My name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a student-athlete and a sophomore in college. I come from a low-income family and was brought up in a single-parent household. My mom was born in Trinidad, and she is a retired Navy veteran with over 25 years of faithful service to our country. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I have seen this work several times in my lifetime. These are my list for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing in your sport), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. My first year in high school was at the height of COVID-19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the online courses were not equipped for both in-person and virtual learning at the time, resulting in most of the virtual students with horrible grades as a result. So in my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was amazing. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and pushed myself and achieve a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA upon graduation. I started playing volleyball in middle school, which is late for playing the sport, I loved it and wanted to play in college. However, I was crushed when the coach in high school didn't allow me to play. She told me that she doesn't see me ever playing in high school or college, although I was selected on the varsity team in both I tried out. I stayed on the team my junior season, however, in my senior year, I dropped out of the team and I spent the season volunteering at my former volleyball club so I could continue with the sport. I was a coach for ages 5-8 and an assistant coach for 9-15 players. As both a coach and an assistant coach I help the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills and gain confidence in themselves so they can continue playing the sport. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and coincidentally it also allowed me to develop myself academically and athletically. For my efforts and determination, one day, I received an email to try out for a position on the volleyball team. My first impression was that it was a spam email, but I set up an appointment to try out anyway. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at the collegiate level at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. This year I will be the starting Setter for the team, this is exciting news because the setter is the quarterback on a football team. I feel grateful for my family's support and encouragement during those times because I wanted to give up on my dreams of playing volleyball in college, but they never gave up on me and my dreams. As my mom said, “Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams, there is a place for you somewhere, just believe”!

As a young kid, my mom and grandmother always told me that Charity begins at home. As a descendant of an Afro-American with Caribbean roots, I have made sure to keep giving back to my community whenever I can because I feel this shows Integrity and respect for others, plus I enjoy giving back. I am currently a student-athlete at an HBCU in Georgia. I remember when I was a senior in high school and was not allowed to play volleyball with the team due to the coach’s bias. I found the courage and took that opportunity to volunteer as a coach and assistant coach at my former volleyball club to teach the kids how to play the sport and be team players. By doing this, it helped me become a team player and it made me realize that I am a leader and I have the potential to be a successful volleyball player as well. In doing something so simple, I was able to increase my level of the game and mentor inner-city kids that you can make it if you keep going forward and don't dwell on people’s opinions. Do it for yourself and focus on your dreams. I received my volunteer hours that I had to complete, but since I loved coaching, I still dedicate my time to volunteering at the club when I am on school breaks.

As a BIPOC and a first-generation student in a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish matters in the end. My mom always said, “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through.” My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida. However, we moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, so that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether in academics or volleyball. I remember my first year in high school was at the height of COVID-19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, in my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was like night and day. In the last three years, I had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was crushed when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me playing that year or ever playing in college. I ultimately had to drop out of the team because of the negativity and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom supported my choice to withdraw and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until the club season. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every weekend I was volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players develop their skills. I am currently playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down and disrespect you. Everything happens for a reason and my experiences with my coach could have affected me mentally, but with encouragement from my mom, I was able to navigate through without having mental issues as a result. I continue to volunteer on school breaks for that volleyball club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams!

As a first-generation student in a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish matters in the end. My mom always said, “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through.” My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida. However, we moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, so that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether in academics or volleyball. I remember my first year in high school was at the height of COVID-19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, in my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was like night and day. In the last three years, I had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was crushed when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me playing that year or ever playing in college. I ultimately had to drop out of the team because of the negativity and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom supported my choice to withdraw and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until the club season. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every weekend I was volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players develop their skills. I am currently playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down and disrespect you. Everything happens for a reason and my experiences with my coach could have affected me mentally, but with encouragement from my mom, I was able to navigate through without having mental issues as a result. I continue to volunteer on school breaks for that volleyball club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams!

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation student of a single-parent household. My mom is a retired Navy Chief and she brought me up to believe that ethics play a lot in a person’s character. She always said, “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard, and have the ethics and determination to push through and never disrespect anyone while getting there”. A little about myself. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida. However, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to instill in me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, because you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is with my academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result of this. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was amazing. I had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA and increasing it to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school but I was crushed when my coach did not allow me to play. She told me that she did not see me playing that year or playing at all. So I had no other choice but to drop out of the team and focused on club volleyball instead. It was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom supported my decision to withdraw and encouraged me to volunteer my senior year as a coach at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and my grades. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return for club season, it helped me improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was also able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. Incidentally, I am a student-athlete playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason”. I will continue to volunteer, on my school breaks, for my former volleyball club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true!

Whenever I pick up a watercolor brush, I feel a calm clarity that I don’t experience anywhere else. Watercolor painting has become more than just an artistic outlet for me—it’s a way of processing emotions, reflecting on my experiences, and expressing what words often fail to capture. The fluid, unpredictable nature of watercolor mirrors how I move through the world: soft yet intentional, layered yet transparent. It’s taught me patience, control, and the beauty of letting go. My love for watercolor started as a quiet curiosity but grew into a form of emotional storytelling. When I paint, I explore themes of identity, healing, and growth. Watercolor allows me to express vulnerability in a subtle but powerful way. The way pigments bleed and blend on paper reminds me that even in messiness, there’s beauty. I often layer my work with imagery from nature—flowers, skies, water—because these elements feel like extensions of my own emotions. The process brings me peace, but also clarity. It helps me understand myself better with each piece I create. One painting I’m submitting features a single figure submerged in a blooming landscape. I used a muted palette with soft greens and blues to create a peaceful yet introspective tone. It was inspired by a time in my life when I felt emotionally overwhelmed, and painting it helped me find my balance again. The second piece is more abstract, using warm oranges and purples to explore transformation and letting go. I painted it after a personal experience of emotional healing, and it reflects the strength that can be found in softness. I’m currently studying at Paine College, where I’ve been encouraged by my art professor and mentors to pursue a creative career. I’m exploring paths like art education or creative therapy, where I can use my passion for watercolor to help others express themselves and heal through art. I want to continue growing not only as an artist but as someone who creates safe, meaningful spaces through creativity. Watercolor will always be central to my life because it helps me speak without saying a word. Through each painting, I’m not just telling my story—I’m learning how to shape it, one brushstroke at a time.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise, it’s something that shapes my entire mood. It sets the tone of my day and often inspires the direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings, and painting gives me a safe way to release them. Painting offers freedom. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work harshly sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What lures me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolors, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow and have helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose all track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me, it’s something that shapes my entire mood. It sets the tone of my day and often inspires the direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work harshly sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What lures me in the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolor, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be central to how I understand the world and share my place in it. Upon graduation with a degree in Psychology, I intend to incorporate my love for both music and art (whether it is drawing and/or painting) to make people more comfortable and relaxed about themselves and their well-being.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose all track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me, it’s something that shapes my entire mood. It sets the tone of my day and often inspires the direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work harshly sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What lures me in the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolor, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be central to how I understand the world and share my place in it. Upon graduation with a degree in Psychology, I intend to incorporate my love for both music and art (whether it is drawing and/or painting) to make people more comfortable and relaxed about themselves and their well-being.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and both my parents are veterans. I am a student-athletic and first-generation undergraduate student at Paine College. I will be majoring in Psychology with a minor in Art. My utmost goal would be to work in healthcare to help veterans deal with mental health issues through art. Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. It doesn't matter where I am, so long as I have a paintbrush in hand, I’ll get so focused on a piece, that time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work harshly sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolors, collages, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor who helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace, they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and both my parents are veterans. I am a student-athletic and first-generation undergraduate student at Paine College. I will be majoring in Psychology with a minor in Art. My utmost goal would be to work in healthcare to help veterans deal with mental health issues through art. Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. It doesn't matter where I am, so long as I have a paintbrush in hand, I’ll get so focused on a piece, that time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work harshly sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolors, collages, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor who helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and both my parents are veterans. I am a student-athletic and first-generation undergraduate student at Paine College. I will be majoring in Psychology with a minor in Art. My utmost goal would be to work in healthcare to help veterans deal with mental health issues through art. Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolors, collages, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor who helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and both my parents are veterans. I am a student-athletic and first-generation undergraduate student at Paine College. I will be majoring in Psychology with a minor in Art. My utmost goal would be to work in a healthcare facility utilizing what I have learned to help veterans deal with mental health issues through art therapy. Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolors, collages, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be central to how I understand the world and share my place in it.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose all track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolor, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be my love.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose all track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolor, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be central to how I understand the world and share my place in it while pursuing Psychology.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose all track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolor, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be central to how I understand the world and share my place in it.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose all track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolor, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be central to how I understand the world and share my place in it. Upon graduation with a degree in Psychology, I intend to incorporate my love for both music and art (whether it is drawing and/or painting) to make people more comfortable and relaxed about themselves and their wellbeing.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose all track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolor, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be central to how I understand the world and share my place in it.

Whenever I listen to music or work on my paintings, I lose all track of time. These two passions are more than just hobbies—they’re powerful forms of self-expression that have helped me understand myself and connect to the world around me in a deeper, more meaningful way. Music and art are both connected in how I process emotions and communicate thoughts and ideas that words alone can’t fully capture. Music isn’t just background noise to me—it’s an experience that shapes my entire mood. It sets the emotional tone of my day and often inspires the mood or direction of my artwork. Different sounds spark different images in my mind. A soft, soulful melody might lead me to paint in calm blues and purples, while a high-energy beat could inspire bold brush strokes and vibrant colors. The rhythms, lyrics, and emotions in a song often guide the story I try to tell on canvas. I’ve found that music helps me tap into feelings I might not fully understand yet, and painting gives me a safe way to release them and reflect. Painting, in particular, offers a kind of freedom I don’t experience anywhere else. When I’m in my room, with a paintbrush in hand, completely focused on a piece, time seems to pause. I enter a mental space where I can experiment with new techniques, explore my thoughts, and express myself without fear of judgment. The canvas becomes a place where I can be honest and completely free. It’s not about perfection—and although I do critique my work sometimes—it’s really about process, discovery, and emotional truth. That’s what keeps me coming back to it. What captivates me the most about both music and painting is how limitless they are. There are no rules or boundaries to creativity. I can listen to a hundred different genres and discover something new in each one. I can use acrylics, watercolor, collage, or even digital elements to expand how I tell visual stories. I often combine materials, styles, and ideas, making each project feel fresh and personal. Every painting teaches me something new about myself, my emotions, and how I experience the world around me. When I want to learn more or push myself creatively, I turn to the artists who inspire me—both musical and visual. I study their techniques, analyze their choices, and reflect on what makes their work so powerful. I also seek guidance from mentors, especially my art professor at Paine College. They’ve helped me refine my skills, challenge my thinking, and believe in the value of my creative voice. I also explore online platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, and even podcasts to discover new styles and gather inspiration when I’m feeling stuck or curious about trying something different. These creative outlets don’t just bring me peace—they push me to grow. They’ve helped shape my confidence, discipline, and vision for the future. Whether I pursue a career in art, education, or creative therapy, I know music and painting will always be central to how I understand the world and share my place in it.

My name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a first-generation student-athlete from a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I always wanted to explore the possibility of attending school out of state. Last semester, I achieved that goal because I am currently attending school in Georgia, majoring in Psychology, while experiencing what it is like to attend one of the HBCUs that I have heard so much about. So far, I am not disappointed because of the cohesiveness of the school and the black excellence I feel when I am there. The significance of the history within this institution can be seen and felt once you enter the premises. There is so much heritage, the vast culture, the richness of the movement of our forefathers, the empowerment, and the freedom to be unapologetically black among people who look like me. HBCUs provide so many connections, personally and professionally, and you meet so many mentors who are always willing to guide you in the right direction so you can succeed and not try to make you feel like you are not worth it or not good enough. My professors here are always so uplifting that you want to succeed and see other people succeed as well. It is important to see that and feel comfortable seeing others thrive. In today's society, I see DEI and equal opportunity rights being abolished and some laws being reverted to the days of slavery and some people think it's okay. However, we need to continue encouraging kids to pursue their educational goals at HBCUs because of the opportunity they provide for black people and minorities so they can continue to have education greatness and continuously strive and empower the next generation of students to succeed. Hence the reason HBCUs were established was so that black people could have a voice and a chance at a better life than what their parents were forced to endure at that time; they have established an atmosphere for students to become great leaders of the next generation and taking their knowledge to the next level. Many HBCUs have seen their graduates change the course of history and have now established themselves as political leaders, professional athletes, Vice presidents, and actors/actresses, to name a few. I too would like to be one of those graduates who have gone through the HBCU tradition and fulfill my dream There is the legacy I have been charged with by my family of HBCU graduates and I am driven to fulfill the goal and making an impact while enjoying their many experiences as a Greek association member and taking it back to the community to build the HBCU However, the commitment and honor of continuing education at a higher level to succeed through the educational experience has motivated me to continue attending an HBCU. HBCUs offer the gift of being among like-minded, highly educated individuals who understand and look like me, come from the same history and walk of life as my ancestors, and want to educate and uplift the next generation - these are just a few benefits of attending an HBCU!

