Chai Comrie National Achiever, Animal Lover, Future Conservation Veterinarian EDUCATION Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, Tallahassee, FL Graduation: May 3, 2025 Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences with a concentration in Animal Science (Pre-Veterinary). I am a student leader, an environmental advocate and a proud alumna of the National Achievers Society, Atlantic Coast Center of Excellence (ACCOE). Inducted into the National Achievers Society, at the age of 8; I was an active member, attending the annual Summits, actively participating in Coding and then History and Culture teams and finally serving as President of the Student Board. Being an Achiever shaped me as both a student and a leader. As a National Achiever, I embraced the organization's values of academic excellence and community service. I was honored to be named Achiever of the Year in 2022 and also received the Community Service Award that same year. Along with being an Achiever, I am an avid fan of National Geographic documentaries. These have captivated me from an early age; exposing me to incredibly diverse ecosystems and the many creatures that inhabit them, awakening a level of curiosity about the world in which we live. This curiosity led me to enroll at South Plantation High School's Environmental Magnet Program, where I witnessed firsthand the impact of human activity and environmental changes to the Everglades ecosystem. My passion for environmental science grew stronger as I immersed myself in all that my high school offered. My coursework exposed me to the consequences of our actions: environmental degradation and the urgent need for efforts to counteract these changes. I became more intentional about my actions, knowing there were consequences, and decided that changes leading to positive transformation were needed. Through classroom teachings and external learning experiences, I saw how even the slightest disturbances could threaten the survival of native species like the snail kite and the manatee. During my time at SPHS, I earned my Animal Care Certification, marking the culmination of my dedication to learning about and caring for animals. My passion for environmental science grew stronger as I immersed myself in all that my high school offered. My coursework exposed me to the consequences of our actions: environmental degradation and the urgent need for efforts to counteract these changes. I became more intentional about my actions, knowing there were consequences, and decided that changes leading to positive transformation were needed. I began appreciating the vital role that veterinary medicine plays in maintaining healthy ecosystems. This realization led me to pursue a career as a conservation veterinarian. In my chosen field of study, conservation veterinary medicine, it is essential to employ rigorous scientific methodologies. These methodologies are crucial for understanding the complex interactions between ecosystems, wildlife health, and human activities. Conservation veterinarians use technology to monitor wildlife populations, chemistry to assess environmental pollutants, biology to comprehend animal physiology, and mathematics to simulate disease transmission and habitat shifts. Without employing scientific knowledge, our ability to protect endangered species, restore damaged ecosystems, and ensure the health of both domestic and wild animals would be severely limited. My decision to study veterinary medicine is driven by a genuine passion for animals and a deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact on my community. While enrolled in the Environmental Science and Everglades Restoration Magnet Program at South Plantation High School, I was inspired to pursue a career in STEM. My interest in environmental conservation was sparked by observations of the delicate balance of Florida's ecosystem; I was exposed to the scientific initiatives being taken to preserve and restore it. Sloughing in the Everglades provided me with a firsthand view of a complex wetland system with a wide variety of fauna that showed how scientific knowledge can be applied to effective conservation efforts. During my freshman year, I was able to join an expedition on the JOIDES Resolution, an ocean drilling vessel traveling from Greece to Spain, I along with 15 other students learned about scientific ocean drilling as a tool to gather data about the history of our Earth, and the fascinating discoveries that have and are being made. This program also focused on effective science communication in order to share cutting edge science with the broader community. It demonstrated how science can help us understand the planet's past and guide our response to current and upcoming environmental issues. From this experience, I was able to present what I learned at the National Association of Black Geoscientists Technical Conference in Washington, DC. Last summer, as an Emerging Scholar at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, I had the opportunity to conduct a comparative study of forest and grassland soils, investigating the concentrations of reactive metals across various plant communities. This hands-on research experience taught me the meticulous nature of scientific inquiry and its application to agriculture. Learning techniques like selective extraction, centrifugation, and filtration to quantify reactive metals gave me practical tools that reinforced theoretical concepts from my coursework. I served for one year as a Climate Fellow at FAMU, I was taught how the history and development of climate policy, environmental factors, socioeconomic impact, and how public policy is affected by science, engineering, and economic research. STEM affects everything that we do. I have seen firsthand how animal science may be used to improve welfare and health outcomes through my volunteer work at Tallahassee Animal Services. Growing up in a single-parent household instilled in me important values and life lessons such as resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. As an African American young man, I am keenly aware of the challenges faced in accessing pathways to success in our chosen fields. Representation of African American professionals in animal care is limited, with even fewer holding ownership roles. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, African American veterinarians make up only 1.7% of the profession. My aim is to be a catalyst for change by providing affordable access to quality animal care within our Black/Brown community. I want to use scientific concepts to save endangered species, repair habitats, and raise awareness of the value of biodiversity in communities. As climate change intensifies, and human activities continue to impact natural environments, the role of conservation will become increasingly more vital. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals. The next step to fulfil my career aspiration is veterinary school, and a significant financial investment. This scholarship would allow me to focus more fully on my academics rather than financial concerns. It will reduce the debt that I am prepared to take on in pursuit of becoming a conservation veterinarian who will make a meaningful impact on animal welfare and environmental preservation. Thank you for considering my application. I'm excited about the possibility of your support as I work toward these goals that benefit not just my future, but the future of our shared environment and the animals we're responsible for protecting.

