Growing up between Cameroon and the United States gave me a unique perspective on the world and ultimately led me to pursue a degree in Journalism and Sociology at Hampton University. Living in Cameroon allowed me to experience a different culture, appreciate my heritage, and understand the importance of community. One of the experiences that shaped me the most was translating for my grandmother, who does not speak English. Helping her communicate taught me that everyone deserves to be heard, understood, and respected. Those experiences inspired my passion for communication and showed me how powerful a person's voice can be. When I returned to the United States, I experienced years of bullying and often felt like I did not belong. Instead of allowing those experiences to define me, I found purpose through writing. Journalism became more than just something I enjoyed doing in school. It became a way for me to understand people, ask meaningful questions, and bring awareness to issues that often go unnoticed. Throughout high school and college, I have written about topics such as mental health, colorism, racial inequality, identity, and the experiences of Black girls because these are issues that have shaped my own life and the lives of many others. I chose to continue my education in the arts because I believe journalism is one of the most powerful ways to create change. Stories educate people, preserve history, challenge injustice, and give communities the opportunity to be seen and heard. Alongside journalism, I chose to study sociology because I want to better understand the people and communities behind the stories I tell. Together, these two fields will prepare me to become a journalist who reports with honesty, compassion, and integrity. My goal is to use my education to make a positive impact on my community by giving a voice to people whose stories are often overlooked. I hope to report on issues such as education, mental health, racial equity, and community development while encouraging conversations that bring people together instead of dividing them. I also hope to inspire young people, especially Black girls and children of immigrant families, to believe that their voices matter and that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Receiving this scholarship would help make that goal possible. It would ease the financial burden of college and allow me to focus on my education, internships, and opportunities that will prepare me for a career in journalism. More importantly, it would be an investment in someone who is committed to using her education to serve others. My hope is that every story I tell will leave someone feeling seen, understood, and empowered, because I believe that meaningful change begins when people are given the opportunity to share their stories.

Growing up between Cameroon and the United States has shaped who I am in ways I never imagined. Living in Cameroon gave me the opportunity to experience a different culture, appreciate my heritage, and understand the importance of family and community. I often translated for my grandmother, who does not speak English, and those moments taught me the value of communication and helping others feel heard. However, when I returned to the United States, I experienced a completely different reality. Throughout school, I faced years of bullying, struggled with my confidence, and often felt like I did not belong. Those experiences challenged me emotionally, but they also taught me resilience and helped shape the person I am today. Instead of allowing those experiences to define me, I began searching for an outlet where I could express myself. I found that outlet through writing and journalism. As I wrote about issues such as mental health, colorism, racial inequality, and identity, I realized that stories have the power to educate, inspire, and create change. Writing became more than an assignment for school. It became my purpose and the way I wanted to make a difference in the world. One of my proudest accomplishments was participating in my high school's journalism program. Although I have always struggled with anxiety, I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone by interviewing students and teachers, reporting stories, and speaking in front of a camera. Every interview reminded me that journalism is about listening just as much as it is about speaking. Those experiences strengthened my confidence and confirmed that this is the career I want to pursue. This fall, I will attend Hampton University to study Journalism and Sociology. I chose these fields because I want to understand not only how to report the news but also the social issues and communities behind the stories. My goal is to become a journalist who tells stories with honesty, compassion, and integrity while giving underrepresented communities a voice. Whether I work in investigative, political, or entertainment journalism, I hope my reporting will encourage understanding, challenge misinformation, and inspire positive change. Receiving this scholarship would have a tremendous impact on my future. Like many students, I face the financial challenges of paying for college, and scholarships make it possible for me to continue pursuing my education. This award would reduce the financial burden on my family and allow me to focus more fully on my studies, internships, and opportunities that will prepare me for my career. More importantly, this scholarship would be an investment in the future journalist I hope to become. I want to use my education to tell stories that matter, advocate for people whose voices are often overlooked, and create meaningful conversations that bring communities together. My experiences have taught me that every person's story has value, and I hope to spend my career making sure those stories are heard. I believe this scholarship would not only help me achieve my educational goals but also bring me one step closer to making a lasting difference through journalism.

