Essay #1: Select one of the attributes listed that you think you embody the most and describe how you embody that attribute. Out of the eight attributes of Black Excellence, the one that I believe I embody the most is the attribute of being a continual learner. This attribute is significant to me because I have always been motivated by a desire to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. I am constantly seeking out new opportunities to learn and expand my knowledge, and I believe that this drive to learn is a key factor in my success and happiness. One way in which I embody this attribute is through my academic pursuits. I have always been a lifelong learner, and I have been motivated to do well in school and seek out new learning opportunities throughout my education. This drive has led me to pursue higher education, and I have enjoyed the challenge of tackling new subjects and expanding my knowledge. I have also taken advantage of opportunities to learn outside of the classroom, such as through internships and self-study, and I believe that these experiences have been invaluable in helping me grow as a person and as a professional. Another way in which I embody the attribute of being a continual learner is through my interests and hobbies. I have always been drawn to activities that allow me to learn and grow, and I have enjoyed exploring a wide range of topics and activities over the years. Whether it's learning a new skill, exploring a new hobby, or reading about a subject that interests me, I am always looking for ways to challenge myself and expand my horizons. Finally, I believe that being a continual learner is essential for personal and professional growth. By actively seeking out new learning opportunities and being open to new ideas and perspectives, I am better able to adapt to change and navigate the challenges that life presents. I am also better able to contribute to the world around me and make a positive impact on those around me. I believe that by staying curious and open to new learning experiences, we can continue to grow and evolve as individuals and make a meaningful difference in the world. Essay #2: Select one of the attributes listed that you think is your greatest area for improvement and detail a plan to improve in that attribute. Out of the eight attributes of Black Excellence, I believe that the attribute of "Get it done! (take action)" is my greatest area for improvement. As a perfectionist, I tend to be overly critical of my work and worry about making mistakes. This can sometimes cause me to procrastinate or hesitate to act, even when I know that taking action is necessary. I have come to realize that this tendency towards perfectionism and fear of failure can hold me back and prevent me from achieving my goals. To improve in this attribute, I have developed a plan that involves several strategies. First and foremost, I have learned that it is important to set realistic goals and break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. This helps me to stay focused and motivated, and it also makes it easier to track my progress and see the results of my efforts. Additionally, I have found it helpful to enlist the support of a mentor or coach who can provide guidance and encouragement as I work toward my goals. Another key aspect of my plan to improve in the "Get it done! (take action)" attribute is to embrace an attitude of continuous learning and growth. I have learned that it is important to be open to new ideas and perspectives and to be willing to take risks and try new things. By staying curious and open to new learning experiences, I can continue to grow and evolve as a person and as a professional. Finally, I have found that it is helpful to cultivate a positive mindset and surround myself with supportive people who encourage me to take action and pursue my goals. By focusing on the things that I am grateful for and surrounding myself with positive influences, I can stay motivated and energized as I work towards my goals. Overall, while I have made progress in improving the "Get it done! (take action)" attribute, I recognize that this is an ongoing process and that I will need to continue to work on it in order to achieve my goals. By following my plan and staying focused and motivated, I am confident that I can continue to make progress and become more action-oriented in my personal and professional endeavors.

As I approach the end of my college journey, my thoughts are consumed by my aspirations for the future. Chief among these is finding a career in the realm of marketing, where I can utilize my skills and passion to help brands effectively connect with their target audiences. Advertising and branding have always captivated me, and I am eager to embark on a professional journey that allows me to utilize my creativity to make a difference. In addition to securing a job in marketing, I also have a personal goal of developing a game of my own. The gaming industry has always fascinated me, and I believe that the process of creating a game would be both challenging and rewarding. To work towards this goal, I have begun teaching myself about game development, SEO, and website building. While my learning has been self-guided, I have been fortunate enough to have mentors who have offered guidance and support along the way. The road to achieving my goals has not been without obstacles. Distance learning, for example, has presented a unique set of challenges as I have had to balance my studies with other commitments such as work and family. This has often required me to be highly organized and self-motivated, as well as diligent about staying on top of assignments and meeting deadlines. Additionally, I have struggled with depression at various points in my life, which can make it difficult to stay motivated and focused on my studies and other responsibilities. Depression can be a debilitating condition that saps energy and motivation, making it a challenge to simply get through the day, let alone pursue long-term goals. To overcome this, I have had to be proactive in seeking support from loved ones and mental health professionals. This has included regular therapy sessions, as well as self-care practices such as exercise, nutrition, and stress management. Finally, I have also struggled with ADHD, which can make it difficult to retain information and stay focused on tasks. This can be particularly challenging in a college setting, where I am expected to absorb and process large amounts of information in a short period. To combat this, I have found that medication and certain strategies such as using to-do lists and breaking tasks into smaller chunks have been effective in improving my productivity and managing my symptoms. By utilizing these tools, I have been able to better focus on my studies and stay on track with my academic goals. Despite the challenges I have faced along the way, I remain undaunted in my pursuit of my goals. My passion for marketing and dedication to learning has kept me motivated and driven, and I am determined to make the most of my education and career opportunities. I believe that my determination to overcome adversity, along with my strong work ethic and commitment to personal and professional growth, will serve me well as I embark on my career journey. I am excited to see what the future holds and to continue learning and growing as a professional and as an individual. I am confident that my passion, dedication, and determination will guide me toward success in my chosen field and allow me to make a meaningful impact in the world. I am eager to embrace new challenges and opportunities as they arise and to continue working hard to achieve my dreams.