From an early age, National Geographic documentaries captivated me, exposing me to incredibly diverse ecosystems and the many creatures that inhabit them, awakening a level of curiosity about the world in which we live. This curiosity led me to enroll at South Plantation High School's Environmental Magnet Program, where I witnessed firsthand the impact of human activity and environmental changes to the Everglades ecosystem. Through classroom teachings and external learning experiences, I saw how even the slightest disturbances could threaten the survival of native species like the snail kite and the manatee. My passion for environmental science grew stronger as I immersed myself in all that my high school offered. My coursework exposed me to the consequences of our actions: environmental degradation and the urgent need for efforts to counteract these changes. I became more intentional about my actions, knowing there were consequences, and decided that changes leading to positive transformation were needed. I began appreciating the vital role that veterinary medicine plays in maintaining healthy ecosystems. This realization led me to pursue a career as a conservation veterinarian. I am deeply committed to using scientific knowledge and medical expertise to protect and restore the natural environments essential to the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants. Whether treating injured wildlife, researching emerging zoonotic diseases, or collaborating on captive breeding programs, I am driven to make a tangible difference in preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystems. Beyond clinical practice, I hope to conduct research that addresses the intersection of animal health and environmental challenges. My experience as an Emerging Scholar at UGA's College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences gave me valuable research skills that I plan to apply to wildlife conservation studies. I'm also passionate about community education. Through my involvement with organizations like FAMU's Animal Science Club and as a Climate Fellow, I've learned the importance of communicating scientific knowledge to the public. In my future career, I hope to engage communities in conservation efforts and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. There are less than two percent of veterinarians that are minorities and even fewer are males. I am here to break barriers and educate other students like me on how to enter this field. I am confident in my ability to contribute innovative solutions to challenges facing our natural world. I am actively pursuing scholarship opportunities so I can proactively address the cost of my education. Being awarded this scholarship will allow me to focus my energy on my academic work versus the constant worry of how to pay for my dream. In advance, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals. As I prepare for veterinary school—a significant financial investment - this support would allow me to focus more fully on my academics and continued hands-on experiences rather than financial concerns. This scholarship would join pivotal supports in my journey toward becoming a conservation veterinarian who makes a meaningful impact on animal welfare and environmental preservation.

My name is Chai Comrie, and I am excited to share my story with you. Growing up in a single-parent household with my amazing mom has been an incredible journey that's shaped who I am today. Being raised by a single parent, especially an immigrant, came with its challenges, but it has allowed me to develop as a stronger individual. My mom always pushed education as the key to success. Thanks to her, I've grown up with this unshakeable belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. This confidence has been my driving force throughout my educational journey. Embracing my passion led me to enroll in South Plantation High School’s (SPHS) Environmental Magnet Program. SPHS has a small farm - pigs, sheep, goats, and chicken. The curriculum includes both agriculture and animal science and teaches students how to take care of their environment. I served as President the Horticulture Club 2021 -2022. On the weekends, I volunteered to care for the animals using the knowledge gained for each animal, their needs - feed and water supply. These activities not only enhanced my leadership skills but helped me to earn my Animal Care Certification prior to graduating in 2022. Today I am a rising third-year Animal Science major at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. I'm living proof of what can happen when you combine passion with determination. As I look towards my future in veterinary medicine, I envision a role that extends far beyond providing medical care to animals. I aim to be a catalyst for change, addressing critical issues in the field and our communities. My goals include: 1. Improving accessibility to veterinary care: By offering affordable services, I plan to break down financial barriers that often prevent marginalized communities from seeking proper care for their pets. 2. Community education and outreach: I will develop programs to increase awareness about preventive care, zoonotic diseases, and responsible pet ownership. 3. Increasing diversity in veterinary medicine: As an African American aspiring veterinarian, I recognize the importance of representation in healthcare. I intend to mentor students from underprivileged backgrounds, encouraging them to pursue STEM careers and demonstrating that their aspirations are achievable. 4. Advocating for animal welfare and conservation: I plan to collaborate with local organizations to develop sustainable practices that protect both animals and the environment, promoting ethical treatment and sustainable farming methods. 5. Providing culturally competent care: By fostering diversity and inclusivity within the field, I aim to enhance the overall well-being of our communities through more comprehensive and culturally aware veterinary services. This scholarship would be a game-changer for me. It would ease the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on how to pay for them. It would bring me one step closer to veterinary school and my dream of healing animals. More than that, it would be an investment in a future where I can give back to my community. Thank you for your consideration of my application.

