 16 songs including 3 new songs and 3 voice memos (Genius.com). Having reviewed all 13 songs, my favorite song on the album is 'Wildest Dreams'. After listening to the song over and over, I can never quite get past the effort spent to convey her raw emotions. The single appears to have a reminiscent tone almost emerging the listener into a space created by Taylor. She sets up the mood of the song in her first lyrics "Let's get out of this town. Drive out of the city, away from the crowds". I thought Heaven can't help me now. Nothing lasts forever. But this is gonna take me down" It's here in the first stanzas of the song that the scene is set and the stage is prepared for the rest of it. She continues to develop the song by describing the boy's physical attributes and her emotions toward him, making it clear that it's a love song Taylor uses to appeal to the emotions of her fans. As most of us have experienced love and heartbreak, we can relate to the central message of this song. The main chorus "Say you'll remember me. Standing in a nice dress. Staring at the sunset, babe. Red lips and rosy cheeks. Say you'll see me again. Even if it's just in your wildest dreams, ah-ah, ha. Wildest dreams, ah-ah, ha". ties in the core emotion that Taylor wonderfully portrays. She wants this boy to remember her by using unique characteristics such as her "red lips and rosy cheeks". Similarly, we all want someone to remember us rather romantically or non-romantically. As humans, we pride ourselves in the work we do for others and are internally rewarded by their recognition of our work. Love works in similar ways, as we hope that who we seek will in turn seek us as well forming a perfect union. There aren't enough books or pages in the world for me to write about the musical genius of Taylor Swift or her impact on fans. Nonetheless, she continues to speak to us through her musical creations through every lyric, sound, beat, and musical tone. When it's all said and done, Taylor Alison Swift will go done in the history books as a legend who topped the charts and established a name for herself. It will be hard to mention pop/country without the sheer utterance of her likeness. I aspire to inspire others as Taylor Swift inspired me through her music. Lastly, Taylor, if you're reading this please know the love outweighs the hate and you have a devoted fanbase who cherishes your craft! #GoSwifties! (P.S.: Thank you to the scholarship donor (Bold.org) for this opportunity to share and potentially earn a financial contribution!)

From a young age, I was taught two things: respect your elders and lend a helping hand. Both my mother and father were persistent givers who shared their little with others. I remember my father saying, "Son, you take the little you have and pour it out. Soon, it'll spread further than you would have imagined". To this day, my father's words have stuck with me like glue serving as a reminder to give no matter what. In public school, we frequented food banks and homeless shelters as a part of my district's 'Give Back Initiative.' The idea behind the initiative came from our former superintended, a strong advocate of human rights. So every school year we volunteered at homeless shelters and food banks across San Antonio to bolster this initiative. I enjoyed visiting the food bank and homeless shelters as I got an opportunity to meet new people while helping those in need. We would spend hours at shelters and food banks ensuring that everyone had a chance to help out. I've had cherishable moments volunteering but, out of all these moments, nothing came close to directly serving the people. It was in those moments that I felt joy like never before which allowed me to see the difference I was making. I grew fascinated with helping others and sought independent volunteering opportunities as a result. This led to me becoming a regular volunteer at my grandmother's church as well as a top-rank volunteer with the Salvation Army in my hometown. One day, as I was volunteering with the local homeless shelter, I remember having this unique revelation. I realized that volunteering had changed my mindset toward others and given me a sense of pride. I also realized that a transition occurred in my life where I went from being selfish to selfless. The words my father spoke long ago came to mind as I reflected on these revelations. It was like the world wasn't the same to me anymore and everyone in it felt closer to me like a brother. Volunteering itself became more passionate as I worked with a greater sense of diligence when serving my community. I thank God for my work volunteering through the years because it humbly showed me the way to live righteously and gave me a heart for others. In conclusion, I would like to say that Nick and the Czebatul family have my deepest condolences for the loss of a precious educated soul. This scholarship would help me financially on my educational road to success by providing the resources to pay for my schooling. I pride myself on being an outstanding student who welcomes any form of help. A financial contribution from the donor would propel me forward in pursuing my undergraduate degree and prove to the world education is possible no matter the circumstance. Nevertheless, I thank the donor Mr. Scheller for providing a financial opportunity for students and honoring the late Lauren Czebatul in this way.

As human beings, we live based on a set of values. For some, these values are derived from their religion or culture, while for others, these values are derived from their studies or friend groups. Nevertheless, we all rely on some form of value system to guide our decision-making. As I was reading about this scholarship, I was drawn by the acronym for 'DRIVEN.' This idea of living by six principles intrigued me and inspired me to identify areas in my life where these principles were demonstrated. The first two principles: Determination and Respect, have been long-standing viewpoints in my life. I remember when I was 11 years old wanting to learn how to play the drums. Subsequently, my mother enrolled me in drumming lessons as she overheard me talking about the subject with a friend. The first couple of lessons were fun, but as the difficulty increased, so did my irritation. I was frustrated with my performance and became discouraged in the process. I recall going home one day balling my eyes out because I was struggling. Yet, at that moment, something came over me and reminded me to be determined while also respecting the learning process. From that moment forward, I relied on these principles to achieve my goal of becoming a drummer. The second two principles: Innovation and Versatility, were values I embraced starting college. As architecture majors, we are assigned various projects throughout the semester that require a high level of dedicated craftsmanship. Turn in a sloppy project and you'll be met with upset professors and disappointed classmates. In full transparency, my first semester in architecture school was rough. The passion for the practice was there but, my drive was absent. I quickly learned that cutting corners by not doing my best wouldn't result in good grades. The following year was a big awakening for me, as I'd set out to work harder that year striving for all A's. Now whenever I would work on my projects, innovation, and versatility rang in my mind. Very often, the professors would encourage us to think outside the box when creating our projects. With this in mind, I sought ways to innovate my projects to higher standards and add more versatile elements throughout their designs. Simply by changing my perspective, I received more positive feedback resulting in higher grades. The last two principles: Equality and Nurture, are everyday values that define who I am. I consider myself to be an equitable person who looks out for others. Similarly, being a nurturing person has allowed me to connect with others more easily. One instance I remember was when my friend was being treated poorly by our math teacher. I made it my mission that year to stand up for my friend's equal treatment in the classroom and I nurtured him with affirmative thoughts to ease his mind in the process. With the help of other students, the teacher was released from his duties and my friend received a formal apology from both the teacher and superintendent. Living a 'DRIVEN' life has blessed my life and allowed me to bless others. I plan to make an impact by showing others what it means to live 'DRIVEN' while encouraging them on their journeys. In a world full of darkness, there is still hope. That hope is the light inside all of us who embrace who we are and where we're going!

Math is one of those subjects in school that some loved and others hated. Yet, math is among the primary subjects required for students to learn, and for good reason. Mathematics teaches students to think critically through complex equations to uncover their solutions. Math enables mankind to engage the world with a new perspective that's based on applied reasoning and logic. I love math because it presents a challenge that other areas of study don't. Whenever I was presented with a set of math problems in primary/secondary school, I always viewed them as a new challenge to conquer. I remember paying close attention to the instructor trying to uncover hints at how to effectively solve the equations and would pass on the information to others. It was in these moments that I felt superhuman and enjoyed the thrill that math brought. This trend continued in my college math courses. College algebra was indeed a challenge but, I enjoyed every minute of it. I was pleased that I'd retained my love for math through the years. As I reflected on my early years of school, I remember my struggles with math. Early on, math was my toughest subject because I did not have a passion for it and lacked understanding. My teacher would constantly try to inspire me to view math positively but, I wouldn't budge. As the years went on, my math skills grew as I finally understood what my former teacher was persisting all along. He wasn't suggesting math was easy, rather, math was a skill worth investing in. This created a new understanding for me which led to math becoming one of my passions. I'm unsure if math is everyone's love, but I am sure that we'll need to know it. We can't function as a society without math or its principles. Despite how we feel, math is our biggest asset worth investing in. Math taught me more than how to solve problems, it taught me the value of learning to embrace challenges. Now instead of running from challenges, I welcome them with open arms and pure joy.

Ahh, math, the subject some love and others despise. Yet, students of all ages learn mathematical principles and apply them in real-world scenarios. With its conception in the 6th century BC as a demonstrative discipline by the Pythagoreans, mathematics continues to be at the forefront of modern education (Wikipedia). In fact, most school districts and universities require students to demonstrate a fundamental understanding of math through the use of standardized testing. Therefore, it's safe to say math will be around for a long time. I believe math is important to educate students on the basic principles of the world. For instance, adding teaches us that when we combine two or more numbers, we are left with a larger one. On the other hand, subtracting teaches when we uncombine two or more numbers, we are left with a smaller one. This in turn teaches students that adding and subtracting things is equally discoverable in the real-world, such as when we add or subtract money, resources, or time. This idea develops our understanding of the world and makes us for instance, knowledgeable of how to balance budgets, set an appropriate time for activities, and efficiently allocate resources to a task. Additionally, math teaches us how to think critically and create avenues of problem-solving. Eventually, as students proceed higher into their secondary and/or post-secondary education, the mathematical problems become more elaborate resulting in an increased demand for critical thinking. The old way of doing things has departed and students must now rely on new methods of solving equations. Nonetheless, the foundation set in their early years will aid them in their new quest of problem-solving. In addition to critical thinking, math teaches students the value of teamwork. Very often, teachers and professors ask students to work together before asking them for assistance. This reinforces the construct of teamwork which enables students to work in unison to solve a common problem. In the professional world, the essence of teamwork is essential to the longevity of any successful company. Additionally, a lot of these companies are willing to pay top dollar to employees that embody these characteristics. So you see, not only does math teach us how to solve equations, it adds real-world value to our lives that will assist us in the job market. My love for learning math has been like a roller-coaster. There have been times when math was my favorite subject and other times when math was the dread of my day. Nevertheless, I've always maintained a steady love for learning math. As I mentioned earlier, math improves our ability to think critically, embrace teamwork, and understand the world's basic principles. It's through math that I'm able to understand how to withdraw and deposit money into my bank account or balance my budget. Simply put, my life would be a challenge if I never learned math. All in all, as time has progressed, I have come to appreciate the beautiful gift we humans possess of understanding math. I'm certain society would be less efficient and function vastly differently in the absence of math. Therefore, I challenge everyone to embrace the gift of math and always remain committed to learning it. Just as math enabled mankind to fly to the moon and back, math can open doors in our lives and garner greater opportunities that create endless possibilities!

The dream version of my future self is devotion to God, family, friends, and making a difference in my community.

The act of helping someone else has been common virtue since the beginning of time. In the initial passages of scripture, we read of an almighty God who cultivates the land in which mankind dwells. God first made man, then in response to his loneliness, God creatively presented to man a helper. Even on television and social media, we often read about good samaritans in action. Simply put, it would be hard to locate a time in history when people didn't help others. It may come as no surprise that we live in a generation that is built on self-worth. The very foundation of who we are is often predicated based on what we own. Additionally, we are frequently told to be selfish and rid ourselves of others' concerns to "get ahead". Or when we help our fellow brothers and sisters, we are met with ridicule and deceit. As time progresses, we soon realize that this world isn't as innocent as it appears and its blossoms are telling of its true character. Nonetheless, I stand firm in my belief that it's important to help others to please God. The Bible teaches that from one man (Adam), all the nations of the world were populated with human splendor. Men and women alike, dwelling in God's creation and cultivating its soil. Yet, as cultivation proliferated, the needs and desires of many were superseded by those of the few. Creation transitioned from a unilateral society to one made up of the Haves and Have-Nots, resulting in a downward effect that exacerbated disparity globally. As the population grew, the needs of many grew as well. Simply one click on the television or one swipe on Instagram will enable us to discover human needs far beyond our imagination. Yet, we still carry on pretending that all is well and it's beyond our control. How foolishly do we ignore the human need in place of self-gain and recognition? Helping others is a virtue that must never be lost. When we lose our sense of empathy, we entangle ourselves in a mindset absent of love. This mindset keeps up hostage from connecting and further perpetuates selfishness. Shame to the man who only looks out for himself and never others. His days are filled with misery and his nights are full of lost splendor, for he's abandoned his connection with the common man. Instead, let's embrace lending help to others genuinely. Let's not do so in ways that are contrary to the heart, but instead in ways that are pleasing to God. A part of who we are is ingrained in the virtues that we possess. Additionally, let's not be silent about the world's needs but instead shout to the mountaintops that help is arriving. While change starts with individuals and then evolves into communities, no change can be effective without the might of God. Just like in every other facet of our lives, changing the hearts of many requires the move of God. Moreover, while we patiently wait for others' hearts to be transformed, let's ensure our hearts remain transformed and devoted to the betterment of all. And in times that we fall short, let's pick our heads' from the dust; "Walk in the way of love" (Ephesians 5:2) which bears goodness, joy, and pleases God. It's at this moment we'll know why helping others is important and what it truly means!

With so many things to do and endless possibilities in life, we are often tasked with summing up things among many. This challenge intensifies when considering our college majors. On top of this, we must decide which university best suits our educational needs and provides the best opportunity. Like many students, my story is the same, from selecting the right university for me and what I wanted to pursue. Early in my journey toward discovering my passion and which university to attend, I struggled to decide what to do. I talked with my parents, pastor, and friends about where to discover what I was passionate about and how to select the right school. Their answers were universally the same: they told me to "follow my heart and move how the Lord directs me." This revelation opened a new lens of sight and enabled me to identify Architecture as my major. I discovered in my youth that I always had a passion for construction and design and would often create miniature models to express this passion. I remember staying up late at night to complete these models before school in the morning and begging my mother to spend countless amounts of money to buy me supplies. I quickly learned this passion wasn't cheap, but I also uncovered why I wanted to pursue architecture. I'm pursuing architecture to primarily indulge in a space that allows me to create and implement new ideas in the built environment. My view of the built environment or infrastructure is that of a canvas that's been shared among many artists from the begging of time. Each "artist" acquires their credentials and begins to paint on this canvas how they see fit under the direction of a client. I aspire to join the likes of many great architects of our time and "paint" new wonders in the world. As I referenced earlier, I discovered that I wanted to pursue architecture came later on in life. Contrary to my early life of model making, I was indecisive in the direction that I wanted to take post-graduation. Eventually, in my junior of high school, I knew that architecture was the fit for me. From that moment forward I began to research various schools that offered architecture education and the cost of attendance. Additionally, I inquired about the student workflow and what these institutions had to offer in the new age of design. Lastly, I continued to stay informed on what I was pursuing and listened to architecture students from around the world to understand what would be expected. In conclusion, my journey in pursuing architecture was a long, yet, joyful experience that allowed me to embrace my passion. Through every step forward and every page turned, I get closer to achieving my goal of becoming an architect and shaping the new world. I encourage all who may read this essay to forge new possibilities and follow God's plans for your life to embrace your passions. We're all in this together and can achieve anything we set our minds to!

Society has always been divided among the haves and the have-nots. In fact, most governments around the world classify people based on their socioeconomic status. From these classifications, society has praised some and disregarded others which created disadvantaged people. These are the people that society has deemed unworthy of attention and too minuscule for praise. Yet, those who exist higher on the economic spectrum are regarded as worthy of attention and praise. This ideology may appear innocent, but its implications are far from it. I believe society must change its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged because our future depends on it. Take, for instance, a leaking pipe that has leaked for roughly a month. The tenant calls their landlord and makes him or her aware of the leak but in return, the landlord fails to act. Eventually, the pipe's leak becomes bigger as minerals build up and the pipe is no longer operational. It wouldn't be hard to imagine the implications this would have on the tenant and their neighbors. Not only would the tenant's water supply be terminated, the leak would cause a flood above ground disturbing the neighbor's property as well. And come to think this entire scenario could have been prevented if the landlord didn't fail to act. The same logic applies to the disadvantaged in our society. If we continue to disregard their grievances, eventually we will encounter an even greater crisis than the one before. I would argue that society should move toward being selfless as opposed to selfish. More often than not, we are continually consumed with media that tells us to only think of ourselves and never of others. This same media also portray selfish living as something of honor and boast those who do so. However, they do not often portray the human suffering and damage that this ideology causes and the emerging disconnect that it produces. Moreover, transitioning into a space where we address the needs of the disadvantaged will rid of selfish seeds and replace them with selfless seeds. It is these seeds of selflessness that will enable us to change our way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged and creating a better future. Our greatest example is Jesus who came not to be served but to serve (Matthew 20:28). He showed us during his earthly living the true principle of looking out for the common man and showing them the love of God through his service. I affirm that if we follow the blueprint Jesus laid out we too can make the disadvantaged the advantage through the love and power of God. Whether you may concur with my argument or not, I hope that we can agree that selfishness is a dangerous principle. Additionally, I hope that we can create the path forward into a society that embraces everyone and seeks to destroy the roots of human despair among us. Simply taking and drafting ideas about change is not enough, we must take action to invoke change immediately. I'm aware that the change begins with me, but I'm comforted knowing others desire to do the same. May our most gracious God give us strength to accomplish these things and keep us encouraged in our journeys!

From its conception in 1962 by the American toy manufacturer Mattel, Barbie Dream House has been a staple for many children. Its neverending possibilities and methods to develop the Dream House garners children from all walks of life and allow them to explore how they see fit. Additionally, with loads of interchangeable parts and new character additions, the Barbie franchise has continued to successfully market the Dream House to children well after its initial launch. If I were given the resources to build my own Barbie Dream House, I would construct it in the hills of Hollywood. I believe Hollywood Hills would be the ideal location due to its high elevation and extravagant surroundings. Being high up in the hills would allow me to see the beautiful city of Los Angeles and all its splendor. During the day and night, the city lights would illuminate my Dream Home and reduce my reliance on artificial lighting. In addition, being surrounded by other high-end estates would enhance the experience of my dream home and bolster its beauty. For the built form of my Dream Home, I would stick with the traditional extravagant look of the original Barbie world by utilizing various shades of pink for both the exterior and interior. My goal would be to maintain the childlike nature of the original Dream Home, therefore, I would place slides and artful staircases which allow access to the home's various floors. The hallways would be decorated with all types of artwork and the floors would flow with the softest carpet. The home would feature 3 floors, 5 master-size bedrooms with connecting bathrooms, a large modern kitchen, comfortable high-end living and dining rooms, and all the amenities one could dream of. Large glass pane windows would be placed in specific sections of the home to attract natural daylight and create a scenic view within the interior. To accompany these glass panes, skylights would be placed above to invite the moon's light. I would use solid steel framing and a mixture of several stones and brick to coat the house's exterior. A grand infinity pool would overlook the scenic downtown LA and be the city's hotspot for summer fun. Lastly, I would install a 10-car garage to store my supercars. The interior of my Barbie Dream Home would be a process to ensure the very best quality. Working with the world's most renowned interior designers, all of the home's furniture pieces would be hand-crafted and overlaid with fine materials such as gold or diamond. Each room would feature state-of-the-art king-size beds equipped with smart AI that could adjust the bed's temperature, height, or cushiness. The televisions would feature an endless amount of entertainment and the computers would be fitted with the best CPUs on the market. The living room and dining room furniture would all be handcrafted with artisan diamond and gold finishings. The kitchen appliances would be futuristically durable and the bathroom appliances would be unique. All in all, if I had to list all of the things I could envision in my own Barbie Dream Home it would take me centuries to do so. This highlights Mattels continued investment in Barbie's longevity and its commitment to preserving its legacy. Let us all continue to dream big as the Barbie Dream House enabled us to in our youth!

To serve or volunteer to help others is at the core of a virtuous person. More often than not, the world teaches us to indulge in selfish ways and ignore the common man. Yet, the Word of God teaches us to serve others as Christ served others and to walk in the ways of love as Christ loves us. This ideology has always been at the core of my understanding of why I volunteer and seek to serve others. These were the principles that I was raised on and grew to cherish as I aged. My volunteer experience influenced my core values by revealing what it means to serve. Rather it was the Food Bank, Salvation Army, or local community outreach event, these experiences exposed me to a world far beyond my prior understanding. They had introduced me to a world where I was not the center of it, rather, everyone dwelled in the center, and all were satisfied by the continuous essence of cheerful giving and righteousness. In addition, I was made aware of the blessings that service brings and the many ways it pleases God. Immediately in these moments my compassion for the common man grew and my devotion to volunteering to serve others became immense. My mind was made up and I committed myself to a life service. I also realized that core values were to not only be held in the heart but to evident in the way that I live. Every time volunteer opportunities present themselves is another way for my core values to be influenced and put to work. As my volunteer experience has influenced my core values, it has also influenced what I'm working towards in my career and life goals. As my bio states, I desire to be an architect. My career goal is to help design the next generation of futuristic sustainable buildings that will embark on the new look of the built environment. Similarly, my ultimate life goal is to be the best version of myself and a devout servant of the Most High God. My volunteer experience as mentioned earlier has shown me the value of service and commitment to the betterment of fellow man. I aspire to apply these same principles in my future workplace and life by working hard and diligently for the people that I will serve and for myself as an individual. As compassion has reigned supreme in my volunteer work, so will it reign supreme in my career and life goals. I believe that service to others humbles the soul and diminishes arrogance. As we dwell in a renewed mind of humility and compassion for others we excel in all areas of our lives. To serve is to harbor the love of our Father God in us and we do this through our daily acts of volunteering or service to others. When the world suggests we look the other way, we instead face the need of the vulnerable. When society says to look after merely ourselves and never others, we reject this notion and stand firm on our core values. No matter what bend our obstacle may come our way if we remain steadfast in working diligently to accomplish our goals and serve others, we will be victorious. To my fellow man and woman, hang in there and continue to fight the good fight. The Lord promises to uphold us in times of dismay and to be for us when the world stands against us, to which the world doesn't stand a chance!