My passion for marketing and advertising has driven me to pursue a degree in this field, constantly seeking out opportunities to hone my skills and broaden my knowledge. One of my proudest achievements to date has been the development of a game on my own, a challenging but rewarding experience that taught me invaluable lessons in project management, problem-solving, and teamwork. Alongside this, I have also developed a personal interest in web design and development through self-study and practice, building websites as a hobby. In my career aspirations, I hope to one day work at a creative agency where I can utilize my marketing and advertising skills to help brands effectively reach their target audiences through innovative campaigns and strategies. I am particularly interested in the intersection of social media and marketing and am keenly aware of the crucial role that these platforms play in modern branding efforts. As such, I am eager to further my understanding of how to effectively utilize social media to connect with consumers and drive brand awareness and engagement. Furthermore, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community and making a positive impact on the world. In addition to volunteering at a local animal shelter, I also actively seek out opportunities to get involved in local clean-up events and other community service projects. I strongly believe that it is important for individuals to do their part in making the world a better place, and I am proud to contribute to the betterment of society through my efforts to give back and make a difference. If given the opportunity to pay down my student loans, I would be proactive in investing the saved money for my financial future. This is because I understand the importance of building a strong financial foundation and am committed to making smart financial decisions that will benefit me in the long run. In considering my options for investment, I would likely explore the stock market and real estate, as I believe these to be solid long-term investments with the potential to generate significant returns. I would conduct thorough research and seek out guidance from financial professionals to ensure that I am making informed and strategic investment decisions. Ultimately, my goal would be to use the money saved from paying down my student loans to secure a financially stable future for myself and potentially even create additional income streams. Above all, I value the opportunity to learn from and work with others, recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives in creating innovative and effective marketing campaigns. I look forward to the chance to join a team of like-minded professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the world through marketing and to join a company that values diversity and encourages employees to bring their unique experiences to the table. In conclusion, my educational pursuits in marketing and my career aspirations are driven by my passion for creativity and my desire to make a positive impact. I am confident that my dedication to learning, strong work ethic, and commitment to community involvement will help me to excel in this field and achieve my goals. I am ready to put in the hard work and dedication required to succeed in my career and make a meaningful difference in the world.

The song "Mr. Lonely" by Tyler, the Creator carries a message that is important to me. The song deals with themes of loneliness and isolation and their impact on mental health. Tyler speaks about his own feelings of disconnection and how loneliness can lead to sadness. This message is relevant today, as loneliness and social isolation can have serious negative effects on mental health. By acknowledging and addressing loneliness, Tyler encourages listeners to seek connection and support and prioritize their well-being. "Mr. Lonely" also promotes self-acceptance and self-love. Tyler speaks about feeling like an outsider and struggling to fit in with societal norms. However, he ultimately realizes that he is not alone in his struggles and that it is important to embrace his unique qualities and love himself. This message is significant in a world where people are often judged for not fitting into certain boxes or conforming to certain standards. By encouraging self-acceptance, Tyler promotes self-confidence and self-worth. The song also speaks to the universal human need for connection and belonging. Despite feeling isolated, Tyler ultimately seeks and finds solace in the company of others who understand him. This message reminds us that no one is truly alone and that we all can find meaningful connections with others. In conclusion, the message of "Mr. Lonely" is important because it touches on themes of loneliness, self-acceptance, and connection that are relevant and meaningful. Tyler's honest and relatable lyrics offer a reminder of the importance of self-love and the need for human connection and inspire me to prioritize my well-being and seek meaningful relationships with others.