My name is Chai Comrie, a third-year Animal Science major at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee, Florida. For as long as I can remember I have had a passion for animals. It began with my curiosity to learn more about the diversity found in nature. There are no two animals that are exactly the same even within the same species. I grew up watching Animal Planet and National Geographic programming. Many of the shows presented how a negative environment adversely affects an animal. The veterinary shows, however, demonstrated how professionals were able to improve the lives of the animals they encountered. Embracing my passion led me to enroll in South Plantation High School’s (SPHS) Environmental Magnet Program. SPHS has a small farm - pigs, sheep, goats, and chicken. The curriculum includes both agriculture and animal science and teaches students how to take care of their environment. I served as President the Horticulture Club 2021 -2022. On the weekends, I volunteered to care for the animals using the knowledge gained for each animal, their needs - feed and water supply. These activities not only enhanced my leadership skills but helped me to earn my Animal Care Certification prior to graduating in 2022. As an African American young man, I am acutely aware of the challenges faced in accessing the necessary pathways for success in my chosen field. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, African American veterinarians make up only 1.7% of the profession. There are not many African American animal care professionals and even fewer are business owners. By pursuing a career in veterinary medicine, I aim to merge my passion for animals with my commitment to improving the well-being of underserved communities. As a veterinarian, I recognize that my role will extend beyond providing medical care to animals. I envision myself as a catalyst for change, actively working towards bridging the gaps in animal care and education. By offering affordable and accessible veterinary services, I can contribute to breaking down financial barriers that prevent marginalized communities from seeking proper care for their beloved pets. Through community outreach programs and educational initiatives, I will strive to increase awareness about preventive care, zoonotic diseases, and responsible pet ownership. In a recent article from the College Board, I read that today’s students have a much bigger financial sacrifice than the previous generation and that the average cost of tuition to a four-year public institution has tripled. My reality is this dream, like most dreams, has a cost. That cost could derail my dream if I do not actively seek to address it. I am actively pursuing scholarship opportunities so I can proactively address this issue of cost. This scholarship represents hope; the hope that my focus can be on making strides academically and not losing focus due to the overwhelming debt that is part of the pursuit of higher education. Being awarded this scholarship will put me closer to attaining my dream, a debt-free STEM education.

HBCUs exist for a reason. Professor Dr. Greg Carr from Howard University explained that HBCUs provided hope; “A place to create a leadership class for the people coming out of enslavement”. He explained that the distinction of the HBCU, is those who attend takes the assignment of being sent to acquire a tool kit to then bring back to the community as a very important one. While the internet still states that only a 2.0 GPA is required for admission to FAMU, I am proud to be among the Class of 2026. As described on the FAMU page, “The Class of 2026 has a 3.91 incoming grade point average”. We are described as the Class with the highest overall GPA that has been accepted to the university. My journey to higher education did not begin with FAMU has my first choice but I quickly learned from several alumnae that this is where I will “thrive in excellence”. My goal is to be a veterinarian, to be among the less than 2% of the profession that is African American and FAMU is where I met for the first time a Black veterinarian. I have been taught that I am expected to model Black excellence in everything that I do. For me, it starts with recognizing that there are many disparities in our Black communities. My goal is to be a catalyst for change as a board-certified veterinarian providing affordable access to animal care in the community that I grew up in.