My name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a first-generation student-athlete from a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I always wanted to explore the possibility of attending school out of state. Last semester, I achieved that goal because I am currently attending school in Georgia, majoring in Psychology, while experiencing what it is like to attend one of the HBCUs that I have heard so much about. So far, I am not disappointed because of the cohesiveness of the school and the black excellence I feel when I am there. The significance of the history within this institution can be seen and felt once you enter the premises. There is so much heritage, the vast culture, the richness of the movement of our forefathers, the empowerment, and the freedom to be unapologetically black among people who look like me. HBCUs provide so many connections, personally and professionally, and you meet so many mentors who are always willing to guide you in the right direction so you can succeed and not try to make you feel like you are not worth it or not good enough. My professors here are always so uplifting that you want to succeed and see other people succeed as well. It is important to see that and feel comfortable seeing others thrive. In today's society, I see DEI and equal opportunity rights being abolished and some laws being reverted to the days of slavery and some people think it's okay. However, we need to continue encouraging kids to pursue their educational goals at HBCUs because of the opportunity they provide for black people and minorities so they can continue to have education greatness and continuously strive and empower the next generation of students to succeed. Hence the reason HBCUs were established was so that black people could have a voice and a chance at a better life than what their parents were forced to endure at that time; they have established an atmosphere for students to become great leaders of the next generation and taking their knowledge to the next level. Many HBCUs have seen their graduates change the course of history and have now established themselves as political leaders, professional athletes, Vice presidents, and actors/actresses, to name a few. I too would like to be one of those graduates who have gone through the HBCU tradition and fulfill my dream There is the legacy I have been charged with by my family of HBCU graduates and I am driven to fulfill the goal and making an impact while enjoying their many experiences as a Greek association member and taking it back to the community to build the HBCU However, the commitment and honor of continuing education at a higher level to succeed through the educational experience has motivated me to continue attending an HBCU. HBCUs offer the gift of being among like-minded, highly educated individuals who understand and look like me, come from the same history and walk of life as my ancestors, and want to educate and uplift the next generation - these are just a few benefits of attending an HBCU!

My name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a first-generation student-athlete from a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I always wanted to explore the possibility of attending school out of state. Last semester, I achieved that goal because I am currently attending school in Georgia, majoring in Psychology, while experiencing what it is like to attend one of the HBCUs that I have heard so much about. So far, I am not disappointed because of the cohesiveness of the school and the black excellence I feel when I am there. The significance of the history within this institution can be seen and felt once you enter the premises. There is so much heritage, the vast culture, the richness of the movement of our forefathers, the empowerment, and the freedom to be unapologetically black among people who look like me. HBCUs provide so many connections, personally and professionally, and you meet so many mentors who are always willing to guide you in the right direction so you can succeed and not try to make you feel like you are not worth it or not good enough. My professors here are always so uplifting that you want to succeed and see other people succeed as well. It is important to see that and feel comfortable seeing others thrive. In today's society, I see DEI and equal opportunity rights being abolished and some laws being reverted to the days of slavery and some people think it's okay. However, we need to continue encouraging kids to pursue their educational goals at HBCUs because of the opportunity they provide for black people and minorities so they can continue to have education greatness and continuously strive and empower the next generation of students to succeed. Hence the reason HBCUs were established was so that black people could have a voice and a chance at a better life than what their parents were forced to endure at that time; they have established an atmosphere for students to become great leaders of the next generation and taking their knowledge to the next level. Many HBCUs have seen their graduates change the course of history and have now established themselves as political leaders, professional athletes, Vice presidents, and actors/actresses, to name a few. I too would like to be one of those graduates who have gone through the HBCU tradition and fulfill my dream There is the legacy I have been charged with by my family of HBCU graduates and I am driven to fulfill the goal and making an impact while enjoying their many experiences as a Greek association member and taking it back to the community to build the HBCU However, the commitment and honor of continuing education at a higher level to succeed through the educational experience has motivated me to continue attending an HBCU. HBCUs offer the gift of being among like-minded, highly educated individuals who understand and look like me, come from the same history and walk of life as my ancestors, and want to educate and uplift the next generation - these are just a few benefits of attending an HBCU!

I am a first-generation student of a single-parent household. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it is what matters in the end. My mom is a retired Navy Chief and she brought me up to believe that ethics plays a lot in a person’s character. She always said, “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard, and have ethics and determination to push through and never disrespect anyone getting there”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida. However, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, because you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is with my academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result of this. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was amazing. I had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA and increasing it to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school but I was crushed when my coach did not allow me to play. She told me that she did not see me playing that year or ever playing at all. I dropped out of the team and focused on club volleyball instead. It was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom supported my choice to withdraw and encouraged me to volunteer as a coach at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season. This allowed me time to focus more on school and my grades. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to the club, it helped me improve myself on and off the court as a leader/team player. I was also able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. I am currently a freshman and a student-athlete playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason”. I will continue to volunteer, on my school breaks, for my former volleyball club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true!

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation freshman in college. I come from a low-income family and I was brought up in a single-parent household. My mom was born in the Caribbean and she is a retired Navy veteran with over 24 years of service. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly in life, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I have seen this work several times in my short lifetime. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the online classes were not equipped for both in-person and virtual learning most of the virtual students had horrible grades as a result. So my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and pushed myself and achieve a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA upon graduation. I love playing high school volleyball and I was crushed when the coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudice and beliefs. She told me that she doesn't see me ever playing in school or college. I eventually dropped out of the team and I spent the high school season volunteering at my former volleyball club so I could continue with the sport. I thought ages 5-8 and 9-15 year old players. As both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills and gain confidence in themselves so they can continue playing the sport. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and coincidentally it also allowed me to develop myself academically and athletically. One day I received an email to try out for a Setter position and I decided to keep of faith. For my efforts, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at the collegiate level at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. I feel grateful for my family's support and encouragement during those times when I wanted to give up on my dreams of ever playing volleyball in college, but they never gave up on me and my dreams. As my mom said, “Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams, there is a place for you somewhere, just believe”.

First, let me say that my condolences go out to your family and friends of this young soul. It is very tragic to hear of another person dying so young of gun violence. My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation freshman in college. I come from a low-income family and I was brought up in a single-parent household. My mom was born in Trinidad and she is a retired Navy veteran with over 24 years of service. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly in life, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I have seen this work several times in my short lifetime. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the online classes were not equipped for both in-person and virtual learning most of the virtual students had horrible grades as a result. So my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and pushed myself and achieve a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA upon graduation. I love playing high school volleyball and I was crushed when the coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudice and beliefs. She told me that she doesn't see me ever playing in school or college. I eventually dropped out of the team and I spent the high school season volunteering at my former volleyball club so I could continue with the sport. I thought ages 5-8 and 9-15 year old players. As both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills and gain confidence in themselves so they can continue playing the sport. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and coincidentally it also allowed me to develop myself academically and athletically. One day I received an email to try out for a Setter position and I decided to keep of faith. For my efforts, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at the collegiate level at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. I feel grateful for my family's support and encouragement during those times when I wanted to give up on my dreams of ever playing volleyball in college, but they never gave up on me and my dreams. As my mom said, “Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams, there is a place for you somewhere, just believe”.

I am a BIPOC and a first-generation child of a single-parent household. At an early age, my mom who is of Caribbean descent, taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself and reach your goal. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work several times. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was amazing. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and increased it to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted at graduation. I love playing volleyball but was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudice and told me “She doesn't see me playing in college either”. I then volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach teaching the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I currently am a student-athlete playing volleyball as the Setter at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a Freshman. As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it is what matters in the end. My mom always said, “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard, and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed in anything in life”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida. However, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, so that you can reach your goals in life. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is with my academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result of this. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. In the last three years, I had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was crushed when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me playing that year or ever playing at all, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and my grades. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. Especially since every weekend I was volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players to develop their skills. One day, I received an email inquiring about trying out for a Setter position and if they like what they see, I might get the opportunity to play collegiate volleyball at the school in Georgia. Although, I couldn’t make the suggested date, due to scheduling conflicts with my club’s tournament that very same weekend, the coach allowed me to reschedule to the following month. I went to the tryout expecting nothing much but was surprised when she called and offered me the spot on the team. I am glad to say that I am now playing volleyball at that HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as I was able to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer, on my school breaks, for my former volleyball club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true!

My name is Chelsea Brooks, I am a first generation student who was brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, how you finish it, is what really matters in the end. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. This definitely changed our perspective of eating healthy and becoming a vegan, something that we would never of thought about before living there. My mom always instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I have definitely seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year of high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I overcome a 2.5 GPA and got it increased to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I focused on volunteering at my former club as a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision to withdraw from the team, I decided that it would allow me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it takes to be a student-athlete and a team player. I had also come to love and appreciate the impact that volunteering can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks while I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself”. I fully understand what she meant because I am now a freshman, student-athletic at an HBCU majoring in Psychology.

My name is Chelsea Brooks, I am a first generation student who was brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, how you finish it, is what really matters in the end. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom always instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year of high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I overcome a 2.5 GPA and got it increased to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I focused on volunteering at my former club as a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision to withdraw from the team, I decided that it would allow me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it takes to be a student-athlete and a team player. I had also come to love and appreciate the impact that volunteering can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks while I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself”. I fully understand what she meant because I am now a freshman, student-athletic at an HBCU majoring in Psychology.

My name is Chelsea Brooks, I am a first generation student who was brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, how you finish it, is what really matters in the end. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom always instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year of high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I overcome a 2.5 GPA and got it increased to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I focused on volunteering at my former club as a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision to withdraw from the team, I decided that it would allow me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it takes to be a student-athlete and a team player. I had also come to love and appreciate the impact that volunteering can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks while I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself”. I fully understand what she meant because I am now a freshman, student-athletic at an HBCU majoring in Psychology.

My name is Chelsea Brooks, I am a first generation student who was brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, how you finish it, is what matters in the end. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom always instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I had to overcome a 2.5 GPA and got it increased to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Instead, I focused on volunteering at my former club as a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision to withdraw from the team, I decided that it would enable me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it is to be an athlete and a team player. I had come to love and appreciate the impact that volunteering can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks as I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself”. My coach was correct in her assessment of me because here I am currently, a freshman, attending an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. A major I chose to pursue my major because I was very interested in the way the mind works and what you can achieve when you are passionate about something.

My name is Chelsea Brooks, I am a first generation student who was brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, how you finish it, is what matters in the end. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom always instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I had to overcome a 2.5 GPA and got it increased to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Instead, I focused on volunteering at my former club as a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision to withdraw from the team, I decided that it would enable me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it is to be an athlete and a team player. I had come to love and appreciate the impact that volunteering can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks as I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself”. I’m now a student-athlete at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology.

My name is Chelsea Brooks, I am a first generation student who was brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, how you finish it, is what matters in the end. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom always instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I had to overcome a 2.5 GPA and got it increased to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted upon graduation. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Instead, I focused on volunteering at my former club as a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision to withdraw from the team, I decided that it would enable me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it is to be an athlete and a team player. I had come to love and appreciate the impact that volunteering can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks as I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself”.

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. My mom always said “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard, have ethics and determination to push through”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also told me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, and if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself because you can reach your goal. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but it turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was like night and day. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to graduating with a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I loved playing volleyball but I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me ever playing. I eventually drop out from the team to focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. It allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. One day I got a call offering me an opportunity to play at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game by teaching the kids that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! Knowing that psychology will be a pathway for helping kids through experiences like mines. My experience with my volleyball coach could easily have sent me into depression and/or made me loose the love and confidence for the sport, but my mom and family was determined to make sure that I stayed on course for graduation and playing volleyball at a collegiate level. It really takes a village and I will definitely be there for my fellow junior athletes who might be going through the same challenges that I faced during high school but didn’t have anyone to support them during that period.

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. My mom always said “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard, have ethics and determination to push through”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also told me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, and if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself because you can reach your goal. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but it turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was like night and day. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to graduating with a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I loved playing volleyball but I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me ever playing. I eventually drop out from the team to focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. It allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. One day I got a call offering me an opportunity to play at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game by teaching the kids that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! Knowing that psychology will be a pathway for helping kids through experiences like mines. My experience with my volleyball coach could easily have sent me into depression and/or made me loose the love and confidence for the sport, but my mom and family was determined to make sure that I stayed on course for graduation and playing volleyball at a collegiate level. It really takes a village and I will definitely be there for my junior athletes who might be going through the same challenges that I faced during high school but didn’t have someone to support them during that period.

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. My mom always said “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard, have ethics and determination to push through”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also told me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, and if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself because you can reach your goal. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but it turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was like night and day. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to graduating with a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I loved playing volleyball but I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me ever playing. I eventually drop out from the team to focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. It allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. One day I got a call offering me an opportunity to play at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game by teaching the kids that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! Knowing that psychology will be a pathway for helping kids through experiences like mines. My experience with my volleyball coach could easily have sent me into depression and/or made me loose the love and confidence for the sport, but my mom and family was determined to make sure that I stayed on course for graduation and playing volleyball at a collegiate level. It really takes a village and I will definitely be there for my junior athletes who might be going through the same challenges that I faced during high school but didn’t have someone to support them during that period.

As a low-income, first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. My mom always said “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard, have ethics and determination to push through”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also told me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, and if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself because you can reach your goal. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but it turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was like night and day. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to graduating with a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I loved playing volleyball but I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me ever playing. I eventually drop out from the team to focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. It allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. One day I got a call offering me an opportunity to play at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game by teaching the kids that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! Knowing that psychology will be a pathway for helping kids through experiences like mines. My experience with my volleyball coach could easily have sent me into depression and/or made me loose the love and confidence I had for the sport, but my mom and family was determined to make sure that I stayed on course for graduation and be able to play volleyball at a collegiate level. It really takes a village and I will definitely be there for other student-athletes who might be going through the same challenges that I faced during high school but didn’t have someone to support them during that difficult period hence the reason I chose Psychology.