Growing up between Cameroon and the United States taught me that one of the greatest gifts a person can give is the opportunity to be heard. Whether I was translating for my grandmother, navigating different cultures, or learning to understand perspectives different from my own, I realized that communication has the power to build connections, create understanding, and inspire change. Those experiences shaped my desire to pursue higher education and ultimately become a journalist who serves others through storytelling. Living in two different countries gave me a broader understanding of the world and showed me that every person’s story deserves to be heard, no matter where they come from or what challenges they have faced. For me, the spirit of giving is not limited to donating money or volunteering for a single event. It also means using your talents, experiences, and education to improve the lives of others. Throughout high school, I became passionate about writing and journalism because I saw how powerful stories could be. I researched topics such as mental health, colorism, racial inequality, identity, and social justice because I wanted to better understand the challenges many people face and help bring awareness to issues that are often overlooked. Sharing knowledge, encouraging meaningful conversations, and helping people feel seen are ways I hope to give back throughout my life. One of the greatest challenges I faced throughout school was bullying. For many years, I struggled with feeling like I did not belong. I often felt different from the students around me because of my background, my appearance, and my identity. Being bullied slowly affected my confidence and made me question my self-worth. There were moments when I wondered if there was something wrong with me simply because I looked different or did not fit the expectations of those around me. Instead of feeling excited to go to school, there were many days when I simply wanted to blend into the background and avoid attention. Those experiences were painful, but they also became some of the greatest lessons of my life. Although those years were difficult, I eventually realized that I could not allow other people’s opinions to determine who I was or who I could become. I began focusing on the things I could control instead of the things I could not. I poured my energy into my education, my writing, and discovering the future I wanted for myself. Journalism became more than just a class. It became an outlet where I could express myself, ask important questions, and give a voice to people whose stories often go unheard. Every article I wrote and every interview I conducted reminded me that my voice mattered just as much as anyone else’s. I also learned to embrace my identity instead of hiding it. Growing up between Cameroon and the United States taught me to appreciate my culture, my family, and the experiences that made me unique. Rather than wishing I could change myself to fit in, I slowly began recognizing that my differences were actually strengths. They allowed me to see the world from multiple perspectives and helped me develop empathy for people whose experiences were different from my own. I realized that many people carry struggles that cannot be seen on the outside, and that understanding has shaped the kind of person I want to be. Those experiences also taught me resilience. While I could not change what happened to me, I could choose how I responded to it. Instead of allowing bullying to make me bitter, I decided to let it make me more compassionate. I became determined to encourage others, to listen without judgment, and to use my future career to highlight stories that deserve attention. I believe some of the strongest people are not those who have never faced adversity, but those who continue moving forward despite it. This fall, I will attend Hampton University to study Journalism and Sociology. Journalism will give me the skills to report accurately, ask thoughtful questions, and communicate stories that matter. Sociology will help me understand the social systems, cultures, and communities behind those stories. Together, these fields will prepare me to serve others by informing the public, challenging misinformation, and giving a platform to voices that are too often ignored. In my career, I hope to report on issues that affect everyday people, including education, mental health, racial equity, and community development. I want to tell stories that encourage understanding rather than division and inspire people to take action within their own communities. If my work can help one person feel understood, encourage someone to seek help, or inspire others to make a positive difference, then I will know I have fulfilled my purpose. Receiving this scholarship would not only help make my education more affordable but would also allow me to continue pursuing a career centered on service. I believe education is one of the greatest investments a person can make because it provides the knowledge and skills needed to create lasting change. My goal is to use every opportunity I receive to give back through honest storytelling, compassionate leadership, and a lifelong commitment to serving others. The spirit of giving is about leaving people better than you found them. Through my education, my career, and my dedication to telling meaningful stories, I hope to do exactly that. By giving others a voice, I believe I can make a lasting impact on my community and beyond.