Imagine sitting at lunch on the patio and suddenly you hear an announcement… code red. This is not the first time this announcement has happened. My high school had several lockdowns due to code red. With each announcement, I find myself feeling panicked. My breathing changed, and my heart raced, but normally an adult is around to remind us of what we need to do. But there came a day during my senior year when there were no adults, no directions, no walls, no doors, just students moving, and my feet followed the crowd and suddenly I was outside the school next to my friend running. The blood pumping, my chest tightening and for just one second, I had a thought - do I even have my inhaler? While fear and panic were in that moment, the overwhelming anxiety that followed knowing that I would have to return to that place was more than any teenager should have to deal with. Anxiety is a feeling of excessive fear, dread, and uneasiness. It can cause difficulty sleeping, irritability and even impaired concentration. The American Psychological Association states that it is an emotion characterized by sweating, trembling, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat. According to the National Institute of Health, 1 in 3 teenagers will experience some level of anxiety. The statistics are quite alarming but as a teen, not at all surprising. Anxiety is more prevalent in certain areas of a teen’s life. Academic performance has always been the top producer for me. Always worried about whether or not my grades are going to be enough. I quickly learned that the pressure of performance can also lead to bright sparkling gems. It is my intention to be a bright sparkling gem by practicing techniques - deep breathing exercises; journaling our thoughts and fears; talking with a trusted friend or parent… and finally, perhaps the easiest, taking long walks. These are only some of the techniques that I have learned to manage my anxiety. So who am I? My name is Chai Comrie, a second-year Animal Science Pre-veterinary major studying at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. I am determined to not only complete veterinary school but achieve the ultimate goal of opening my own clinic that will offer affordable and accessible care to my community. As an African-American young man, I am acutely aware of the challenges faced in accessing the necessary pathways for success in our chosen fields. The representation of African-American professionals in animal care is limited, and even fewer have ownership roles. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, African-American veterinarians make up only 1.7% of the profession. My goal of becoming a small business owner and opening my own animal care clinic will serve to make available accessible and affordable care. And I believe that as a minority business owner in the field, I can create opportunities for students, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to gain exposure to the animal care profession. Beyond providing accessible care and mentorship, I am dedicated to fostering a sense of inclusivity within the animal care profession. Bringing diversity to this profession will ultimately benefit both the animals we care for and the community I choose to serve. Anxiety is a serious problem among teens. At 19 I am no exception but as Dr. Seuss reminds us … “So be sure when you step, step with care and great tact. And remember that life is a great balancing act.” Afterall, “We have only, just begun, to live.”

My decision to pursue veterinary medicine and my aspirations for my education are deeply rooted in my experiences and the desire to make a meaningful impact on my community. My journey began with my enrollment at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, as a Pre-Veterinary, Animal Science major. I am determined to not only complete veterinary school but achieve the ultimate goal of opening my own clinic that will offer affordable and accessible care to my community. My love for animals and the natural world has always been a part of me. At South Plantation High School where I completed my diploma in environmental sciences and a certification in animal science, the opportunities to embrace my passion were readily available. I became an active member of the Horticulture Club. Through this organization, I learned all about animal and plant care during our weekly meetings. On weekends, I eagerly volunteered to come in and provide care for the animals, which required an understanding of each species' dietary needs and ensuring they had clean and adequate water. This experience only deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. As an African American young man, I am acutely aware of the challenges faced in accessing the necessary pathways for success in our chosen fields. The representation of African American professionals in animal care is limited, and even fewer have ownership roles. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, African American veterinarians make up only 1.7% of the profession. My goal of becoming a small business owner and opening my own animal care clinic, will serve to make available accessible and affordable care. And I believe that as a minority business owner in the field, I can create opportunities for students, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to gain exposure to the animal care profession. Beyond providing accessible care and mentorship, I am dedicated to fostering a sense of inclusivity within the animal care profession. Bringing diversity to this profession will ultimately benefit both the animals we care for and the community I choose to serve. My decision to study veterinary medicine is driven by a genuine passion for animals and a deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact on my community. As a second-year scholar at FAMU, I have continued my involvement in organizations that allow me to grow in my chosen field and give back to my community. From the Animal Science Club in which I volunteer to educate children in the community to being a Climate Fellow, I want to ensure that we are doing our part in the community and the environment.