Growing up in poverty presented numerous challenges and obstacles on my path to higher education. One of these obstacles I faced while growing up in poverty was limited access to healthy and affordable food options. Many times, we had to rely on cheap, processed foods that were high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which not only affected my overall health and well-being but also made it more difficult for me to concentrate and perform well in school. This was especially challenging during the school year when I was expected to maintain a high level of academic performance and be consistently active and energetic. Another struggle was the lack of resources and support to help me make healthier food choices, as my family was often struggling to make ends meet and simply didn't have the time or energy to plan and prepare nutritious meals regularly. However, with the support of my mom, I was determined to overcome these difficulties and excel in my studies. At the age of 15, I took the initiative to enroll in an early college program, which provided the opportunity to take college-level courses while still in high school. Though demanding, I was determined to succeed and put in the hard work necessary to earn good grades. Upon graduating high school, I continued my education by pursuing a bachelor's degree in marketing, a field that I am passionate about. This journey has been both challenging and rewarding, as I have learned valuable lessons about the power of marketing to make a positive impact in the world. Despite the struggles I faced growing up, I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to further my education and pursue my dreams. As a black marketing student, I am determined to use my skills and knowledge to address important social issues such as racism. I believe that marketing can be a powerful force for promoting diversity and inclusion, and I am committed to using it to create a more equitable and inclusive society. One way I plan on making a positive impact is by collaborating with companies and organizations to develop marketing campaigns that promote diversity and combat racism. By showcasing the talents and contributions of people of color, we can work towards breaking down the barriers that have historically hindered marginalized groups from reaching their full potential. In addition to my work on marketing campaigns, I also plan on using my education and skills to raise awareness about the harmful effects of racism and discrimination. By educating people about these issues, we can strive towards creating a more just and equal society for all. Overall, my journey as a black marketing student has been filled with challenges and struggles, but it has also been extremely rewarding. I am appreciative of the opportunities that I have had to further my education and pursue my passions, and I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it is through marketing campaigns that promote diversity and inclusion, or by raising awareness about important social issues, I am determined to use my skills and talents to help create a more equitable and just society for all.

As a marketing and programming enthusiast, I am thrilled to delve into the intersection of these two fields in the tech industry. I am confident that by combining my marketing and programming skills, I will be able to create innovative solutions to problems and make a meaningful impact on the world. One area of tech that particularly interests me is data analytics. Using data to understand customer behavior and make informed marketing decisions has the potential to revolutionize the way companies market their products and services. I am eager to learn more about how to use data to drive business success. In addition to data analytics, I am also interested in the role of artificial intelligence in marketing. AI has the potential to transform the way companies interact with their customers and personalize their marketing efforts. By learning how to utilize AI in marketing, I hope to create targeted and effective campaigns that resonate with customers. But my interest in tech extends beyond just marketing. I am also passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems and make a positive impact on people's lives. That is why I am also interested in studying programming and software development. By understanding how to build and design software, I will be able to create solutions that make a difference in people's lives. In the future, I hope to use my education in tech to make a positive impact on the world in various ways. Whether it is through improving marketing strategies and customer experiences, developing new technologies, or creating solutions to complex problems, I am excited to use my skills to make a difference and drive change. I am confident that my education in tech will provide me with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact on the world. However, I also believe that it is important to continuously learn and grow throughout my career. That is why I am committed to staying up-to-date on the latest developments in the tech industry and continuing to learn and grow as a professional. Overall, I believe that the tech industry has the power to create meaningful and lasting change in the world. I am excited to be a part of that change and to use my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it is through marketing, programming, or a combination of the two, I am determined to use my talents to make a difference and drive positive change.