As we get older, we often think of what we want to do with our lives. We're encouraged by our parents and teachers to research our potential interests and visit various work sites to understand if they suit our interests. This can be a daunting task that requires lots of patience and research but is essential as we seek to earn money. Earning money enables us to purchase things and experience life in ways that would otherwise be difficult. Therefore, we must all consider our future career aspirations and work toward fulfilling them. My future career aspiration is to become a licensed architect. Architecture is the art or practice of designing and constructing buildings. Through the direction of a client and the fulfillment of that vision by the architect, the built environment can flourish. In addition, many Federal and State laws require an architect to be involved in the design process depending on the type of construction. This aids in the overall design development of the project and ensures that all safety and building codes are being complied with. While I enjoy the aspect of architecture and design now, I wasn't always sure what I wanted to pursue. One moment I wanted to be an airline pilot because I had a passion for aviation, then the next moment I desired to be a firefighter. This cycle continued until I reached my sophomore year of high school. My mom pointed out that I had a unique passion for design and construction and that architecture could be a potential pursuit shortly. Initially, I wrestled with the idea as I assumed the practice involved too much studying and money, and my mind wasn't on post-graduation at that time. It wasn't until I looked back over my childhood and remembered all of the past hobbies that I enjoyed. Suddenly memories of building tall towers with popsicle sticks, constructing small homes with building blocks, creating miniature cities with legos, and designing sprawling metropolises in Minecraft rang throughout my conscience. Realization ran down my spine as it had all along that I truly did have a passion for architecture. I soon realized that a majority of my past experiences contributed to my desired career path in architecture. Even back then and now when I attempt to envision something else to do with my desired career, nothing but architecture comes to mind. From that moment I embraced my interest in architecture and am proud to be a current undergraduate studying architecture. I believe that if we take the time to revisit past areas in our lives we can discover our true selves and passions. This method helped me to identify and embrace my desire of becoming an architect and I assure the same applies to all who seek their true passion in life. Moreover, just like my mother encouraged and supported my desired career, there's value in having a support system to uphold us on our way to greatness. And most importantly as the Bible teaches, with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). Therefore, we know that with the power God gives us and the strength Christ extends to us, we can turn our future dreams into future realities. This is the hope for my life and I pray it is the hope for all who may read this essay, God bless!

Growing up as an African American male in the southern United States, I have come to learn a lot about my history. Through conversations with various family members and local community leaders, I have learned what the early days of America looked like for folks like me. These conversations broadened my perspective as a young man and began my recognition as a member of an underrepresented community. It would not take long to research the history of African Americans in the United States and the adversity they have faced. Through redlining, Jim Crowism, and outright bigotry, this nation has seen the days contrary to the words of its conception. A country founded on the principles of equity and dignity failed to deliver to all of its inhabitants. This resulted in massive disparities between the different races of citizens and also created an underrepresented minority population. If we drive down the roads or walk by several neighborhoods, we can see the effects of the past in plain sight. While we have made progress toward equity, many remnants of the past still inflict disadvantages. Like many other young black men and women, this was the neverending story told by many who witnessed it. Yet, my identity as an underrepresented minority has also introduced me to great experiences and opportunities. While my people historically have faced obstacles, history has shown that we united to invoke change and created a sense of community with the little we had. From the groundwork of the past, the black community has generated a legacy of bright prospects and talented leaders that have changed the world. In addition, our customs and traditions have enabled us to share our gifts with the world and embrace one another as we do so. Even though we are a minority population, we have risen to the occasion to overcome obstacles. My parents instilled in me at a young age to never forget where I'm from and my people. I vividly remember my dad always saying, "Whenever you do something, take the hearts of your people with you." This meant in all my endeavors in life to not only worked hard for myself but also for those who fought to ensure I had an equal opportunity. By embracing my identity as a member of the underrepresented black minority community I will embark on a path that will better my people. Just like the many greats before me, working diligently to ensure the advancement of the black community will make us stronger.

Mental health is at the forefront of what makes a successful society function. When everyone within a defined community can access affordable mental health care, the community thrives. Our minds are powerful tools that enable us to achieve great things, but they do require maintenance to continue to function. Having understood the unique value of mental health, I would contribute a greater awareness of the need for increased mental health facilities. Data from Statista, a German database company, suggest that as of 2020 there are approximately a little over 12,000 registered mental health facilities in the United States. Out of these 12,000 facilities, more than 80% of these facilities do not offer 24-hour service (https://www.statista.com/statistics/450277/mental-health-facilities-in-the-us-by-service-type/). This indicates that only a certain number of mental health patients can receive the care they need in a timely fashion and the supply of care is not proportional to its demand. This is an unacceptable statistic in a nation that prides itself on life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Therefore, my contribution to spreading awareness of the imbalance of need and demand of mental health care in America will in turn help to make mental health care more affordable and accessible to anyone seeking support. Whether we may be battling mental health problems or not, we are all in this battle together. No matter how we may feel towards one another, we need each other to thrive as a society. So let us embrace and work to heal the people of this world!

When I think of my future, I think of a big home, and a couple of cars, and maybe even a wife. I also think of my children running around the house filling the home with laughter and joy and my wife filling the home with all the goodness and wonders of a virtuous woman. To support myself and my family, I envision having a high-paying job with good benefits and friendly co-workers to make the workday go by smoothly. Most importantly, I envision having a strong relationship with God built on desire, worship, and devotion and a place to call my church home where my children can grow in their faith and know the Lord for themselves. As I have grown older and wiser in my thinking, I have come to the understanding that my plans for the future do not only affect me. My plans for the future affect everyone I come into contact with as well as my family. Every decision that I make in my life changes the course of time for my future family and loved ones. I know this may come off as deep thought for a 20-year-old, but I take pride in being self-aware of my desires and conscious of my decision-making. I believe that this has enabled me to identify areas of my life that require improvement and make swift adjustments. My plans for the future are to harbor an attitude of hard work and resilience no matter the circumstance. Being a driven person to get up and work diligently for what I want out of my years on earth is my ultimate goal. Simply sitting around and hoping will not cut it, rather taking an active role in the betterment of my life will deliver the reward. Through my family and many close friends, I have seen the rewards of those who work hard and the lessons learned along the way. In addition, I have also seen the emotional moments and battles of obstacles that came throughout their journey toward a better future. Nonetheless, I remain steadfast in achieving my goals and ensuring a future of prosperity and triumph for my future self and my family. It would be selfish of me to merely speak of personal gain and not that of others as well. Just as I want to "win" in life I also desire the same for others. My view is the more people that can escape the grip of poverty and adversity, the better society is overall. I was raised on the value of looking out for others and celebrating others' victories. Even the scripture teaches us to not be jealous of the next man but to uplift, encourage, and celebrate those on their journey toward greatness. Simply put, if I shine we all shine and when you shine I shine. Out of all the many great candidates that will come across this essay and apply, I know that Ms. Alexander will have a multitude of bright minds to select from. I hope that no matter who is selected that this scholarship benefits a driven student on their journey toward greatness. If that student were to be me, I would gladly accept and be appreciative of the financial contribution toward my education. Nevertheless, I'm overjoyed at the generosity of all the amazing scholarship donors and their passion for helping the next generation of students. Lastly, whoever may come across this essay please know that you are special and God has great work for you. Thank you again to the scholarship donor and all my fellow students.

From the start of the age, many nations have set out to create government bodies that could address the needs of their citizenry. Through the use of social welfare, subsidies, low-interest loans, and buybacks, governments throughout time have constantly sought ways to implement prosperity. However, as government authorities have become overwhelmed with the demand of needs, NGOs have stepped in to fulfill the shortcoming of what the government promised but couldn't adequately deliver upon. From their official origin in the 18th century to the present day, non-profit organizations have left their marks in every facet of our lives. If I could create a non-profit organization I would entitle it "The Selfless Society", and it would positively impact the world through its various acts of selflessness. To launch the organization I would start an ad campaign to make the common folk aware of what the non-profit was and its mission to restore selfless acts in society. Furthermore, the 'Selfless Society' would work with governments, community leaders, organizers, and volunteers of every kind to research and implement help to the most vulnerable among us. No matter the size of the task or the burdens surrounding it, our mission would be to help others and instill a spirit of selflessness while doing so. Just like any issue, research is the first step in uncovering the core issue and its many complexities. With the help of a dedicated team of researchers and many other informed non-profits and governmental agencies, the 'Selfless Society' would be well on its way to delivering help to the most vulnerable. For instance, if we wanted to tackle the issue of food insecurity in the inner cities of America, we would start by researching what is defined as a part of the inner city, who is the most vulnerable, and what sustaining forms of help would best serve these individuals. As history has shown organized generosity works best on the macro level as resources can be effectively distributed and no one misses out on what they need. When we serve others we want to do our best as if we were serving God. For we know when we meet the needs of others and offer our time, the Lord is pleased and will bless our works. Following our research, we would then transition into distributing outlined forms of help and/or aid to the community. Young or old, black or white, short or tall, all would be welcome to come and gather the resources that they need and invite others the next time around. In the footsteps of Jesus, we would seek to serve others diligently. The scripture says that Jesus did not come to be served but to serve and offer his life for us all (Matthew 20:28). So what better way than to walk in the example Jesus laid out in his living and to serve his creation through selfless acts. Our mission would be to reach every person we could and share resources with them and offer them a light of hope despite their adversity. As the 'Selfless Society' would continue to serve others and create solutions for those in need, we would begin to inspire others to do the same. No matter who we are or what lifestyles we live, we must help those in need. Simply continuing with our egotistical and selfish ways will not bring needed change in our society. Therefore, let's put on our hats of courage and selflessness and serve others as the Lord has commissioned us to do. Then we will invoke change and impact the world forever!

The universe is a complex system of planets and stars which contain life. At the center of the universe is the sun which provides light for our world directly during the day and indirectly during the night via. the moon. The Bible says in Genesis that God created the earth in 6 days and he rested on the 7th. Before his move and commands for the earth's creation, the scripture says the earth was formless and void. The same applies to all the rest of the universe enveloping the stars and planets in their void and formless nature before God defined them. To begin to understand such a complex system of stars, planets, and matter can be tiresome but it's worth the effort to better understand the true nature of God's creation. I would argue that it's important that we work to better understand the nature of our universe to better understand our role in it, how to improve our lives and the God who spoke it all into existence. As we work to understand these things, we must first understand our role in the earth. In the Garden of Eden, God created Adam from the dust, and from his side came Eve. God had left them with instructions to not eat of the Tree of Knowledge and in disobedience they ate to which they were instructed not to. This action resulted in them being cast out of Eden and banished from returning as they were now exiled. However, their story did not end as God gave them specific dominion over the earth and instructed them to be fruitful and multiply through childbearing. This leads to the modern day where humans are hard at work creating, cultivating, and developing the natural environment to suit their desires. But with great responsibility comes even greater decision-making, which history shows has been a roller-coaster path for mankind. Secondly, we better understand the nature of our universe by learning ways to improve our lives in it. The idea of self-improvement and societal improvement dates back to the times of Adam and Eve. Being newly exiled people from a place of absolute prestige, the couple was forced to explore new ways to improve their lives. Being unable to access the Tree of Life, they were forced to face the realities of their mortal bodies and find new ways to sustain themselves. Similarly, we are faced with the same tasks today. To cope with this fact, we have created giant pharmaceutical companies to create medicines for us, entertainment industries to cure our boredom, workplaces to fulfill our desire to acquire wealth which is used to gather resources, etc. The same need of the past generation coming out of Eden is the same evolved need of today's generation. Lastly, to work to better understand our universe we need to better understand God who's the creator of it all. We are told in Psalm 24:1 that all of the earth is the Lord's and its fullness thereof. Simply put, all of the creation originated and is owned by the majestic God in heaven. Moreover, by reading his word (The Bible) we can discover God's character and love for his people and why certain things were created how they were. Take for instance the sun, which rises in the morning and sets in the evening. It is from the sun that our crops grow, our cities illuminate, and even our skin receives nutrients. Often, the sun is referred to as being the center of life as its light and warmth sustain the biotic environment. Nevertheless, we must look to the source of the sun's creation in Genesis to uncover the true power behind its origin. God established the sun to provide creation with light and to foster the natural environment. This idea of an infinite light source speaks to the nature of our universe along with other things God established within it. The same could be said of the moon, the stars, the vegetation, etc. In my quest to better understand the nature of the universe, I refer back to the foundation that God outlines in scripture. This allows me to begin to establish a deeper lens to view the universe and how we are all interconnected within it by the power of God. Using concepts such as conceptual analysis, practical application, and depictive reasoning enables me to explore this question of what is the universe and what is our purpose in it. I hope to employ these same viewpoints in mainstream society to motivate others to consider the nature of our universe. I also hope this is attempted through a spiritual lens that puts God at the center of the conversation to better help conceptualize the question. I believe that we all want to understand the vast complexity of our universe and the power structure behind its creation and operation. Many scholars and theorists have attempted to answer this question to their best ability with the earthly tools they were given and yet still the debate remains strong surrounding this topic. Nonetheless, my hope is for the words of this essay to not only fulfill the writing prompt requirement but also plant the spiritual seed so desperately needed in a lost world. While I do not have all the answers and am often left to speculate like most, I do know of the one who knows all about the universe. For he is God almighty powerful and strong and from his mouth flows prominent knowledge and wisdom. So please take heed of the words in this essay and begin to ponder the nature of the universe and creation within. Then I can assure you will have a greater respect for the universe and God its author. May God bless the reader(s) of this essay and thank you Mindscape for this scholarship opportunity!

A legacy is defined as the long-lasting impact of particular events, actions, etc. that took place in someone's life. By leaving a legacy, human beings can inspire future generations to push beyond the bounds of their environment and the limits of their world. It's their legacy that allows us to remember the life of Dr. King, Rosa Parks, Michael Jackson, and many others. Through the use of various mediums and artistic expression, their central message was advanced and lives on today. A legacy, to me, means the long-lasting impact of people and how they benefit their environment. At the individual level, people begin to harbor their passions and gifts in their youth. As they grow older, these passions and gifts are shared with the world and resonate among the minds of many. Eventually, these same people grow older and their days run thin. Nonetheless, even in their departing their legacy lives on and is equally embraced in the present generation as it was when it was first told. Growing up in the South, it was common to see statues and memorials for public figures of the past. My hometown San Antonio is the home of the Alamo, which was the forefront location of a battle to defend Texas's independence. As a result of the leadership of William Barrett Travis, James Bowie, and Davy Crockett the defenders of the Alamo were able to put up a significant fight against the attacking Mexican army under the orders of the Present General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. Despite the defender's defeat by the Mexican army, their bravery and courage to defend the Texan mission or Alamo is a staple to many Texans and Americans today. While most of the defenders and occupants were killed in battle, the mission still stands today as a tourist destination and place of remembrance of the sacrifices made to make Texas a free state. In addition to coming from a historical city filled with the legacies of many greats, my upbringing was also influential in molding my view of a legacy. My parents always taught me that character and righteous living was the key to pleasing God and leaving a lasting impact on this world. They continued by saying that even though the cameras and lights may not be on you, there's always someone watching you, and the way you live should be a testament to the God you serve. Not only did I hear these words from my parents, I saw their words come to life in their own lives from the way they give, love, share, and encourage others in the Lord. Because of the teaching and godly wisdom of my mother and father, my upbringing has impacted my life's path positively and has enabled me to see the true meaning of righteous living. Despite these teachings and a new outlook on life, work remains to be done to become the best version of myself. Each day I must strive to remain steadfast on the principles highlighted in my youth and share them with others so they may be set on the right path. Every day that the Lord allows me to draw breath and dwell among the land of the living is another day to advance his kingdom and inspire others to live their lives to be found pleasing in his eyes. While the work starts with me, it can't be done alone. The journey toward becoming whole and living righteously begins with all of us and rests on the power of God. By doing the work and inspiring others, I'll leave my legacy.

The Bible says that faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). It is through faith that we as believers experience God's glorious presence and worship in his heavenly name. Growing up in the church, this spiritual foundation of faith was instilled in me early on and has stuck with me through the years. In both good and bad times we are to look towards our gracious God for aid through the lens of faith we possess. My faith in God has helped me tremendously in my life. The scripture references the Lord as a refuge and strength in troubling times (Psalm 46:1-3). It's through reflection over my life that I see the refuge of the Lord in times when I was uncertain of the outcomes. Despite my mistakes and slip-ups, the Lord extended his saving grace and mercy to me and encouraged me to move forward. The journey forward and my walk with God have been like a roller-coaster over the years, yet the Lord remains faithful to his commitment and promises for my life. In addition to blessing and helping me over the years, I have witnessed the work of the Lord in others. I have seen the move of God on people on their deathbeds and the grace of the Lord towards people who have made colossal mistakes. It never fails when all hope seems lost, God swoops in to save the day and restore what the enemy has taken from his people. Witnessing the move of God in others has also tremendously shaped my walk with God and blessed my life in return. While the future is unknown to man, God is fully knowledgeable of everything to come. In his omniscient power and might, he orchestrates everything according to his will for those who love and serve him. Therefore, in my future endeavors in my career I draw back to the foundation of faith that I grew to depend on and lay my trust that all will be well with God on my side. I am a firm believer that if God be for me, who can stand against me? (Romans 8:31). This process of trusting God with my plans and future career requires much patience and understanding, yet I know that God will enable me to be all he's called me to be and that his kingdom will be advanced as a result.

As a kid who grew up with a single mother, there were times of great joy and dismay. Moments of pleasure in having a loving parent by my side who was both supportive and encouraging, but also moments of dismay seeing how hard my mother worked to provide the things I needed. Nonetheless, my mother always took her role as a single parent diligently and did the best she could with what she had. And for that, I am eternally grateful to my mother for her effort, love, and care throughout my upbringing. Just as a roller-coaster has ups and downs, so did certain points in our life. With rising inflation and changing market structures, my mother at times had to put her desires aside to see that mine were met. She would insist that taking care of me was her God-given role and that she wholeheartedly abided by this role no matter what. This taught me at a young age the true selfless spirit that my mother possessed and was an example for my living in the future. In addition to her selfless acts on my behalf, my mother also gave her last to see others had what they needed. I remember in church when a family went before the church and were sharing their financial burden and need for food. The family was shortly after prompted to return on the church's food bank day on Wednesday to receive resources. However, this did not sit well with my mom who spoke with the family and discovered they lived down the street from where we stayed at the time. Up the street was an H-E-B (Grocery store chain in Texas) to which I remember going to a loading a basket full of groceries to hand deliver to the family. I was amazed at my mother's actions as money was tight at this point and we were struggling ourselves, yet, she lead with a selfless spirit to bless others. While the data may show that single-parent households may lack behind those of two-parent homes, society can never neglect the diligence of a hard-working single mother. Through the action described above and many other actions, I witnessed growing up with a single mother, I can confidently say that this shaped the young man I am today. Through my mother's godly living and wisdom and selfless spirit, I learned what it means to truly love others and to live in the image of God. While my mother nor any single mother is perfect, it is their continuous acts of self-improvement and reflection that ignite the spark of what makes them great. This has also taught me the value of improving myself and embracing the man God has called me to be. As Tupac Shakur said in his hit song 'Dear Mama, "There's no way I can pay you back, But the plan is to show you that I understand. You are appreciated". I concur with Tupac's expression and desire to show my mother that she is loved and appreciated through my actions and words. God has blessed me with an amazing mom who overcame many obstacles to raise me well and the least I can do is walk in the path of righteousness and follow the godly examples she set out for me in my youth. To all the single mothers who may read or come across this essay, I want to devote time to encourage you all on your journey of raising the next generation of future leaders. Please never lose hope and remember you are loved and cherished. God bless!