My decision to pursue veterinary medicine and my aspirations for my education are deeply rooted in my experiences and the desire to make a meaningful impact on my community. My journey begins with my enrollment at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, I have been able to nurture my growth as a well-rounded individual and excel in my chosen field. As a Pre-Veterinary, Animal Science major, I am driven to complete veterinary school and gain practical experience, with the ultimate goal of opening a clinic that offers affordable and accessible care to the community I serve. My passion for animals and the natural world was ignited during my time at South Plantation High School, where I became a member of the Horticulture Club. Through this organization, I had the opportunity to learn about animal and plant care during our weekly meetings. On weekends, I eagerly volunteered to feed the animals, which required an understanding of each species' dietary needs and ensuring they had clean and adequate water. These experiences deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. As an African American young man, I am acutely aware of the challenges faced in accessing the necessary pathways for success in our chosen fields. The representation of African American professionals in animal care is limited, and even fewer have ownership roles. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, African American veterinarians make up only 1.7% of the profession. With my goal of becoming a small business owner and opening an animal care clinic, I aim to address this disparity. By being a minority business owner in the field, I can create opportunities for students, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to gain exposure to the animal care profession. Currently, there are limited avenues for students to explore this field, and my clinic would provide a nurturing learning environment for those interested in pursuing careers in animal care. Beyond providing accessible care and mentorship, I am dedicated to fostering a sense of inclusivity within the animal care profession. By breaking down barriers and offering opportunities for underrepresented individuals, I hope to contribute to a more diverse and equitable veterinary community. Diversity brings fresh perspectives, innovation, and enhanced understanding, ultimately benefiting both the animals we care for and the community we serve. In conclusion, my decision to study veterinary medicine is driven by a genuine passion for animals and a deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact on my community. Through my education, practical experience, and future ownership of an animal care clinic, I aim to provide affordable and accessible care while also creating opportunities for aspiring students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to pursue careers in the animal care profession. By fostering inclusivity and diversity, I strive to make a meaningful contribution to the field of veterinary medicine and the well-being of the animals and communities I serve.

Growing up as an African American male, I witnessed firsthand the disparities that exist within my community, particularly in access to care and educational opportunities. These experiences have ignited my passion to pursue a career in STEM, specifically as an animal science, pre-veterinary major. My ultimate goal is to become a veterinarian, using my degree to uplift and empower the community through various avenues. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the intricate web of life that exists in the animal kingdom. This curiosity, coupled with my desire to make a positive impact, led me to choose animal science as my academic focus. By pursuing a career in veterinary medicine, I aim to merge my passion for animals with my commitment to improving the well-being of underserved communities. Upon completion of veterinary school and some practical experience, my intention is to open a clinic and provide affordable and accessible care to my community. As a veterinarian, I recognize that my role will extend beyond providing medical care to animals. I envision myself as a catalyst for change, actively working towards bridging the gaps in healthcare and education. By offering affordable and accessible veterinary services, I can contribute to breaking down financial barriers that prevent marginalized communities from seeking proper care for their beloved pets. Through community outreach programs and educational initiatives, I will strive to increase awareness about preventive care, zoonotic diseases, and responsible pet ownership. Furthermore, I aim to address the lack of representation in the field of veterinary medicine, particularly among African Americans. As a minority aspiring to become a veterinarian, I understand the importance of diverse perspectives in healthcare. I will actively mentor and inspire students from underprivileged backgrounds, encouraging them to pursue careers in STEM and showing them that their dreams are attainable. By fostering diversity and inclusivity within the field, we can provide culturally competent care and enhance the overall well-being of our communities. Moreover, I am passionate about advocating for animal welfare and conservation. Through my work as a veterinarian, I will actively collaborate with local organizations to develop sustainable practices that protect both animals and the environment. By promoting the ethical treatment of animals and sustainable farming practices, I hope to contribute to the larger effort of creating a healthier and more environmentally conscious community. In conclusion, my pursuit of a career in STEM, specifically in animal science and veterinary medicine, is driven by my commitment to uplift and empower my community. By becoming a veterinarian, I will provide accessible and affordable healthcare services, promote education on preventive care, and address the underrepresentation of African Americans in the field. Furthermore, I will actively advocate for animal welfare and conservation. Through these efforts, I aspire to make a lasting and positive impact, improving the overall well-being of both animals and the community at large.