For me, going to college represents far more than earning a degree. It represents opportunity, growth, and the chance to create a better future for myself and the people around me. As someone who grew up with immigrant parents and has faced challenges such as bullying and struggles with my confidence, I understand that education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change. College is an opportunity to turn the lessons I have learned from my experiences into a career that allows me to make a meaningful impact. This fall, I will attend Hampton University to major in Journalism and Sociology. My passion for journalism comes from my curiosity about the world and my desire to tell stories that matter. I have always loved asking questions, researching, writing, and understanding different cultures and perspectives. I believe journalism is one of the most powerful ways to educate others, encourage empathy, and give a voice to people whose stories are too often overlooked. Studying sociology alongside journalism will help me better understand the communities I hope to serve and the issues that affect them. As a minority student, earning a college degree means breaking barriers and creating opportunities that extend far beyond myself. I hope my education will allow me to become a journalist who reports on issues such as mental health, racial inequality, education, and culture with honesty and compassion. I want to use my platform to amplify underrepresented voices, challenge stereotypes, and inspire meaningful conversations that encourage positive change. My education is not only an investment in my future but also in the future of my family and community. I want my career to leave a lasting impact by helping others feel seen, heard, and understood. My goal is to show young people, especially those who have ever felt different or underestimated, that their voices matter and that their experiences have value. To me, earning a college degree is the first step toward building a legacy of service, leadership, and meaningful change that will continue long after I graduate. Beyond preparing me for a career, college will challenge me to grow as both a student and a leader. I hope to take advantage of internships, student organizations, and opportunities to connect with people from different backgrounds who will broaden my perspective. Every experience will help me become a stronger communicator, a better storyteller, and someone who can use knowledge to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

For me, being a "Mad Genius," or even just being yourself, is very complicated because identity itself is complicated. There are so many standards and expectations about who the world thinks you should be and who other people expect you to become. As somebody who has been called weird my entire life for liking things that were considered unconventional, I know exactly what that feels like. I've been called weird for liking Asian culture, things like K-pop and anime. I've been called weird for maladaptive daydreaming and for talking to myself. I've been called weird because of the way that I look and because of the way that I present myself. I've been called weird because I talk too fast. I've been called weird because I'm very socially aware of what's going on in the world around me. People thought I was weird because I always wanted to be close to my teachers, ask questions, and participate in class. It honestly felt like I was called weird for every little thing. I've been hearing that word since I was in the third grade. For a long time, I thought something was wrong with me. I never really fit in. People thought I talked too much, and honestly... I do. I always tried to over-explain because I felt like I had so much to say, and if I didn't get my point across, I felt like I hadn't truly expressed myself. I spent years trying to hide parts of who I was because I thought being different was something I needed to fix. But as I got older, I realized something. The things people called weird were simply the things that made me... me. It wasn't just liking Asian culture. I loved journalism. I loved politics. I loved creating things. I loved writing. I loved art. I loved asking questions and deep-diving into why things are the way they are. I was always researching, always curious, and always trying to understand the world around me. As I grew older, those interests only became stronger and stronger. Instead of disappearing, they became the foundation of my confidence and creativity. That curiosity eventually led me toward journalism. Being a journalist is all about asking hard questions, researching, discovering the truth, and seeing stories that other people overlook. To me, creativity isn't just painting a picture or writing a song. Creativity is thinking differently. It's looking beyond the obvious. It's refusing to accept easy answers and continuing to ask "why?" when everyone else has already moved on. That's why I stopped trying to be normal. I realized that the things I once tried to hide were actually my greatest strengths. To me, a Mad Genius looks different for everyone. A Mad Genius is someone who is creative and isn't afraid to be themselves. They aren't afraid to do things that are out of the ordinary or outside of what society considers normal. They continue creating even when people criticize them. They continue asking questions when people tell them to stop. They continue imagining possibilities that other people don't see. Even if they've been bullied or judged because of their creativity or because they were different, they keep going. They refuse to let criticism change who they are. That is what a Mad Genius looks like to me. Whether I'm becoming a journalist, attending an HBCU, or pursuing my dream of using storytelling to create change, my ultimate goal is to give people a voice and help others understand that being different and being creative is not something to be ashamed of. It isn't a flaw. It's a gift. Being a Mad Genius is simply being the best version of yourself. It's being proud of your identity, proud of your culture, and proud of the things that make you unique, even when other people criticize you for them. At the end of the day, the world will always have something to say about the way you live your life. If you spend your entire life trying to meet everyone else's expectations, you'll never truly be happy. I'd rather be remembered as the girl who was unapologetically weird than the person who spent her life pretending to be someone she wasn't. To me, that's what a Mad Genius truly is.