From the dawn of mankind, societies of all kinds have always established a person in charge. This person in charge is often referred to by several names such as Commander, General, Chief, Pharoh, King, or President. Nonetheless, these leaders all served the central purpose of guiding their nation to victory and ensuring the longevity of their way of life. In the present day, this role remains the same among the world's leaders and is an ever-evolving role. Similarly to all the kings, Presidents, and Heads of state around the world, I too am a leader. And while I may not possess the same authority, the central role is the same. At a young age, I came into a sense of what leadership was and what it looked like. Prematurely I assumed to be a leader you had to be in government or possess a mass amount of wealth. However, I quickly learned this was furthest from the truth, and instead, leadership begins at the individual level. It was revealed to me that all leaders, both grand and small, started somewhere. In other words, their leadership didn't begin when they took office or grew wealth. Their leadership started at a young age or a certain point in their life when they began to embrace the qualities of leadership. As I began to cultivate my understanding of what leadership was and how I could embrace being a leader, I gradually began to affirm this new profound role in my life. Through many talks with elders and others with similar revelations, my understanding and leadership qualities grew and I was able to fully embrace the inner leader inside of me. Yet when asked what makes me a leader, I often struggled to find the answer. I usually diverted back to my old thinking of authority and wealth, hence deeming myself a mental leader as opposed to a literal leader. This idea continued until my dad sat down with me one day and explained the answer to my question. He said, "Son, being a leader is not about having massive amounts of money or grand authority over people, what makes you a leader is the principles and morals you live by and the might God has instilled in you to lead". I was captivated by my fathers' response and from that moment forward I could proclaim that my principles, morals, and God-given might are what make me a leader. The new understanding that resulted from the discussion with my father was life-changing for me and I was assured I must share it with others. From person to person and door to door, I sought every opportunity to share with others the true principles of being a leader. Surely I was met with optimism from some and pessimism and doubt from others, yet, my message never wavered and I was steadfast in helping others embrace their inner leader as well. While I respect where everyone is in their lives, I do hope to live in a world of leaders who strive to embrace and share their leadership with the world to make a difference. It's also my hope that the inner leader in me can shine bright and be a beacon of hope to those who feel powerless and defeated. For we are not defeated and not powerless, and we will not fail or break. With a mighty God on our side, we have hope and strength. Nothing the enemy can throw our way can prevent us from our destined victory. Let us rise fellow leaders and change the world for the better!

To have a voice is a great power that can spark the beginning of change. With God's mighty voice, he spoke creation into existence beginning with the bright sun. Dr. King used his voice to speak truth to a power structure that denied folks like him elemental human dignity and equality. And all around the world people are using their voices to bring the needed change in their communities. Simply put, to have a voice is to be able to stand up for your values and morals and denounce those who seek to infringe on such principles. The human ability to speak is far from a new phenomenon. We use our voices to communicate with one another, to sing songs, and to call others' attention from afar. However, very seldom do we consider the importance of having the ability to speak and what our individual voices can achieve for our communities. Contrary to popular belief, our communities are not just the shared places we dwell and do business, but also place of many voices that proceed with great power. From the small children to the elderly, the liveness of our voice enhances our community. And although we may not know it, there's an inner 'up-stander' in all of us that longs to be shared with the world. An 'up-stander' is one who is selfless in nature and like Mr. Taha always stands up for what's right when prompted to do so. In addition, an 'up-stander' seeks no gain or human recognition, just the simple sight of change is the reward to the soul. I am an 'up-stander' with a powerful voice that will move mountains and blow the clouds to ensure human decency is received by everyone. Resting and watching are not options in a world filled with significant need and despair. It's my duty as an 'up-stander' to spring into action and rise up against trends set to popularize wrongdoing. As the great Dr. King and Rosa Parks did in their generation, so I must do in mine to demand a return to righteous living. If this means sharing my resources with others, encouraging those who are down in their spirit, and inspiring the next generation, then let it be known that I'm up for the task to mold the future of our world. As I mentioned earlier our voices are powerful tools that we can use to invoke change in our communities. I plan to use my voice to build up my community by calling out actions and policies that are hurting my local community. Protecting the communities natural environment, roadways, sidewalks, and playgrounds are all ways that I can put this plan into action. While others may opt for silence and content, I must opt for activism and advocacy to also put my plan into action. Simply talking about my plans to use my voice will not cut it. Moreover, taking a stand and living by the principles Mr. Taha displayed in his life will invoke change. As much as we talk about changing and standing up for others and our community on an individual level, the work can't be done effectively alone. It takes all people from every walk of life to transition from silent watchers to 'up-standers' who will march and fight for the betterment of their communities. We are truly all in this together and we need one another to ensure a brighter future for our children and grandchildren. Therefore, let us make the transition today and stay committed to steadfast 'up-standing'! P.S.: God bless the Taha family and thank you for the opportunity!

As we go about our daily lives, we tend to run into a series of roadblocks. Some of these roadblocks in our lives appear big like giants while others appear small like ants. Upon further examination of these roadblocks, we tend to want to know the origin and quick solution. Nonetheless, we can recognize a roadblock of any size when we see it and often identify it as adversity. Adversity is defined as a difficulty or misfortune that has been experienced by virtually everyone alive. While adversity looks different for each person its impact takes the same toll on the mind of every individual. It often turns out that despite being rich or poor, black or white, man or woman adversity is an experience most people will face in their lifetime. Without a doubt, adversity was very common at certain points in my life and has left its mark. Over the years I became very acquainted with its complex system of deception and tiresome worry. As I sank deeper within its grip, I learned of the various parts that make up my difficulties and misfortune, and a greater understanding of its core was revealed. Adversity first entered my life in my early days of school. I was a good student that lacked the necessary academic skills required to advance up to the next grade. My reading level was well below the required metric for my grade level. Throughout the academic year, I struggled with anger management issues and missed a lot of classroom instruction. As a result, I was not adequately supplied with the reading lessons needed to advance successfully to the next grade. The school called a meeting with my parents and they discussed rather it was best to hold me another year or risk moving me on with the lack of reading skills required. The decision was made to hold me back for another year to ensure that I could obtain the proper amount of time building my reading skill with extra assistance. While I understand the decision was to help and not harm me, it did take time to cope with the idea of being held back a year. No one bullied or said anything harsh to me about it, it was just the physiological effect of being held back that took a toll on my mental health at the time. I remember being depressed and at times feeling like I wanted to give up. I spent that summer in summer school and was assigned a series of books to read to prepare me for the coming school year. I worked diligently through my depression and low self-esteem that summer to be the better reader that I know I was capable of being and in due time my reading level gradually became better. Fast forward a couple of months later, I was able to read books on the upper-grade level and even understood upper-grade level math material as well. All in all, as time progressed, my commitment to overcoming adversity in my early years of school allowed me to become a better student in the future. I learned in those tough early years of my life that preserving through anything will lead to success. I wish to help my community in the future by being a role model as my teachers and parents were for me and by inspiring others to never give up on their dreams. We can not be successful on life's journey alone, we need each other to help propel us to the next level and achieve all the things God has in store.

When I reflect on my life, I begin to think of all the memories and experiences that have shaped who I am today. From the good and the bad to the ugly and sad, my lived experiences enabled me to see life from a new perspective. Along with my lived experiences come many achievements and accolades that have brought me great joy. Even the sheer thought of these achievements overwhelms me with pride and euphoria from the origin of that moment in time. Moreover, out of all my achievements in life and all the accolades earned through academics and extracurricular activities, no such achievement has brought me more joy than the day of my baptism. I can say without reservation in mind that the day of my baptism at church was my greatest achievement to date. I remember the day like no other, early Sunday morning preparing my outfit and gathering with my family before the ceremony. Aside from my physical address, the Baptist church was my second home and a place where I've come to know a lot of people and grow spiritually. Having come from a family of Christians, it is customary to receive salvation from Christ and as an expression of our faith to be baptized. Therefore, when the day came for my baptism, my family showed up with pride and joy to witness my spiritual and ceremonial transformation. At that moment I remember being very confident as I knew and understood the importance of accepting Jesus into my life and the transformation that would occur. The Bible teaches when we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior we enter into the kingdom of God, set apart by God as righteous. While this does not implicate perfection, as we are still humans, it does implicate a right of passage on the track of righteousness and internal inheritance being heaven or access to the New Jerusalem. And so with this newfound transformation marked the greatest achievement to date. My experience of being baptized taught me many lessons about myself. Not only was I to walk in a new light but also to spread the freeing message of the Gospel to others. Just as Jesus told his disciples to spread his glorious message of salvation and redemption to the ends of the earth, I too have been called by the Lord to do the same. Another thing this experience taught me about myself was that God has placed a special light inside of me. This light given by God is utilized to spread love, positivity, happiness, and all of the fruits of the spirit (See. Galatians 5:22-23). While the future may not be known, what is certain is the continuous grace and mercy of God. The Bible says that his mercy endureth forever and ever and the salvation offered through his son Jesus is open to all who call upon his Holy name. In the future, I hope to achieve all of the things God has called me to do. I pray that my living is pleasing before the eyes of God and that others will be drawn to him through his purpose and power in my life. As the songwriter said, 'Jesus is the answer for the world today', and for the world forever more. As I close, I want to thank the donor(s) of this scholarship for allowing students, such as myself, an opportunity to lower the financial barriers in higher education. Many students around the world struggle to afford the rising costs of attending post-secondary institutions, but due to your generous donations, this alarming concern is diminishing. Lastly, I pray that the reader(s) of this essay take heed to the freeing message of hope and the gospel in it and accept Jesus in their hearts. May God continue to keep and bless you all!

At birth, we all are assigned a gender and we are named by our legal guardians. Along with our assigned gender and name, we also have a specific talent or skill that is cultivated as we age. Some of us start using our skill or talent early in life like Micheal Jackson while others begin to use their skill or talent later in life like Samuel L. Jackson. Nonetheless, it is the skill or talent that people use to leave their mark on the world. Just like the many greats of homo sapiens before me, I too aspire to use my unique talents and skills to build a more empathetic and understanding global community by bridging the gap that exists between all of us. The gap is no stranger as it has consistently remained from the dawn of time. We are told early in creation Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden due to their disobedience to God, Israel was divided into 12 tribes, nations emerged on earth, cultural classes evolved, religions expanded, and racial divides exploded. All of these things further enhanced the gap in mankind and created a system of separation and isolation. And while my living alone can't undo the marks of history and eliminate the gap, my living can inspire as many of my fellow humans to bring about a needed change in the world. God has graciously blessed me tremendously in my life to have shared and witnessed the many talents he's instilled into me and others. I've had countless amounts of opportunities to speak, sing, dance, and perform in front of a large audience and greater opportunities to share the message of the gospel with others as well. However, rarely have I considered the implications of my talents and skills on the lives of others and how to help bridge a widening gap of division in the global community. It wasn't until recent years that I was made aware of my duty to build empathy and understanding in the global community I so passionately care for. Moreover, I learned that in order to preserve what is of value and beauty, I must take a stand to raise awareness of the problems that abide within a said thing. This has led me to reimagine what I envision for our global community and the actions I take to usher in this transformation. Discovering this new profound role has motivated me to express my desire for empathy and understanding in this life we all share. Rather it is the people in the grocery store or other students in class lectures, advancing this message is the primary I spew change. It's through my gift of Charisma and my talent for humor that I am able to connect with people on a deeper level. By doing so I myself am closing the gap and establishing a new road of compassion for my peer. Similarly, I realize through my talent for singing and dancing I uplift people causing them to become empowered in their own talent or skill which in turn creates a perfect union of empathy and understanding. And while I may go on about the many ways my talents and skills have aided my global community, the work can not be done merely alone. It requires all of us to work in unison amongst one another utilizing our God-given talents and skills for the betterment of our communities. It is my hope to dwell in a world where this is the reality for my generations and many more to come!

From a young age, we are cultivated in a government-sponsored society of learning we call school. At school, we learn new ideas and understand various ways to solve complex problems. As we advance through the society of learning we eventually stumble upon graduation, which leaves us to our own accord of obtaining new knowledge. Typically this is done through higher education or the workforce, but, what we read and watch also plays a role in new things we learn. As an enthusiast of books and film, I often find myself somewhere proper up on my bed watching either a movie, or show, or reading a book. This has been a part of my daily mundane since my youth and continues to make up a prominent amount of my free time. Sometimes I'll watch an informative documentary on airplanes while other times I'll skim through a few pages of a romance book. Nonetheless, I always seem to enjoy reading or watching something to pass the time. Over time as I sit and watch films and read books, I seek out a lesson or takeaway from them. They go from being something used to entertain to something used to learn and grow. The takeaways in the films and lessons in the books have shaped my goals by allowing me to see the bigger picture and envision life as I desire it to be. An all-time favorite film of mine is The Pursuit of Happyness starring award-winning actor Will Smith portrayed as a homeless salesman named Chris Gardner. In the film, Mr. Gardner is facing a tremendous amount of adversity while also trying to be a supportive father to his son Christopher. Due to his troubles trying to sell a complex medical device to various hospitals, he is left with little money and little support from the child's mother. As time progresses, Mr. Gardner becomes acquainted with a man named Mr. Howe who is a high-ranking executive at a brokerage company. Eventually, Mr. Howe offers Mr. Gardner a job offer within the firm which Mr. Gardner accepts and diligently studies and observes to acquire the position. All in all, Mr. Gardner is selected for the position and he and his son's life is changed for the better. While there are many takeaways from this film, there are also many lessons learned along the way as you watch it. Even though I may not directly relate to Mr. Gardner's struggles, I resonate with his spirit of hard work and perseverance. It's moments like this in film and literature that have allowed me to grow as a person and develop a greater sense of empathy for others. As mentioned previously, film and literature emerge from a source of entertainment to a source of enthrallment. This enthrallment carries on in my daily life as I seek to inspire others to dream big and achieve their goals. On my journey in life, I aspire to be a wholehearted source of inspiration for the world. It's my hope to nurture and embrace the same positive goals in others that film and literature nurtured and inspired in me throughout the years. Confidently inspiring others with the tools and skills from my education and the gracious help of our loving God will allow me to achieve these things and leave a greater impact on the world. As I begin the groundwork to lay out the foundation of positivity within my community, I pray that anyone who reads this essay is also inspired to do the same. Lastly please remember, I can do all things through Christ! (Philippians 4:13).

As a kid in the early 2000s, Disney Channel was always a big hit. From classic animated shows such as Phineas and Ferb or Handy Manny to traditional sitcoms like Good Luck Charlie and Jessie, Disney Channel was a must-watch in my daily routine. In fact, there was no home in America at that time that didn't have a television with Disney Channel on. My favorite thing about Disney is the creativity and passion that the entertainment company devotes to everything they do. Walt Disney's vision of cartoon characters and the fictional power of magic has created a multi-global corporation that can be recognized anywhere in the world. A simple picture of Mickey Mouse shown to people in different regions of the world would warrant the same recognition response despite language and cultural barriers. Children and adults from all walks of life have enjoyed the wonders of Disney's creations and unique storytelling. It is no secret that Disney has a long history in the entertainment industry. Founded on October 16, 1923, by Walt and Roy O. Disney under the Disney Brothers Studio which eventually became the Walt Disney Company in 1986. Through the years the production evolved through the creation of Disney Land, Disney XD, Disney Jr., Disney +, and ownership of the ESPN Network, Marvel Entertainment, 21st Century Fox, etc. The venture into other forms of media and attractions, allowed Disney to further its vision of creativity and artistic passion to a larger audience of people. Disney has also inspired many up-and-coming graphic designers and animators to display their works of artistic expression on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. Along with a vast array of networks and media outlets, Disney also has a wide cast of characters. From the simple idea of a talking mouse wearing gloves, and a talking racecar dedicated to winning the Piston Cup, to a bunch of talking toys in a boys' childhood room, the simple is transformed into the artistic and complex once implemented within the Disney studio. Aside from the liveliness of each character, there's a set of principles and beliefs instilled in each character which aids in story development. As Lightning Mcqueen strives to win the Piston Cup, he faces obstacles that land him in a country town off Route 66 called Radiator Springs. It's in Radiator Springs where Mcqueen learns a valuable lesson to be hardworking and humble while also meeting new friends. This dynamic leaves audiences with a significant takeaway that in life's journeys there will be obstacles and challenges but they exist to make us stronger. The yin and yang between story development and lessons learned are what makes Disney great and tie in with their focus on creativity and artistic passion. When all of the time permitted by the almighty has elapsed and all the history is written, it will come as no surprise that Disney will have stamped its mark on all of society. From the generations of children that have experienced worlds far beyond their imagination in a film to the adults who grew up during the company's conception, there is a marvel among those who deserve recognition for their hard work and determination. I aspire to spread creativity and artistic passion in my life just as Disney did for me through the years!

A community is a group of people living in the same place or having similar characteristics. From the dawn of mankind, humans have created and existed within respective communities, which have jointly established the world today. In communities, we build homes to live in, construct roads for traveling, and raise families to carry on legacies. Without the emergence of the community, society would be incomplete and inadequate to meet its daily needs. When asked, "What inspires me to get involved in my community," I think of several things. I envision the people, the homes, the traditions, and everything in between that makes up my community. Having a strong bond with members of my community has allowed me to gain tremendous respect for my community and brought about a desire to see it thrive. As I walk along the streets and pass up familiar faces, the desire to strengthen my community grows, and I'm reminded of its value. As mentioned, I envision my local community as a place of prosperity and abundance where people dwell in harmony and generations of families thrive. However, a vision is only a mere thought; it takes will and determination to realize it. The change starts with my actions toward influencing change in my community. I am a leader and role model in my community, and I must carry myself as such by adding value to the neighborhood. I contribute value by picking up garbage on the sidewalks, greeting neighbors that stroll by, helping the elderly cross the roads, encouraging the children to work hard in school, and being a good steward of the community. Along with motivating myself to add value to the community, inspiring others exponentially increases the change rate. Community upkeep is not a one-man game but a mutual partnership among all community members to benefit the neighborhood. No matter how often you inspire people to contribute to change, some will respond positively and others negatively. Nevertheless, each time you sow a word of inspiration, a seed is planted and grows inside each person. As the seed develops, the individual transforms, and their attitude toward their community shifts, causing a change at that moment. At that moment, all community members recognize the power of unity, and the value is restored to their local community for generations to come. I hope to plant the seed of change in my fellow community members and live my life as an example of good stewardship towards my local community. "Community is about doing something together that makes belonging matter." - Anonymous

If you could count all the books in the world and place a number label on them individually, it would probably take you several decades. Taking this one step further, if you counted and labeled all their page numbers separately, you could expect several more decades to complete this task. While estimates of how many books have been created remain unclear, humans have inevitably read books for centuries. The effort spent to read these books has led to an array of discoveries and creations that have enhanced mankind. Furthermore, many of these books have paved the foundation for people's views and lives. The book that I would want the world to read is the Bible. The Bible, or the "Word of God," comprises 66 books, all written by various authors such as Luke, John, Mark, etc. Each book contains a series of chapters divided into numbered verses. All 66 books were written at different times in history but revolved around the same majestic God, Yahweh (Exodus 3:15). We see in each book the move of God and how he interacted with mankind. From Genesis to Revelation, God's work can be seen in the earth as it is today. In addition to the Bible's various chapters, there is a noted separation between the Old and New Testaments. I believe the Word of God should be the world's "must-read" as it has the solution(s) for today's world. In a sinful world brought about by the man and woman in the Garden (Genesis 3 & Romans 5:12), it is only through the Word of God and his gift to mankind, Christ, that we can be made whole. However, to understand who God is and the salvation he offers through his son Jesus (Psalm 3:8 & John 3:16), we must seek out this knowledge through his Word, the Bible. It is there mankind will find the answers to many of its questions and peace through the trials and tribulations of the age. For the Word of God is power and might "...it is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit" (Hebrews 4:12). And the God at work within it is alive and well, sitting on the throne in Heaven (Isaiah 66:12). The saving grace of God is what the world needs today. The more people that embrace this fact, the more the world will begin to heal. This is why!

The value of human life can not be measured, counted, or stored in a confined space. The dignity of human life can also not be compromised or bent based on particular vile ideologies in society. From the moment of conception to the departure of the soul, life is both of value and beauty created by God. The pro-life position was not always one that I shared. At a time in my life, I thought individual liberty meant more than lives in the womb. It wasn't until I stumbled across a research article describing how life inside the womb is terminated. This shook me, and I immediately changed in the pro-life direction. The transformation was phenomenal as it opened up a new lens of viewing life beyond the ones I could physically see before me. My journey to the pro-life movement had been completed, yet my work to spread this new lens of viewing precious life had just begun. In a world divided on this issue, I wanted to educate myself on the terms, science, and laws surrounding the pro-life position to spread the message to others better. Early on, I would search various medical journals and databases better to understand my position on the value of life. This eventually led to my discovery of the Young America Foundation, where I learned more about how to promote the protection of life in the womb. In addition, talking with leadership at my church has also given me insight into how to encourage the pro-life agenda. This has led me to the present day, where I strive to be an example of pro-life living. To be truly pro-life, we must display such qualities among our peers. It begins with how I speak to and treat others, the compassion I extend to others, and most importantly, the love of God that shines bright in my living on display for the world to see. It is impossible to advance a movement of life without first loving those around us. Making connections and reaching a common consensus with people who disagree with my view has helped advance the pro-life movement. Even in the face of opposition, I strive to maintain my compassion as I was once and understand the premise of many of their rebuttals. However, staying steadfast on the principles of the pro-life viewpoint is always the center of attention when responding to disagreers. I've learned in my 20 years on earth that people will not always see eye to eye with you or understand the reasons that make up your viewpoints. However, I've learned that leading with compassion and being informed will establish mutual respect among those who disagree. At the moment of disagreement, new understandings are made, and lives are transformed for the better. Just as Dr. King dreamed of living in a world where mankind embraced one another irrespective of skin pigmentation, I, too, dream of living in a world that embraces the dignity of human life inside and outside the womb. May God bless the readers and examiners of this scholarship essay, and thank you all for the opportunity provided for students and the platform to advance the pro-life movement!