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. My mom always said “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard, have ethics and determination to push through”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also told me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, and if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself because you can reach your goal. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but it turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was like night and day. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to graduating with a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I loved playing volleyball but I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me ever playing. I eventually drop out from the team to focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. It allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. One day I got a call offering me an opportunity to play at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game by teaching the kids that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! Knowing that psychology will be a pathway for helping kids through experiences like mines.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation freshman in college. I come from a low-income family and I was brought up in a single-parent household. My mom was born in the Caribbean and she is a retired Navy veteran with over 24 years of service. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work several times in my short lifetime. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and pushed myself and achieve a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA upon graduation. I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudice and beliefs. So I spent the high school season volunteering at my former volleyball club so I could continue with the sport I wasn't able to play. I taught ages 5-8 and 9-15 year old players. As both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills and gain confidence in themselves so they can continue playing the sport. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and it also allowed me to develop myself academically and athletically. For my efforts, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at the collegiate level at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. I feel grateful for my family's support and encouragement during those times when I wanted to give up on my dreams of ever playing volleyball in college, but they never gave up on me and my dreams. As my mom said, “Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.” I remember feeling very sad, but I had to give my mom props because she always made sure that I didn't let this affect my mental health. After all, this could easily have gone that way if I hadn't been redirected and shown that you can overcome negative situations and achieve your goals. Upon graduating from college, I plan to become a Clinical Psychologist so I can assist teenagers with the choices they make. I was fortunate I had a great family to support me. However, some kids do not have that luxury. I also want to be able to continue teaching kids the sport of volleyball so they too can play at the collegiate level.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation freshman in college. I come from a low-income family and I was brought up in a single-parent household. My mom was born in the Caribbean and she is a retired Navy veteran with over 24 years of service. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work several times in my short lifetime. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and pushed myself and achieve a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA upon graduation. I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudice and beliefs. So I spent the high school season volunteering at my former volleyball club so I could continue with the sport I wasn't able to play. I taught ages 5-8 and 9-15 year old players. As both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills and gain confidence in themselves so they can continue playing the sport. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and it also allowed me to develop myself academically and athletically. For my efforts, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at the collegiate level at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. Looking back, I feel grateful for my family's support and encouragement during those times when I wanted to give up on my dreams of ever playing volleyball in college, but they never gave up on me and my dreams. As my mom said, “Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.” I remember feeling very sad, but I had to give my mom props because she always made sure that I didn't let this affect my mental health. After all, this could easily have gone that way if I hadn't been redirected and shown that you can overcome negative situations and achieve your goals.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation freshman in college. I come from a low-income family and I was brought up in a single-parent household. My mom was born in the Caribbean and she is a retired Navy veteran with over 24 years of service. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work several times in my short lifetime. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and pushed myself and achieve a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA upon graduation. I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudice and beliefs. So I spent the high school season volunteering at my former volleyball club so I could continue with the sport I wasn't able to play. I taught ages 5-8 and 9-15 year old players. As both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills and gain confidence in themselves so they can continue playing the sport. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and it also allowed me to develop myself academically and athletically. For my efforts, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at the collegiate level at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. I feel grateful for my family's support and encouragement during those times when I wanted to give up on my dreams of ever playing volleyball in college, but they never gave up on me and my dreams. As my mom said, “Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.” I remember feeling very sad, but I had to give my mom props because she always made sure that I didn't let this affect my mental health. After all, this could easily have gone that way if I hadn't been redirected and shown that you can overcome negative situations and achieve your goals.

First, let me say my condolences go out to your family. As a student-athlete, it is very difficult to hear such news about a fellow student, my prayers to you all. My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation freshman in college. I come from a low-income family and I was brought up in a single-parent household. My mom was born in the Caribbean and she is a retired Navy veteran with over 24 years of service. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you can reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work several times in my short lifetime. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and pushed myself and achieve a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA upon graduation. I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudice and beliefs. So I spent the high school season volunteering at my former volleyball club so I could continue with the sport. I thought ages 5-8 and 9-15 year old players. As both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills and gain confidence in themselves so they can continue playing the sport. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and it also allowed me to develop myself academically and athletically. For my efforts, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at the collegiate level at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. I feel grateful for my family's support and encouragement during those times when I wanted to give up on my dreams of ever playing volleyball in college, but they never gave up on me and my dreams. As my mom said, “Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.”

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation freshman in college. I come from a low-income family and I was brought up in a single-parent household. My mom was born in the Caribbean and she is a retired Navy veteran with over 24 years of service. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you can reach your goal. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work several times. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA and pushed myself to achieve a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA upon graduation. I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudice and beliefs. So I spent the high school season volunteering at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their ball-handling skills and gaining confidence in themselves so they can continue playing the sport. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and it also allowed me to develop and grow myself academically and athletically. For my efforts, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at the collegiate level an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. I feel grateful for my family's support and encouragement during those times when I wanted to give up on my dreams of ever playing volleyball in college, but they never gave up on me and my dreams. As my mom always said, “Always believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.”

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it is what matters in the end. My mom always says “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas. She took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, so that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it was in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid. I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was amazing. In the last three years of high school, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll ultimately increasing my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was devastated when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not see me playing. So I dropped out of the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice to withdraw from volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with volleyball until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. During that time, I spent my weekends volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players to develop their skills. I am currently playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason”. I was able to see that reason as I improved academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks for that club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from and/or what you have encountered in life, you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true!

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. My mom was always saying “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and push through if you want to succeed”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old, and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I still use those words as my guide to every day to keep going. I started playing volleyball about 4 years ago at the height of Covid 19. I fell in love with the game and I was determined to play the sport I loved in college. So imagine my shock when I was contacted by an HBCU to continue playing for them. I was ecstatic and didn't hesitate to commit. I am currently playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology I am enjoying the adventure and learning about the HBCU experience. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and you should never give up on your dreams because they do come through when you least expect them.

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. My mom was always saying “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, so that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it was in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid. I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not really equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge difference. In the last three years of high school, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll ultimately increasing my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was devastated when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not see me playing. So I dropped out off the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice to withdraw from volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. During my time away from high school volleyball, I spent my weekends volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players to develop their skills. I am currently playing volleyball at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason”. I was able to see that as I improved academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks for my former club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true, as I am a testament to this.

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. My mom was always saying “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, so that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it was in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid. I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not really equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge difference. In the last three years of high school, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll ultimately increasing my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was devastated when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not see me playing. So I dropped out off the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice to withdraw from volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. During that time, I spent my weekends volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players to develop their skills. I am currently playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology this fall. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason”. I was able to see that reason as I improved academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks for that club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a first-generation college student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought it would be a great opportunity to experience life living in another country to savor the food and culture. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to be on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll boosting my GPA at graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I love playing volleyball, but I was devastated when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudices. She even told me that she didn't see me ever playing this season or in the future. This hurt me tremendously because I always try to work hard at everything I do, so I decided to drop out of the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and encouraged me to use that time to volunteer at my former volleyball club. I eventually completed over the required 100 hours at my former volleyball club volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players develop and improve their ball-handling skills. This also allowed me time to focus on school. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I then focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. Finally, never let anyone disrespect you and put you down. My mom always said everything happens for a reason. In my instance, it was to be a leader and improve myself academically and athletically. What my coach did to me could have scared me from the love of volleyball, but I used it to push me through. I will also continue to volunteer at my former club, on school breaks, to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you should never give up on your dreams because dreams do come through!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a first-generation college student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought it would be a great opportunity to experience life living in another country to savor the Mediterranean food and culture. My mom taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will reach your goal in life. She always said to me “Whatever God has plans for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times in my life. My prerequisites for success would be to believe in myself, practice (keep practicing your skill), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have the discipline to utilize that mental and physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to be on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll boosting my GPA at graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I love playing volleyball, but I was devastated when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudices. She even told me that she didn't see me ever playing this season or in the future. This hurt me tremendously because I always try to work hard at everything I do, so I decided to drop out of the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. My mom understood and encouraged me to use that time to volunteer at my former club. I completed over the required 100 hours at my former volleyball club volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players develop and improve their volleyball skills. This also allowed me time to focus on school. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I then focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. Finally, using my perquisites has been my guide to achieving success on my journey with school and volleyball. My mom always said everything happens for a reason. In my instance, it was to be a leader and improve myself academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club, on school breaks, to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams because dreams do come through!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a first-generation college student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought it would be a great oppounity to experience life living in another country to savor the Mediterranean food and culture. My mom taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will reach your goal in life. She always said to me “Whatever God has plans for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times in my life. My prerequisites for success would be to believe in myself, practice (keep practicing your skill), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have the discipline to utilize that mental and physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to be on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll boosted my GPA at graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. In addition, I love playing volleyball, but I was devastated when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudices. She even told me that she didn't see me ever playing this season or in the future. This hurt me tremendously because I always try to work hard at everything I do, so I decided to drop out of the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. My mom understood and encouraged me to use that time to volunteer at my former club. I completed over the required 100 hours volunteering at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players develop and improve their volleyball skills. This also allowed me time to focus on school and this turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I then focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at an HBCU in Georgia majoring in Psychology. Finally, using my perquisites has been my guide to achieving success on my journey with school and volleyball. My mom always said everything happens for a reason. In my instance, it was to be a leader and improve myself academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club, on school breaks, to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams because dreams do come through!

As a BIPOC and first-generation student of Caribbean parents, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. I was brought up in a single-parent household and my mom worked two jobs to ensure I was able to have a comfortable life. However, this allowed me to catch a glimpse of how working hard through different situations is just a process of growth and development. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas. She always told me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will reach your goal in life. My mom always said, “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades improved tremendously. In the last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll and this ultimately increased my GPA tremendously, graduating with a GPA of 3.35 weighted and 5.15 unweighted. I loved playing volleyball and I was devastated when my high school coach did not allow me to play and told me that she didn't ever see me playing. I dropped out of the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me more time to focus on school. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and teammate. When club season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. While I didn't play high school volleyball, I spent every weekend volunteering at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their ball-handling skills. Last December, I got an email to try out to play at the collegiate level, I accepted, and now I am playing volleyball at an HBCU, in Georgia. All I can say is always believe in yourself. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you might face disappointments but never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me “There is always a place for you, so just believe in yourself, dreams do come true!”

As a first-generation student of Caribbean parents, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. I was brought up in a single-parent household and my mom worked two jobs to ensure I was able to have a comfortable life. However, this allowed me to catch a glimpse of how working hard through different situations is just a process of growth. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas. She always told me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will reach your goal in life. My mom always said, “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades improved tremendously. In the last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll and this ultimately increased my GPA tremendously, graduating with a GPA of 3.35 weighted and 5.15 unweighted. I loved playing volleyball and I was devastated when my high school coach did not allow me to play and told me that she doesn't ever see me playing. I dropped out of the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me more time to focus on school. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and teammate. When club season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. While I didn't play high school volleyball, I spent every weekend volunteering at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their ball-handling skills. Last December, I got an email to try out to play at the collegiate level, I accepted, and now I am playing volleyball at an HBCU, in Georgia. All I can say is always believe in yourself. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me “There is always a place for you, so just believe in yourself, dreams do come true!”

My journey dealing with cancer is too close to home. My mom is a single parent and served in the Navy for 24 years, and 8 months. She recently retired in December 2023. She was a Chief Hospital Corpsman (medic) and a Career Counselor, positions she loved and always talked about with pride. She enjoyed her time in the Navy but wanted to enjoy some time with me before I graduated high school last May. In July 2022, my mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer while on training in San Diego. So being the person she is, her first reaction was how fast can she get this removed from her body. Upon her return home to Florida, she met with several physicians and had her surgery scheduled within a few months after her diagnosis. Unfortunately, on her pre-operative exam, she was diagnosed with Covid 19 so she had to have her surgery rescheduled at a later date. She finally had the surgery done in November 2022 the same year. She had a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy since it was determined to be in its early stages, the pathology result was only Stage 1 with negative for spread. She did opt to have radiation, but chemotherapy wasn’t deemed necessary. To date, she continues to take her prophylactic medication and will continue taking this for the next 5 years. Her first and second mammogram taken has been negative. She continues to live her life as if nothing happened, but I know she wears the scar with grace because that is the person she is. I chose to major in Psychology to help deal with the many challenges that anyone encounters growing up with this diagnosis. I had my mom to talk through every step of the way, well most of it. She is very passionate about some things and encourages me to speak about these aspects of life that normally would not be discussed. She always tells me that if we discuss things more than just ignore them, we would not be so stressed out. For instance, my mom has encountered many situations where she is not comfortable talking about those things, but she believes that it should not be avoided but dealt with head-on to resolve the situation early. Each day after school we discuss the day in detail, what we did and didn’t do, and what we can do for the next day. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is a great way to keep us talking about everything and learning about each other’s experiences. I currently am a student-athlete who plays volleyball and we keep the same tradition while I am away at college. This saved me mentally while she was going through her diagnosis and treatment for cancer. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to become closer and deal with situations together rather than separately. We both have developed a newfound understanding and love from our experiences, she has my full respect for what she went through without a bit of complaint during her journey!!!!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a BIPOC college-bound high school student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas, and she thought it would be good to explore Europe. She believed that we can make it anywhere once we set goals and priorities. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go after it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will reach your goal. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. I live by these principles for success, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have the discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. The first year in high school was the height of Covid, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA in 9th grade to be on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll. This increased my GPA on graduation to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach didn’t allow me to play because of her prejudices and told me I would not be playing this year. I had to drop out and focus on school. It was a difficult decision to make since I never liked not finishing what I started. While I didn’t play in school, every weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club helping the junior players develop and improve on their ball-handling skills. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically. I ultimately ended up getting to play volleyball at an HBCU in Georgia starting in August. My focus now is to be able to receive a scholarship to help offset the cost of college and alleviate the burden of my mom. In conclusion, my mom who is a realist has always said that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer at my former club and share my love for the game with these girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams!

