As an incoming sophomore at Wilberforce University and a member of the gymnastics team, I believe I am a "You Got It Girl" because of my resilience, determination, and commitment to achieving my goals. Throughout my life, I have learned not to let negativity or obstacles define me. Instead, I use challenges as motivation to work harder and continue moving forward. Whether in academics, athletics, or my personal life, I remain focused on becoming the best version of myself. Gymnastics has been a major part of my life for the past 13 years. Through this sport, I have learned discipline, perseverance, and the value of hard work. Over the years, I have qualified for numerous state and regional competitions and had the honor of representing Illinois as a member of the state team. One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning a spot on the gymnastics team at Wilberforce University and continuing my athletic career at the collegiate level. Gymnastics has shaped me into a stronger athlete, student, and person by teaching me that success comes from dedication and consistency. One of the greatest challenges I have faced was transitioning from high school to college while balancing the demands of being a collegiate athlete. The adjustment was much more difficult than I anticipated. Between early morning practices, classes, studying, and late nights completing assignments, I often felt overwhelmed. Learning how to manage my time effectively while maintaining my performance both academically and athletically required significant effort. However, this challenge became an opportunity for growth. I developed stronger organizational skills, greater self discipline, and increased confidence in my ability to handle responsibility. Rather than allowing the pressure to defeat me, I learned how to adapt and persevere. This experience showed me that I am capable of overcoming difficult situations and emerging stronger because of them. The person I admire most is my mother. As a single mother, she has worked tirelessly to provide for me and support my dreams. No matter how difficult circumstances became, she never stopped finding ways to give me opportunities and encourage my success. Her strength, determination, and selflessness inspire me every day. Watching her overcome challenges has taught me the importance of perseverance and hard work. She has shown me that obstacles should never be an excuse to give up on your goals. Her example motivates me to continue pursuing my education, athletic career, and future profession with the same dedication she has demonstrated throughout my life. Receiving this scholarship would have a meaningful impact on my journey. As the daughter of a single mother, I understand the financial sacrifices that come with pursuing a college education. I am currently attending Wilberforce University with the help of a small scholarship, for which I am extremely grateful. However, there are still financial challenges that my family and I must navigate. Receiving additional scholarship support would help reduce that burden and allow me to focus less on concerns about finances and more on my academics, gymnastics, and personal development. It would give me the opportunity to fully embrace my college experience while continuing to work toward all my goals.

I have learned that inclusion can truly change people’s lives. So, I have chosen to major in Social Work. My commitment to helping others started in high school when I became a "peer partner and took a PE class with students who had special needs. In this class, I helped support students during activities, encouraged them, and worked with them throughout the class. At first, I thought it would just be another elective, but it became one of the most meaningful experiences I have ever had. It taught me that anyone can succeed when they are given the right support, encouragement, and tools. Before taking this class, I did not fully understood how important inclusion really is. I saw how often people with disabilities are underestimated or left out because others tend to focus on what they cannot do instead of what they can do. Being a peer partner gave me the chance to build real connections with the students and see their strengths firsthand. Even though some students faced physical or developmental challenges, they still worked hard, stayed determined, and wanted to be included just like everyone else. One experience that really stayed with me was seeing a student who was very shy at the beginning of the semester slowly become more confident over time. At first, they did not want to participate in group activities because they were nervous and afraid of failing. As the class continued, I encouraged them and helped them feel comfortable. By the end of the semester, they were participating more, interacting with others, and feeling proud of themselves. Watching that growth showed me how much of a difference support and inclusion can make in someone’s life. That class is one of the biggest reasons why I want to become an occupational therapist. I chose social work as my major because I want to learn more about helping people, understanding different backgrounds, and supporting individuals in ways that can improve their lives. My goal is to eventually work as an occupational therapist helping people with special needs develop the skills they need to become more independent and successful in everyday life. Occupational therapists help people learn important life skills, build confidence, and overcome challenges, and I want to be able to make that kind of impact on others. My education will help me continue this commitment because it will give me the knowledge and experience I need to support and advocate for people who may not always have a voice. Through college, I will continue volunteering and being involved in programs that support individuals with disabilities and special needs. I also want to continue learning how to create environments where everyone feels accepted and included. I believe strengthening a community starts with treating people with kindness, patience, and respect. My experience as a peer partner taught me that inclusion is not just about helping others participate; it is about making sure people feel valued and capable. It also showed me that even small acts of encouragement can have a lasting impact on someone’s confidence and success. As I continue through college and work toward becoming an occupational therapist, I want to keep making a positive difference in the lives of others. I want to help people gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed and remind them that their abilities matter more than their limitations. My experiences have shaped both my educational goals and the person I want to become, and I am excited to continue building a future centered around inclusion, support, and helping others reach their full potential.