As a black marketing student, I have always been driven to use my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world, particularly when it comes to addressing issues that disproportionately affect my community. One such issue is racism. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how racism and discrimination can have devastating consequences for black individuals and communities. This firsthand experience fueled my desire to be part of the solution and to use my marketing degree to raise awareness and drive change. To this end, I have been actively involved in various initiatives and organizations that focus on promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion. I have volunteered my time and skills to help plan and execute events and campaigns that aim to educate others about the harmful effects of racism and how we can work toward creating a more equitable society. In addition to volunteering, I have also made it a priority to educate myself on the history and context of racism. I have taken courses on diversity, equity, and inclusion and have read books and articles on the subject. I believe that understanding these issues is crucial to effectively combat them. As a marketing student, I have also had the opportunity to use my skills to create marketing materials and campaigns for these organizations. I have designed flyers, social media graphics, and other marketing materials to help raise awareness about racism and the importance of diversity and inclusion. In the future, I hope to work for a company or organization that is dedicated to promoting social justice and equality. I believe that businesses and organizations have the power to create real change in the world, and I want to be part of that change. However, I also recognize that addressing racism and other social issues requires a collective effort and a willingness to listen and learn from others. That is why I am committed to continuing to educate myself and to working with others who are equally passionate about creating a more just and equitable world. In conclusion, as a black person, I am deeply committed to addressing the important social issue of racism. I believe that my marketing degree gives me the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world, and I am determined to use those skills to create meaningful change. Whether through volunteering my time, educating myself, or utilizing my marketing skills, I am dedicated to being a part of the solution and to working towards a world where racism and discrimination are a thing of the past.

I am pursuing a degree in marketing because I am passionate about the transformative power of communication and the role it plays in shaping our daily lives and interactions. Through advertising, social media, and public relations, the way we communicate with each other can influence and alter the way we think and act. I believe that by studying marketing, I can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact on my community and the broader world. One way I hope to make a positive impact through my education in marketing is by using my skills and expertise to promote important causes and messages. There are numerous issues within my community and across the globe that I am deeply passionate about, and I believe that marketing can serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness and catalyzing positive change. By leveraging my marketing skills to promote messages of social justice, environmental sustainability, and other critical issues, I hope to contribute to making a positive difference in the world. Another way I plan to make a positive impact through my education in marketing is by using my skills to support ethical and sustainable businesses. Many companies are committed to doing good and having a positive impact on the world, and I believe it is essential to support and help these businesses thrive. By using my marketing skills to promote products and services that are environmentally friendly, ethically produced, or otherwise beneficial to society, I hope to contribute to creating a better world for all. In addition to using my marketing skills to promote important causes and support ethical businesses, I also plan to make a positive impact through my actions and choices. This could include supporting local businesses, volunteering my time and resources to help others, and using my platform to speak out on important issues. By setting a good example and being a positive influence in my own life, I hope to inspire others to do the same and make a positive impact in their way. Overall, I am confident that my education in marketing will provide me with the skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact on my community and the world. Whether it's through promoting important causes, supporting ethical businesses, or simply spreading positive messages, I am dedicated to using my education to make a difference and contribute to creating a better world for all.

As someone passionate about giving back to my community, I have had the opportunity to volunteer at several different organizations over the years. Some of my most meaningful experiences have been volunteering at the animal shelter, participating in a food drive, and helping out at a nursing home. Through these experiences, I have learned a lot about the needs of my community and how I can make a difference in the lives of others. One of the organizations I have volunteered with is the local animal shelter. As someone who loves animals, this has been a particularly rewarding experience for me. I have spent time walking dogs, cleaning cages, and interacting with the animals to help socialize them and prepare them for adoption. I have also assisted with fundraising events and other efforts to support the shelter. Working at the animal shelter has been a great way for me to give back to my community and make a positive impact on the lives of animals in need. Another way I have given back to my community is by participating in food drives. Many people in my community struggle with food insecurity, and I believe it is important to do what we can to help. I have participated in food drives organized by my church and other local organizations, collecting and distributing non-perishable items to those in need. I have also helped to raise awareness about the issue of food insecurity and encouraged others to get involved in similar efforts. In addition to volunteering at the animal shelter and participating in food drives, I have also had the opportunity to help out at a nursing home. Many of the residents at the nursing home are isolated and don't have regular visitors, so I have enjoyed spending time with them and bringing them some joy and companionship. I have participated in activities like playing games, singing songs, and just chatting with the residents. This has been a great way for me to give back to my community and make a difference in the lives of people who may be feeling lonely or isolated. As I continue my education in marketing, I plan to continue giving back to my community in a variety of ways. I believe that education is a powerful tool for making a positive impact in the world, and I hope to use my skills and expertise to help others. I am committed to finding ways to volunteer my time and resources to help those in need and make a difference in the lives of others. Whether it's through participating in food drives, volunteering at the animal shelter, or helping out at a nursing home, I am dedicated to finding ways to give back to my community and make a positive impact on the world.