My name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a first-generation college-bound student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas, and she thought it would be a good idea to enjoy life living in another country and experience their food and culture. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something, you must go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times in my life. My five perquisites for success would be to believe in yourself, practice (keep and continue practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have the discipline to have that mental or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, in my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to be on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll in my Junior and Senior years, boosting my GPA on graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. In addition, I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudices, and I didn’t get any time on the court. I finally decided to drop out of the team because I felt that I wasn’t contributing to the team and I focused on school and club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. In the interim play, every weekend I volunteered over 140 hours at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their volleyball skills. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at an HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. I only wish that I would be able to at least receive one scholarship to help offset the cost of attending college this fall. Finally, using the perquisites, I mentioned above, has been my guide to achieving success through my journey. My mom always said that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. Also, I will continue to volunteer for my former volleyball club, on school breaks, to share my love for the game with the girls by mentoring and teaching them that you never give up on your dreams and I believe Psychology would be a great help accomplishing it.

As a college-bound first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. In addition, my mom was always saying “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, so that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. In the last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was crushed when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me playing this year, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice to withdraw from volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it also turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. Especially since every weekend I was volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players to develop their skills. I will also be playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology this fall. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as I improved academically and athletically. I will continure to volunteer on school breaks for that club because it allows me to share my love for volleyball with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks. I am a first-generation, college-bound student of a single-parent household. I just committed to play volleyball at Paine College a HBCU in the beautiful city of Augusta, Georgia. I am excited and looking forward to the new life experiences in college. I played volleyball a few years ago at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy but played my last two seasons as a Setter (quarterback) at Florida Hype Volleyball because there wasn’t an age group for me to continue playing at Thunderbay. Some of my hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, and talking my friends on the phone. I also have come to enjoy playing and coaching volleyball at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, as an alumni player. While I’m at Paine College, I will be pursuing a degree in Psychology. I chose this path since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions, and habits because it connects to their personality. I first began to enjoy this subject in my junior year because my teacher was so engaging and supportive that I really enjoyed listening and learning about the different aspects of Psychology. I remember there was one lesson about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which I was able to associate with an Anime adaptation of Manga, the Chainsaw Man, which I love looking at on TV. This is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs where he only cares about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about this topic since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique, like their personality and mind process. I figured that with a Bachelor in Psychology, I could later become either a Clinical Psychologist in a hospital or a Developmental Psychologist working with teenagers in school, since both jobs are very interesting to me. Another thing I would love to do is continue coaching. I will also say that being a coach myself for the Sprouts (ages 5-8 years old) and the Junior Club players (9-15 years old) after being coached for so long has definitely been the greatest experience for me. This would actually be a way to support these kids as well. Since being a coach in the volleyball academy, I’ve been able to help younger girls learn more about honing in on their skills as volleyball players, as I was taught similarly by my coaches when I was younger. I found that it will be an excellent way to lift up younger girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball-handling techniques and I intend to do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying the new skills and drills as they progress in their volleyball career, like I did at that age group. The process of learning the basics for volleyball is 50% of being afraid to do something and 50% of doing what you’ve been taught to do. It has been fun to teach these girls about volleyball because I see myself in them when I had to step out of our comfort zones in order to gain the experience and that made me fall in love with the sport over and over again.

I am a BIPOC, college-bound first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. In addition, my mom was always saying “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, to reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. In the last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was crushed when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me playing this year, so I had to drop out of the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice to withdraw from volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it also turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. Especially since every weekend I was volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players to develop their skills. I also got the opportunity to play volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology with a minor in technology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as I improved academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks for that club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a college-bound student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas, and she thought it wIt would be a good idea to enjoy life living in another country to experience their food and culture. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something, you must go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times in my life. My five perquisites for success would be to believe in yourself, practice (keep and continue practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have the discipline to have that mental or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, in my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to be on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll in my Junior and Senior years, boosting my GPA on graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. In addition, I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play because of her prejudices, and I was told that she didn’t see me playing for the season or playing in college. I finally decided to drop out of the team because I felt that I wasn’t contributing to the team being on the bench and I focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. So in the interim, every weekend I volunteered (over 140 hours) at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve their volleyball skills. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season began, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at an HBCU in Augusta, Georgia in the fall. I only wish that I would be able to at least receive a scholarship to help offset the cost of attending college. Finally, using the perquisites, I mentioned above, has been my guide to achieving success through my journey. My mom always said that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. Also, I will continue to volunteer as an assistant coach and coach for my former, volleyball club, on school breaks, to share my love for the game with the girls by mentoring and instructing them to never give up on their dreams, and majoring in Psychology would enhance my dream of a college degree!

My name is Chelsea Brooks. I started playing volleyball about five years ago when I did a walk-in at a club in Brandon, Florida. I played my last two seasons as a Setter at Florida Hype Volleyball because there wasn’t an age group for me at my former club. My hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, and talking to my friends on the phone. I also have come to enjoy coaching volleyball at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy. I will be attending Paine College next fall. While at Paine College, I will be pursuing a degree in Psychology. I chose this path because I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions, and habits. After all, it connects them to their personality. I first began to enjoy this subject in my junior year of high school because my teacher was so engaging and very supportive. In addition, I enjoyed listening and learning about the different aspects of the mind and how Psychology plays on our behavior. I remember there was one lesson on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which I was able to associate with an Anime adaptation for Manga, the Chainsaw Man, which I enjoy looking at on the TV. This specific episode is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs and he only cares about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about the hierarchy of needs since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique like their personality and their mind process. In addition, I thought that with a Bachelor's in Psychology, I could later become either a Clinical Psychologist in a hospital or a Developmental Psychologist working with teenagers in school since both jobs are very interesting to me. Another thing I would love to do is continue coaching volleyball. Being a coach for the Sprouts (5-8 years old) and the Junior players (9-15 years old), after being coached for so long, has been one of the greatest experiences for me. Also, this would be a way to support women’s empowerment as well as support young girls reaching their potential as young volleyball players. In addition, I’ve been able to help younger girls learn more about honing in on their skills as a volleyball player as I was taught similarly by my coaches when I was their age. I found that it will be an excellent way to lift up younger girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball-handling skills and techniques. I intend to do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying the new skills and drills as they progress in their volleyball career like I did in that age group. The process of learning these basic skills has been 50% of being afraid to do something and 50% of doing what you’ve been taught to do. Teaching volleyball has been an integral part of showing these girls about the importance of the sport. Since I see myself in them as a young player when I had to step out of my comfort zone to develop myself as a competitive athlete and gain more experience as a player and teammate. In addition, I see their drive and determination to succeed the same way I did a few years ago.

As a college-bound student of Caribbean parents, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. Although my parents were both born in Trinidad, I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. In the last three years, I had overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll, and this ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not allow playing and I didn’t get any time on the court, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, it allowed me time to focus more on school and this turned out to be a blessing in disguise, when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Every other weekend, I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at a collegiate level at a HBCU, in Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer, upon my return home from school breaks, as the coach and the assistant coach for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me “There is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!”

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first-generation student I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it, is what matters. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should set goals and go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academics or volleyball. As you probably already guessed, my mom has always been an inspiration in my life, she has always been there for me and she is also my cheerleader encouraging me to push through. My first year of high school was at the height of COVID-19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. In the last few years, I overcame a 2.5 GPA to be on the Honor Roll, the High Honor Roll, and the Principal Honor Roll, increasing my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I decided to go into the medical field when I took Psychology in my junior year of high school. My teacher was so engaging and supportion that I fell in love with the different aspects of how the mind works the many facets of our personality and how it relates to you. I remember one specific topic she dealt with on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, where I was able to visualize myself with the basic needs and that was when I decided that I wanted to be a Clinical Psychologist. This fall, I will be pursuing a degree at Paine College, an HBCU in Georgia, hoping to get a schscholarship to offset the cost of attending college while alleviating some stress on my mom’s wallet. Also, I loved playing volleyball, but that was crushed last year when the coach didn’t allow me to play because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out of the team. Although this was a difficult decision, I decided it would enable me to still play the sport while I helped out at my former club volunteering as a coach. I reason I focused on volunteering at my club as a coach, is because it would help the junior players with their ball-handling skills. In addition, volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and team player. Although I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I continued to volunteer at my club every weekend because I had grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring younger players on what it is like to be an athlete and a team player. Also, I have come to love and appreciate the impact that servitude has on the community. As I hread out to college at the end of the month, I will continue to volunteer there on school breaks and shares my love for the game by teaching these girls to believe in themselves never let anyone mistreat you and never give up on their dreams!

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, and believe in yourself, so that you can always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. In the last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. I loved playing volleyball and my spirit was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and said “She didn't see me playing for the season”, so dropped out from the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started, however my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encourged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Every weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their ball-handling skills. I ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at an HBCU in Augusta, Georgia majoring in Psychology. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that the reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer upon my return home from school breaks, to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you came from but you should never give up on your dreams! There is a place for everyone so just believe, dreams do come true!

As a college-bound first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. In addition, my mom was always saying “If you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed”. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, so that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academics or volleyball. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. In the last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school and I was crushed when my coach did not allow me to play and told me she did not ever see me playing this year, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was supportive of my choice to withdraw from volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it also turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and team player. I was even able to improve myself mentally and physically on the court. Especially since every weekend I was volunteering as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players to develop their skills. I will also be playing volleyball at an HBCU majoring in Psychology this fall. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “Everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as I improved academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks for that club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing, dreams do come true!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a college-bound high school student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single-parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas, and she thought it would be good to explore Europe. At an early age, my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go after it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will reach your goal. Her favorite phrase was “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. I live by these principles for success, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have the discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. The first year in high school was the height of Covid, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success. I overcame a 2.5 GPA in 9th grade to be on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and the Principal’s Honor Roll. This increased my GPA on graduation to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I love playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach didn’t allow me to play because of her prejudices. I had to drop out and focus on school. It was a difficult decision to make since I never liked not finishing what I started. While I didn’t play in school, every weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club helping the junior players develop and improve on their ball-handling skills. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically. I ultimately ended up getting to play volleyball at an HBCU in Georgia starting in August. My focus now is to be able to receive a scholarship to help offset the cost of college and alleviate the burden of my mom. In conclusion, my mom who is a realist has always said that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer at my former club and share my love for the game with these girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams!

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. Furthermore, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard, have ethics, and determination to push through to meet your goals. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Palm Beach, Florida. However, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought that opportunity would show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always told me that nothing is ever handed to you, so if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself, so that you can reach your goals in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in school or sports. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. In the last three years, I worked to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and said “She don’t see me playing in games this season”. It was heartbreaking so I dropped out of the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom (my hero and biggest supporter) understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. I volunteered every Saturday at the club teaching the young players to develop and hone in on their ball-handling skills. This allowed me time to focus more on school and still be active in volleyball. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and a teammate. In addition, I had improved mentally and physically on the court. One day I got an email from a coach in Georgia asking me to try out for the team, I took a chance and tried out and I will be playing there this fall majoring in Psychology. Always believe in yourself and never let anyone mentally abuse you. Everything happens for a reason and I was able to grow from that experience. I will continue to volunteer and mentor on school breaks and share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so work hard and believe in yourself because dreams do come true when you least expect it.

As a first-generation student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. Furthermore, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard, have ethics, and determination to push through to meet your goals. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Palm Beach, Florida. However, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always told me that nothing is ever handed to you, so if you want something badly, you should go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself, so that you can reach your goals in life. Her favorite phrase is “Whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in school or sports. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. In the last three years, I worked to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and said “She don’t see me playing in games this season”. It was heartbreaking so I dropped out of the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom (my hero and biggest supporter) understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. I volunteered every Saturday at the club teaching the young players to develop and hone in on their ball-handling skills. This allowed me time to focus more on school and still be active in volleyball. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and a teammate. In addition, I had improved mentally and physically on the court. One day I got an email from a coach in Georgia asking me to try out for the team, I took a chance and tried out and I will be playing there next fall majoring in Psychology. Always believe in yourself and never let anyone mentally abuse you. Everything happens for a reason and I was able to grow from that experience. I will continue to volunteer and mentor on school breaks and share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so work hard and believe in yourself because dreams do come true when you least expect it.

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what matters in the end. Furthermore, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard, have ethics, and determination to push through to meet your goals. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in Palm Beach, Florida. However, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things to the end. She always told me that nothing is ever handed to you, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself, that you can reach your goals in life. Her favorite phrase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in school or sport. My first year in high school was at the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. In the last three years, I worked to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball and I was crushed when my high school coach did not allow me to play and said “she don’t see me playing in games this season”. It was heartbreaking so I dropped out of the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I could keep active with the sport until club season began. I volunteered every Saturday at the club teaching the young players to develop and hone in on their ball-handling skills. This allowed me time to focus more on school and still be active in volleyball. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and a teammate. In addition, I had improved mentally and physically on the court. One day I got an email from a coach in Georgia asking me to try out for the team, I took a chance and tried out and I will be playing there next fall. Always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Everything happens for a reason and I was able to grow from my experience. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks and share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so work hard and believe in yourself because dreams do come true when you least expect it.

I’m a BIPOC and I’m from a single-parent household. I was always told by my mom “that it doesn’t matter how you start, but how you finish is what matters in the end”. Another one of her quotes was “if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed with your goals”, I knew her quotes were her way of guiding me through life’s many challenges and I appreciated the fact she cared. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, we moved to Spain when I was five years old because she got a job there and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always said that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something bad enough, you should go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, that you can reach your goals in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever is for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not really equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I worked had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I love playing high school volleyball and that was crushed when my coach did not give me an opportunity to play and told me “she don’t see me playing in games for the season”. This really hurt so I withdrew from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. It was a difficult decision especially since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and still be active in the sport. In the meantime, I volunteered every weekend helping the younger players develop and hone in on their ball-handling skills. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and teammate. I also had improved mentally and physically on the court. One day, I got an email asking me to a volleyball tryout in Georgia, I went and will be playing there next fall majoring in Psychology. Finally, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason”. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game with those girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so work hard and believe in yourself because dreams do come true!

