From the outset of my academic career, my passion for writing has been profound. My childhood aspiration was to become an author, driven by a deep-seated love for language, recognizing how this form of art remarkably touches individuals. I yearn for the sense of astonishment experienced when engrossed in a compelling book or article —a sensation I strive to instill in others. Language, when skillfully employed, holds the power to deeply impact audiences and propel significant realizations regarding the content at hand. As I age, my dedication to activism has grown, paralleling my passion for writing. Journalism, specifically the power of the press, is a catalyst that incites social change. Storytelling is not only an outlet to escape reality but also records history through language. Figures, like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, demonstrated the power of journalism by advocating for their political beliefs, risking all to publish hundreds of papers that aimed to influence the American public. Thus, through journalism, I bridge my commitment to fighting inequality with my first love — writing. Political journalism emerges as the most sensational outlet to reach the citizens of America, providing them with authentic, truthful content to shape the future of our nation. By being given an opportunity to apply for the Morgan Levine Dolan scholarship, my future educational career will be aided and nurtured, as I continue to pursue my passion for activism. In the upcoming years I will spend at college, I plan to be an active citizen, not only on campus, but in the tapestry of the nation as well. I want to be able to start voting drives, create meaningful documentaries touching on the nations need for equity and justice, as well as study at the best program I can find which aligns with my dreams. Here I sit at my computer, typing vigorously in the confinements of my dining room as I apply for scholarships and try desperately to write essays which will effectively characterize who I am as a person, including my goals for the future. Although 600 words feels measly compared to the thousands of words and thoughts I wish to employ within this essay, my ultimate yearning lies within breaking out of the confinements of my home and catalyzing authentic change through action. Being awarded this scholarship will allow my ambitions to unfold into articles, movements, research, and films which will not only shape my growth as a journalist, but also impact the world which will be changing and growing alongside my endeavors. In order to be able to study at one of the top journalism schools in the nation and not go into insufferable debt and hardships when I graduate, I will continue to work as hard as I can in order to accomplish my goals and prevent financial crisis. Ultimately, being able to embark on a exceptional program with unique internships, dedicated professors, and the access to remarkable research resources, my love for writing, and dedication to progress will flourish. In order to shake hands with the opportunities that knock on my door, I will continue to write, create, and go above and beyond in order to meet them face to face. In needing some financial help to achieve these targets, I will not give up not only for myself, but for the future of the United States of America.

In the tapestry of American democracy, the threads of individual rights and collective responsibilities weave together, as the concept of civic duty stands as a cornerstone, essential for the stability and growth of any society. The foundation of democracy lies within the participation, drive, and voices of its citizens who have the power of shaping the future of their nation. Through advocacy, voting, and up-standing, the necessity of civic participation is completed. Being a “good citizen” must revolve around what one does for others: their communities, those who are less privileged, and the nation as a whole. Voice, remains the most sensational and important aspect of executing one's civic duty, and in turn being a good citizen. Although many believe that they are personally incapable of actually affecting the world, I vehemently disagree. By being given the power to directly vote on elections regarding the politicians which represent our nation, we grasp the power of choice. In a world where so many nations are left choice-less as to who will guide their people to liberty and prosperity, the United States maintains a representative government in which its people are entitled to choice. The act of selecting or making a decision, is at the forefront of what it means to be an American. A system where ordinary people are given an opportunity to directly influence policy and politicians which will impact on their everyday lives. Along with the subject of choice, voice serves as the fire which fuels its power. Without the two, the powerless remain powerless, as the poor remain poor, and the oppressed continue to be oppressed. The American constitution lays an outline for the framework of maintaining a successful nation where freedom, progression, and civic rights are engraved. Although those principals do not effectively treat all American citizens equally, the system they are embedded in revolves around the laws which are necessary in creating an authentically equal society in the future. The right to vote ensures that the government is representative of the people's wants, needs, and concerns. By utilizing one's constitutional right and voting for a politician who will effectively represent their needs in the federal government, representation is guaranteed in the white house. Along with this representation, the opportunity to protect constitutional rights to equality and make social progress. Policy influence through representatives gives citizens outlets in shaping public policies. Elected officials, guided by the constitution, enact laws and policies that impact various aspects of society, including healthcare, education, and civil rights. Having choice is a mechanism for holding elected officials accountable. If leaders diverge from constitutional principles or fail to address the needs of their constituents, voters can express their dissatisfaction by choosing different representatives in upcoming elections. Sometimes, voting is even required in the process of amending outdated principals within the constitution itself. This process allows societies to adapt to changing norms, values, and challenges while maintaining a foundation rooted in democracy. As voices are heard, attitudes evolve, and voting enacts the election of leaders who support and champion social justice issues in line with constitutional ideals. As our nation continues to develop and turn over new pages of progress, the American people must carry on with using their voices in order to build a democracy which authentically represents the country's entire demographic population. Without the contributions of our citizens: the people actually being impacted by policy making, America will suffer an unbearable amount of complacency and remain stagnant in the fight for change. It is up to us, the ordinary people, to be active forces within the government which our leaders cannot ignore.