In an ever-evolving world, we often find the things that once united us begin to fade. We often hear that "chivalry is not dead, but we coistently look upon a world that does not embrace it. If we went around the world and sought selfishness, it would not be hard to find. However, if you dig through the cracks of the earth, you will observe many people still possess selflessness. From a young age, I observed my parents always taking their little and blessing others. I often wondered why they would take their few resources and give them to other people leaving their selves in jeopardy. As a young man I didn't understand the value of being selfless and thought very much like the world, which takes a more rugged individualism approach to those in need. While I didn't know it then, I learned that my parents were using these moments of giving to bless and teach. As I grew older, their lessons rang constantly in my head which leads to the selfless mindset I harbor today. To my family and me, being selfless is a continual mindset that you maintain as opposed to just when you notice someone in need. This means instead of just waiting to observe a need, you preemptively address the needs ahead of time. This includes preparing food and resources in paper bags for potential homeless people on the street you encounter, writing an uplifting message on cardstock for those who need an uplifting message, etc. Doing so has allowed me to bless countless people and has continued to nurture my selfless spirit. A few weeks back I was headed home from an architectural site visit and as I was waiting on my bus, I noticed a woman across the street. This area near the bus station is a hub for many cities downtown homeless population and More often than not, the people their have gone without food for long periods, as the city has strict rules regarding panhandling. I remember the Lord placing it into my spirit to give some of the snacks I brought with me to the lady. At first, I was hesitant as I had not eaten anything prior. However, being obedient, I got up, and handed the lady the snacks I had and a bottle of water. As soon as I crossed the street back to the bus stop, the Lord spoke in my spirit, "If you just take the little that you have and bless others, the Lord will surely be pleased". It was in that moment that I went back to all the early years my parents had demonstrated what being selfless looked liked and the Lord had reminded me with that women to demonstrate it in my life consistently. Eventually, my bus came and my emotions were very high as I had not only blessed that woman in need but also nurtured my selfless nature which blessed me in return. Time and time again, I was given opportunities to help those in need. Rather it was working at the food bank with my grandmother, handing out food to the homeless, mowing lawns for the elderly, and just by simply giving an uplifting message, being a blessing to other people has shown me the true essence of embodying a selfless mindset. It is my hope in my life and the lives of those I inspire also to embrace being selfless and live their lives being cheerful givers that are pleasing in the sight of the Most High!

The world is in constant demand of our attention. Rather it is a wildfire, a natural disaster, or a major geopolitical event, it's not hard to spot errors in our daily lives. This is the pre-set of being alive and a known fact of how the world is created. However, instead of evading problems we humans usually seek solutions through various forms to resolve the issue. But sometimes this makes us ponder on where to start. Out of the endless problems facing the world right now, I believe poverty is one of the leading tragedies in our world. Poverty strips away the right of so many to a prosperous and fulfilling and instead promises dissatisfaction and emptiness. Certainly, poverty isn't new to our world and has existed for many generations. However, one can't help to notice the growing number of people through the years that fall into this category of living. We know that poverty doesn't discriminate or have regional limits and is a known issue across the globe. But instead of just recognizing poverty and pinpointing its whereabouts, isn't it past time that we create working solutions to this global issue. I won't dispute the importance of tracking and establishing data sets regarding poverty, but real solutions are needed now. Solutions such as higher incomes, greater opportunity zones, community involvement, and much more. Our goal should be to instill in future generations a desire to resist the vicious grip of poverty and embrace the awesomeness of prosperity. While debates on this issue can be predicted for the foreseeable future, none of that matters until we see real-world action. Just to think of all the people that poverty affects should motivate us even more to create solutions as well as the realization that none of us are exempt from it!

Learning is the tool that we use as humans to keep ourselves informed. Learning comes in many forms such as the books we read, the lectures we listen to, and much more. I have come to know that through learning I can be a better-informed individual and learn new things. Something that I learned that changed my perspective on something significant in my life was to always stay informed. My grandfather would say "to not stay informed is to be willingly ignorant, and to be willingly ignorant is to be unwise". Stemming from his philosophy and my upbringing of staying educated, I always strive to keep myself well informed. Before this, I didn't understand why it was important to be educated and often questioned people's efforts to do so. I recall constantly denying the fact that being informed wasn't of any significant importance and that people are just "overreacting". Well, it hit me as I got older that those people were not overreacting but doing their due diligence to make sure they can make educated decisions and lead good lives. Not only did my eyes open to the importance of being informed but also the many benefits that it brings. For instance, we are often asked in life to make tough decisions that lead many ways. It would be intellectually honest to say that a well-informed individual would make the better decision(s) than a not-so-well-informed individual. Moreover, it should be our duty in every moment that we get here on this earth to keep ourselves educated for the greater good of ourselves and humanity. When this is achieved, the world will see better people who make the best choices regarding their life's journeys. Lastly, I encourage all to take a chance and broaden their horizon to new and life-changing things!

Through my 19 years of living and roaming this earth, I have noticed that there is a lot of noise. Some of the noise is loud and some quiet, some deep and some soft, and some positive and others negative. It is irrefutable that we live in a world that consists of a lot of noise and that we from time to time will consume some of it. But do we ever stop to realize or take account of the specific noises that we consume? Speech is a God-given ability that we humans have to communicate with one another. We hear and use speech daily in our lives to perform basic functions. However, we often don't consider that all the speech we both say and hear is not good. I believe that we must tune out speech and gestures that are negative and tune in those that are positive. We can do this not only for ourselves but for others as well acting as mentors. This idea has been in my heart for a while, and I hope through my mentorship of others that I can bring about a lasting change in the world. In addition, I hope that we all as a society can embrace the concept of providing guidance and/or mentorship to future generations so they can lead productive lives. I know that I am not alone on this journey but understand that the work starts with me. If I truly value change and want to visualize it in the world, then I need to be that change first and then help others along the way. Someone once mentored me into being the smart and intelligent young man that I am today, and I want to inspire others to do the same that my mentor did for me!

From the conception of the world, human beings have used books to communicate and formulate ideas for other people. Through written mediums like books, we as a society have been able to spread information at such a large scale that almost anything known to man can be discovered in a book. For me, books have always been an important great equalizer as they allow me to gain information that would be unknown to me prior. To answer the prompt my favorite book is the Bible. I enjoy reading the word of God as it offers guidance through times of trouble, help with opaque life moments, and strength when despair appears imminent. While I grew up in a Christian home, my passion for reading the Bible didn't develop until I was older and could understand what it all detailed. I would also mention that as I grew spiritually my understanding of God's word increased also. I have learned that when you approach reading the Bible, it is important to have an open and clear mind that is ready to receive what it is the Lord says. The Bible also states in Hebrews 4:12 that "God's word is alive...and working", meaning that it always bears a never-ending truth and that it is our primary source when things are unclear. To be alive is to be present, so from this scripture, we know that our God and the word of God (The Bible) are present in our lives. For these reasons I cherish the Bible and strive to take heed to its teachings. To be ignorant is to be unwise and to be wise is to be alive. Let's every day of our lives choose to be alive, never ceasing to stay informed. For when we do so, change will be upon us!

Earth's climate is a system of spheres that make up the natural world as we know it. We are taught- the matters concerning the climate at an early age and from that knowledge we develop a greater understanding of the earth's climatic processes. However, just like everything that has a process, degradation comes along with it. To respond to the climatic changes and degradation, I strive to have a positive impact on the climate by educating myself and others about the important role the climate plays. From protecting our planet from harmful sun rays to providing a shield against harmful atmospheric toxins that would alter the earth's atmospheric balance, it is evident the role our climate plays. Through its many spheres are various actions that occur to keep our planet functioning and in order. It is my understanding that to openly reject the preservation of the climate and alter this order is to openly be ignorant. In addition to educating myself on climatic changes, I also ensure that I take pride in doing things that bolster the climate rather than harm it. For instance, if I see an empty plastic bottle rolling freely on the sidewalk, I tend to dispose of it properly. While this may appear small, it can have detrimental effects on the climate if unchecked in a much broader perspective such as open ocean plastic waste. If history has taught us anything, we can surely hold on to its lessons regarding protecting the climate. We are given only one climate and it should be our duty to protect that climate to the best of our abilities. Just as we value our most prized possessions, let us also value our climate as we surely know without it there would be no us. Thanks for reading and God bless!

A community is a set of people and shared values among a group of like-minded individuals. It is through communities that we as people develop a sense of belonging and strengthen our bond with others within our communities. My local community has always been a significant part of my growth as a young man, as members of it have often guided me towards newer ideas and better ways to go about life's problems. I'm sure you all have the saying that "It takes a village to raise a child", well this couldn't be truer. My love for my local community started in my youth and resonates with me today. I act locally to affect positive change in my community by being a persistent advocate of community involvement. It is my conviction that when members of a community come together and embrace one another, they not only enhance their relationship but the community's as well. Rather we realize it or not, our communities represent a noticeable part of our daily lives and without them the world as we know it would appear vastly different. This is why I champion community involvement as it does have a proven track record of affecting positive change in any community. Moreover, the more we shift our thinking towards embracing our community members, the more positive results we will see in our communities. If I was prompted to make a list of all the important things in life, a solid foundational positive community of people would be at the top of that list. Preserving the community is essential for everyone worldwide and we must be steadfast in doing our part to keep the spirit of a good thriving community alive. I hope that this ideology will be emboldened in society and community and last forever!

From the conception of civilization, art has made up an enormous facet of our societies. It surrounds us in our daily lives and makes up most of the furnishing pieces in the buildings we utilize every day. At an early age, we were introduced to the fundamentals of art and from that point, we have learned more about art. My favorite piece of art is "The Last Supper" by Leonardo Da Vinci. The artwork depicts the event from the Bible (Mark 14:18-26) of Jesus having supper with his disciples before he would go to the cross. Da Vinci depicts in his interpretation what this may have looked like based on the Bible's description of the event. Having researched both Leonardo Da Vinci and the Renaissance era, I already knew off the bat what artwork I would reference for this scholarship. "The Last Supper" stood out to me most of all the paintings I enjoy because of its classic style and the symbolism used throughout the painting. On the surface is a painting of men surrounding a man named Jesus, who we know is the son of God. But what many viewers overlook in this painting is Da Vinci's ability to capture this moment and highlight its importance of it. In observation, you can see the various tonal values he uses to set the scene as well as elements of the past to develop the sensibility of that moment. The piece of art in my view was like no other at the time and will forever be a timeless piece of art. To cherish art is to cherish our world and what got us to where we are. Art is more than just paintings on the wall or brush strokes, it is what gives our world spark and a lively flare.

As a student, having a clear mind when studying or completing school tasks is vital. Throughout my first year of college, I have come to understand this more and more and appreciate the moments when I can clear my conscience. This leads me to share a few tips and resources I use to clear my mind which may also help others. The first tip/resource that I use often to clear my head is YouTube. More often than not, a busy school and workday can produce a lot of mental fog and tire the mind out. To counter this, I set finish my work shift and set aside schoolwork for a moment, to enjoy some relaxing YouTube videos. Some of the video categories that I enjoy and find very relaxing are cooking, ASMR, gaming, and audiobooks. YouTube has a tailored set of video sections to meet pretty much every viewer's liking and I highly recommend it for all fellow students seeking to relive mental strain. The second tip/resource that I use in my daily life is reading my daily devotional. I have learned firsthand that being an active reader of God's word helps to clear my mind of its troubles or overall concerns. In addition, reading my daily devotional gives me mental clarity with tough situations or problems such as "maintaining a positive mindset", or "Being the best version of yourself". The devotional acts as a daily reminder that we are not on this journey alone and always have help from above. The third tip/resource I utilize to produce a clear mind is sleeping. Studies indicate a well-rested mind performs at a higher rate than one that lacks sleep. While this may seem cliche, it bears an extremely significant truth. Take it from me, sleep does the body well, and I have seen the results of it in my school performance. Also taking with many others, it appears sleep is also a widely sought-after action in restoring mental clarity, so it's safe to say let's let our minds rest and get good sleep. While all of the tips and resources that we use to help clear our minds may differ, the need to do so is the same among all of us. So let us be bold in always ensuring that we maintain clear minds and bolster a society of clear and open-minded people. Moreover, let us never conform to just getting by in our heads, but rather, embracing our need to clear our minds and do so accordingly. Therefore, when we prioritize our mental healthcare and embrace who we are, we will always produce great results that will change the world!

Financial literacy is defined as the ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills, including personal financial management, budgeting, and investing (Investopedia.com). It is through the foundational learning of financial literacy that we can make informed monetary decisions in our daily lives. In my youth, my parents made it their duty to educate me on the importance of maintaining a good financial saving and spending plan. While at the time I didn't understand their lectures, I eventually grew to understand their reasoning for educating me in this manner. I vividly remember my dad always stressing the importance of saving money for a rainy day and my mother would also join in with being an "informed spender". Out of all the financial lessons my parents shared with me, saving money and being an informed spender stuck with me the most. I often find myself referring back to those lessons in particular whenever I go to purchase something or get money in my bank account. In addition, I also try my best to find the best price for similar products and seek saving advice from my financial institution. I recognize that many of us are not properly educated on how to be mindful spenders and savers, and I am grateful to my parents for taking the time to inform me about how to maintain good money habits. While many of us may have not had these same personal finance lessons, it is never too late to learn what we don't know. Furthermore, we should seek expert advice on how to maintain a good monetary habit and encourage others to do the same. Money is the way our world functions, so it should be our duty as people of the world to better understand our role in that function!

A world without optimism is simply a world without hope. Optimism is what brought the world the various inventions and creations we enjoy today. From the cars we drive to the cellular devices that make up our daily mundane, these things are all the results of optimistic people. Moreover, while it is easy to spot the results of optimism, it's often harder to understand the story behind it. Being optimistic in my personal life has brought me many successes as well as many challenges. It is a general understanding that in this life we will face challenges, and we are often told to look past those challenges. However, those challenges can never be overlooked with just a simple word of advice. While the words of wisdom speak to the mind, it isn't until we believe it in our hearts that it is so. This has been my philosophy on remaining optimistic in tough situations life has thrown at me. I have learned that even with various difficulties and adversity presented before me, I must believe without reservation on a brighter day. As a student, I can recall a countless number of times when this was true. Having moments where it appeared that my grades wouldn't be sufficient enough to progress me to the next grade level, or when the curriculum seemed to be incomprehensible. And yet while these moments rang tough and challenging, I went back to what I know stands strong and true, optimism! While it is uncertain what may lie ahead and the challenges to come. What is certain is that with the right attitude and a lifelong commitment to optimistic thinking, no rough patch of time is greater than us. The Bible says that through Christ all things are possible, so let's never forget to be optimistic!

In life, we face many challenges and obstacles that seem to hinder us from getting to the next level. Sometimes these obstacles can be physical obstacles such as lack of resources or mental obstacles such as low self-esteem. Regardless of their form, it is understood in this life that we can't avoid these obstacles and we must find ways to triumph over them. Being able to get through obstacles with proper persistence has done wonders in my life. A time that I can recall when I used persistence to overcome an obstacle was in the 5th grade. I had struggled throughout that academic year to stay afloat in my math course, and my instructor was concerned with my poor performance. I did everything in my ability to grasp a greater understanding of the curriculum, but with little resolve, my efforts didn't seem to be paying off. This cycle continued of feeling that I was incompetent regarding math until the day that a middle schooler visited our school. My instructor had planned for the middle school student to visit our school and give us motivation as an attempt to raise the class's overall morale. One thing the student said that stuck out to me was to "never give up and always keep pushing forward". This inspired me to be persistent beyond my current academic obstacle and in the end, I passed the course and moved on to middle school. Experiences like this one and others similar to it taught me the value of never giving up and showing persistence to overcome any obstacle. I share these memories fondly with others to help inspire them to never give up and use them as a daily reminder of how persistence has brought me this far. For every obstacle, there's victory ahead, thank God!

Throughout my 19 years of living, I have gone through many things and have seen a lot. These experiences have taught me more about life and how our world functions daily. It was through my encounters with life that I was able to discover who I was and what made me simply me. Over the years I have grown a strong sense of pride in the qualities that I have obtained and the way I can use them in my life. The quality/characteristic I value most in my life is my desire to help those in need. I didn't always understand the importance of this quality/characteristic growing up, but as my future foretold, this would hit close to home. My parents always did the best they could with what they had, and they never made excuses to justify their shortcomings. Despite their situation, they always showed me the importance of helping others without expecting anything in return. My mother in particular would always stress the importance of doing so, as she would exclaim "God blesses those who give". Over time this grew on me and became the foundation of my desire to help those who need it. I consider this the most valuable because my heart runs deep on this subject, and I have witnessed firsthand the positive effects of doing so. I feel that having a desire to help those in need will greatly help me in my life journey. I notice that whenever I give to someone else, the amount of satisfaction that I get knowing that someone doesn't have to go without something that day. It sort of becomes bigger than me and I see firsthand the impact that I poured into someone's life by choosing to help them. Just reflecting on past experiences, I have gained a greater sense of compassion and empathy for those around me and am assured that in my future this will continue. I can feel that I have grown as a person as giving has become a highly valued quality/characteristic in my life and I thank God that I've learned how to bless others without expecting anything in return. This rich mindset will not only be evident in my future life journey, but also in my children who I will instill in the importance of giving to others as my parents instilled into me. A great poet once said, " A strong man looks out for himself, a stronger man looks out for others". In every respect, I strive to be that stronger man and aspire to continue this well into my future life journey. The Bible declares that when we give unto others, our father who's in Heaven sees our good deed and is pleased. It also asserts that we not only doing for our fellow brother and sister in their need but that we have done so symbolically to God. (Reference: Matthew 25:35-40) It is my mission to live by this irrefutable truth and to champion this quality/characteristic to other generations that follow me. I pray that all around the world God blesses those who are in need and thank you (Sloane Stephens/foundation) for this educational opportunity and all that you all do!

From the foundation of civilization, there have been the haves and the haves not. Often the haves can make ends meet and live a fulfilling life, while the have nots do not enjoy the same luxuries. The gap between these two groups has grown tremendously as society has evolved and the need for generous people to fill in the gap has grown substantially in response. What generosity means to me is a person's willingness and selflessness to fill in the gap between those who have and don't and expect nothing in return. As I mentioned previously, the gap between those that have and those that don't have grown. We witness this every day, even within our communities we see the disparities that plague our neighbors. This growing trend has always been an interest of mine and I am often saddened by the little amount of spotlight put on these real-world issues. My parents raised me to be a caring individual who looks out for others and lends a helping hand to one in need. However, as you look around society today, you can't help but notice that this mindset has diminished significantly as many of us have lost our sense of generosity. This includes me, as it was a growing process for me to get to the mindset that I'm in today. But I reflect on my growth proudly knowing that I truly have a heart for others. We all should check our hearts and re-wire the circuit of generosity within our minds to help those around us. For when we do so, we show God that we are grateful for what He's blessed us with and that we understand that that very well could be us. I thank God I learned this lesson and hope the same for others!

A world without creativity and creative people is very bland. Throughout history, we have seen how our world has evolved with the existence of creative people and how through the power of creativity we have made a better world. Our world is a memory book of many creative artists, musicians, creators, and creative people who inspired many generations that came after. I have always considered myself a creative person and always have had a soft spot for the arts. Growing up I often spent my time drawing and coloring and finding different ways to implement being creative in my life. Sometimes I would dress for school in different colored clothing or wear mismatch socks as a display of my young creative expression. And as the years went on, I haven't stopped finding ways to apply creativity in my life. While I don't wear mismatched clothing anymore, lol, I do still enjoy expressing my creative side through drawing and digital design. In addition, being an architect student has exposed me to an entirely new sphere of creativity and craftsmanship. Observing other ways students express their creativity regarding architecture, greatly inspires my creative mind and makes me want to apply it more and more in my life. One way to always apply and learn how to embrace our inner creative selves, I have learned is through observing how others do so. When we take time to do this, we not only cherish creativity as a whole but also add to our own. I am glad that I understand the role that creativity plays in our world and my life. I'm also glad that every day I am learning new ways to apply creativity in my life and inspire others around me to do the same. Thank you for reading and God bless!

Every day, we are tasked with making choices. We choose whether we go here for lunch or not, to buy this or that, and the people who will surround us. It is a universal truth that with an endless number of choices that we are tasked to make, proper guidance is needed to make the best choice. A lack of this guidance may result in poor decision-making and alter the preferred outcomes in our lives. This guidance I speak of is no mystery, rather the wise words shared with us from those who we hold dear. We encounter them at different points in our lives and we cling to the ones that bear an unshakable truth. For me, this was when I had a heart-to-heart conversation with my grandmother regarding how to make the right decisions as a Christian in this world of countless paths. My grandmother being very wise and having dealt with this same question her youth and adulthood, kept it very straightforward with me as she often did in many conversations we had. She spoke in a firm yet affirmative tone saying, "always put God first, and he will lead you to always make the right choice". As expected, in that stage of my life, my grandma's wisdom didn't render extremely well at the time. However, as I have grown both physically and spiritually, her words of wisdom I hold very dear to my heart and take heed in moments where I'm unsure of the right choice. Through the wisdom of my grandmother and knowledge that comes from the word of God, I have learned that when I truly put God first and listen to his voice, I will never have to worry about lacking the proper guidance to make the right choice. Wisest words, thanks, grandma!