As a marketing student, my goal is to use my skills and expertise to make a positive impact on the world. Marketing is about more than just promoting products or services; it's about finding creative ways to connect with people and meet their needs. Through my career, I hope to use this power to do good in the world and make a difference in the lives of others. I am currently pursuing a career in marketing because I am passionate about the power of communication and the role it plays in our daily lives. Whether it's through advertising, social media, or public relations, the way we communicate with each other can have a profound impact on how we think and behave. I believe that by using my marketing skills to promote positive messages and causes, I can help make the world a better place. One way I plan to make a positive impact through my career is by working with organizations that are committed to making a difference in the world. This could include non-profits, social enterprises, or companies that have a strong corporate social responsibility program. By partnering with these organizations, I can use my marketing skills to promote their mission and help them achieve their goals. For example, I could work on campaigns to raise awareness about important issues like climate change or social justice, or help promote products or services that are environmentally friendly or ethically produced. Another way I plan to make a positive impact is by using my marketing skills to promote diversity and inclusion. I believe that everyone has the right to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or background. By using my marketing skills to promote messages of inclusion and acceptance, I hope to help create a more inclusive and welcoming world for all. In addition to working with organizations and promoting positive messages, I also plan to make a positive impact through my actions and choices. This could include supporting ethical and sustainable businesses, volunteering my time and resources to help others, and using my platform to speak out on important issues. By setting a good example and being a positive influence in my own life, I hope to inspire others to do the same and make a positive impact in their way. Overall, I believe that marketing can be a powerful tool for making a positive impact on the world. Whether it's through promoting important causes, supporting ethical businesses, or simply spreading positive messages, there are endless ways for marketing professionals to make a difference. As I continue on my career path in marketing, I am committed to using my skills and expertise to make a positive impact on the world and make a difference in the lives of others.

Patience is a quality that I believe is essential to navigating the challenges and obstacles that life presents us with. It allows us to approach situations with a calm and measured mindset, rather than reacting impulsively or getting overwhelmed by difficult emotions. I highly value patience in myself because of the various benefits it brings. Firstly, patience helps me stay focused and centered, particularly during times of stress or uncertainty. It enables me to stay focused on my goals and not get sidetracked by distractions or setbacks. This has been especially important in helping me keep my priorities straight and stay on track toward achieving what I want. Secondly, patience helps me be more empathetic and understanding toward others. It allows me to listen to others and truly understand where they are coming from, which has strengthened my relationships with friends and family and made me a more supportive and understanding person. In my professional life, patience has also been a valuable trait that has helped me handle difficult situations and challenges effectively. By staying patient, I can approach problems with a clear head and find effective solutions, rather than getting frustrated or overwhelmed. In addition, patience has helped me see the bigger picture and make more thoughtful and considerate decisions. It has allowed me to take a step back and consider the long-term consequences of my actions, rather than impulsively reacting to situations. Furthermore, patience has helped me be more resilient and persistent in pursuing my goals. When faced with obstacles or setbacks, it has enabled me to stay patient and keep working towards my goals, rather than giving up or becoming discouraged. Finally, patience has helped me cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment. It has allowed me to let go of my ego and focus on what is truly important to me, rather than getting caught up in the stress and anxiety of everyday life. This has helped me lead a more fulfilling and satisfying life and be more present and appreciative of the moments that make up my journey. In conclusion, patience has proven to be a beneficial trait in various aspects of my life, from helping me stay focused and centered to being more empathetic and understanding towards others, and has even allowed me to cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment. I am confident that as I continue on my journey, patience will continue to serve me well and help me effectively navigate through the challenges and difficulties that may come my way.

Many things inspire me to get involved in my community and work toward positive change. Growing up, I was always taught the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on the world. This lesson has stayed with me throughout my life and has motivated me to seek out opportunities to get involved and make a difference in my community. One thing that inspires me to get involved in my community is the belief that every individual has the power to make a positive impact. No matter how small or seemingly insignificant, every action we take can contribute to creating a better world for ourselves and those around us. I believe that by coming together and working towards a common goal, we can make meaningful and lasting changes in our communities. Another thing that inspires me to get involved in my community is the desire to create a more just and equitable society. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of their circumstances or background. By working to address social and economic inequalities within my community, I hope to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. I have worked to influence change within my community in several ways. One of the ways I have gotten involved is by volunteering with local organizations that support important causes. For example, I have worked with a nonprofit that provides resources and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Through this experience, I have been able to use my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact and contribute to addressing a significant social issue in my community. In addition to volunteering, I have also worked to influence change within my community through advocacy and activism. I have voted in local elections, written letters and petitions, and spoken out about important issues that affect my community. By taking action and using my voice, I hope to raise awareness about important issues and bring about positive change. In conclusion, many things inspire me to get involved in my community and work towards positive change. From the belief in the power of individual action to the desire to create a more just and equitable society, I am motivated to make a difference and contribute to creating a better world for all. Through volunteering, advocacy, and activism, I have worked to influence change within my community and will continue to do so in the future.