“Mih coffee, mih coffee, mih coffee, mih coffee, mih bowl of boiling coffee in dih mawning” This is the first recollection that I have of learning about my parents’ heritage. I was in the first grade at a small private school in Fort Lauderdale, Phyl’s Academy when my teacher taught us this song for the Black History showcase. The first time I came home practicing my song, my mother could not stop laughing. She said I sounded like an American trying to be a Jamaican. My mother was the last of her siblings to migrate to the United States from Jamaica. Her mother, my grandmother came to the United States so that her daughters would be able to be able to attend college and have “a better life”. My mother is the second of three children from a single-parent household. My grandmother is an only child who was also raised in a single-parent household. While my grandmother had originally moved to the United States in the late 1960s, she returned to Jamaica for a short while in the 1970s. It was during those years that she decided that she wanted to ensure that her children would be positioned for a better future. She also decided to move to Philadelphia instead of back to New York because she was afraid of the school system. While the journey as told by my mom has had many ups and downs. She is thankful that because of that single decision I am positioned to actualize my dream. I am an Animal Science Pre-Veterinary scholar. I know I will need to hold tight to my Caribbean traits of hard work, self-determination, and resilience while pursuing my dream. I am actively seeking scholarships to proactively address the issue of cost which can defer dreams.

My name is Chai Comrie, a National Achiever, animal lover and future veterinarian. My vision is to study veterinary medicine, a path that will allow me to help animals that are hurt or sick. Veterinarians became people that I idolize. It is amazing to think there are people that make it their career to help heal animals. Whenever I could, I tried to gain more information about common practices and how to help animals, which led me to enroll into South Plantation High School’s (SPHS) Environmental Magnet Program. South Plantation has a small farm - pigs, sheep, goats, and chicken. The curriculum includes both agriculture and animal science and teaches students how to take care of their environment. To reach my goal of studying veterinary medicine, I started taking classes so that I can receive the Animal Care Certification at the end of my senior year. Since I began SPHS, I became a member of the Horticulture Club, an organization that also allows me to learn about both animals and plant care at our weekly meetings. Since returning to school after a year of learning virtually, I was determined that the Club needed to continue so that my underclassmen would be exposed to the same experiences that led me to SPHS. To revamp the Club, I first needed to identify a teacher to sponsor the Club. Next, I designed flyers and distributed them around the school. I recruited members and held election of officers at our first meeting. I was nominated and elected to serve as President. Since then, we have held our first fundraiser – a Doggie Wash and participated in an annual community plant sale. On the weekends, I volunteer to feed the animals which requires knowledge of each animal and the type of feed needed; as well as ensure that there is clean and adequate water supply. These activities have allowed me to continue developing as a leader and more importantly is preparing me to be successful. I was inducted Spring 2014 into the Atlantic Coast Center of Excellence, National Achiever’s Society. As am Achiever, I have actively participated in community project which includes community clean up drives that included neighborhood parks. These projects also included beautification of these neighborhoods as well. In growing up with the believe that I am an Achiever, I ran for a Board position at the end of my sophomore year and was elected to serve a two-year term as President of the Student Board. I have led the organization in a virtual setting for a year, including organizing board meetings, monthly student meetings and leading our bi-annual inductions. I have found innovative ways to engage my fellow Achievers by using games that allow everyone to actively participate. So as our litany reminds me – “Anything that my mind can conceive I can achieve, I am a National Achiever”. This school year, I proudly launched a project aimed at addressing a need of the homelessness population in our community, access to personal hygiene products. My goal is to mobilize our group to collect hygiene products, assemble personal care kits and distribute at least 200 personal care kits and 100 period poverty kits this Spring. It is important to recognize that it is our civic responsibility, when possible, to care for the members of our community who are in need. As an African American young man, I know that it is often difficult to access the path needed to be successful in a chosen field. There are not many African American animal care professionals and even fewer are business owners. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, African American veterinarians make up only 1.7% of the profession. In this post-pandemic world, as we all struggle to figure out what the new normal is, I plan to become a small business owner of my own animal care clinic. Being the owner, I would be able to provide opportunities for students who are interested to be exposed to the profession. Currently, there are limited opportunities to be exposed to the animal care profession and even fewer for minority students. My ultimate goal is to create a learning environment for students who are interested in the animal care profession.