Nature and all the things that make up our natural environment are all manifestations of God. The Bible details in the book of Genesis how God created the earth and goes on to say it is his and its fulness thereof. (1 Corinthians 10:26) From the beginning of our creation, we have shared our existence with nature. Moreover, gaining an appreciation for the nature that surrounds us is a wonderful thing. From the birds chirping in the air to the trees flowing freely in their beauty, nature is truly a wonderful thing. My love for nature started in my youth when I would frequently be playing outside with my friends and engage with nature almost every day. The nostalgic breeze that I remember from a summer's warm day and the green plants around me always put a smile on my face. As I got older, my love for nature never diminished and I began to develop a greater appreciation for nature. My family also inspired my love for nature as my parents throughout my childhood were green thumbs. I recall every harvest my father's face filled with joy from the vegetation growth in his backyard and my mother would join in the excitement. This rubbed off on me and I have sought many ways to better understand and appreciate nature. I understand that doing my part to preserve and bolster others' attitudes towards preserving and appreciating nature is a profound way of showing love to the world of vegetation that God has blessed us with. Like everything in life, nature included has a period. And while we can't adjust that period, we can do our part to appreciate nature. Without nature, our world would be incomplete. So let us all join in lifetime commitments for loving and appreciating nature!

As a freshman in college, it has been quite the task of developing viable study strategies that are effective and repeatable. Like almost every college student, I too have had those moments where I did not feel motivated to study and often let procrastination take hold of my effort towards studying. Without a doubt, this is not sustainable for any person seeking to complete various forms of higher education, as tests make up a significant portion of overall grades. Therefore, developing a working study strategy or series of strategies helps to aid the mind in soaking up valuable information. To start, having an open and clear mind while studying has major impacts. There have been many times where I attempted to study for an upcoming test with a clogged mind which resulted in poor performance on the exam. I immediately noticed that the moment I began studying with a clear conscious and willful mindset to retain information, my outcome increased significantly. In addition to a clear mind, avoiding noisy distractions has tremendously helped me to better retain information and focus on the material I was reviewing. Studies indicate that when outside distractions are reduced or removed while studying, performance in the classroom inclines by a rate on average of 22%. I would also highlight having a snack nearby to satisfy any sudden hunger that way study productivity could maintain without any interruptions for ultimate results, which I can attest to works like a charm. So, pick up a snack and get going on studying! The simple fact is that as long as we are enrolled in an institution as a student we will have to study. So doing our part to arrange a study strategy or plan makes this part of our education much easier and we truly learn!

As Mr. Phelps stated in the opening of this scholarship description goals are highly needed in our lives, and they should be uncomfortable to get us to the next level. While goal setting is a widely sought-after activity, it does require a lot of due diligence to understand what it is we want to achieve. Our hearts and God-given talents greatly inspire the goals we set and understanding how to formulate these goals has always been a challenge of mine. One important aspect of setting goals that I have learned is the ability to identify the main goal and break it down into smaller achievements to obtain that desired goal. With this logic, I identify my ultimate as becoming a licensed architect with a profound portfolio of projects that I can call my own. I've learned to support this goal; I need a streamline of smaller goals and/or achievements to reach this one. School is the foundation of reaching my goal and is my duty to ensure that I excel in the classroom to one day be able to call myself an architect. A few of these streamlined goals include maintaining 3.0 g.p.a and higher, attending all my classes, taking good notes, etc. In addition to my education, developing future contacts through internships and getting involved in architecture-related organizations around campus also make a facet of the streamlined goals that I have set. For we know not what the future holds in store, but we do know we must make the absolute best of every moment God gives here on this earth. I strongly live by this principle through means of future and current goal setting and taking the small steps to reach the major rewards. For it is so, that when we sow a harvest, we reap a reward!

In my life, I have learned the value and importance of being patient. Practicing patience can be a very daunting task, but it is essential in a functional civilized world. Taking the proper steps to improve my ability to be patient has been a top priority of mine as I have gotten older. From a young age, we are taught to share with others and have patience with those around us. Rather it was our teachers or our parents, most people were taught to be patient. Being patient is important to me because to experience life to the fullest, we must be patient. Life more often than not works in stages. We go from one stage to the other, and in each stage of life, we are bound to experience different things. If we simply rush through these stages of our life, we will miss out on the various experiences and memories attached to each stage of our life. In the same token, it is also important to be patient with others around us. The reason being is there are members of our communities who may not be able to respond or react as swiftly as others, such as the elderly. To show them and others the proper respect they deserve, we all must value having patience and have empathy for others. I can honestly say that as I have gotten older, I have become more patient. This is a direct result of continuously educating myself on the value of patience and practicing it every day of my life. My life has been forever changed from the day I decided to be committed to being patient with others and I have a newfound respect for others.

As I have gotten older, I have learned to value the idea of taking time to practice self-care. In a very busy world, it can be often tough to find the time to practice self-care. However, I have found that it is essential in ensuring that I do so to be the best version of myself. I practice self-care by setting aside time every day and working on improving areas in my life that I struggle with. In addition, I strive to surround myself with people who are also supporters of self-care who encourage me to always prioritize myself and make the best decisions. Finding the time to take mental breaks or indulge in a hobby is also another way that I practice self-care. While my life may be busy, I understand the importance of self-care and want to continue to find better ways to practice self-care. Studies show that people who take time to practice self-care are more times than not happier and are better at managing their time. In the same token, most health professionals highly encourage people to engage in activities that allow them to practice self-care. As we adapt to our daily lives and manage our times between demanding needs, we must always remember to practice self-care and be the best we can be!

Growing as an individual has always been a struggle for me in life. I am very swift at identifying areas that need growth or maturation but find it at times difficult to improve in these areas. As I have grown older and become more aware of myself, I began to invest more into the idea of having a growth mindset. A growth mindset to me is a person's willingness to recognize their shortcomings and make the corrections to be a better version of themselves. As I stated previously, this has been a challenge for me for the greater part of my life, however, I understand the value of growth and aspire to maintain a growth mindset. The first part of embracing personal growth is recognizing the area(s) that need improvement. To do this, I set aside time every day and reflect on areas in my life that I undoubtedly know need improvement and actively work on producing growth in these areas. Second, I set out daily objectives following my reflection periods to achieve. These objectives could be as small as smiling more or even more impactful as using a calmer tone in conversations with others. Through these means, I am better able to maintain a growth mindset and hold myself accountable for shortfalls in my life. While personal accountability and growth may be hard, it is essential in transforming ourselves into better people. I have learned through personal experience that when we treasure self-reflection and aid reflection with growth, we are not only doing ourselves a favor but also those around us. Each day of life that God gives us is truly a blessing, so we must optimize this blessing by holding ourselves accountable and always growing!

The ability to empathize with someone else is essential in personal growth and development. Many people in this life go through things that they may not have control over, and more often than not a simple act of compassion can make their situation that much better. I have made it my life's goal to always treat others with empathy. In my life, I have always been constantly reminded about the value of treating others with empathy. Whether it was my own personal issue or others around me, I always have had a heart for others. In addition, I always make sure that I keep myself educated on topics around the everyday struggles that people face and read the Bible for guidance on how to treat others. My own life has taught me the value of doing so as well. I can recall times where my household finances were "iffy", and others were empathetic towards my family and offered us financial assistance. It is moments like these that you truly don't forget, and it is also these moments that are humbling. Giving back to those in need, volunteering in local community organizations, and offering an encouraging word are a few of the ways I treat others with empathy. Along those same lines, I also make sure that I never forget where I have come from which also ensures that I continue to treat others with empathy. Living a life full of compassion and empathy always is worth the effort and our lives will always be blessed for our good deeds. While I have made it my life's mission to always treat others with empathy, I also encourage everyone around me to do the same. For when we humble ourselves then we will be walking in our purposes!

The ability to speak freely and express a stance on a particular matter is always something that should be cherished. In a free society that encourages free thought and civil discourse, we must always be committed to always speaking our minds while still being mindful of others around us. Every day I strive to ensure my commitment to speaking my mind. Freethinkers have always pushed society into higher levels of thinking and through people speaking their minds changes have come upon our world for the better. Growing up my parents always taught me the importance of speaking what was true and expressing how I felt on certain issues. This trickled on into my young adult life as I am still an adamant believer that people should always have the right and feel obligated to speak what is on their mind. In the same instance, while I am always reaffirming my commitment to speaking what is on my mind, I also recognize that what is sometimes on my mind must not be said. If it is something that puts someone else down or might be hurtful, then that thought would not be spoken. However, I am a strong believer that if something that can encourage, uplift, or present a problem to a solution comes to mind, then it must be said. Just as my parents taught me growing up, I will instill in my offspring the importance of speaking their minds while still being respectful towards others. This is return is another way that I stay committed to speaking my mind and ensuring that the future generation also does the same. Words are powerful and can be used for good or to harm. Let's always commit to speaking our minds for the betterment of society!

Throughout my life, I have always found ways to reach the next level of success. Like most people, I have a bucket list of things that I want to accomplish in my life. It is always important to set goals and even more important to achieve those goals. My bucket list is very simple yet also very complex. The three pillars that make up my life's bucket list are God, family, and finance. To start with God, I desire to be a man of God who walks in his purpose and is about his father's business. Secondly, regarding family on my bucket list, I desire to always be family-oriented and make sure that my family is taken care of. Lastly, for the 3rd pillar of my bucket list being finance, I want to be financially successful and have the ability to put the people around me in better positions. So far in my journey towards achieving the goals on my bucket list, I have been actively working towards making these things come to fruition. While the journey towards achieving the things we want may be long, it is essential to get us to the next stage in our lives!

STEM is an emerging conglomerate that gained momentum in the late 1900s through a vast swab of discoveries. Through STEM, society has evolved into the modern world we recognize it as today. My interest in STEM started in my youth and carried on into my college life with a declared major in Architecture (Formally designated a STEM field on July 31, 2018, by the 115th Congress of the United States). As far back as I could remember, I always had a unique interest in design and construction. I frequented many tv shows and watched countless news series on the innovative world of what I would come to know as architecture. The way a team of architects would come together to design a building always sparked my interest as a kid and influenced a larger part of my childhood. Along with architects, I would learn, that engineers and other professionals were essential in the development and design of a building. This was my first introduction to the world of STEM, and I was captivated from that moment forward. I began my small childhood projects with the goal of imitating what I saw on television. I would draw out plans and create small-scale popsicle stick structures based on my drawings. This practice continued throughout my childhood and diverted into digital form through the popular sandbox game Minecraft. Later on in my life, I familiarized myself with perspective drawings and digital design tools such as SketchUp to continue my passion for design and construction. As I got closer to deciding my focus of study for college, I knew that I wanted to major in architecture and had a unique admiration for STEM. In the fall of 2021, I started my journey at the University of Texas at San Antonio in pursuit of my undergraduate degree in architecture. Over time I learned that it was my passion for STEM in my youth that influenced my decision to pursue a career in STEM. As the data suggest, Hispanics and people of color are underrepresented in many prominent STEM fields. While this is a significant fact within the STEM community, it is not the final call. With more and more minority students showing a growing interest in STEM careers, there will come a time where the data will suggest a more equitable diverse share of people in STEM. After obtaining my undergraduate degree in architecture, I want to begin my career as an architect. While I will be the only person working physically for myself, I know that my work will be a turning point for other minorities interested in STEM as I will represent a new generation of minorities involved in STEM careers. In addition, I also want to encourage and uplift my community through my involvement in STEM. Many in our community struggle with identifying positive role models and are often looking up to individuals who do not have their best interest at hand. While I am not perfect, my key desire is to uplift my community by being an inspiration to the younger generations that with God all things are possible. I also want to be an ambassador of STEM to my community, displaying all the opportunities that can come from participation in STEM fields. Though the journey towards a more diverse group of STEM professionals may appear far, it is worth every step in ensuring equal representation in this sector of the economy. Minorities have a long-standing tradition of excellence and with the proper motivation, we can achieve anything we set our minds to. With God we are unstoppable!

I was born Cedric Pitts to my wonderful mother Clarissa and amazing father Kerry. I am a fun, loving, and caring person who is also introverted funny enough. My passion for my people is strong as the wind and my drive towards achieving success can be compared to a v8 engine. Giving back to my community and others is important to me and has always been a significant part of my upbringing. In my life, I hope to blossom as the flowers do in the spring and envision living in a world full of other blossoming people on their purpose! Thank you, scholarship donor, and may God bless you!

Greetings and Happy New Year to the scholarship donor. To introduce myself, my name is Cedric Pitts and I reside in the sunny Texan metropolitan city of San Antonio. I am the son of Clarissa Powell (Mother) and Kerry Pitts (Father) and am an only child. I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Texas at San Antonio studying Architecture. I enjoy playing video games, reading the Bible, and hanging out with friends. Some of my role models are the great Dr. King and Mr. Rogers, being they were great men of moral character, and they influenced my life through their books and life's work. This has inspired me to be a better person and has given me a great example of what it is to be a stand-up individual. My interest in STEM started a long time ago in my youth. I was fascinated by the idea of creating real-world technologies and developments that ushered society into the modern era. Throughout time, the world has seen many great inventions and developments that aided in the creation of new industries. For instance, the ".com" era in the 1980s-1990s, or the "modern military" following WW1, as well as the "Crypto era" of the late 2000s, have all brought new changes to our society. These changes as well as many others did not come from thin air. Rather they were developed by people with a unique interest in sophisticated technologies that could alter the way the world operates. It is the men and women of STEM that have created a new digital and physical domain in society that has greatly contributed to the modern era. Being an architect major, I have a very keen interest in creating a technology that will optimize the way we design physical structures. With architecture being considered a STEM field on July 31, 2018, by the 115th congress of the United States, gave way for the broader development of architecture as a whole. With a unique connection to STEM and rich history of innovative design(s), my goal is to create an optimal design and planning system that will allow future architects to create a design in greater depths and reduce the design timeframe. Currently, the design timeframe for most residential and commercial buildings is 5 months to a year in the United States. Therefore, reducing this timeframe will allow for a greater yearly quantity of buildings and a significant boom in the industry. With a single-use computer design software suited for optimization and efficacy, the world of architecture could see major improvements. My software would reduce the time of design while allowing for safe thorough observation of the design to best suit its use. This will positively impact the world by establishing the format for the construction of twice the number of buildings yearly and reduce the overall stress with everyone involved with the design process of a structure. In addition, the rate at which communities could recover from natural disasters on a global scale would also double, which would minimize the effect of the natural disasters displacement of community members. Technologies similar to this concept are in development and have gained traction such as various 3d printing concepts. However, I believe my computer software program would make an even bigger impact globally. As we advance as a society, we must always find innovative ways to keep our progression going. Through the countless fields associated with STEM, we can lay out our future. While it is uncertain what the future may hold, it is certain what we can do to make it awesome!

Living with bravery is an everyday goal of mine. I know that to achieve my goals, I need to be brave in all my endeavors. Along with bravery living a bold life is also important in maintaining a constant stream towards a rewarding life. Without bravery and living boldly, I would not be the person I am today. I dream one day to become an architect and share my ideas to inspire the emerging physical world. Through education and formal training, I want to shape the new wave of architecture and design. While I dream big, I understand the fundamentals of having the bravery and living boldly to get to where I aspire to be. On my daily journey towards greatness, I need to work on taking brave actions towards my future success and dream bigger than I ever have before. In the same sense, I also strive to live boldly in my actions and the way I view my life. I seek guidance from the Bible and the elders of my community. I also make sure that I engage with others who have experienced similar obstacles by living boldly to ensure that I am the best version of myself. I hope is to lead by example; therefore, I want my life to display the true essence of having bravery and living boldly to captivate future generations. As the saying goes "We miss 100% of the shots we don't take" and we will never truly walk in our full potential if we don't maintain bravery every day of our lives. Yes, we will face setbacks and have to come back to the drawing board, but we must never give up. I first encourage myself and others to always practice bravery and live boldly to change the world!

Selflessness is defined as being concerned more with the needs and wishes of others than with one's self. It is a fact that people are always in constant need of help and helping those in need should always be our duty. With a lifelong commitment to being selfless, we can change the world for the better. Similar to many others, there have been times in my life where I did not always have the proper number of things that I needed. My parents worked hard to provide me with what I needed, but oftentimes at the cost of their own free time. Despite their busy work schedules, and low income, they always thought about the well-being of others. My parents took the little that they had and blessed other people in our community. This introduced and taught me the value of being selfless. Watching my parents joyfully give their last to make sure others could eat showed me the positive effect of helping those in need. Along those lines, I too became an adamant giver and always find ways to give back to my community. The example my parents set out in my youth taught me that no matter what you should always be selfless. This mindset of being selfless has garnered me many opportunities to serve my community through volunteering and social work. I have volunteered in countless local food banks, and I am a regular donator to the children's shelter and Salvation Army. While my parents may have struggled at the time, they knew that God blesses those that give. He honors the people who share their last with others, just as God has given us his all. My parents stayed steadfast that being selfless is the way to go, and I encourage all to do the same!

My name is Cedric Pitts, and I reside in the city of San Antonio, Texas. I am 19 years of age and am a current student at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I come from a single-parent household, and I also am a low-income student seeking an opportunity for greatness. I enjoy playing video games and am a persistent reader of the word of God. I started my college journey this Fall semester as a first-generation freshman student among my parents and have a lot of aspirations in obtaining my bachelor's degree in Architecture. Transitioning from high school to college at times has been challenging, and when you factor in the cost of college attendance the stress can become more eminent. Nonetheless, I am determined and focused on reaching the end of my college journey as a victor in the long, yet joyous road towards success. Growing up my parents always taught me about the value of education and how important it is to obtain a good education to benefit myself in the future. Albeit the long time and motivations required to progress in an educational journey, one must remain resilient in their journey to ultimate greatness. In the words of the late Dr. King, "Education must enable a man to become more efficient, to achieve with increasing facility the legitimate goals of his life.” King understood the value of education being a scholar himself and understood its implications living in a divided world at the time where the men and women of color were deprived of rights if they lacked proper education. Like Dr. King and many other great figures of our world, I too bolster the strong implication of education and strongly agree it should not be contained to one's self. When I walk that grand stage and I hear the speaker say my name and hand me my diploma, I will know without a doubt that my college journey has paid off. My goal is to go and become an architect, however, not stopping just there. I want to be a role model and leader to the generations that trail me and be a bright shining beacon of hope that with education dreams can become reality. This brings me back to what my parents instilled in me as a young man, and what will forever be my driving factor regarding my education. The world needs dire role models and leaders, who can not only boost their successes but also instill in the next generations of people the value of their education that leads to success. It is through the emergence of these people that society will begin to evolve and grow wholeheartedly. I want to leave a great impact on this world and those that follow that with education dreams can become a reality and lives will be forever changed. In closing, I hope to inspire the world with this new profound idea and through my education to shine bright as a beacon of hope and encouragement.

The act of being grateful towards something or someone is often overlooked in this world. We often don't realize the sheer amount of people who work diligently to make sure that we have all the things we need. In addition, we also don't spend enough time recognizing those who make major sacrifices to assure our way of life is sustained. The police officers who safeguard our streets, the firefighters who battle fire outbreaks, the mailmen/woman who deliver our parcels, and many more who work diligently to make our living easier often go unthanked. In my life, I recognize the sacrifices these men and women make daily and make it an effort to always show my gratitude to them. I understand that these individuals do not have to do what they do, and I value their time to make our world a better and safer place. I am filled with gratitude to all especially my parents who have sacrificed so much to get me to where I am today. I thank God for an amazing set of parents that have molded me into the young man that I am and have guided me towards a path of greatness. I am also grateful for God, for he provides me with protection, direction, and much more daily and I worship and honor him for that. I also thank God for all that he has blessed me with. From the food in my refrigerator to the clothes that I wear, I am truly grateful for all that I have! I have learned in my life when we spend time reflecting on all God has blessed us with, we can truly see how much we have. This allows us to express our true gratitude and appreciate those who work diligently even more!

Life is a precious gift from God. In this world and life that we live, we have a lot of opportunities to change it for better or worse. When we get up every day that God allows us to live and walk in our lives purpose, that is a clear indication that we understand the meaning of life. To just live is not enough, rather we must live with a purpose which is the true meaning of life. In my daily battle between doing what is right and wrong, I often find myself at a crossroads. Deciding between paying attention in class or goofing off resulting in the loss of information, constantly plagues my mind. It is the willingness to make a good decision over the bad that shows people understand their purpose. My purpose in this life is set forth by God, who has a road map for my life that I seek to follow. The Bible says, " For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). God's plan is like no other and with his plan lies the meaning of our living. With this in mind, I make it my everyday mission to become a better person and grow in the plan God has set forth for me. I value the Lord's input regarding my life and seek ways to change my perspective and show him daily that I understand the true meaning of life. While our life's meaning may become vague at times, God gives us a clear understanding that is worth following! Remember you have a purpose and with God, all things are forever possible!