Education has always been an important value in my life. Growing up, my parents always stressed the importance of getting a good education and encouraged me to do well in school. As I have gotten older, I have come to fully understand and appreciate the value of education in my own life. There are many reasons why I believe education is important. First and foremost, it is the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career. In today's competitive job market, a good education is often required to secure a good job with a decent salary. In addition, a solid education can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a particular field or pursue advanced opportunities for career advancement. Beyond career advancement, education also has the power to broaden our horizons and expand our understanding of the world around us. Through education, we are exposed to new ideas, perspectives, and ways of thinking that can help us to become more open-minded and empathetic individuals. Education can also provide us with the tools and skills necessary to become critical thinkers and problem-solvers, which are valuable skills in all aspects of life. For me, education has brought a great deal of value to my life. As a marketing student, my education has provided me with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue my career goals and make a positive impact in the world. In addition, my education has helped me to develop important critical thinking and problem-solving skills that have been invaluable in my personal and professional life. Furthermore, my education has exposed me to a diverse range of ideas and perspectives that have helped me to become a more well-rounded and open-minded individual. I have learned about different cultures, histories, and ways of life that have broadened my understanding of the world and helped me to become more empathetic toward others. Additionally, education can provide us with a sense of accomplishment and personal growth. Learning new things and gaining knowledge can be a deeply rewarding experience that helps us to feel more confident and capable. As we grow and learn throughout our lives, we can develop a sense of purpose and direction, which can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life. For these reasons, I believe that education is an essential part of personal growth and development, and is something that we should all strive to prioritize and value. In conclusion, education is a vital aspect of our lives that provides us with the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary to succeed in our careers and make a positive impact in the world. For me, education has brought a great deal of value to my life and has helped me to become the person I am today. I believe that education is an essential part of personal and professional growth and is something that we should all prioritize and value throughout our lives.

As a marketing student, I am constantly seeking ways to use my skills and knowledge to create a positive impact on the world. One approach I plan to take is by utilizing my marketing abilities to support nonprofit organizations and causes that matter to me. I have always been driven to give back to my community, and I believe that marketing has the power to raise awareness and support important causes. As a marketing student, I am learning the skills and strategies required to effectively communicate with and engage audiences, and I am excited to use these skills to make a positive difference in the world. In addition to my studies, I have also had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience by working for a nonprofit organization. I have collaborated with a local nonprofit that provides resources and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. In this role, I have been able to utilize my marketing skills to promote the organization's mission and raise awareness about the issue of homelessness in our community. Working for this nonprofit has been a truly enriching experience and has allowed me to see firsthand the positive impact that marketing can have on important causes. I have learned a lot about the challenges that nonprofit organizations face and gained valuable experience in developing effective and impactful marketing strategies. As I continue my studies and pursue a career in marketing, I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world. Whether through supporting nonprofit organizations or promoting causes that are important to me, I believe that marketing has the power to create positive change and make a difference in the world. In the future, I hope to use my marketing skills to raise awareness about important social issues and support organizations that are working to create a positive impact. I am confident that by using my skills and expertise responsibly and ethically, I can make a meaningful difference in the world through my marketing career. Furthermore, I plan to stay informed about current events and social issues and use my marketing skills to help bring about positive change. I believe that it is important for marketers to be aware of the potential impact of their work and to use their skills and platforms responsibly. By staying informed and actively seeking out opportunities to use my marketing skills for good, I hope to make a lasting impact on the world and contribute to positive social change. I am excited to see where my marketing career takes me and to use my skills and knowledge to make a positive difference in the world.