One of the biggest ways I plan to address my current and future student loan debt is by taking action before I ever graduate. Over the past year, I have dedicated countless hours to researching scholarships, writing essays, and submitting applications because I understand that every scholarship I receive is one less loan I may have to take out. While the process has been discouraging at times, I know that persistence is an investment in my future. Even when I have not received the results I hoped for, I continue applying because I believe every opportunity brings me one step closer to achieving my goals. This fall, I will attend Hampton University to pursue degrees in Journalism and Sociology. Growing up between Cameroon and the United States gave me a unique perspective on the importance of communication, culture, and understanding people from different backgrounds. Those experiences inspired my passion for journalism and my desire to tell stories that educate others, challenge stereotypes, and amplify voices that are often overlooked. Pursuing this dream means everything to me, and I am determined not to let financial barriers prevent me from receiving the education I have worked so hard to earn. In addition to applying for scholarships, I plan to make responsible financial decisions throughout college. I intend to create a realistic budget, limit unnecessary spending, and take advantage of work-study opportunities or part-time employment whenever possible. My goal is to graduate with as little student loan debt as possible so that I can begin my career focused on serving my community instead of worrying about overwhelming financial obligations. Developing healthy financial habits now will help me build long-term stability and allow me to invest in my future rather than spend years recovering from debt. Receiving scholarships is about more than simply reducing the cost of tuition. Every scholarship represents an opportunity to continue my education with greater confidence and less financial stress. It also reminds me that others believe in my potential and are willing to invest in my future. That encouragement motivates me to continue working hard both inside and outside the classroom. Ultimately, my goal is to become a journalist who informs, inspires, and gives underrepresented communities a voice. By continuing to pursue scholarships, making thoughtful financial decisions, and remaining committed to my education, I am confident that I can minimize student loan debt while building a career dedicated to creating meaningful change. Every scholarship I earn brings me one step closer to that future.

For generations, Historically Black Colleges and Universities have been places where excellence, leadership, and service come together. As an incoming college student, one of my greatest aspirations is to continue my education at Hampton University, where I hope to grow not only as a journalism student but also as a leader committed to serving my community. To me, an HBCU represents far more than earning a degree. It represents belonging, opportunity, and the responsibility to use my education to uplift others. Growing up as the daughter of Cameroonian immigrants, I often found myself navigating different cultures and perspectives. Those experiences taught me to appreciate diversity within the Black community while recognizing the importance of preserving culture, history, and identity. They also inspired my passion for journalism because I believe every community deserves to have its stories told with honesty, dignity, and compassion. Hampton University's rich history of producing leaders, innovators, and changemakers is one of the reasons I hope to become part of its community. I want to learn in an environment that celebrates Black excellence while challenging students to think critically, lead with integrity, and give back to the communities that shaped them. Surrounded by professors and classmates who value both academic excellence and service, I believe I will continue developing into the journalist and advocate I aspire to become. Throughout my academic journey, I have been drawn to topics that affect underserved communities, including mental health, racial inequality, representation in the media, and the experiences of women of color. These interests have strengthened my belief that journalism is one of the most meaningful forms of public service. Accurate reporting has the power to educate, challenge injustice, amplify overlooked voices, and bring communities together through understanding. My goal is to build a career that reflects those values every day. Beyond the classroom, I hope to contribute to the Hampton community through student organizations, community service, and mentorship opportunities. I want to encourage younger students, especially young Black women, to pursue careers in journalism, communications, and storytelling. Representation matters, and I hope my journey encourages others to believe that their voices and experiences deserve to be heard. The legacy of HBCUs is built on resilience, scholarship, leadership, and service. I hope to honor that legacy by approaching every opportunity with curiosity, determination, and compassion. Whether I am reporting on issues that matter, mentoring future students, or advocating for underrepresented communities, I want my work to reflect the values that institutions like Hampton University have championed for generations. My dream is not simply to graduate from an HBCU. It is to carry its legacy wherever I go, using my education to inform, empower, and create opportunities for others. In doing so, I hope to become one more woman who leaves her community stronger than she found it.