The idea of being a part of the STEM field of work has always been a dream of mine from a young age. Growing up, I heard a lot of talk about the emerging STEM careers and how these jobs would lead society forward. From that moment I knew that I was interested in STEM careers and often pondered the question of joining that field of work in my adulthood. The short acronym STEM, standing for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, is a set of branded careers consisting of individuals who do outstanding work. From the cars we drive to the buses that take our children from school and back, STEM careers have influenced major aspects of our daily lives. We often forget how much people in these professions add to our living experience and how their expertise makes the world a more efficient place. This was what drew me to the idea of STEM and its related careers. I was intrigued by how so many individuals could contribute to our society, all under the banner of STEM. My passion for STEM grew over the years and I often found myself researching all about STEM and its history. The idea of STEM had been around since the late 1900s but was nationally recognized by the U.S government as an educational focus in 2001 by scientific administrators at the U.S. National Science Foundation (www.britannica.com/topic/STEM-education). This was a major mark in history for STEM which led to the formation of prominent STEM careers and applications in society. With such a rich history and growth worldwide, STEM became one of my prominent passions and something that I encouraged others to get involved in. Through STEM, many notable companies have been able to take rise. Multi-national corporations such as Google and Facebook have greatly benefited from STEM in their initial development and are among some of the world's largest STEM career employers. The advancement of STEM accelerated entrepreneurship leading to the creation of many prominent organizations. Similar to the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s, STEM triggered a massive movement towards advancing society using optimization and innovation. This boom in entrepreneurship backed by STEM led to the creation of many modern technologies we enjoy today such as phones and tablets, and even more technical inventions like AI. While I aspire to be in a STEM field in the future through architecture, I also want to be an entrepreneur. My goal is to also change the way physical design and planning are done using STEM principles as the lead for this transition. It's evident how STEM and entrepreneurship have shaped our world in the modern-day age. Not only by providing good-paying jobs with creative tasks but also by giving the world a set of recognized professionals in a focused field of study. This worldwide spread of STEM will continue to lead us forward in a world full of endless possibilities. It must be our mission to always advance STEM and entrepreneurship so future generations can add to our quest towards greatness. I am glad to have shared my passion for STEM and entrepreneurship with you all and thank you for making this scholarship available! God Bless!

Having a unique skill that can benefit yourself or others around you is important in an ever-evolving world. Many of us have been witnesses to people who have mastered their craft and we are often amazed at their perfection. When Lebron James goes down the court and lands a monster dunk, or when Stephen Curry splashes a 3-pointer from the half-court line, it is these skills that make us unique. My best skill is my ability to see the physical world differently. Not to spook you all out, I'm referring to the buildings that make up our physical world. As my bio states, I am an architect major who loves the aspects of physical design and planning. I enjoy viewing different buildings and researching the construction process of these various buildings to gain an understanding of how they were made. I consider this a skill because, in my future field, observation of preexisting structures is a required skill to understand future construction plans. For instance, if I was tasked with designing a building inspired by the Empire State Building (Prototype), then I would need to have a keen ability to be able to decipher the many parts of the building for my design (Example). To improve on this skill, I strive to research a lot about different building techniques and materials. In addition, I find research studies that mention building positioning and search for relevant websites that speak on the building's architectural history. By doing so I am better able to improve on my skill and gain a new understanding for future observations. Each one of us has a different skill that makes us unique in an ever-evolving world. It isn't until we hone down on these skill and work towards improvement that we will truly master our crafts!

Greetings, my name is Cedric Pitts, and I am a 19-year-old Freshman at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I am an architect major with a keen interest in design and spatial planning. I spend most of my free time playing sports and watching television. I also am a proud Christian who loves to worship and fellowship with my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. The act of giving back to others is extremely essential in a world plagued by greed. So many times, people do not have the adequate number of things they need to live a sustainable life. This truth weighs heavier for people of color, with most figures showing our ethnic group as well below modern poverty lines. We are statistically more likely to rely on public assistance and our average household incomes fall well below our racial counterparts. This is why the importance of giving back and providing resources to people who are disadvantaged in our community is extremely important. Another issue that plagues our community is the housing placement of residential units. More often than not, black residents are situated in neighborhoods with little grocery stores to provide fresh produce and goods. This leaves many in our community in what is referred to as a food desert. These food deserts are enormously detrimental to our community and are a primary reason why giving back within our community is important. Tying back on the average household income within our community, many members of our community cannot afford the rising prices of goods and services due to inflation and other means. They are forced to seek faulty alternatives, and many go without the proper good or services they are seeking. This in addition, also adds to the great pillar of arguments for supporting our community through giving back. Having been a community volunteer and advocate for the greater majority of my life, I truly understand the importance of giving back to my community and my people. I have seen the conditions and many hardships that we face as African Americans, which has reaffirmed my commitment to always help those in need. While I do not have a limitless amount of money and resources, I do have heart and compassion towards people that look like me who are struggling. In my own life, it has been by the grace of God that I was always fed and clothed in my right mind. Disparities and adversity don't discriminate which underlines my willingness to help. With my platform in the coming 3-5 years, I want it to be my mission to uplift the people of my community. I want to be able to be a leader and bring people together to identify the key issues that we face and implement solutions to them. I vividly remember the joy that people had when they would receive aid from the local community food bank or toy drive. I remember volunteering at these events and feeling satisfaction knowing that I helped to make someone's load a bit easier to handle. I seek this satisfaction in the present day and want to always do my part to give back. Having the humility to desire to help others displays a person's true moral and overall character. It is truly when we give back that we show God that we are grateful and joyfully seek to better the lives of others. The Bible assures us in Matthew 25:40 that when we have given to the least of our brothers and sisters, we have also given unto to the Lord! God bless and thank you!

Growing up I was always told to "dream big and shoot for the stars". Like many kids, these sayings always made me believe that with the right attitude I could achieve anything. As I have gotten older, I have learned that goal setting and achieving goals is a very rewarding part of life. For it is goals that push us to be great and allow us to change the world. Living in a world with many successful people who have changed the world, has inspired me to want to be great. From my youth to the present day, I admire all those who have gone above and beyond to achieve absolute excellence. My goals for my future are to be the best version of myself. In all aspects of my life, I want to display greatness in all that I do. In my spiritual walk with God, I aspire to be a strong, wise, and courageous man of God. I want my life to be a testament to others that God is good always. In my education, I want to always give the best that I can and walk in my future career with full knowledge and understanding to be effective in my work. Some of my other goals in my life are to be a community advocate and community helper who never mind lending a helping hand to those in need. These goals are very important to me, and I know that with the right attitude I can achieve them. I set goals in my life because it is goals that push us to be great and allow us to change the world. While my goals may be big, I serve an even bigger God who promises to be with me along my life's journey. Remember goals are essential!

Studying can be a very daunting task that requires a ton of perseverance. In my first semester of college, I often found myself studying a lot to be prepared for my various tests. Creating good study habits and finding time throughout the day to study is essential for any student. Transitioning into college and adjusting to the flow of college has been a challenge over my first semester. With the increased class size and the additional volume of study material, I often felt overwhelmed. In high school, I did not have the best study habits which I quickly learned in college would hinder me. It wasn't until my first round of tests that I realized that I needed to create a valuable study strategy to succeed. The first part of my study strategy that I developed was writing down my upcoming tests' and pasting the note on my bedroom wall. This would ensure that I was aware of all upcoming test dates and could adequately prepare for them. The next part of my strategy was deciding on my study duration based on the level of test difficulty. For instance, if I had a test that I knew was more demanding, then I would study a week or two more than others. Lastly, to avoid procrastination, I challenged myself every day to sit down for a couple of hours and study. By doing so I would be assured that I spent the proper amount of time preparing for my tests. Studying can be a very daunting task but with the right study strategy and the right attitude, studying can be an enjoyable part of learning. In addition, studying helps our brain to remember key material from lectures and lock it in for future reference!

Getting through obstacles in life can be a very daunting task. A times obstacles we face appear bigger than what they seem, which required us to keep pushing forward. Like many people, my life has been filled with obstacles that I had to persist in. In just a couple of sentences of your time, I will embellish. Growing up I was extremely passionate about sports. I played on a little league team for 9 years and enjoyed every moment of it. I played at the primary guard position and lead my team in points and assist. If you have any knowledge about AAU teams, you'll know that they require a substantial amount of money to operate. Money is required to fund the team's travel, games, uniforms, and lodging in games abroad. Whenever an AAU team needs money, who does it turn to, yes that's right the players. Unlike the other players, my spot on the team was sponsored by another parent because the fees were very high. Later on, in the season my teammate ended up moving out of state and with him his mother who funded my position on the team. Without her son playing on the team, she was not willing to sponsor me any longer. Therefore, with my parent's little financial support at the time, I began to scramble for a generous sponsor. With little hope, I had to be persistent to stay on the team. Persistence ultimately landed me another sponsor who was generous enough to cover my dues for the season. I remain in touch with that sponsor to this day and always find ways to give back as they did for me during my AAU basketball years. The ability to be persistent towards something you value is always important, and we must never quit!

The possibility of failure rings as a constant reminder in my head to stay on top of things. In all honesty, if I could list all my past mistakes or failures, it would take me a while. However, my failure is where character is developed, which was a lesson I learned down the road. A vivid memory comes to mind around a time in my life where I was under extreme pressure to perform well. It was my 5th-grade year towards the end of the academic season. My grades did not meet the criteria to be considered a potential passing student. For reference, this did not mean I was failing the class, it simply meant that I was barely passing with the high stakes of not passing the state's assessment. In Texas at the time, every elementary level student in the 3 and 5th grades had to take a final assessment known as STAAR to go on to the next grade level. I worked diligently that year to improve in the areas that I struggled with little result. The idea of not continuing to middle school was a big blow to my academic success. I was required previously to repeat the 1st grade and did not want to be held back for another year in elementary school. The constant stress of striving to pass while preparing for my STAAR examination weighed heavy on my mental health. I began to stress often and did not want to socialize much due to the added pressure of failing. No matter how I or my parents tried to encourage me, I was set in the mindset of defeat. I went on like this for several weeks dreading the day that the state assessment would come. I remember despite my low mindset always striving to improve in and out of the classroom. I was weeks away from taking my exam and I remembered a valuable lesson that my grandmother always told me. She said, "Baby no matter how hard the going gets, you have to keep going". Sitting in my room studying as well as in the classroom I marinated on my grandma's wise words and applied them to my studies. This was my way of "turning it up to 11" and putting my best foot forward to succeed. Eventually, the day came for me to take the test and I felt more confident after having changed my mindset towards my education. After finishing the exam, I left the classroom with extreme confidence knowing that I gave it my all and "turned it up to 11". A week or two went by and my teacher called me into the hallway to render my test results. When I say the expression on my face was indescribable when my teacher said I passed the test and was commended. I remember being filled with joy following the news and my parents joined in my celebration. I had done it; I had finally passed the "dreadful" test and was on my way to middle school. Reflecting on my setback in elementary I can always be grateful that I triumphed over adversity. Due to my change of perspective, I did not allow past difficulties and current setbacks to hinder my ability to perform well on the test. This was a testament to my hard work, but more importantly the work of God in us. His word assures us that with him all things are possible! It was through my grandma's wise words that he reminded me of his promise, and I encourage all to "turn it up to 11"!

As we go through our everyday lives, we often come across moments of adversity. Adversity teaches us how to overcome obstacles in our lives and allows us to share with others how to also overcome their adversities. In my life, I have had to persevere through adversity which has helped to make me a better person and allowed me to grow in general. While these moments can sometimes be painful, they are essential in helping us to mature and grow as we go through various things in life. Throughout multiple stages of my life, I have had to battle with adversity. The battle has not always been easy, and many times I felt like giving up, but I knew with the right attitude I could prevail. In addition, knowing that I was not the only person experiencing adversity helped me along my journey. This showed me the value of having a group of people or a community that can learn and grow from each other. Being able to go through tough moments in life to help others is what brings greater value to us as people. With the constant strain of being a student, it can become increasingly easy to harbor thoughts of fear and anxiety. This was my reality for many years throughout my secondary education. And as I went into college the increased workload increased the pressure to succeed. This was a huge burden for me, and it took a lot of self-motivation to keep moving forward. As I mentioned earlier having a tight nit community of people to whom you can help through their journeys is vitally important. Not only will this help us to grow but is also a way of giving back to our community. To better the people in our community, it is important to invest in them the wisdom that can bring about positive change. It would be extremely wrong to dismiss moments of investment within our community where we could have left a positive impact. This is my desire as I grow older. I want my moments of struggle and adversity to help future generations. I want to be a role model for others and display a godly example of what it means to be the best version of ourselves. I also want to be a community figure that people can view as approachable and aid in the development of my community for the better. People who are willing to be vulnerable and share their past experiences are becoming very rare, but this world and our communities desperately need individuals who can do so to inspire others. I remember my community leaders growing up and the wisdom they shared with me about how to live a productive life that is pleasing to God. I remember them always living how they encouraged us to do so, and they never shied away from helping others in need. The future is bright and holds many opportunities for all of us. God has given us all great potential and the will to strive towards that greatness. Alone we can accomplish great things, but together we can change the world! If we all have the interest of our communities in mind and give back to those same communities that once gave to us, we then will see a change in our world. While my story of overcoming adversity and giving back to my community may not be uncommon, I want it along with many to inspire others to always keep moving forward and to give back to their community. (Thank you scholarship donor and God bless!)

Life can be tricky and often requires moments of reflection to gain an understanding of times where we feel were questionable. The ability to reflect or examine our past is a part of growth and human development. Without reflection, there would be no metric for us to go off on regarding personal growth. Our goal is to always be the best versions of ourselves, and to do so we need to be completely honest and come to terms with moments of reflection. So far in my life, things have been going steady. Being in school studying architecture, I spend a lot of my days routinely studying and preparing myself for the next assignment. A pretty routine schedule exists for me as a college student with a combination of work and study. Through my first semester in college, I have learned what it takes to be successful. The rhythm of college and what is expected has become known to me and has shaped my hope for the future. I'm adamant about passing and excelling in all my classes in the hopes of graduating and landing a good-paying job. This is what drives me to work hard and shapes my outlook for the future. The morals and ethics that I was raised on still ring strong in my mind daily and I understand that my future greatly depends on it. As I live out each day, I use moments of bad and good to improve upon on the next day. I observe my mistakes and re-implement my wins to better shape my future. This process rises from true honesty and self-reflection that aids all people. What the future may hold, is to be determined, but what I can control now is what I will make the best of!

Throughout our lives, we are told that we can do and achieve anything. While this saying is true and noble at heart, it negates the fact that the many resources required to achieve said things are uncommon in the hands of common people. With the mind's endless ability to make goals by setting future aspirations, it can become easy to fall disappointed when these goals are not met. However, it is aspiration that drives passion which is the motor that keeps our dreams alive. My goal in a nutshell, is to be a very successful man both spiritually and financially. I want to be able in my older years to reflect on my life and be pleased with having achieved so much. Moreover, I am not naive, and understand that to achieve these goals hard work is required. The concept of hard work is not foreign to me but rather was ingrained in me at a young age. From witnessing my parents' work and all the effort that they put into their respective fields, I understood the value of hard work. I envision in my future to be a professional architect who is extremely involved in his church. I also envision myself as a compassionate and empathetic man who never minds lending a helping hand. While hard work is what gets me in the position that I aspire to be in, education is my way forward. Through education and hard work, I can be in the absolute best position to better myself and those around me. I can also lead the way forward for the next generation by being an influential figure. The road to success might be long, but it is worth every day and every mile towards greatness!

My name is Cedric Pitts, and I am from San Antonio, Texas. I'm currently an undergraduate architecture student at the University of Texas of San Antonio. I am 19 years of age and enjoy playing video games and watching television. I value education and plan on using my education to better the world. As I was growing up, I often struggled with figuring out what I enjoyed doing. Like most kids, I had many things that sparked my interest but didn't hone down on architecture until I reached my sophomore year of high school. Reflecting on my younger years I remember building with popsicle sticks make-shift houses and buildings and pretending to be a city manager. It was through young imagination that I grew a passion for design and urban development. The way buildings were constructed from geometric forms to complex load systems is what sparked my interest in the world of architecture. I frequently visited museums of art and architecture to learn about how society became the great industrialized urban world that it is today. These reflections of my past and the current fascination with building and design lead to my decision to major in architecture. Architecture is the platform in which the world uses to build its way forward. It is through architects and engineers that the modern world is what it is today. To achieve my goal of becoming an architect, I must receive formal training and obtain a degree in architecture. This Fall I set out on my journey to obtain my degree and have huge aspirations once my formal education is finished. In the span of 4 or 5 years, I will have obtained the knowledge of how to properly design structures and add to the physical landscape of the world. I want my education to benefit those around me and the future clients I will serve in the workplace. I want to be an inspiration as an architect for all to marvel at and influence generations that follow me. As an architect, you keep a portfolio of all the projects or commissions that you have worked on. These portfolios are tools used to reflect on past projects and correct errors where needed. After my career, I want my portfolio to contain a plethora of great designs and projects that would have benefited my community and the world at large. With the rapid growth of green energy and green design as a point of departure, I want to lead the charge in creating an environmentally physical landscape that all can appreciate. From every fine detail, I want to embody the exact definition of being a professional and being a leader in the workplace. I aspire to be like a sponge soaking in knowledge and new understanding to enhance my career. I want to also be humble enough to observe my mistakes and make corrections where needed. The world will always have a strong dependency on new designers and problem solvers that can usher in the new wave of innovation. If my career doesn't leave a legacy for the younger generations to follow, then my work was in vain. For it is essential that my education and work influence others to work even harder and motivate me to keep thriving forward. In closing, I encourage all no matter what your dream is to always follow your heart. Never allow a negative thought to hinder your growth, nor let anyone tell you that your dream is too big. The Bible says that we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength (Philippians 4:13). It is this mindset that will continue to fuel my path towards greatness and my plan on making a difference in the world!

Equality and diversity are essential in any functional society. For society to progress we need to find ways always to bolster equality and diversity. Equality and diversity are very important to me and every day I find ways to advance this in my community. I truly value all the people of different backgrounds that make up my great community. Sadly, in this world there are many that do not have the same values for others that come from different backgrounds. In an everyday struggle to advance society to move from old toxic ways into a progressive society that accepts all. My goal is to combat these people with love and kindness and show them the value of accepting others. I have participated in many city-based projects and commissions on advancing community relations and bringing people together all throughout San Antonio. Being one of the fastest growing cities, San Antonio is home to a large group of diverse people. In order to produce more and more diversity, we need acceptance to all!

Nature is what makes our physical world as we know it. Nature has shaped our lives and constantly surrounds us every day. It is important to protect and value nature to preserve its contents for generations to come. Without nature, this world would be very different and our lives would not be the same. Therefore, if we all do our part to protect nature it will be here to stay. Like most kids, I grew up playing and learning in nature. Whether it was the classroom or our mundane recess hour, nature made up a big chunk of my youth. A picture-perfect scene with the sun shining bright and the trees casting a shadow for shade on a summer's day. The possibilities as a kid roaming in the vast swab of nature seemed endless. With an imagination that bared no limitations, nature made the perfect catalyst for my youthly activities growing up. As I got older, I still maintained the same respect for nature and grew to love it even more. As I was made aware of the climatic problems that negatively affect nature, I understood it was essential for nature enthusiasts, such as myself, to preserve it. We humans are constantly bombarded with reminders to protect nature. Although this can get a bit redundant, it is important to be reminded to always look out for nature. When we do so it displays our character and gratitude to the Lord who gave us nature to enjoy here on Earth. It is truly a blessing to see and embrace nature in all its fullness and foster its continuity for generations to come. In conclusion, if we are good to nature, nature will be good to us!

Creativity is what makes the dullness in our world livelier. It is through creativity that we can express ourselves to the world and leave our mark. I aspire every day to find ways to be more creative to spice things up in my life. I use various mediums such as drawing and written text to express my creativity. One thing to mention is that I love color and texture. Whenever I am drawing my goal is to always include the most texture and color throughout the painting. I'll alternate the bristles to create silky smooth textures that can bring out a new point of departure for my artwork. Another way I seek to apply creativity in my life is in the classroom. When the course instructor gives us an assignment with leverage on its design, that is my signal to indulge in my creative side. I immediately begin brainstorming a plethora of ideas and ways that I could execute these ideas. I remember just this past fall semester; my Composition 1 group was tasked with creating a board game. As a group member, I made it my duty to tap into my creative side to provide good input for the design elements of the board game. This didn't come as a surprise to me because I enjoy being creative. Creativity has certainly helped to shape the person I am today and mold the passions I hold deeply. I cherish every moment where I could apply an increasing amount of creativity in my life to benefit not only myself but those around me. I'm assured creativity is a God-given gift to which I value and treasure and encourage others to do the same!