I’m from a single-parent household and I was always told by my mom “that it doesn’t matter how you start, but how you finish is what matters in the end”. Another one of her quotes was “if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed with your goals”, I knew her quotes were her way of guiding me through life’s many challenges and I appreciated the fact she cared. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, we moved to Spain when I was five years old because she got a job there and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always said that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something bad enough, you should go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, that you can reach your goals in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever is for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not really equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I worked had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I love playing high school volleyball and that was crushed when my coach did not give me an opportunity to play and told me “she don’t see me playing in games for the season”. This really hurt so I withdrew from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. It was a difficult decision especially since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and still be active in the sport. I volunteered every weekend helping the younger players develop and hone in on their ball-handling skills. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and teammate. I also had improved mentally and physically on the court. One day, I got an email asking me to a volleyball tryout in Georgia, I went and will be playing there next fall majoring in Child Psychology. Finally, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason”. I will continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game with those girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so work hard and believe in yourself because dreams do come true!

As a college-bound student of a single-parent, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always said that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly enough, you should go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in school or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not really equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I worked had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play and told me “she don’t ever see me playing in games this season”. I then dropped out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and still be active in sport. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader, teammate and I had improved mentally and physically on the court. As I volunteered every weekend as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing and hone in on their skills. I got an email asking me to tryout for volleyball at a HBCU in Georgia, I accepted and will play there next fall. Always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason. I will still continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from and never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so work hard and believe in yourself because dreams do come true when you least expect it.

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself, that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in school or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not really equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I worked had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play and said “she don’t ever see me playing in games this season”. I then dropped out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This allowed me time to focus more on school and still be active in volleyball. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader, teammate and I had improved mentally and physically on the court. As I volunteered every weekend as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing and hone in on their skills. I got an email asking me to tryout for volleyball at a HBCU in Georgia, I accepted and will play there next fall. Always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason. I will always continue to volunteer on school breaks to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from and never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so work hard and believe in yourself because dreams do come true when you least expect it.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I will be attending Paine College, a HBCU, in Augusta, Georgia. I come from a single parent household and a first generation student, and I have seen the struggle my mom has experienced, but she always made sure I knew I was her number priority. My career will be in Psychology because we need to have more BIPOC in healthcare. Also, I love drawing and painting so I would love to incorporate this in my field of study. The goal would be to have Psychology combine with my passion for drawing and painting be a solution for relieving some of the many challenges we face everyday. First let me say that I chose to major in Psychology to help deal with the many challenges that we encounter growing up. I was fortunate to have my mom to talk through different aspect of my life, but some people are not that fortunate. My mom is very passionate about things and always encouraged me to talk about different aspects of life that normally would not be discussed regularly. She always tells me that if we discuss things more than just ignore them, we would not be so stressed out every time. My mom served in the Navy for over 24 years and she had encountered many situations where she is not comfortable talking about things, but she believes that it should not be avoided, but dealt with head on to resolve the situation early rather than later. Each day after school we discuss our day in detail, what we did and didn’t do, and what we can do for the next day if we encounter a similar situation. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is actually a great way to keep us talking about everything and learning about each other’s experience. I played volleyball in both club and high school. However, I dropped out of high school volleyball last year because the coach played favorites and I wasn’t one of hers. As she told me “I’m not loud enough and she didn’t see me playing for the season”. Although it was an extremely difficult decision for me to make, I dropped out from the team. It was a decision that I needed to make and my mom respected it and was actually proud that I stood up for what was I believe in. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I was able to improved myself mentally and physically on court when I returned to club volleyball last season, it also helped me improve my grades as well. While I didn’t play high school volleyball, I used that time to volunteer at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players develop their skills. My mom always said that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. We both have developed a newfound understanding and love from our experiences. I would use my personal experience to improve racial diversity in BIPOC communities and make sure my challenges wouldn’t impact my goals for a career in the health care industry.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first generation student and I brought up in a single-parent household. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it, is what matters. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should set goals and go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. As you probably already guessed, my mom has always been an inspiration in my life, she has always been there for me and she is also my cheerleader encouraging me to push through. My first year of high school was in the height of Covid, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last few years I overcame a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, the High Honor Roll, and Principal Honor Roll, increasing my GPA to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I decided to go into the medical field when I took Psychology in my junior year of high school. My teacher was so engaging and supportive that I fell in love with the different aspects of how the mind works and the many facets of your personality and how it relates to you. I remember one specific topic she dealt with on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, where I was able to visualize myself with the basic needs and that was when I decided that I wanted to be a Clinical Psychologist working in a hospital setting dealing with kids trying to find themselves and figure out life challenges. Also, I loved playing volleyball, but that was crushed last year when the coach didn’t give me an opportunity to play because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Although this was a difficult decision, I decided it would enable me to still play the sport while I helped out at my former club. I focused on volunteering at my club as a coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school. It actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and team player. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former club every weekend because I had grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it is like to be an athlete and a team player. Also, I had come to love and appreciate the impact that servitude do for the community. In addition, I will continue to volunteer there on school breaks and share my love for the game by teaching the girls to believe and never give up on your dreams!

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first generation student and I brought up in a single-parent household. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it, is what matters. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should set goals and go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goals. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. As you probably already guessed, my mom has always been an inspiration in my life, she has always been there for me and she is also my cheerleader encouraging me to push through. My first year of high school was in the height of Covid, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last few years I overcame a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, the High Honor Roll, and Principal Honor Roll, increasing my GPA to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I decided to go into the medical field when I took Psychology in my junior year of high school. My teacher was so engaging and supportive that I fell in love with the different aspects of how the mind works and the many facets of your personality and how it relates to you. I remember one specific topic she dealt with on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, where I was able to visualize myself with the basic needs and that was when I decided that I wanted to be a Clinical Psychologist working in a hospital setting dealing with kids trying to find themselves and figure out life challenges. Also, I loved playing volleyball, but that was crushed last year when the coach didn’t give me an opportunity to play because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Although this was a difficult decision, I decided it would enable me to still play the sport while I helped out at my former club. I focused on volunteering at my club as a coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school. It actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader and team player. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my club every weekend because I had grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it is like to be an athlete and a team player. Also, I had come to love and appreciate the impact that servitude do for the community. I will continue to volunteer there on school breaks and share my love for the game by teaching the girls to believe and never give up on your dreams!

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always told that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finished it is what really matters. I was brought up in a single-parent household so everything was not easily available. My mom always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, one of her favorite phrases was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. So I have spent the last few years trying to improve on my GPA. I had to overcome a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately Principal Honor Roll the last two years, improving my GPA tremendously, upon graduation. In addition I loved playing volleyball, but my love for the sport was crushed when my high school coach was not giving me any time on the court, so I had to drop out for the team, that I loved, because of her prejudices. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me to focus more on school instead. This turned to be a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader as I used my time on the weekend to volunteer at my former club as an assistant coach helping junior players to develop their ball-handling skills. When club season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU, christian school, for my continued efforts to push through despite obstacles. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. As the summer progress, I continue to volunteer as an assistant coach for my former volleyball club and will do so on my breaks as well. My love for volleyball will never waver. I will always continue to keep those girls uplifted by sharing my story that you never give up on yourself and your dreams! As my coach once told me some time ago, “there’s always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself.”

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks. I am a high school graduate from Sumner High School in Riverview, Florida. I am from a single family household and my mom was my greatest inspiration and she always made sure I knew that I can accomplish anything in life by working hard to achieve my goals. My hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, volleyball, and talking my friends on the phone. I also have come to enjoy coaching volleyball when I got to volunteer at the club on my spare time. My mom said she saw me transformed from a shy person to a team player and a leader on the court, so I got to have this moment as long as I continue to improve in school. While in college, I will be pursuing a degree in Psychology. I chose this path since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions, and habits because it connects to their personality. I first began to enjoy this subject in my first semester of junior high school. My psychology teacher was actually a history teacher, but she was so engaging and very supportive that I really enjoyed listening and learning about the different aspects of the subject. I remember there was one lesson about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs that I was able to associate with an Anime adaptation for Manga, the Chainsaw Man, which was one of my favorite show on TV. In this episode, the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs and he only cares about the basic physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter. I especially enjoyed learning about these needs since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique like their personality and mind process. I thought I could later become either a Clinical Psychologist in a hospital or a Developmental Psychologist. Another thing I would love to do is continue coaching. I would also say that being a volunteer coach for the Sprouts (ages 5-8 years old) and the Junior players (9-15 years old) after being coached so long has definitely been one of the greatest experience for me. This would actually be a way to support women’s empowerment and help kids find themselves in the sport as I did. I also love the fact that I have been able to help younger girls learn more about honing in on their skills as a volleyball players as I was taught by my coaches. I found that it will be an excellent way to lift up younger girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball-handling techniques and I intend to do my best to make sure they are comfortable trying new skills and drills as they progress in their volleyball career. The process of learning the basics for volleyball is 50% of being afraid to do something and 50% of doing what you’ve been taught to do. It has been fun to teach these girls about volleyball since I see myself when I had to step out of my comfort zones in order to gain more experience and as I fall in love with the sport over and over again. This scholarship is a way to help offset the cost of paying for college. If I can help my mom in anyway I would be greatly appreciated. She has sacrificed so much to allow me to achieve my dreams, this is the least I can do for her.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first generation student and I brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it, is what matters in the end. I was born in west Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom was born in Trinidad and she has always instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goal. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My mom is my hero and I know she has sacrificed a lot for me and would like to offset the cost of attending college with some of these scholarships. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last few years I had to overcome a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, the High Honor Roll, and Principal Honor Roll and increasing my GPA to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Instead, I focused on volunteering at my former club as a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision to withdraw from the team, I decided that it would enable me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it is to be an athlete and a team player. I have come to love and appreciate the impact that volunteering can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks as I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself”.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first generation student and I brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it, is what matters in the end. I was born in west Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. My mom always instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goal. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last few years I had to overcome a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, the High Honor Roll, and Principal Honor Roll and increasing my GPA to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. Instead, I focused on volunteering at my former club as a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision to withdraw from the team, I decided that it would enable me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it is to be an athlete and a team player. I have come to love and appreciate the impact that volunteering can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks as I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself”.

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I am a first generation student and I brought up by a single parent. I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it, is what matters in the end. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was five years old because my mom got a job overseas and she thought the exposure and diversity would benefit me. She instilled in me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you should go for it, never disrespect anyone, believe in yourself, and work hard to reach your goal. Her favorite phase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of the students had poor grades. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last few years I had to overcome a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, the High Honor Roll, and Principal Honor Roll and increasing my GPA to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted. I loved playing volleyball in high school, but that was crushed when the coach didn’t give me any time on the court because of her prejudices, so I had to drop out from the team. I focused on volunteering at my former club instead as the coach and assistant coach, helping the junior players with their ball-handling skills. Although, this was a difficult decision, I decided that it would enable me to still play while helping out at my club. Volunteering there allowed me to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. Although, I received my required volunteer hours for high school, I still continued to volunteer at my former volleyball club every weekend because I have grown to enjoy teaching and mentoring those younger players on what it is to be an athlete and a team player. I have come to love and appreciate the impact that servitude can do for the community. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club on school breaks and share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself” and my coach would know because she played an Olympic team.