From a young age, it was clear that I loved animals. I chose to enroll at South Plantation High School because they offered an opportunity to learn about animals inside and outside of the classroom. As a member of the Horticulture Club, I learned about both animal and plant care at our weekly meetings. Since returning to school after a year of learning virtually, I was determined that the Club needed to continue so that my underclassmen would be exposed to the same experiences that led me to the school. To revamp the Club, I first needed to identify a teacher to sponsor the Club. Next, I designed flyers and distributed them around the school. I recruited members and held election of officers at our first meeting. I was elected to serve as President. Since then, we have held our first fundraiser – a Doggie Wash and participated in an annual community plant sale. On the weekends, I volunteer to feed the animals which requires knowledge of each animal and the type of feed needed; as well as ensure that there is a clean, adequate water supply. I spend hours cleaning the cages of the smaller animals, changing water troughs for the larger outdoor animals, preparing the feed for each of the animals. Sometimes, I had feed the goats with treats. Being around the animals is where I am happiest. While some people consider it a hobby, to me it is so much more. It is my passion and the career that I am choosing to pursue. As an African American young man, I know that it is often difficult to access the path needed to be successful in a chosen field. There are not many African American animal care professionals and even fewer are business owners. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, African American veterinarians make up only 1.7% of the profession. My vision is to study veterinary medicine, a path that will allow me to help animals that are hurt or sick. Currently, there are limited opportunities to be exposed to the animal care profession and even fewer for minority students. My ultimate goal is to create a learning environment for students who are interested in the animal care profession.

My vision is to study veterinary medicine, a path that will allow me to help animals that are hurt or sick. Veterinarians became people that I idolize. It is amazing to think there are people that make it their career to help heal animals. Whenever I could, I tried to gain more information about common practices and how to help animals, which led me to enroll into South Plantation High School’s Environmental Magnet Program. South Plantation has a small farm - pigs, sheep, goats, and chicken. The curriculum includes both agriculture and animal science and teaches students how to take care of their environment. To reach my goal of studying veterinary medicine, I started taking classes so that I can receive the Animal Care Certification at the end of my senior year. As an African American young man, I know that it is often difficult to access the path needed to be successful in a chosen field. There are not many African American animal care professionals and even fewer are business owners. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, African American veterinarians make up only 1.7% of the profession. In this post-pandemic world, as we all struggle to figure out what the new normal is, I plan to become a small business owner of my own animal care clinic. Being the owner, I would be able to provide opportunities for students who are interested to be exposed to the profession. Currently, there are limited opportunities to be exposed to the animal care profession and even fewer for minority students. My ultimate goal is to create a learning environment for students who are interested in the animal care profession.

Last year, I saw many changes in our world. The year 2020, taught us that everything we believed to be normal can change significantly in a very short time. Last year the world shut down, not by choice, but because a virus was threatening our lives. Some businesses shut their doors and sent workers to work from home. Our schools closed and we were sent to do remote learning. I saw so many people on the news reporting that they had lost their jobs, because there were no remote options. I also saw one family member continue to thrive as her business seemed unaffected. Her customers’ needs changed, and she quickly adjusted to meet them. This pandemic made me rethink how I wanted to move forward in this world. I have always wanted to be a veterinarian because of my love of animals. What I had never thought about was what this would look like. Being home for an entire school year gave me time to think of my future and what that future should look like. I want to be the person who controls where I work, how long I work, and should another pandemic come about in my lifetime, I want to be the one making decisions that affect me. For that reason, I, like so many of my friends, do not just want to go to college, graduate and go to work for a company, we want to begin companies and have people working for us. In my ideal world, I will complete veterinary school after college and open my own clinic. On my way to that goal, I am planning to start a dog walking business. Being in business for myself will allow me to be independent so that I can set my own schedule, make money and still have time to study. Working for myself will mean freedom. Practicing with a small business will give me the experience I will need to run a veterinary clinic. Being the owner, I would also be able to provide opportunities for students who are interested to be exposed to the profession. As an African American young man, I know that it is often difficult to access the path needed to be successful in a chosen field. There are not many African American animal care professionals and even fewer are business owners. According to the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are only 1.7% African American veterinarians. In this post pandemic world, as we all struggle to figure out what the new normal is, I believe my generation will look within to ensure that they are able to survive whatever the world throws at them. Being self-employed means controlling one’s destiny no matter what the circumstance and that should be the mind set of my generation.