Throughout our lives, we set many goals for ourselves. It is goals that drive us to be great and become a better version of ourselves. As I was reading over this essays' prompt, I didn't take long for a writing idea to come to mind. I am a very ambitious person and achieving my goals is my top priority. My goal in this world, while I am still here dwelling among it, is to be as successful as possible. Success in my view is more than just money, rather it's an overall feeling of satisfaction after having achieved an intended goal. I aspire to be the absolute best version of myself and to fully walk in my life's purpose. I want to be an inspiration to the generations that trail me and hope to those still on their lives journey when I near the conclusion of mine. It is my hope and goal that in my years of living I will have achieved excellence in my education, job, spiritual growth and development, and much more. This reminds me of another scholarship prompt about leaving a legacy, to which I am certain that achieving my goals will certainly do. Goal setting can be a very easy task. However, it is accomplishing the goals that we set that often become daunting and challenging. Despite the challenge, I am committed to achieving my goals through my years here on earth and encourage all to do the same. As I said previously, I want to be the absolute best version of myself and achieving my life's purpose is my top priority. I want my ambition and journey towards success to embody the absolute definition of determination and perseverance. I want to be an inspiration to others, correction, I will be an inspiration to others!

Passion is a feeling of intense enthusiasm towards or compelling desire for someone or something. It is a passion that drives us as human beings to be the greatest versions of ourselves and give the best we have to someone or something. It can be very easy to create a passion for something in a world full of endless needs and billions of people. When I think about passion, several things come to mind. I could talk about my passion for playing video games or my passion for becoming an architect, but I am certain my biggest passion is towards helping those in need. Throughout my 19 years of living, I am proud to have helped a countless number of people in need. Ranging from my participation in the San Antonio Food Bank to my generous donations to the Salvation Army, my philosophy is it is never wrong to lend a helping hand. I did not always accept my passion for helping people and often went with the in-crowd in regard to it. You know, the typical "not my problem" mindset which hurts so many in this country of endless wealth. As I have grown over the years, I began to understand the importance of my passion for the betterment of others and fully embraced it. Over just a mere 19 years on this planet, I can honestly reflect on my life with joy knowing I made positive feedback on someone else's life. I would encourage all to do the same despite your current socioeconomic status or mindset. It always pays to lend a helping hand and be a blessing to others! Thank you to the scholarship donor, and God bless!

Leaving a legacy is always something that many older generations encourage the younger generations to do. When you leave a legacy, it shows how you lived your life, and how your living benefited others. It is through a legacy that people can be remembered for their good deeds and contributions to society. Like many people in this world, I too want to leave an everlasting legacy. I want my time here on earth to represent good and resemble a good contributor to my community and society. I don't need statues of myself, nor my name indented in the walk of fame in Los Angeles, all I need is one person's life changed because of my good deed. To me, that is the legacy that I hope to achieve and show others the importance that bearing a legacy brings. I want to be remembered as a man of courage and honesty, as well as a great community leader. Although generations of Americans that follow, may not remember my name, I want the content of my character to be everlasting within my community. In the great words of Maya Angelou "If you're going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can't be erased." As the great poet Maya Angelou stated if my living will mean something, then a legacy must follow it! Many great American and worldwide heroes and activist throughout our history have left their legacy for all to witness. Rather it is the late great Dr. King or the acclaimed Billy Graham, all these men and women have shown us what it is to leave a legacy and their influence on future generations. Following the great steps of the many legends that marked our past, I too will leave a legacy for all to remember!

There have been a lot of moments in my life where I could honestly say that I was extremely happy. Like most people would say, possibly a birthday, or the time they passed a major test, but my happy memory is not something common among many. A happy memory in my life was when I got saved. I was merely 8 years old and that was one of the most remarkable moments of my life. I truly thank God that I got saved and this happy memory in my life has taught me to always keep God first!

Growing up in the southern half of the Lone Star State has always been a remarkable thing to me. Coming out of the great Texan metropolitan city of San Antonio where we love our BBQ and have a big city spirit. Home of the San Antonio Spurs and the Texas Rodeo. It is safe to say San Antonio embodies the true spirit of being a Texan. As I mentioned previously, I come proudly from the city of San Antonio, Texas, which has a rich history and an even richer culture. From our Riverwalk to our city skyline, we San Antonians are the flagship of Texas. Moreover, it is the many great cities of Texas that make up our great state and forge our identity as such. Being a Texan to me is having a loving and compassionate spirit and looking out for one another. It means being in it together as a team and accomplishing goals that couldn't have been done alone. This is evident in the horrific hurricanes that plagued our state, yet despite these tragedies, Texans all over the state pulled together to uplift our state in its rightful place. This is what it means to me to be a Texan, and I am proud of that fact. Through the years Texas has always been a leader in the nation in many categories such as education and space exploration. Being a Texan is a valuable thing and is embodied in all who share statehood, of which I'm proud!

Every day that I wake up is another day for me to enjoy the simple pleasures of my life. From the natural environment that surrounds me to the people of the world that I share this earth with. It is through these things that help me to realize and enjoy the simple pleasures in my life. As we go through our lives, we often become distracted by things that don't matter. We stress about simple things that at the end of the day don't matter. When we begin to simplify things in our lives, that is when we can truly enjoy the simple pleasures of our lives. Simple pleasures for me come in many forms. I enjoy playing video games and reading articles on the internet to stay informed. I also enjoy hanging out with friends and preparing for school assignments such as tests. It is these simple pleasures that I have come to enjoy and seek over the years. It makes me happy when I am playing video games or reading books because I have time to slow it down and focus on what matters. What matters is the moments of happiness we make that better our lives and leave us with everlasting life lessons. Many of the most successful people in this world always encourage others to chase happiness and what makes them great. This message forever rings true because it is the simple pleasures in life that bring about true happiness! As I reflect over my life, I am proud of the small and big moments of simple pleasures that molded who I am today; the memories that I have made.

In a world full of constant sadness and chaos, it can often feel impossible to experience a moment of joy. At times it feels like joy is merely terminal and the bad times are permanent. However, this lie has been pushed on us as a society for generations. We are constantly filled with negative thoughts and information which clogs our minds and depletes us of pure joy. Joy is the purest form of happiness and the world is in dire need of it. Like many people. joy can sometimes be hard to come by in my life. Many stressful events often unfold being a college student and just living in general. I could complete all my assignments for one week and look up the following week, which has another to duelist. As you could imagine this can present a lot of stress and make joyous moments feel diminished. This constant cycle of being full of joy at one moment and then stressed at the next has taught me a very valuable lesson. I have learned that to seek joy in my life I need to come to terms with the causes of stress and find ways to counteract them. If this means taking a break here and there or taking a stroll outside to get fresh air, it is essential in my search for joy. Without joy, we as people would feel miserable and be very unproductive. It is through joy and moments of it, that allows us to keep moving forward. As I stated earlier, we as people are in dire need of more joy. This dire need for joy has become more apparent in my life and I have grown to value joy throughout the years. My message for the readers is to always have joy, God bless!

Everyone has had that moment in their lives where they wished they could keep going without any setbacks. Rather it has been through a business venture, a prospective relationship, or even a higher level of educations where major obstacles have presented themselves. For me, persevering has meant a lot throughout my life to overcome many of life's barriers. I remember it like it was yesterday. I was a sophomore in High School taking chemistry as my science course. Throughout that academic year I struggled understanding my chemistry course and often didn't receive the results I had hoped for. I attended tutoring sessions religiously and was always attentive in class. Despite my efforts, I couldn't seem to grasp the curriculum and was behind in comparison to my classmates. My teacher would always encourage to sustain my efforts to succeed and not let my past failures hinder my growth. Her words reminded me of a great concept known as perseverance. I understood that if I wanted to improve in my chemistry class, I would need to maintain relentless dedication and perseverance towards my growth. From that moment forward, it was my mission to see gradual growth throughout the academic year; increase my grade to a passing average. The following day I set out on my journey of growth and continued to persevere despite the tremendous learning obstacles I faced. I can proudly say that I passed my chemistry course all those years ago in high school, and as I reflect on that period of my educational journey, I am more than overjoyed that I persevered! This was a huge learning lesson for me to never give up and ultimately persevere through any obstacle that comes my way. I encourage all to this day to do the same, and remember to persevere!

Before I begin writing my essay, I wanted to share with you all that the scholarship write-up regarding Ms. Theresa Lord is very remarkable. It is truly a blessing to have had such a strong matriarch of the family that was loving and active in her family's life, may God bless you all! I was born Cedric Pitts in the sunny city of San Antonio on August 8th 2002, to my mother Clarissa and my father Kerry. From a young age I grew up in the Baptist church and was introduced to Christ at an early age. I was baptized in the church and have been a Christian all my years of living. I attended and graduated from the Winston Churchill High School, a part of the North East ISD. I have always been active in one way or another, rather through school or church, it wasn't hard to spot me busy doing something. I am a current undergraduate student at the University of Texas at San Antonio studying for a B.S in Architecture. In my spare time away from my studies, I like to play video games and watch YouTube. Education has always been an important factor in my life. With my mother being an educator herself, and my father equally being a father- figure educator in his own right, it's safe to say that the value of education was always reaffirmed in my household. From a young age I was assured that I wanted to attend college and to obtain a degree in a field of study that would pay dividends later on in my life. The educational goals I set for myself have always been foundated on these early principles of obtaining higher education then obtaining a good paying job in the future. I understood that if I worked hard enough and paid attention in class that my work would pay dividends later on. However, with every great plan is a set of obstacles that follow. Throughout my years in the public school system, I was always an A and B student, who never missed classed or rarely turned in an assignment late. With that said, these good student attributes didn't omit me from the troubles of not quite grasping the course curriculum later on in my public-school educational journey. There were many classes that I did not fully understand the information being presented before me, and often times I didn't seek the proper help to fill the learning gap. This was a huge obstacle in my life that presented great opposition to the educational goals I had set for myself at an early age. Week after week I remember constantly falling behind in my understanding and eventually this gap in understanding made my grades drop substantially. After several weeks of falling behind and not gaining the proper understanding of the course information, I finally decided to take a stand for my education. It was like a light bulb clicked in my head, and I realized that in order to succeed I needed to invest into my education. I began going to tutoring and regularly met with study groups to fill the learning gap. I went home and spent extra hours on practice and extra credit work to make up for the drop in my grades. With time I made huge improvements to my overall gpa and my grades were on the rise once again. While this experience was a very huge blow towards my educational goals, I understood that in order to keep moving forward I needed to keep moving forward, which has been my motto!

Our world is a place of many people. In this world of many people, you have leaders and you have followers. As many of our parents or guardians taught us growing up, is to always be the leader and never the follower. Sometimes being a leader can be a task that requires someone to reach out of their comfort zone, and ultimately stand out. Moreover, it is through the leaders of the world that we have and enjoy many of the great things in our modern lives. The idea of being a leader in my household was never a mystery. My mother and father always expressed the importance of having and displaying leadership qualities in the world. Leadership my dad would tell me "is not a single thing confined to a specific occupation, rather leadership is the ability to stand up when others show the inability to do so". The words my father seemed to mundanely speak to me regarding leadership wasn't always clear in my younger years, but as I have gotten older, his words have stuck with me. From a young age I have always been very involved and active in my community and within my school. From being the Student Body President to representing my school district in statewide academic showcases, the idea of being involved never was not in mind. As I participated in these various roles around my school and community, I developed essential leadership skills which I noticed had begun to grow over the years. Throughout my youth, I understood the importance of making the right decisions and avoiding questionable activities that would detrimental to my future. In reflecting on leadership, I understood that in order to lead people, a group, an organization, etc. tremendous amount of good decision making was essential and that is what would set me apart. While being a leader is always a good route to take, it does come with many setbacks and obstacles throughout the journey. Many of the great leaders of the world were often people who were disenfranchised or out- casted for their stance against the crooked societal social norms of their time. Many of these men and women including the likes of Dr. King, Mrs. Parks, and Abraham Lincoln were ridiculed and put under extreme pressure for their steadfast hope for change. This lead me to take a huge play out of their playbook, which highlights the importance of standing firm on your quest towards change. A leader to me is a person who can display great mettle under pressure but also have the integrity and compassion to help and uplift those in need. The world will never not have enough leaders, and a growing shift in raising up young men and women to be future leaders is essential. In closing, my hope and aspiration is to be the best leader I can be in whatever fashion or form that will be suit me, my community, and the world at whole! Thank you, God Bless!

Throughout my first semester and year of college, I have come to learn many things about myself and college as a whole. Transitioning from high school to college was definitely no easy task, and it took a lot of adjusting to get used it. As I was taking my mundane scroll through the Bold.org webpage I cam across this scholarship, and after reading the description was compelled to submit an entry. I want to start by naming this album in accordance with the prompt "The College Dream Chaser" playlist, foundated on my passion and determination to receive a college degree, but also on the long journey that lies ahead. My conviction is that as we as college students mark our way through our college journeys, we do face many obstacles that can hinder our progress. However, with a positive attitude, determination, and a "College Dream Chaser" mindset, our progress will continue despite the obstacles. To start off with the first song I would include Andy Grammer's "Keep Your Head Up" . This song to me bears a lot of hope and deep rooted meaning to its listeners. In addition, the song spreads an overwhelming message to keep moving forward. The line in the song that goes "I know it's hard, yeah it's hard to remember sometimes, but you gotta keep your head up" rings clear to the listener of Grammers' intention when making the song. Next up I would include "Never Would've Made It" by the legendary gospel recording artist Marvin Sapp. Time an time again this song rings true, and when you think about how the Lord has blessed us in times of turmoil and adversity, it's hard not to give him glory. As a college student this song definitely holds value and encourages me to keep moving forward. Moving forward, Bill Withers "Lean On Me" would be my third choice on the album. The song has a great central message of leaning and depending on one another in times of trouble. As a college student trouble may present itself in many ways, most notably with course curriculum and things of that nature. Moreover, despite these troubles regarding our education, we must all pitch in to help a lending hand. I personally have had moments throughout my college journey where I assisted a helping hand to a fellow classmate, which sparked my interest in adding this song to the album as a good college experience. Like many college students around the world, it's often hard to make new friends and venture into things at first deemed out of the usual. I certainly have had these moments in my first year of school but have found that getting involved around the university can greatly counter these feelings of loneliness. This assertion lead me to add The Beatles "Come Together" as the 4th song on the album. The song invokes a strong sense of unity and the idea of coming together and getting involved. I believe this best fits the 4th entry and description for the album. For the final song on the album, I will include James Brown "Get Up Offa That Thing" as my 5th and final song on the playlist. James Brown, also known as the Godfather of Soul is and was a remarkable musical sensation across the world. This song in particular sets a good vibe or mood to get up and get going, which we can concur as college students is vital in getting things done. Bonus: An artist name I would make for this essay and project would be "The Funky Groovy College Goer"

In life we go through various obstacles that help mold who we are in the future. There are also people in this world that share or encourage new viewpoints which also aides our growth. However there is a crowd of people who do offer bad advice , which we should disregard. Throughout my 19 years of living, I've heard an array of wise words that made be a better person. At church I was highly favorable among the elder saints, and they often took a liking into me from a young age. They would offer me candy in church and ask my parents how I was doing in my absence from church. I'll remember it as plan day on one Sunday when one of the elders of the church told me something that forever changed my outlook on life. Her name was Rose Ann, and I often referred to her as mama Rose. She had officially made me her godson when I was a younger, and from that moment on she became apart of my family. She always told me whenever I would see her at church, to "take God with me everywhere I go." She was a devout Christian woman, and very active in our church. She never sugarcoated anything with people, especially in regards to the word of God. As I grow older and become a man, I know the advice mama Rose shared with me will forever hold true. I strongly believe this was the wisest thing I've ever heard, and cherish those words to this day. As I grow in the Lord, I know that he will always be by my side and favor me in times of adversity. My prayer is for all to do the same, and to keep God first!

In a world where violence and turmoil seem to be ever present, it becomes difficult to see the bright side of things. With nations at war, people starving, and the economy on the brink of collapse, hope can be a tough thing to find. Many people make great talk of better days and promise a brighter future. However, these promises are often unfulfilled and bear no real world value. I'm sure many of us have heard a countless number of politicians speak of ensuring "safety" and "security" to the world, but fail to deliver year after year. On the other hand, we have people who claim false idols and objects can ensure a better world, but these things are also untrue. This leads me to point the world's thinking, and even my own, in a higher direction towards Heaven. Yes, Heaven is what I said as clear as day, and will forever stand firm upon. In the 121st chapter of Psalm the word of God instructs us to " Lift up thy eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh thy help. For thy help cometh from the Lord, whom made heaven and earth". Clearly the world's position of its source towards a brighter future is fixated in the wrong direction. Politicians nor those who make claims of false teaching(s) can ensure a better world. Only God can do that, and with his help and guidance we can achieve that. This is my conviction and hope towards the unforeseeable future, to which I encourage all to join in on. With life comes many troubles, but were are not alone in this battle. Jesus tells his disciples in Matthew 16:24 "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me". Jesus clearly articulates in this passage of scripture, that we dwelling in the earth are not omitted from troubles, hence he says "take up his cross". To carry a cross, is to carry a burden or a heavy load. Moreover through faith and trust in the Lord, we are steadfast in doing so in the hopes of not doing so alone. The Lord has also given us the Holy Spirit, who is our guide and advocate. He leads and comforts us in times of trouble, and provides hope in times of turmoil. I believe fully that the moment we activate our spiritual eyesight, we then will see the hope and plans God has in store for us. I who dwell in the earth am not immune to the catastrophes of it, but I know that with God by my side I can overcome. My final message to the readers of this essay and others, is for you and me to step out on faith in regards to our future, and to look past the turmoil and troubles. For there is a God that sits high and looks low, and my hope for a better future is rested on him.

In a world where people are tasked with balancing many things to thrive, we often overlook the 'balancing act' of others around us. We selfishly value our needs without thinking of other people we affect. This has become the social norm and/or acceptance in the world, and we must demand an end to it. Acts of generosity are the path forward in a new direction that benefits all people. Many times in my life I have encountered people who were less fortunate than I am. I have always felt pity and empathetic towards these people. However I notice in life that many of these people are often overlooked and undervalued. Society would rather judge folks by their outward appearance rather than their inward appearance. It's beyond time that we call for an end to this detrimental ideology for good. Generosity is the act of giving to others without the idea of expecting something in return. Generosity can also be given in other forms aside from money and gifts. I can recall many times in my life where I acted out of generosity towards someone in need, and how it greatly effected them following this. If I seek to better my community, how could I do so without being generous? It would merely defeat the purpose of the idea of bettering my community. The Bible says in Matthew 25:40 "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me' ". This scripture clearly expresses the need for being generous and pleases God as we do so. Rather I have a little or a lot, I will never mind lending a helping hand, and do so joyfully!

With the start of the global pandemic taking its toll in December of 2019, many people were left on edge about what would happen next. Businesses were forced to close their doors, and schools were directed to instruct in the virtual setting. This new ordeal was very foreign to a lot of people, and took some time to get adjusted to. I still remember watching countless of news coverages on Covid-19 and the seriousness of it around the world. At the time little was uncovered about the virus and proper protective measures were slowly being introduced. Many people were prompted to stay at home in efforts to reduce the virus's transmission among people. My school district made the decision to convert the remainder of our school year in the virtual setting. Many of the past activities I once participated in were closed or shut down due to the virus. Therefore I was stuck at home for an extensive amount of time. At first this was very difficult to cope with the new normality of being at home a lot, but after some time I grew to accept it. As the year went on I've learned to better manage my time and have explored new ways to occupy myself. I started painting and reading novels from various origins which were activities I didn't previously do. In addition my senior was one of my best performing years academically, and taught me many lessons. Although isolation was tough to cope with for the early parts of quarantine, I began to love the new positive viewpoints that grew upon me.

Adversity is defined as a difficulty and/or misfortune. Throughout the course of our lives, we are going to face hardships. Moreover it is these very hardships that mold us into becoming better beings. This is a lesson that I have learned and grown to love time and time again. The year was 2009, I had just turned 12 years old. The day started off normal, and nothing out of the ordinary had occurred for me to think otherwise. I came home from school that day and was greeted by my parents, who'd instructed me to sit on the couch. Usually when my parents had news to share, it was routine for me to sit on the couch and listen. My mother started off by stating that her and my father had lost their jobs due to the recession. My father added saying "Yes son, the recession has caused profit loss, so therefore we were laid off". My mother and father at the time worked for a big furniture company in San Antonio, Texas. However the public's focus shifted from fancy furniture to how to make up next month's rent. Coincidently this news didn't come as a surprise to me, I often recall hearing my parents discussing the bills in their room; news outlets constantly airing features of the 2009 American Recession. Money began to get tight around my household, and my parents were constantly reminding me to preserve the water and electricity. Soon after the rent began to fall behind, and multiple notices were put on our apartment door of past dues owed. To help attribute to earn more household income, I offered to sell some of my toys and game system to help my parents. They took me up on that offer, and promised to return twice fold once they began working again. The following months were tough, but I knew that God had our back and that he would provide for us. I remember days seeing my mother and father not eating to make sure I was fed. This broke me to the core, but I remained steadfast in hopes of a brighter day. With most of the pay-out money from the 'American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009' distributing on May 6th in Texas to current unemployed adults, my parents were able to qualify for financial assistance. With these moneys they went out shopping and buying essentials for us to make until they started working again. To this day I'll forever offer my deepest gratitude to the 111th Congress U.S Congress and former President Barack Obama for putting in place this law. As time went on, my parents finally started working again and our household income resumed back to normal. This experience was one for the family history books, and one I am always grateful for coming out on the winning side of. Throughout the 2008-2009 American Recession many American families struggled to make ends meat, and were often tied between financial burden after financial burden. Nevertheless this sum of trying times taught me the value of family, and what it means to be selfless. It also taught me that with a good attitude and hope in God, there is light at the end of a dark tunnel for all! As I look forward to my future, I'm unsure what it will bear. But I'm 100% sure that with the Lord's help and the right attitude I can conquer and overcome any obstacle. I encourage the reader of this essay to also follow this approach, and may God bless!