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks. I am a 17 year old high school graduate from Sumner High School in Riverview, Florida and I just committed to play volleyball at Paine College, a HBCU in the beautiful city of Augusta, Georgia. I will be majoring in Psychology. I chose this path since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions and habits because in a way it connects to their mental state. I first began to enjoy this subject in my first semester of junior year. My teacher was so engaging and supportive that I really enjoyed listening and learning about the different aspects of the subject. There was one lesson about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which I was able to associate with. It was an Anime adaptation for Manga, the Chainsaw Man, which I love looking at TV. This is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs where he only cared about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about this topic since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid along with everyone else. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique, like their personality and mind process. I thought that with a Bachelor in Psychology, I could later become either a Clinical Psychologist in a hospital or a Developmental Psychologist working with teenagers in school, since both jobs are very interesting to me. I also enjoy playing volleyball and have done so for 5 years. I started playing at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, but played my last two seasons as a Setter (quarter back) at Florida Hype Volleyball because there wasn’t an age group for me to continue playing at Thunderbay. Some of my hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, and talking my friends on the phone. I also have come to enjoy coaching volleyball at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, as an alumni player. Another thing I would love to do is continue coaching. I can also say that being a coach myself for the Sprouts (ages 5-8 years old) and the junior club players (9-15 years old), after being coached so long, has definitely been one of the greatest experience for me. This would actually be a way to support these kids as well. In addition, it will allow me to help younger girls learn more about honing in on their skills as volleyball players, as I was taught similarly by my coaches when I was their age. It will be an excellent way to lift up younger girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball-handling techniques and I intend to do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying the new skills and drills as they progress in their volleyball career, learning new skills can be challenging and you need support and encouragement because it can affect your mental ability to continue the sport. The process of learning the basics for volleyball has been 50% of being afraid to do something and 50% of doing what you’ve been taught to do. It has been fun to teach these girls about volleyball because I see myself in them when I had to step out of my comfort zone in order to gain the experience. I also tell them don’t be afraid to try and don’t be afraid to make mistakes because that is the only way we learn. Seeing their progress has made me fall in love with the sport over and over again!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a college-bound high school student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas, and she thought it would be a good idea to explore life living in another country and experience the food and culture. At an early age my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times in my young life. I have tried to live by these principles for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA in 9th grade to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll. This increased my GPA on graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I love playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play because of her prejudices, and I didn’t get any time on the court. I had to drop out from the team, that I came to love, and focus on school and club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me to make, since I never liked not finishing what I started. While I didn’t play high school volleyball my senior year, every weekend I decided to volunteer at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve on their ball handling skills. It allowed me time to focus more on school and it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Georgia. My only wish is that I would be able to receive a scholarship to help offset the cost of attending college and alleviate the burden of my mom, who has always been there for me. In conclusion, my mom is a realist and always said everything happens for a reason, that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. In addition, I will always continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club and share my love for the game with these girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a BIPOC college-bound high school student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas, and she thought it would be a good idea to explore life living in another country and experience the food and culture. At an early age my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will reach your goal in life. Her favorite phrase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times in my young life. I have tried to live by these principles for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done, and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA in 9th grade to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll. This increased my GPA on graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. I love playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play because of her prejudices, and I didn’t get any time on the court. I had to drop out from the team, that I came to love, and focus on school and club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me to make, since I never liked not finishing what I started. While I didn’t play high school volleyball my senior year, every weekend I decided to volunteer at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve on their ball handling skills. It allowed me time to focus more on school and it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Georgia. My only wish is that I would be able to receive a scholarship to help offset the cost of attending college and alleviate the burden of my mom, who has always been there for me. In conclusion, my mom is a realist and always said everything happens for a reason, that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. In addition, I will always continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club and share my love for the game with these girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a college-bound high school student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas, and she thought it would be a good idea to explore life living in another country and experience the food and culture. At an early age my mom taught me that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, her favorite phrase was “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times in my young life. I have five perquisites for success that I follow, believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determination to get it done and finally have discipline to have that mental and/or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll and this increased my GPA on graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. In addition, I love playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play because of her prejudices, and I didn’t get any time on the court. I finally dropped out for the team and focused on school and club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me to make since I never liked not finishing what I started. While I didn’t play high school volleyball, every weekend I volunteered (140 hours) at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and improve on their ball handling skills. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Georgia. I only wish that I would be able to receive any scholarship to help offset the cost of attending college. Finally, by using my perquisites has been my guide to achieving success on my journey. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an assistant coach and coach for my former volleyball club and share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams and majoring in Psychology would enhance that dream!

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks, and I am a college-bound high school student. My mom was born in Trinidad, and I was brought up in a single parent household. I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas, but she thought it would be a good idea to experience life living in another country to experience their food and culture. She taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go it, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times in my life. My five perquisites for success would be to believe in yourself, practice (keep practicing your art), have the drive to do what is needed, have the determine to get it done and finally have discipline to have that mental or physical training to keep going. This is my story or should I say my truth. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online classes, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades. I overcame a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll and this increased my GPA on graduation to a 3.35 unweighted and 5.15 weighted GPA. In addition, I love playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play because of her prejudices, and I didn’t get any time on the court. I finally decided to drop out for the team and focused on school and club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me for especially since I never liked not finishing what I started. In the interim play, every weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop and home in on their volleyball skills. This allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I then focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at a HBCU in Georgia. I only wish that I would be able to at least receive one scholarship to help offset the cost of attending college. Finally, by using my perquisites has been my guide to achieving success on my journey. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an assistant coach and coach for my former volleyball club and share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams and majoring in Psychology would enhance that dream!

My name is Chelsea Brooks and I will be attending Paine College, a HBCU, in Augusta, Georgia. I come from a single parent household, so I have seen the struggle my mom has experienced but she always made sure I knew I was her number priority. My career will be in Psychology because we need to have more people of my racial diversity in healthcare. Also, I love drawing and painting so I would love to incorporate this in my field of study there as well. The goal would be to have Psychology combine with my passion for drawing and painting be a solution for relieving some of the many challenges we face everyday. First let me say that I chose to major in Psychology to help deal with the many challenges that we encounter growing up. I was fortunate to have my mom to talk through different aspect of my life, but some people are not that fortunate to have someone to talk to. My mom is very passionate about somethings and always encouraged me to talk about these aspects of life that normally would not be discussed. She always tells me that if we discuss things more than just ignore them, we would not be so stressed out every time. For instance, my mom served in the Navy for over 24 years and she had encountered many situations where she is not comfortable talking about things, but she believes that it should not be avoided but dealt with head on to resolve the situation early rather than later. Each day after school we discuss our day in detail, what we did and didn’t do, and what we can do for the next day if we encounter a similar situation. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is actually a great way to keep us talking about everything and learning about each other’s experience. I played volleyball in both club and high school. However, I dropped out of high school volleyball last year because the coach played favorites and I wasn’t one of hers. As she told me “I’m not loud enough and she didn’t se me playing the season”. Although it was an extremely difficult decision for me to make, I dropped out from the team. It was a decision that I needed to make and my mom respected my decision and was actually proud that I stood up for what was I believe in. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise as I was able to improved myself mentally and physically on court when I returned to club volleyball season, and it also helped me improve my grades as well. While I didn’t play high school volleyball, I used that time to volunteer at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players develop their skills. My mom always said that everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. We both have developed a newfound understanding and love from our experiences. I would use my outlook to improve racial diversity as I go through my career in the health care industry upon graduation.

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks. I am a 17 year old high school graduate from Sumner High School in Riverview, Florida and I just committed to play volleyball at Paine College a HBCU in the beautiful city of Augusta, Georgia. I am excited and looking forward to the new life experiences my first year of college. I played volleyball for around 5 years ago when I started at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, but played my last two seasons as a Setter (quarter back) at Florida Hype Volleyball because there wasn’t an age group for me to continue playing at Thunderbay. Some of my hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, and talking my friends on the phone. I also have come to enjoy playing and coaching volleyball at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, as an alumni player. While I’m at Paine College, I will be pursuing a degree in Psychology. I chose this path since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions and habits because it connects to their personality. I first began to enjoy this subject in my first semester of my junior year because my teacher was so engaging and supportive that I really enjoyed listening and learning about the different aspects of Psychology. I remember there was one lesson about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which I was able to associate with an Anime adaptation for Manga, the Chainsaw Man, which I love looking at TV. This is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs where he only cares about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about this topic since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid along with everyone else. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique, like their personality and mind process. I figured that with a Bachelor in Psychology, I could later become either a Clinical Psychologist in a hospital or a Developmental Psychologist working with teenagers in school, since both jobs are very interesting to me. Another thing I would love to do is continue coaching. I will also say that being a coach myself for the Sprouts (ages 5-8 years old) and the junior club players (9-15 years old) after being coached so long has definitely been the greatest experience for me. This would actually be a way to support these kids as well. Since being a coach in the volleyball academy, I’ve been able to help younger girls learn more about honing in on their skills as volleyball players, as I was taught similarly by my coaches when I was younger. I found that it will be an excellent way to lift up younger girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball-handling techniques and I intend to do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying the new skills and drills as they progress in their volleyball career, like I did at that age group. The process of learning the basics for volleyball has been 50% of being afraid to do something and 50% of doing what you’ve been taught to do. It has been fun to teach these girls about volleyball because I see myself in them when I had to step out of our comfort zones in order to gain the experience and that made me fall in love with the sport over and over again.

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks. I am a 17 year old high school graduate from Sumner High School in Riverview, Florida and I just committed to play volleyball at Paine College a HBCU in the beautiful city of Augusta, Georgia. I am excited and looking forward to the new life experiences my first year of college. I played volleyball for around 5 years ago when I started at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, but played my last two seasons as a Setter (quarter back) at Florida Hype Volleyball because there wasn’t an age group for me to continue playing at Thunderbay. Some of my hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, and talking my friends on the phone. I also have come to enjoy playing and coaching volleyball at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, as an alumni player. While I’m at Paine College, I will be pursuing a degree in Psychology. I chose this path since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions and habits because it connects to their personality. I first began to enjoy this subject in my first semester of my junior year because my teacher was so engaging and supportive that I really enjoyed listening and learning about the different aspects of Psychology. I remember there was one lesson about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which I was able to associate with an Anime adaptation for Manga, the Chainsaw Man, which I love looking at TV. This is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs where he only cares about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about this topic since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid along with everyone else. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique, like their personality and mind process. I figured that with a Bachelor in Psychology, I could later become either a Clinical Psychologist in a hospital or a Developmental Psychologist working with teenagers in school, since both jobs are very interesting to me. Another thing I would love to do is continue coaching. I will also say that being a coach myself for the Sprouts (ages 5-8 years old) and the junior club players (9-15 years old) after being coached so long has definitely been the greatest experience for me. This would actually be a way to support these kids as well. Since being a coach in the volleyball academy, I’ve been able to help younger girls learn more about honing in on their skills as volleyball players, as I was taught similarly by my coaches when I was younger. I found that it will be an excellent way to lift up younger girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball-handling techniques and I intend to do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying the new skills and drills as they progress in their volleyball career, like I did at that age group. The process of learning the basics for volleyball has been 50% of being afraid to do something and 50% of doing what you’ve been taught to do. It has been fun to teach these girls about volleyball because I see myself in them when I had to step out of our comfort zones in order to gain the experience and that made me fall in love with the sport over and over again.

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. I was brought up in a single parent household. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job there and thought it would be a great opportunity for us living in another country and learning their culture. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for it, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll and this increased my GPA to 5.08 at the time graduation. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play so I didn’t get any time on the court. I ended up dropping out for the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. While I didn’t play club, every weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball and major in Psychology, at a HBCU, in beautiful Augusta, Georgia. I make mention of these facets of my life because I had to work hard to overcome difficulties with school and volleyball, but I did not make that change what I wanted to accomplish. Always believe in yourself and the power of the Lord. My mom always said “everything happens for a reason” and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. When I return home on school breaks, I will continue to volunteer as a coach for the kids 5-8 years old as a coach and the 9-15 years old as the assistant coach. Volunteering with these kids allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!” and this is exactly what I want these kids to know as they go through life. There is always a place for them as well! This is also my reason for majoring in teen Psychology.

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. I was brought up in a single parent household. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job there and thought it would be a great opportunity for us living in another country and learning their culture. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for it, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll and this increased my GPA to 5.08 at graduation. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play so I didn’t get any time on the court. I ended up dropping out for the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. While I didn’t play club, every weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball and major in Psychology, at a HBCU, in Augusta, Georgia. I make mention of these facets of my life because I had to work hard to overcome difficulties with school and volleyball, but I did not make that change what I wanted to accomplish. Always believe in yourself and the power of the Lord. My mom always said “everything happens for a reason” and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. When I return home on school breaks, I will always continue to volunteer as a coach for the kids 5-8 years old as a coach and the 9-15 years old as the assistant coach. Volunteering with these kids allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!” and this is exactly what I want these kids to know as they go through life. There is always a place for them as well!

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. I was brought up in a single parent household. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job there and thought it would be a great opportunity for us living in another country and learning their culture. She also taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for it, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll and this increased my GPA to 5.08 at graduation. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play so I didn’t get any time on the court. I ended up dropping out for the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. While I didn’t play club, every weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at a collegiate level at a HBCU, in Georgia. I make mention of these facets of my life because I had to work hard to overcome difficulties with school and volleyball, but I did not make that change what I wanted to accomplish. Always believe in yourself and the power of the Lord. My mom always said “everything happens for a reason” and that reason was to improve myself academically and athletically. When I return home on breaks, I will always continue to volunteer as a coach for the kids 5-8 years old as a coach and the 9-15 years old their assistant coach because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!” and this is exactly what I want these kids to know as they go through life. There is always a place for them as well!

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, that you can reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA to 5.08. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active in the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and it also turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader and improve myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every other weekend I was volunteering at my former club as both a coach and an assistant coach, helping the junior players to developing their skills. In April, I committed to play volleyball at a HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as I improved academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an alumni, on school breaks, as the coach and/or the assistant coach for that club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so keep believing because dreams do come true! I would definitely choose my mom shoes to walk in anytime!

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push through, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, that you can always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started, however my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve myself on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court as well. Every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing their skills. In April, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an alumnus, upon my return home from school breaks, as the coach and/or the assistant coach for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you came from but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so believe that dreams do come true!

To begin, I would say my love for watercolor started with how much easier and less wasteful it was using the watercolor painting method. As a new painter in my recent art class of my senior year of high school, I was surprised to see how much detail a person could add with watercolor. Especially since I originally thought that the water usage meant that no shading or values could be used on my paper or canvases. Instead when I used the watercolor for my paintings, I found that with the extra usage of water rather than paint, my artwork looked neater and was less bold, having more light details. I actually loved how they looked, especially as a beginner, since it gives unexpected depth or details that make each of my paintings feel entirely unique and special to me. Watercolor does not drown out the color of your painting but instead it highlights the main features of the tones you chose. My career path would most likely consist of focusing on psychology and the well being of others but I also wanted to include an aspect of painting or sketching into therapy since I and others may find it relaxing. For my first painting, I named it Silly E Badu which was inspired by the neo-soul artist herself Erykah Badu. In the painting, I tried to portray a specific pose she did in a photo which is not like a usual photo pose in todays media. This would almost be a cover of her art being her entity in the photo since she wanted to stray from the “norms” that media has already set out for her and women in the music or media industry. The second painting was a painting of a man from my art class a couple months ago. I believed that the man was a watercolor painter named Kehinde Wiley since we previously learned about his art style being watercolor. This was more of a portrait of him where I mainly focused on the tone and different values of his skin rather than the general detail of the background. These were memorable to me because they emphasized different aspects of watercolor that was very different yet challenging to me as a new artist trying watercolor, but I definitely loved how it turned out😊

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push to, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, that you can always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started, however my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing their skills. In April, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an alumnus, upon my return home on school breaks, as the coach and/or the assistant coach for that volleyball club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you come from, but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so believing because dreams do come true!”