Last year, I saw many changes in our world. The year 2020, taught us that everything we believed to be normal can change significantly in a very short time. Last year the world shut down, not by choice but because a virus was threatening our very lives. This pandemic made me rethink how I wanted to move forward in this world. I have always wanted to be a veterinarian because of my love of animals. What I had never thought about was what this would look like. Being home for an entire school year gave me time to think of my future and what that future should look like. I want to be the person who controls where I work, how long I work, and should another pandemic come about in my lifetime I want to be the one making decisions that affect me. In other words, I want to achieve financial freedom. I do not just want to go to college, graduate and go to work for a company; to achieve financial freedom, I must be a true entrepreneur. My future will begin when I complete veterinary school after college and open a clinic of my own. On my way to that goal, I am planning to start my first business which will help to sustain me while I am attending college. I believe that I can successfully start a dog walking business. Being in business for myself will allow me financial independence with the flexibility to make money and still have time to study. Working for myself will mean freedom. Practicing with a small business will give me the experience I will need to build a successful clinic. Being the owner, I would also be able to provide opportunities for students who are interested to be exposed to the profession. As an African American young man, I know that it is often difficult to access the path needed to be successful in a chosen field. There are not many African American animal care professionals and even fewer are business owners. In this post pandemic world as we all struggle to figure out what the new normal is, I believe my generation will look within to ensure that they are able to survive whatever the world throws at them. Being self-employed means controlling one’s destiny no matter what circumstances the world tries to throw at you and that is financial freedom. Let me introduce myself, my name is Chai Alexander Comrie, an animal lover, future veterinarian, who has been taught from an early age – “anything that my mind can conceive and my heart can believe, I can achieve” because I am a National Achiever.

One day I was the first to arrive to a meeting only to come face to face with a number of homeless individuals that had made the entrance of the building a place to gather. I had been to this building many times but always after it had been open. I stood there and observed them. There were two women, one was playing music and folding her banket, the other was sipping on something from a paper cup talking to the man. All three seemed to be relatively young adults and I felt has if I had intruded into their home. Seeing others experiencing homelessness up close was very disturbing. I had often seen people on the corner begging or walking along the street and they appeared homeless from their torn clothing and disheveled look. Sadly, I thought that it was someone else’s problem until that day. For me this was a problem that should not be ignored, and I wanted to do something about it because I realize that people are people and that I did not know what circumstances had led them to this situation. My name is Chai Alexander Comrie, an animal lover, future veterinarian, and a National Achiever. I was inducted Spring of my 4th grade year member into the Atlantic Coast Center of Excellence, National Achiever’s Society (NAS), an education program of the Urban League of Broward County. I turned to this organization as the current president, I proposed at the next Board meeting that we collect items and assemble personal care and period poverty kits. Before bringing this suggestion, I researched the subject of homelessness almost obsessively. According to the Florida Department of Children and Family Services, homeless persons are those who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, or those living in shelters and temporary housing, or public and private places not designed for sleeping accommodations (e.g. on the street, in cars, in parks, etc.). I wanted to understand how as a society we allowed this travesty. More importantly, was what could I as a student do about it. I talked about it at every meeting and set a deadline for donations. As a group, we set a goal to assemble and distribute 200 personal care kits and 100 period poverty kits before the end of 2021. While we have completed the collection of items and several Achievers and I have spent several evenings assembling the kits, the delivery of the kits will be during a meal distribution sponsored by another community organization, the Kiwanis Club of Lauderdale Lakes. I am very excited that this will be the culminating event of this year, a year that has been filled with so many pandemic related anxieties and uncertainties. Being aware of the issue of homelessness and bringing it to my NAS family, I have not only addressed the issue, but I have raised awareness that this is being a prevalent issue in our community that should not be ignored. Growing up with a single mom who happens to be a social worker, she is always saying everyone is only one paycheck away from being homeless, so each day we should be thankful for what we have because it is only by God’s grace that we are not on the other side of the issue.

“Living my best life” is the ultimate goal for everyone. Living a long, healthy life begins with achieving a balance with those activities that are critical to be alive and those that brings happiness. A long, healthy life is addressed both in the physical and mentally aspect of living. People often say, ‘treat your body as a temple”. A temple is a place to not only treasure but to revere. Living in that spirit is the best way to live a long, healthy life. It begins with planning healthy, balanced meals. It is eating at least three times daily; it is being recommended that we eat smaller meals more frequently. To live long and healthy require portion control, using healthy fats and focusing on lean meat and more vegetables. Ideally, it is also about the amount of water we are drinking. For adults, it is limiting alcohol consumption and for everyone, it is not smoking. To live long and healthy means exercise is a daily practice. The recommendation is moving our bodies at least 30 minutes, three times weekly. This may be simply walking but it is also recommended that exercises that build or strengthen muscles be a part of this regime. The final and sometimes the most critical part of a long, healthy life is mental wellbeing. Often overlooked, this is what provides the energy to do all the other things that are outlined in this essay. Mental wellness begins with getting a good night’s sleep. It can be avoiding people or things that does not make you feel good about yourself. It is limiting the amount of time sent on social media. When you do all or most of these things on a regular basis then you are practicing the best way to live a long, healthy life.