Throughout the history of man kind, there has been many great people who've done remarkable things. One such person is James Brown, a world renowned American musician. James was a very talented man and ushered in the new wave of soul music in the mid 1900's. He also brought about new forms of dance that the common person at the time could replicate. The 1950's and 1960's in America were a very tough time period for black Americans. People of color often faced many disadvantages that their white counterparts didn't. Nevertheless this never stopped James from achieving the musical successes that he throughout his career. He went on to write and compose hit songs such as "It's A Man's World, "Try Me", "Please, Please, Please", and "Payback" which were all number one songs for their respective years. In addition James performed at over 100 venues during this time period, only further bolstering his worldwide fandom. Also being the winner of numerous Grammy awards and nominations spanning from 1967-2014. To achieve such things as a black man in America during times of extreme societal turmoil and despair is beyond remarkable. From the point of my knowledge of James Brown and learning of all his victories through the years, a sense of admiration grew in me. To this day I still am at awe of all James was able to accomplish, even while judged as a black man in America. This taught me that no matter what the situation is, I can overcome and achieve my goals. Watching James Brown and other black talents alike, has formed a greater respect in me to appreciate and support my community. I will and will always support the next generations efforts toward greatness and beyond.

As we go about our daily lives, we often don't consider how the people around us might be feeling. At young ages we are taught to "mind our own business" and to "focus on ourselves". This leads me to question these practices, and their efficacy of helping the people around us. As the world's mental health crisis rises, so does the urgent need of people who can assist. Studies have shown that every 3 in 5 persons are struggling and/or combating a mental health emergency. As the the trend goes in the upward direction, the sense of hope diminishes. The strongest way for people to counteract growing mental health concerns, is to be a beacon of hope to others. This is evident by never shying away from lending a helping hand. Also to engage with the people around us to ensure that their mental health is up to par. For those of us that are not quite at the peek healthy mental threshold, we need people that will wholeheartedly offer assistance. Simply standing by and watching people drown in the bottomless pit of mental despair, can never be the social norm. We must encourage and raise up a generation of empathetic people. The struggle against mental health doesn't discriminate based on race, gender, religion, etc. The struggle is prevalent in many types of people, and simply viewing the outward appearance isn't enough to determine mental sanity. The world needs more than just baseless talks and claims of mental healing, but an actual restoration that transcends to all people. The transcending message should be as clear as day; serve as a light at the end of a dark tunnel for all to see. And lastly with God there's victory!

From the age we are young we are introduced to books. In elementary school we frequent the library as our teachers install the value of reading books in us. However as we get older, books become more obsolete in our daily activities. In addition with the rise of technology, the e-book and audio book market has boomed substantially. Despite the modern trends towards a 'book free' world, I will always cherish the craftsmanship of a good book. My favorite book the Bible, for it is the word of God and bears truth to all who seek it. The Bible consists of 66 books, with 39 belonging to the Old Testament and 27 belonging to the New Testament. There are 1,189 chapters in the Bible and 31,102 verses. All together these books, chapters, and verses make up the word of God. Each chapter was written by an author such as Exodus's author being Moses or Titus's Author being the Apostle Paul. Just from the description of the Bible, there's a lot to read and uncover spiritually as a follower of Christ. Moreover the Bible is our knowledge base and foundation as Christians as we walk along life's journey. Matthew 4:4 states "But He answered and said, "It is written, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God". This verse clearly indicates that man needs more than the things of this world to thrive. I strongly stand on this idea and strive to take heed to it daily. This is one of the many reasons that the Bible is my favorite book. The Bible offers me wisdom in times of doubt, courage in times of fear, and knowledge in times of questioning. I will forever baste in the word of God!

As we go through life, we as people have to face many challenges. Some of these challenges are financial, some are racial, and some are mental. Despite the challenge presented before us, a time will come where we must face them head on. It didn't take long for this challenge to present itself before me in the form of adversity. Throughout my life I have been in a variety of situations which were not always equitable towards me. I often struggled trying to find the 'beacon of hope' in these situations; wondered why was I facing these adverse situations. One such time that rings very vividly to this day was my 5th grade year of primary school. At the time I struggled very greatly with math; with the new State of Texas STAAR exam in the spring of that year, I was in for a load of struggle. I frequented my trips to the after school tutoring sessions, in an effort to gain a better understanding of I was struggling with. My commitment to passing the math class and state assessment was clear, but it wasn't the math that brought about the adversity. I was very delicate as a young boy, and suffered with anger issues throughout my elementary years of school. The principal's office was my second home, and the office staff knew me well. I bumped heads with a lot of my teachers, which caused me to miss a lot of instruction time. This particular year I had improved my behavior, but I often engaged in verbal disagreements with my math teacher. I was failing math for a decent portion of that year, and my lack of mathematical understanding was my personal adversity and/or misfortune. The other students were well ahead of me in grading/comprehension averages, while my chances of passing were slim. Nevertheless I continued to attend the daily after school tutoring sessions and even started attending morning sessions as well. As the months went on, the arranged time for the State of Texas STAAR exam had come. I mustered up my educational strength and courage to begin taking my test. All in all at the conclusion of my test, my results came back as passing. In addition, I not only passed but was also commended. Words can not describe the amount of serotonin that flowed through brain in regards to me overcoming my adverse situation. To this day, I greatly cherish the effort and courage I had to successfully pass my math class and state math assessment. This was not only a moment of celebration, but also a huge learning lesson. The events that had transpired above taught me that with hard work and dedication no adverse mountains can be too hard to climb. Adversity as we know it, is and will forever be apart of the human experience. Moreover simply bending and/or stopping due to the inadequacies thrown at us from adverse situations can never be the social norm. We must continue to strive for greatness no matter the setbacks we may face in life. The adversity I faced many years ago in my youth is one of many, but I thank God I was able to overcome it and show my true conqueror spirit. As I continue to walk the path called life, several destinations are still yet to be approached. Just to name a few: becoming an Architect, graduating from college, expanding my spiritual knowledge via. the Bible, and more God has in store. I'm steadfast on the idea that with God all is possible, and hope the same for others!

To live or not to live, that is the question at hand. For many years society has engaged in countless quarrels about the idea of an unborn child being a living creature or not. We see some of these discussions featured in our daily news, and even in discussion among heads of state. As an individual I strongly bolster and champion the pro-life agenda, and encourage all to do the same. Many countries across the world uphold pro-abortion policies into their law books. One of these such countries is the United States of America. On January 22, 1973 the United States Supreme Court upheld abortion as a premier right for women, protected under the United States Constitution. The same government subsidizes 24% of all abortions, consisting of 6.6% from Federal taxes and 17.4% from State taxes according to a 2015 article published by Forbes. Similarly 37% (or 72) of countries in the world allow legal abortions due to social and/or economic reasons. And 34% (or 66) of countries in the world allow legal abortions on the basis of a woman's request. This information was collected from Iron-Set.com, which maintains a daily database of global laws surrounding abortion(s). For the pro-life community this information is saddening, and leads one to think of measures to stop these efforts. In all honesty, I was a member of the pro-choice community for a long while. At the time I was unaware of the various ways abortions were conducted, and thought that anything otherwise was an infringement of one's rights. This ideology came to a halt after discovering a former abortion operations physician on YouTube, detailing the procedures and the lasting effect it had on him. From that day on I vowed to hold up the pro-life banner; encourage all who I speak with to do the same. Following this event I've engaged in a lot of discourse surrounding the topic of abortion, and it was through this discourse that I identified even more fundamental problems with the pro-choice platform. The most common fundamental problems were fathers not having a "say so", early term abortions, contribution of taxes to support abortion, and much more. These problems are often overlooked in the debate surrounding pro-choice v. pro-life, and leave many questioning the pro-choice agenda. The Bible says in Jeremiah 1:5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations". This biblical verse clearly indicated that God has formed a relationship with us as people even before we were born. Through God we have value and worth, and we as a society urgently need to reinstate this mindset in the hearts of people. I strive to encourage others to embrace the concept of being pro-life and to see others as people rather than numbers. My hope is that in the future my efforts, and many others like myself, will spark a new wave of thinking in the world. A new thinking that will promote life and more life abundantly.

In our world today, there are over 7 billion people. 12% of the total population faces hunger daily, 22% of the population faces homelessness daily, and 37% of the total population faces eviction daily. As the increase in urbanization and modernization has emboldened in our world, many people are often left in the dust due to financial inequality. There are mothers and fathers who have to scramble everyday to provide their children with a meal to feed their hungry stomachs. There's teachers who despite investing countless of hours teaching the world's future generation, have very little take home pay in their efforts. This trend continues to creep and follow society daily, and if left unchecked, it will lead to the demise of many more people. Day after day we hear on the news of a new tragedy or disaster. Countless of lives are affected each year and countless more as an after effect. A majority of these problems are financial related, and in my best judgement this is the biggest problem facing the world right now. The concept is simple, we work jobs to obtain a paycheck at the end of a specified term. Moreover despite the concepts simplicity, many people are left to struggle due to the lack of resources to aid their situations. Many countries have adopted welfare programs and are even discussing the idea of UBI's (Universal Basic Income) programs to tackle the crippling poverty in the world today. I as well as many people recognize the efforts listed above as beneficial, but merely not enough to be deemed a solution. We as people can argue sun up to sun down the appropriate political and administrative policies to enact for change. However our greatest tool is a helping hand which we all can agree and lend.

In life we have to make various choices that determine various outcomes. These choices stem into personal finance decisions, which determine our financial interests. The idea of financing things or places is far from new, and will be ever-present in society. A day in this pace we call Earth, is one not only of living, but also of thriving. When I was a young boy, around the age of 12 years old, my father sat me down on the couch to discuss financial literacy. At the time I was unaware of what that term meant, and how a 12 year old boy would find it applicable being unemployed. Despite my persistent questioning, my father broke out the dry erase board/marker to break down the general aspects of financial literacy. I remember him showing me graphs, charts, numerical tables, and even percentages. As a young boy this didn't remain in my mind long, but as I grew older, I took head to what my father had taught me. Out of all the things he had said on that day, this one statement has held true through the years. He said "Son always remember to spend the money you do have, and not what you don't have". My father is and was a very frugal man; rarely could you find him spending a lot of money. Whenever we would go out and about, he would always search the internet for coupons or discount codes in order to save money. Therefore this statement didn't come as a surprise and I often find him quoting the same statement in times of my financial questioning. In an effort to live by this statement I have it posted on my bedroom wall, and remind myself of it in my everyday interactions with money, thanks Dad!

I first will start off by saying I am grateful to the donor of this scholarship for providing students like myself the opportunity to be able to even apply for a scholarship, to aide in our studies. There are many places around the world, and even many people in this country, that don't get the opportunity to attend college due to financial expenses. So therefore I want it to be known, regardless of me receiving this scholarship or not, that myself and students alike are grateful for the token of financial support offered through generous scholarship donors like yourself. My name is Cedric Pitts, I currently reside in San Antonio, Texas. I attended the Winston Churchill High School, of the North East Independent School District (NEISD), and am an alumni of the graduating class of 2021. I will be attending the University of Texas at San Antonio, in the fall of this year (2021) as a first time freshmen. As you know, as well as many of college going students, balancing the cost of attendance, books, and fees is no easy task. At the age of roughly 17 or 18 years old, future college goers are tasked with making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. Graciously the United States Federal government offers students 'Financial Aid' if applicable, and work-study programs to lower the cost of college attendance. However, despite having these additional funds from 'Uncle Sam', students are left to often find a solution to their financial college deficits. As a first time college student, I am one of those people who are left to find money to cover the additional cost of college attendance. Although I do receive financial aid, there is a portion of funds in which I'm seeking scholarships to cover. This quest is what has brought me here onto the Bold.org website, and your scholarship in particular. After reading the description of the scholarship application, and the triumphant story of India, I was strongly compelled to apply for this scholarship. Like India, I too have a strong drive and passion for education; believe it is the tool in which we as people use to better ourselves. Therefore with this gracious financial contribution endowed to myself, I'm certain that it would greatly bolster my studies; be a reflection of the 'Art of Scholarship's' generous mission. The funds listed above totaling $ 909.00 would greatly help me financial secure my textbooks needed for class, and additional class fees. I know the money would also aide me in other extracurricular activities, to further support my studies. It is the work of the generous that keep the people of the world going. Without generosity this world would be far different from what we know it as today. This rings very true for persons who actively seek ways to ensure others can obtain greatness, and is a testament to their morals and character. Once again I want to reiterate my gratitude to the scholarship donor and God bless!

Imagine a world consisting of billions of people, with millions of different ideas; thousands of activities all going on at the same time. Once again imagine this same world, and within its bounds consist of many emotions, dreams, aspirations, and wonders. Some people find pride in money, others in happiness, and fewer in mental clarity. In a world where time is money, and money is merely held for a fraction of time, many in this life neglect their inner selves. This leads me to the point of mental health, a topic often overlooked and misunderstood. Many think of mental health as a momentary feeling or to some a fictional depiction in one's mind. These assertions about mental health are far from the truth, and lack decency for the common person. Mental Health is defined a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being. The practice of monitoring and/or adhering to a person's mental health was often not commonplace in many medical practices in the past, but in today's society it can be found almost in every medical practice. As scientist, phycologists, and medical professionals scramble to find solutions to better understand and treat mental health, its victims are piling up by the days. The fact of the matter is that merely diagnosing mental health abnormalities and applying outdated and run-of-the-mill approaches to them as a result, has failed mental health patients time and time again. Just in the sum of 18 years of life, I have had my own struggles with mental. Rather it be feeling insecure about my clothing, or the feeling of not fitting in at school, these thoughts have plagued my mental self and therefore my mental health. Throughout the years of my living I have seen many tragedies, and a whole lot of misfortune. These negative things didn't only affect me physically. but also mentally. I recall a time in my life where I didn't see the end of the road, and I had lost my drive that kept me pushing in life. I had mentally shutdown on those around, and neglected all the teachings that I was brought up on. Even as I ponder about this time in my life, it remains clear as day the mental affects that I endured throughout my years of living. For I know that I am not alone in this neverendingly quest to obtain mental clarity and peace of of mind; many generations shall follow in my path. This has been the story for countless amounts of people worldwide, who are mentally struggling in a world that lacks the proper solution to its mental health sufferers. This world offers these sufferers toxic medication, meaningless meditation methods, and classless and yet unencouraging words of 'advise'. This viscous cycle continues generation after generation, and its big 'power players' seem to be oblivious to the fact of the damage that is has caused us as a society. Acknowledging these downfalls of human nature and solution(s), in my wisest assessment, people of the world, such as myself, must look unto God for our mental breakthroughs. We must lean and depend on him to provide us what we need in order for us to overcome the pitfalls of mental health. This has never been more truer in my life, as I have seen the works of the Lord. The mighty deliverance he has brought upon me and offers to all, is beyond measurable. While yet be an ever present victim of concerning mental health, God has never fallen short in his assurance of breakthrough. He has showed me the plans and desires for my life, and through his power, yet I overcome the flaws of my mental health. This conviction holds dear and near to my heart, and my hope is that others will follow suit in doing the same. (To The Donor: Mr. Calvin Rosser- I have read the introduction to your scholarship application here on bold.org, and I must say may God continue to bring blessings upon your life. Despite all the hardships you have faced, God has never failed you, and shall continue to uproot you as a child of God. Please know that no matter the hardship, there is a mighty God in Heaven, Yahweh, who sits high and looks low, and assures all works well for those called in accordance with his most righteous name. I charge this to you dear sir, and unto myself, may God bless and keep you!)

The late great Doctor Martin Luther King who was a renowned Civil Rights Activist in the mid 1900's who also was a part of many of the great leaders of this movement. Dr. King was no ordinary man, having enrolled in the Morehouse College at the age of 15, and obtaining a Bachelors of Arts degree in Sociology was a testament to Dr. kings knowledge. A southern preacher from Atlanta, Georgia at the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where King preached of God's never ending help towards his people; derailed the notions of prejudice in America at the time. It was there at this same church, where Dr. King organized and championed over his campaign of civil disobedience. It's safe to say, that Dr. King was unlike many people at the time, and his resilient work is evident even until present day. Despite having many victorious and often favorable speeches and support from the general public, King and his allies of justice faced many hardships on there way to equality. These hardships help to shape Dr. King into the man he was, and also led to the creation of many great quotes. One of these such great quotes from Dr. King was his 'Street Sweeper' quote, where he said "If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as a Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well". In this quote, Dr. King clearly expresses the absolute dedication of a street sweeper to his job, and how at the end of his rope he was honored for his noble deed of street sweeping. Although Dr. King used this analogy as a mere example of devotion to a job outdated in today's aspect, its meaning will never become obsolete or void. The idea of being devoted and wholeheartedly committed to a task requires discipline and also requires one to obtain a selfless attitude to help others. This quote remains dear and near to my heart due to its timeless meaning and the countless lives of people it has inspired. I personally have this quote posted on my wall as a reminder to always do my job/task to the best of my ability, no matter what and no matter where.

I was born Cedric Pitts in the metropolitan city of San Antonio, Texas, to my mother Clarissa Powell and my father Kerry Pitts. At an early age, I was christened (Dedicated to the Lord), and from that point, Christianity has highly shaped the young man I am today. Growing up in Central Texas was easy for the most part from my personal experience. From the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo to the vibrant San Antonio Spurs games, the city has a lot of fun festivities to offer. The neighborhoods in which I grew up in, always consisted of great community leaders, who set the standard for the rest of us. As I've grown older, I have learned a lot about society and the ways in which it functions. Some of the ways in which society functions are good, while other ways are bad. The simple fact of the matter is that society consist of people, who come from various backgrounds and walks of life. Unfortunately not everyone is raised with good morals and principles, and these bad traits trickle down into our society. As these bad traits and characteristics gain momentum in the minds of people, they create abnormalities, and soon adversity. Adversity is defined by experiencing and/or having difficulties and misfortune. Many of us in this life experience times of adversity, and it wouldn't be far fetched to say I add to that sum of people. Throughout my life I have experienced adversity, and it was this adversity that made me a stronger young man today. Rather it be in school, or at church, or even in intramural sports, adversity has never been void in my life. I recall many times in which the odds where bet against me, and through the grace of God I prevailed. One of these such times was in my 5th grade year of elementary school. I had struggled for the greater portion of that year in mathematics, and was set to take the State of Texas Mathematics STAAR that coming Spring. I attended countless math tutoring sessions and dozens of math preparation worksheets, in order to prepare myself for the STAAR exam. The Spring finally came and it was time for me to take my STAAR exam. All in all, I passed the STAAR examination with flying colors. This was very big for me and the amount of pride I had from passing this exam was insurmountable. This taught from that day forward that no matter the adversity or short comings we as people face to never, ever, ever give up. The Bible says in Matthew 16:24 "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me". Jesus clearly tells us that as we follow him through life's journey, we must endure adversity and hardships. Moreover through the power of God, I can overcome adversity. Adversity has taught me to trust and depend on the Lord who will see me through and never fail.

From the continent of Africa, to the slave ships to the 'New World', to the forced labor imposed. There was a time in the world where black men and black woman were considered less than. They were forced into slave labor, beaten, harassed, and referred to as every thing but a child of God. They were stripped of every opportunity as a free people and subject to inhumane activities. Following these events, came the civil rights movement in the 1950's and 1960's in the United States. Black Americans were excluded from businesses and were subject to sub-par conditions. Following the civil rights era, remnants of this corrupted system exist in our society today. Actions such as red lining, disproportionate wealth inequality among communities of color, and many more social issues have created an ocean of disparity. Similar events have taken place across the world throughout the 19th and 20th century, which has also disproportionately affected by communities of color. With these massive disparities, mental and emotional health crisis's have arose, and social unrest just as equally. Over the past few years we have seen a major shift in social relations between people of color and American society. There has been black men and woman abused and treated inhumane by those who are tasked to protect and serve. There has been and is massive incarceration among the black community, with many black fathers and mothers not being active in their children's lives. Some of these issues stem from the political policies of the 19th century, while others have arose in recent years. All of these things combined with the constant adversity that communities of color face, has created a massive mental health problem around the world. Many nations have struggled to address their citizens mental and emotional health needs. Moreover as the demand for mental health grows, the demand for mental health for the black community grows even greater. As a black man in the modern world myself, I envision a world where as the great Doctor King said, a man is judged by his or her character rather than their skin color. I envision a world where black men and woman can enjoy the fruits of the world and walk in mental security and peace. My utopian vision for optimal mental health and mental health services for the black community is extremely high. I want to see an improvement in mental health institutions and foundations, whose purpose it solely on bettering the mind of the black community. I bolster a push for new generation leaders such as the great Dr. King and Malcom X, who can lead this generation of black people into the ideology of higher thinking and prosperity. We can achieve this as a community by investing in our mental health care, and advocacy programs for members of the black community.