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push to, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, that you can always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started, however my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing their skills. In April, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an alumnus, upon my return home school breaks, as the coach and/or the assistant coach for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you came from but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so believe because dreams do come true!”

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push to, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, that you can always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started, however my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing their skills. In April, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an alumnus, upon my return home school breaks, as the coach and/or the assistant coach for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you came from but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so believe because dreams do come true!”

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push to, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, that you can always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started, however my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing their skills. In April, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an alumnus, upon my return home school breaks, as the coach and/or the assistant coach for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you came from but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so believe because dreams do come true!” I know my mom sacrificed a lot for me as a single parent while she was in the Navy, but I got to experience a lot because of her love for me and her belief in accomplishing goals through the endless ups and downs with both high school and volleyball. However, I will forever be grateful for this opportunity to show her that it wasn’t in vain😊

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push to, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, that you can always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started, however my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing their skills. In April, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an alumnus, upon my return home school breaks, as the coach and/or the assistant coach for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you came from but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so believe because dreams do come true!”

As a college-bound student of a single-parent household, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. In addition, always remember if you want anything in life, you have to work hard and have ethics and determination to push to, if you want to succeed. My mom was born in Trinidad, but I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, however, I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas and she took that opportunity to show me that you can make it anywhere if you have the determination to see things through. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believing in yourself, that you can always reach your goal in life. Her favorite phase is “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll which ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play, so I had to drop out from the team and focus on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started, however my mom understood and was proud of my choice to withdraw from high school volleyball and encouraged me to volunteer at my former club so I can keep active with the sport until club season began. This actually allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise because when I did return to club volleyball, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Since every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to developing their skills. In April, I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play volleyball at a HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and never let anyone put you down. Another one of my mom’s saying “everything happens for a reason” and I was able to see that reason as to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an alumnus, upon my return home school breaks, as the coach and/or the assistant coach for that volleyball club to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that it doesn’t matter where you came from but you should never give up on your dreams! There is always a place for everyone, so believe because dreams do come true!”

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks. I am a 17 year old high school graduate from Sumner High School in Riverview, Florida. I just committed to play volleyball at Paine College, a HBCU in the beautiful city of Augusta, Georgia. I am looking forward to the new life experiences my first year of college. I played volleyball for 5 years when I started at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, but played my last two seasons as a Setter (quarter back) at Florida Hype Volleyball because there wasn’t an age group for me to continue playing at Thunderbay. Some of my hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, volleyball, and talking my friends on the phone. I also have come to enjoy playing and coaching volleyball at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, as an alumni player. While I’m at Paine College, I will be pursuing a degree in Psychology. I chose this path of psychology since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions and habits because it connects to their personality. I first began to enjoy this subject in my first semester of my junior year of high school because my teacher was so engaging and supportive that I really enjoyed listening and learning about the different aspects of Psychology. I remember there was one lesson about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which I was able to associate with an Anime adaptation for manga, Chainsaw Man, which I love looking at on the TV. This is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs where he only cares about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about the hierarchy of needs since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid along with everyone else. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique like their personality and mind process. I figured that with a Bachelor in Psychology, I could later become either a Clinical Psychologist in a hospital or a Developmental Psychologist working with teenagers in school, since both jobs are very interesting to me. Another thing I would love to do is continue coaching. I would also say that being a coach myself for the Sprouts (ages 5-8 years old) and the Junior players (9-15 years old) after being coached so long has definitely been the greatest experience for me. This would actually be a way to support women’s empowerment as well. In addition, since being a coach in the volleyball academy, I’ve been able to help younger girls learn more about honing in on their skills as volleyball players as I was taught similarly by my coaches when I was younger. I found that it will be an excellent way to lift up younger girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball-handling techniques and I intend to do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying the new skills and drills as they progress in their volleyball career, like I did at that age group. The process of learning the basics for volleyball has been 50% of being afraid to do something and 50% of doing what you’ve been taught to do. It has been fun to teach these girls about volleyball since I see myself in them when I have to step out of our comfort zones in order to gain more experience as I fall in love with the sport over and over again.

Hi, my name is Chelsea Brooks. I am a 17 year old high school graduate from Sumner High School in Riverview, Florida and I just committed to play volleyball at Paine College a HBCU in the beautiful city of Augusta, Georgia, I am looking forward to the new life experiences my first year of college. I played volleyball for around 5 years ago when I started at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, but played my last two seasons as a Setter (quarter back) at Florida Hype Volleyball because there wasn’t an age group for me to continue playing at Thunderbay. Some of my hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, coaching, and talking my friends on the phone. I also have come to enjoy playing and coaching volleyball at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy, as an alumni player. While I’m at Paine College, I will be pursuing a degree in Psychology. I chose this path of psychology since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions and habits because it connects to their personality. I first began to enjoy this subject in my first semester of my junior year of high school because my teacher was so engaging and supportive that I really enjoyed listening and learning about the different aspects of Psychology. I remember there was one lesson about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which I was able to associate with an Anime adaptation for manga, Chainsaw Man, which I love looking at on the TV. This is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs where he only cares about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about the hierarchy of needs since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid along with everyone else. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique like their personality and mind process. I figured that with a Bachelor in Psychology, I could later become either a Clinical Psychologist in a hospital or a Developmental Psychologist working with teenagers in school, since both jobs are very interesting to me. Another thing I would love to do is continue coaching. I would also say that being a coach myself for the Sprouts (ages 5-8 years old) and the Junior players (9-15 years old) after being coached so long has definitely been the greatest experience for me. This would actually be a way to support women’s empowerment as well. In addition, since being a coach in the volleyball academy, I’ve been able to help younger girls learn more about honing in on their skills as volleyball players as I was taught similarly by my coaches when I was younger. I found that it will be an excellent way to lift up younger girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball-handling techniques and I intend to do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying the new skills and drills as they progress in their volleyball career, like I did at that age group. The process of learning the basics for volleyball has been 50% of being afraid to do something and 50% of doing what you’ve been taught to do. It has been fun to teach these girls about volleyball since I see myself when I have to step out of our comfort zones in order to gain more experience as I fall in love with the sport over and over again.

My mom is a single parent and served in the Navy for 24 years, 8 months and recently retired December 2023. She was a Chief Hospital Corpsman (medic) and Career Counselor positions she always talked about with honor and pride. She loved her time in the Navy, but wanted to enjoy some time with me before I graduated high school this May. During the final years in the Navy, my mom had a few health issues and was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in July 2022 and being the person she is, her first thought was how fast can she get this removed. Her surgery scheduled and on her pre-operative exam was diagnosed with Covid so had to have her surgery rescheduled for a few months later. She finally had the surgery done in November 2022 and her pathology results was only Stage 1 and negative for spread. She did some radiation but chemotherapy wasn’t necessary, she continues to take her prophylactic medication for the next 5 years, but per first mammogram last year was negative. Although there were some other issues she continues to be optimistic and looks forward for a full recovery. During her time in the Navy, my mom traveled a lot, but I always felt that I got to go with her to some of the places through her stories upon her return from each deployments. I remember when I was 5 years old, I got to live in Spain for 3 years and going to school there. The food and culture was amazing and I still keep in contact with some of my friends over there. Because of the many issues with being a child of a military parent, I chose to major in Psychology to help the young kids dealing with the many challenges that we encounter growing up. I had my mom to talk through every step, well most of it. She is very passionate about somethings and encourages me to speak about aspects of life that normally would not be discussed. She always suggests that we discuss things more than just ignore them, this way we would not be stressed out by them. For instance, my mom has encountered many situations where she is not comfortable talking about things, but she believes that it should not be avoided but dealt with head on to resolve the situation. For instance, each day after school we discuss the day in detail and what we did and what we can do for the next day. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is actually a great way to keep us talking about everything and learning about each other’s experiences. I dropped out of high school volleyball, however, it allowed me to focus more on school. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise as I improved myself mentally and physically on court. In the interim, I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. As an alumni, I will always continue to volunteer for my former club and I will share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “There is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!”

My mom is a single parent and served in the Navy Reserves for 24 years, 8 months and recently retired December 2023. She was a Chief Hospital Corpsman (medic) and a Career Counselor, positions she loved and always talked about with pride. She actually enjoyed her time in the Navy, but wanted to spend some time with me before I graduated high school this May. In July 2022, my mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer while on training in San Diego. So being the person she is, her first reaction was how fast can she get this removed from her body. Upon her return home to Florida, she met with several physicians and had her surgery scheduled within a few months after her diagnosis. Unfortunately, on her pre-operative exam she was diagnosed with Covid 19 so she had to have her surgery rescheduled for a few months later. She finally had the surgery done in November 2022 the same year. She opted to only have a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy since it was determined to be an early stage of the cancer and her pathology results was only Stage 1 with negative for spread whatsoever. She did have radiation, but chemotherapy wasn’t necessary. To date, she continues to take her prophylactic medication and will continue taking this for the next 5 years. Her first mammogram taken last year was negative. She continues to live her life as if nothing happened, but I know she wears the scar with grace because that is the person she is. The reason I chose to major in Psychology was to help deal with the many challenges that we encounter growing up. I had my mom to talk through every step of the way, well most of it. She is very passionate about somethings and encourages me to speak about these aspects of life that normally would not be discussed. She always tells me that if we discuss things more than just ignore them, we would not be so stressed out. For instance, my mom has encountered many situations where she is not comfortable talking about those things, but she believes that it should not be avoided but dealt with head on to resolve the situation early. For instance, each day after school we discuss the day in detail, what we did and didn’t do, and what we can do for the next day. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is actually a great way to keep us talking about everything and learning about the other experiences. I play volleyball in both club and high school. However, I opted to drop out of high school volleyball this year because I wasn’t being utilized and I felt that I wasn’t contributing to the team. It was a difficult decision for me, since I never liked not being able to finish what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school. As it turned out, it was a blessing in disguise as I improved myself mentally and physically on court, when I did return to club volleyball and it improved my grades as well. My mom always said everything happens for a reason. We both have developed a newfound understanding and love from our experiences. In addition, I don’t want to depend on her too much because she had and still has a lot going on, but she has my full respect for what she went through without a bit of complaint during her journey!!!!

Hello, I am Chelsea Brooks. I am a 17 year old graduate from Tampa, Florida who is committed to play volleyball in Georgia at Paine College. It is a HBCU in the city of Augusta and I am looking forward to the new life experiences I’ll have for my first year of college. I have played volleyball for about 4 years starting at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy. I played my last two seasons as a setter/quarter back at Florida Hype Volleyball. Some of my past time hobbies I enjoy include reading, drawing and painting, coaching, and calling my friends on the phone. I also enjoy playing and coaching volleyball as an assistant coach at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy as an alumni player. While I’m at Paine College in Georgia, I will be pursuing a degree in psychology. I chose this path of psychology since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior, actions and habits connecting to their personality. I first enjoyed learning about this subject for my first semester of my senior year in high school. There was one lesson about Maslow’s hierarchy of needs which I was able to associate with a manga adaptation for Chainsaw Man. This is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs where he only cares about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about the hierarchy of needs since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid, along with everyone else’s. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique, like their personality and mind processes. I figured that with a bachelor’s in psychology, I could either become a occupational therapist in a hospital or a developmental psychologist, since both jobs are so interesting. I would say that being a coach myself, after being coached for so long, has definitely been a great experience for me. This is one medium through which I’ve been able to support black women’s empowerment as well. As a coach in the volleyball academy, I’ve been able to help young BIPOC girls learn more about honing their skills as volleyball players, as I was taught similarly by the other coaches when I was younger. I am able to uplift the other girls to encourage them to push through their fears and feelings of uncertainty within the sport. I also believe that this enables them to deal with these feelings in their daily lives. For example, through the art of teaching different ball handling techniques, I do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying and learning new things. It is fun to teach the girls about volleyball since I can also see myself in them where we all have to step out of our comfort zones as young players in order to gain more experience and fall in love with both the sport and life even more. In anticipation of this scholarship, I will pay it forward to the junior BIPOC community in the same way the coaches invested in me when I started to play this amazing sport of volleyball that I love so much.

Hello, I am Chelsea Brooks. I am a 17 year old graduate from Tampa, Florida who is committed to play volleyball in college in Georgia at Paine College. It is a HBCU in the city of Augusta and I am looking forward to the new life experiences I’ll have for my first year of college. I have played volleyball for around 4 total years starting at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy and I played my last two seasons as a setter/quarter back at Florida Hype Volleyball. Some of my past time hobbies I enjoy include reading, drawing and painting, coaching, and calling my friends on the phone. I also enjoy playing and coaching volleyball as an assistant coach at Thunderbay Volleyball Academy as an alumni player. While I’m at Paine College in Georgia, I will be pursuing a degree in psychology. I chose this path for psychology since I enjoy learning about a person’s behavior and actions or habits connecting to their personality. I first enjoyed learning about this subject for my first semester of my senior year in high school. There was one lesson about Maslow’s hierarchy of needs which I was able to associate with an manga adaptation for Chainsaw Man. This is where the main character is starting their journey through life at the bottom of the pyramid of needs where he only cares about physiological needs like hunger, thirst, shelter, etc. I especially enjoyed learning about the hierarchy of needs since it made me think about my standing on the pyramid along with everyone else’s. I thought it was exciting to learn more about what makes a person unique like their personality and mind processes. I figured that with a bachelor’s in psychology, I could either become a occupational therapist in a hospital or a developmental psychologist since both jobs are interesting. I would say that being a coach myself after being coached so long has definitely been a great experience for me. This would be how I’ve been able to support women’s empowerment as well. As a coach in the volleyball academy, I’ve been able to help younger girls learn more about honing their skills as volleyball players as I was taught similarly by the other coaches when I was younger. I am able to lift up the other girls when they are scared to play or practice different ball handling techniques and I do my best to make sure they are comfortable with trying new things. The process of learning the basics for volleyball has been 50/50 of being afraid to do something and actually doing what you’ve been taught to do. It is fun to teach the girls about volleyball since I can also see myself in them where we all have to step out of our comfort zones as young players in order to gain more experience and fall in love with the sport even more.