As long as I can remember, I have been drawn to marketing as a career for a few reasons. Firstly, I have always had a passion for understanding people and how they think. Marketing is all about understanding the needs and desires of consumers and finding ways to effectively communicate with them. I believe that this aspect of marketing is crucial in today's world, where there are so many different messages and advertisements vying for our attention. In addition to my passion for understanding people, I have always been interested in the creative aspect of marketing. I love coming up with new ideas and finding ways to communicate them effectively. Marketing allows me to use my creativity to solve problems and come up with unique solutions. I find this aspect of marketing to be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. Another reason that I chose to pursue a career in marketing is that I believe that diversity is essential in the industry. As a black man, I bring a unique perspective and life experience to the table that can benefit the companies I work for. I believe that diversity in marketing is essential to accurately represent and connect with consumers from all walks of life. I am excited to be a part of an industry that is becoming more diverse and inclusive every day. As I look toward my ideal future in the marketing industry, I see a world where diversity is truly valued and celebrated. I envision a future where companies understand the importance of representing and connecting with consumers from all backgrounds and actively seek out diverse talent to ensure that their marketing efforts are inclusive and effective. In this future, I see marketing campaigns that are more authentic and relatable, as they are created by teams that reflect the diversity of the consumers they are trying to reach. I also see a greater emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility in marketing, as companies understand the importance of considering the impact of their actions on both people and the planet. Overall, I am excited to be a part of the marketing industry and am looking forward to making a positive impact. I believe that marketing has the power to connect people and bring about positive change, and I am eager to use my skills and talents to contribute to this goal. So, I am confident that my future in marketing will be bright and full of possibilities.

Volunteering has had a profound impact on my mindset and has significantly shaped the person I am today. Growing up, I always had a heart for service and wanted to find ways to give back to my community. However, it wasn't until I started volunteering consistently that I truly began to understand the impact that one person can have on the world around them. My first volunteer experience was at a nursing home, where I spent my time connecting with and listening to elders' life stories. At first, it was just something to do on the weekends, but as I continued to volunteer, I started to see the difference that I was making. I saw firsthand the impact that a simple act of kindness could have on someone's life and it was truly inspiring. As I continued to volunteer, my perspective started to shift. I began to see the world in a different light and became more empathetic toward others. I started to understand the challenges that many people face and how small acts of kindness can go a long way in brightening someone's day. In addition to changing my mindset, volunteering has also helped me to develop valuable skills that I can use in both my personal and professional life. I have learned how to work effectively in a team, how to communicate with others, and how to problem-solve in a variety of situations. These skills have been invaluable in my academic and career endeavors and have helped me to stand out as a leader and a team player. As I continue to volunteer and give back to my community, I am constantly reminded of the power of service and the impact that one person can have on the world around them. It is for this reason that I am seeking a scholarship. I understand the financial burden that higher education can place on students and their families, and I believe that this scholarship would not only help me to achieve my academic goals but also allow me to continue making a positive impact in my community through service. In conclusion, volunteering has had a transformative effect on my mindset and has helped me to develop valuable skills that will serve me well in both my personal and professional life. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue my education and am excited to see where it will take me. I am confident that with the help of this scholarship, I will be able to make a meaningful difference in the world and continue to grow as a person.

What's one thing that gives me hope that the future will be better? My generation. Generation Z is the most diverse, socially aware, and empathetic generation in American history. Though we are diverse, our shared experiences and traumas bring us together. Gen Z grew up in an environment where school shooting drills became a part of our curriculum. An environment where we could see discrimination happen in our classrooms and then read about how abolition hurt plantation owners. A country where you can go to sleep one day and have your rights revoked the next. A country where our chances of winning on a scratch-off ticket are higher than landing a job after college. A country where housing is unobtainable while homelessness is illegal. A country where living in your car is illegal. A country that will throw you in jail for standing in a public area for more than thirty minutes. And people wonder why Gen Z is sensitive. We aren't sensitive; we're angry. And our anger is fueling change. Gen Z has been responsible for many organizational efforts toward slowing climate change, dismantling systemic racism, improving wildlife conservation, etc. We strive to give a voice to these issues by using what we grew up on; social media. We use these platforms and their ability to share information instantaneously to attempt to educate as many people as possible. Our goal is to promote social, economic, and environmental literacy, and every "like" a post gets is another pair of eyes that social media post may come across. Gen Z's ability to cooperate rather than compete sets my generation apart from the others. We have a mutual understanding that we are in this mess together, so we must fix this mess together. There is strength in numbers; my generation knows this, which is why Gen Z is my hope for the future.