My name is Chelsea Brooks, I live in Florida and I am from a single parent household. I will be attending a HBCU school after graduation. I chose to attend this school because the school is exactly where I need to be because it checked off every block on my list, athletically and academically. I play high school and club volleyball, but was having a difficult time getting colleges in Florida interested in me as an athlete. However, I was contacted by this HBCU from Georgia who wanted me as not only an athlete but as an individual. I went there for a tryout with their volleyball team and I fell in love with the school, the players and the unique location of the school. This school checked another box because they offered my major in Psychology. Last month, the coach at the school called to offer me an opportunity to play volleyball at the school and I accepted. When I first began the process of looking at colleges to attend, I didn’t think I would be eligible to attend a HBCU. However, now I am very excited to be able to attend a school of like-minded students trying to achieve the same opportunities like myself. With my major of Psychology, it will be difficult getting into the field being a black female so I think this will be a great opportunity that I am at a HBCU instead.

My mom is a single parent and served in the Navy Reserves for 24 years, 8 months and recently retired December 2023. She was a Chief Hospital Corpsman (medic) and a Career Counselor, positions she loved and always talked about with pride. She actually enjoyed her time in the Navy, but wanted to spend some time with me before I graduated high school this May. In July 2022, my mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer while on training in San Diego. So being the person she is, her first reaction was how fast can she get this removed from her body. Upon her return home to Florida, she met with several physicians and had her surgery scheduled within a few months after her diagnosis. Unfortunately, on her pre-operative exam she was diagnosed with Covid 19 so she had to have her surgery rescheduled for a few months later. She finally had the surgery done in November 2022 the same year. She opted to only have a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy since it was determined to be an early stage of the cancer and her pathology results was only Stage 1 with negative for spread whatsoever. She did have radiation, but chemotherapy wasn’t necessary. To date, she continues to take her prophylactic medication and will continue taking this for the next 5 years. Her first mammogram taken last year was negative. She continues to live her life as if nothing happened, but I know she wears the scar with grace because that is the person she is. The reason I chose to major in Psychology was to help deal with the many challenges that we encounter growing up. I had my mom to talk through every step of the way, well most of it. She is very passionate about somethings and encourages me to speak about these aspects of life that normally would not be discussed. She always tells me that if we discuss things more than just ignore them, we would not be so stressed out. For instance, my mom has encountered many situations where she is not comfortable talking about those things, but she believes that it should not be avoided but dealt with head on to resolve the situation early. For instance, each day after school we discuss the day in detail, what we did and didn’t do, and what we can do for the next day. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is actually a great way to keep us talking about everything and learning about the other experiences. I play volleyball in both club and high school. However, I opted to drop out of high school volleyball this year because I wasn’t being utilized and I felt that I wasn’t contributing to the team. It was a difficult decision for me, since I never liked not being able to finish what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school. As it turned out, it was a blessing in disguise as I improved myself mentally and physically on court, when I did return to club volleyball and it improved my grades as well. My mom always said everything happens for a reason. We both have developed a newfound understanding and love from our experiences. In addition, I don’t want to depend on her too much because she had and still has a lot going on, but she has my full respect for what she went through without a bit of complaint during her journey!!!!

My mom is a single parent and served in the Navy Reserves for 24 years, 8 months and recently retired December 2023. She was a Chief Hospital Corpsman (medic) and a Career Counselor, positions she loved and always talked about with pride. She actually enjoyed her time in the Navy, but wanted to enjoy some time with me before I graduated high school this May. In July 2022, my mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer while on training in San Diego. So being the person she is, her first reaction was how fast can she get this removed from my body. Upon her return home to Florida, she met with several physicians and had her surgery scheduled within a few months after her diagnosis. Unfortunately, on her pre-operative exam she was diagnosed with Covid 19 so she had to have her surgery rescheduled for a few months later. She finally had the surgery done in November 2022 the same year. She opted to only have a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy since it was determined to be early stages of the cancer and her pathology results was only Stage 1 and negative for spread whatsoever. She did have radiation, but chemotherapy wasn’t necessary. To date, she continues to take her prophylactic medication and will continue taking this for the next 5 years. Her first mammogram taken last year was negative. She continues to live her life as if nothing happened, but I know she wears the scar with grace because that is the person she is. I chose to major in Psychology to help deal with the many challenges that we encounter growing up. I had my mom to talk through every step of the way, well most of it. She is very passionate about somethings and encourages me to speak about these aspects of life that normally would not be discussed. She always tells me that if we discuss things more than just ignore them, we would not be so stressed out. For instance, my mom has encountered many situations where she is not comfortable talking about those things, but she believes that it should not be avoided but dealt with head on to resolve the situation early. Each day after school we discuss the day in detail, what we did and didn’t do, and what we can do for the next day. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is actually a great way to keep us talking about everything and learning about each other’s experiences. I played volleyball in both club and high school. However, I dropped out of high school volleyball and it was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not being able to finish what i started. However, this allowed me to focus more on school. As it turned out to be a blessing in disguise as I improved myself mentally and physically on court, and improved my grades as well. In the interim, I used that time to volunteer at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players develop their skills. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. We both have developed a newfound understanding and love from our experiences, she has my full respect for what she went through without a bit of complaint during her journey!!!!

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish is what really matters in the end. My mom was born in Trinidad and she served 24 years in the Navy. I am also from a single-parent household, one of my most enjoyable experiences was when we moved to Spain when I was only 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly enough, you must go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life. She also said “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be a disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last three years, I had overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll and this ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. Incidentally, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play and I didn’t get any time on the court, so I had to drop out from the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school as it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, and it also helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. With over 150 hours completed, every other weekend I continue to volunteer at my former volleyball club as both the coach and the assistant coach helping junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at a collegiate level at a HBCU, in Georgia. All I can say is, always believe in yourself and the power of the Lord. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as the coach and the assistant coach for the volleyball club as I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach told me upon hearing of my commitment to play volleyball, “There is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!”

My mom is a single parent and served in the Navy for 24 years, 8 months and recently retired December 2023. She was a Chief Hospital Corpsman (medic) and Career Counselor positions she always talked about with pride. She actually loved her time in the Navy, but wanted to enjoy some time with me before I graduated high school this May. During the final years in the Navy, my mom had a few health issues and was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in July 2022 and being the person she is, her first thought was how fast can she get this removed. She had her surgery scheduled and on her pre-operative exam was diagnosed with Covid so had to have her surgery rescheduled for a few months later. She finally had the surgery done in November of the same year and her pathology results was only Stage 1 and negative for spread. She did some radiation but chemotherapy wasn’t necessary, she continues to take her prophylactic medication for the next 5 years, but per first mammogram last year was negative. Although there were some other issues she continues to be optimistic and looks forward for a full recovery. During her time in the Navy, my mom traveled a lot, but I always felt that I got to go with her to some of the places through her stories upon her return from her deployments. I always remember when I was 5 years old, I got to live in Spain for 3 years and going to school there. The food and culture was amazing and I still keep in contact with some of my friends over there. Because of the many issues with being a child of a military parent, I chose to major in Psychology to help the young kids dealing with the many challenges that we encounter growing up. I had my mom to talk through every step, well most of it. She is very passionate about somethings and encourages me to speak about aspects of life that normally would not be discussed. She always suggests that we discuss things more than just ignore them, this way we would not be stressed out. For instance, my mom has encountered many situations where she is not comfortable talking about things, but she believes that it should not be avoided but dealt with head on to resolve the situation. Each day after school we discuss the day in detail and what we did and what we can do for the next day. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is actually a great way to keep us talking about everything and learning about each other’s experiences. I dropped out of high school volleyball as it was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not being able to finish what I started. However, this allowed me to focus more on school. As it turned out to be a blessing in disguise as I improved myself mentally and physically on court while I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer for my former club and I will share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “There is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!”

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always taught that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it is what really counts in the end. Although my parents were both born in Trinidad and Tobago, and I brought up in a single parent household. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades. The last three years, I had to overcome having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll and this ultimately increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give me an opportunity to play and I didn’t get any time on the court, so I had to drop out from the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at a collegiate level at a HBCU, in Georgia. Always believe in yourself and the power of the Lord. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an assistant coach for my former volleyball club and will continue to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “There is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!”

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always thought that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish it is what really counts in the end. Although my parents were both born in Trinidad and Tobago, and I brought up in a single parent household. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me as my grades. The last three years, I had to overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll, which increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play and I didn’t get any time on the court, so I had to drop out from the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at a collegiate level at a HBCU in Georgia. Always believe in yourself and the power of the Lord. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as an assistant coach for my former volleyball club whenever I am in town and share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “There is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!”

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always thought that it doesn’t matter how you start, but how you finish it is what really matters in the end. My parents were both born in Trinidad and Tobago, and I brought up in a single parent household. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job there and thought it would be a great opportunity for us. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespecting anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away” and I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last two years, I had overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and ultimately the Principal’s Honor Roll and this increased my GPA tremendously. In addition, I loved playing volleyball and that was crushed when my high school coach did not give an opportunity to play and I didn’t get any time on the court, so I had to drop out for the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me time to focus more on school and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club volleyball season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court. Every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as both a coach and an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at a collegiate level at a HBCU, in Georgia. I make mention of these facets of my life because I had to work hard to overcome difficulties with school and volleyball, but I did not make that change what I wanted to accomplish. Always believe in yourself and the power of the Lord. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will always continue to volunteer as a coach for the kids 5-8 years old and be an assistant coach for the kids 9-15 years old at my former volleyball club because it allows me to share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “There is always a place for you, so just believe, dreams do come true!” and this is exactly what I want these kids to know as they go through life. There is always a place for them as well!

As a college-bound high school student of Caribbean parents, I was always thought that it doesn’t matter how you start the race, but how you finish I what really matters in the end. My parents were both born in Trinidad and Tobago, and I brought up in a single parent household. I was born in Florida, but I moved to Spain when I was 5 years old because my mom got a job overseas. She always taught me at an early age that nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter, so if you want something badly, you must go for what you want, never disrespect anyone, but believe in yourself, and you will always reach your goal in life, “whatever God has planned for you, no one can take it away”. I have seen this work for me several times, whether it is in academic or volleyball. My first year in high school was in the height of Covid 19, I did my classes online, but that turned out to be disaster because the schools were not equipped for both in-school and online, so most of us had poor grades as a result. However, my sophomore year, I ultimately went back to in-school classes and the difference was a huge success for me and my grades. The last two years, I had overcame having a 2.5 GPA to being on the Principal Honor Roll and increasing my GPA tremendously. In addition, my love for playing volleyball was crushed when my high school coach was not giving me any time on the court, so I had to drop out for the team and focused on club volleyball instead. This was a difficult decision for me since I never liked not finishing what I started. However, this allowed me to focus more on school and it was a blessing in disguise because it helped me to improve on and off the court as a leader. When club season started, I focused on improving myself mentally and physically on the court because every other weekend I volunteered at my former volleyball club as an assistant coach helping the junior players to develop their skills. I ultimately ended up getting the opportunity to play at a collegiate level at a HBCU, D1 Christian school in Georgia. Always believe in yourself and the power of Lord. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and that reason was to improve academically and athletically. I will continue to volunteer as an assistant coach for my former volleyball club as I share my love for the game with the girls by teaching them that you never give up on your dreams! As my coach once told me, “there’s always a place in volleyball for you, just believe in yourself.”

First let me say that Cancer is a deadly disease that can seriously impact the lives of the individuals, their families and their friends. On that note, it came very close to changing my life when my mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer on her yearly mammogram in July 2022. She had no signs or symptoms, but since she was 4 months late to her yearly exam, due to Covid 19 pandemic, she had it completed. Just imagine her dismay when she got a call from the VA on the first day of military training in San Diego with the news that she tested positive for Breast Cancer. My mom being the positive person she is, her first reaction was when can it be removed and what treatment does she need. The next few months was a blur to her, getting everything arranged while continuing to work and fulfilling her duties as a Chief in the Navy Reserves. She met with different physicians and had her surgery scheduled for September but during her pre-operative test, found out she had tested positive for Covid 19 and had to reschedule her surgery for November 2022. She finally had her surgery done and was told she her cancer was Stage 1 and there was no spread to any tissue. She started and completed her radiation treatment in January of 2023. She is on prophylactic medication now and will be on that medication for 5 years, but her mammogram on July 2023 was negative. This has definitely changed our lives and my mom and I already had a close relationship but it made us closer. She is a fighter and will always be a fighter and she has taught me to never take everything for face value and fight for everything you want in life because life can change in a split second so make sure you accomplish what you set out to achieve. Make the most of things because nothing is guaranteed in life. I now cherish the time I have with my mom, since she is now retired from the Navy and I get to enjoy the time I have with her before I head out to college to major in Psychology and visual arts. As much as my life was impacted by cancer at a young age, I have seen the resilience of my mom and not making Cancer take away any more from her life. The fight continues..