When people hear the word "immigrant," they often think only about the challenges of moving to a new country. While those challenges are real, my experience as the daughter of Cameroonian immigrants has also given me something invaluable: a broader understanding of the world and a deep appreciation for education, resilience, and community. Although I was raised in the United States, Cameroon has always been home in another sense. I had the opportunity to live there with my grandmother and cousins, experiencing a way of life that was very different from what I knew in America. I helped on the family farm, explored villages, learned French alongside my native language, and became immersed in the traditions and values that shaped my family long before I was born. Those experiences taught me that education is not limited to a classroom. Some of life's greatest lessons come from listening to elders, adapting to unfamiliar environments, and learning from people whose experiences differ from your own. One of the responsibilities that had the greatest impact on me was translating for my grandmother. Whether we were at doctor's appointments, grocery stores, church, or simply having conversations with others, I often became the bridge between two languages and two cultures. At a young age, I realized how much dignity comes from being understood. Those moments taught me patience, empathy, and responsibility while showing me the importance of using my voice to help others. Being the child of immigrants also shaped the way I approached my education. My family viewed education as more than earning good grades. It was an opportunity that previous generations had sacrificed to make possible. That perspective motivated me to work hard, remain curious, and pursue my dream of becoming a journalist. I want to tell stories that inform communities, amplify voices that are often overlooked, and encourage understanding across cultures. Growing up between two worlds has taught me that every person carries a story worth hearing, and I hope to spend my career helping those stories reach others. Like many immigrant families, navigating higher education has come with financial challenges and unfamiliar systems. Learning about financial aid, scholarships, and college planning has required persistence and determination. Rather than discouraging me, these experiences have strengthened my commitment to achieving my educational goals and creating opportunities for future generations in my family. Amabel's story reminds me that success is built through courage, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. Her journey from Cameroon to the United States reflects many of the values my own family has instilled in me. I hope to honor that legacy by pursuing my education with the same determination, using my voice to serve others, and never forgetting the sacrifices that made my opportunities possible. My immigrant experience has not limited my dreams. It has expanded them, giving me the perspective, resilience, and purpose to make a meaningful difference in my community and beyond.

I have been called the Black girl for as long as I can remember. At first I thought it was because I talk much. My mom still laughs about how I can turn a five minute story into a thirty minute one, complete with hand gestures, rapid fire commentary and at least three side quests before I finally get to the point. If I am excited about something I talk faster. People sometimes have to tell me to slow down because my brain is already three sentences of my mouth. Then again maybe it was because I am the kid who accidentally trips over nothing is irrationally terrified of bugs and somehow manages to embarrass myself in public at least once a week. Maybe it is because I can spend hours reading about the French Revolution, ancient African kingdoms or the Cold War just because I think history is fascinating. My family jokingly calls me the random facts encyclopedia because I will interrupt dinner to explain why an empire collapsed 500 years ago or why a historical event still affects the world today. No one asked for the history lesson but everyone gets one anyway. Then there are my hobbies. I love anime. I am obsessed with K-pop. I daydream a lot, which means my imagination is always running in the background. Give me a story and I will spend hours thinking about the characters the writing and the worlds people create. For a time I wondered if being weird meant there was something wrong with the weird Black girl. It seemed like everyone else fit neatly into a box while the weird Black girl collected interests that did not always make sense together.. As I have gotten older I have realized that the same curiosity people teased the weird Black girl for is the very thing that fuels my biggest dream: becoming a journalist. Good journalists ask questions that other people never think to ask. They dive into history to understand the present. They are fascinated by people, cultures and ideas. They listen carefully research relentlessly and never stop learning. When I look at the Black girl now I do not see someone who is weird. I see someone who's endlessly curious. So yes I will probably always talk much. I will probably always wave my hands around when I am excited overthink everything and panic the second a bug flies close. I will probably continue filling silences with random historical facts that nobody requested. Honestly I am perfectly okay, with being the weird Black girl because that curiosity has become one of my greatest strengths.

When I think about learning across borders I think about collecting perspectives. I do not just think about collecting passport stamps. Some of the important lessons I have learned did not come from a classroom. They came from traveling to Cameroon a country my family considers home. Living in Cameroon really changed how I saw the world and myself. I lived with my grandmother and cousins. I helped on our family farm. I also explored villages and beaches. I learned French in addition to my language. I experienced traditions that were always part of who I'm.. Before I only knew them through stories. One of my tasks was translating for my grandmother. I did this during doctors appointments, grocery shopping, church and everyday conversations. In those moments I realized that language is not about talking. It is about dignity. Helping someone feel heard taught me to be empathetic, patient and serve others. At the time living in two cultures taught me that there is not just one way to understand the world. Growing up in the United States and spending time in Cameroon let me compare systems, traditions and ways of thinking. I learned to appreciate my heritage. I also recognized the privilege of seeing life from perspectives. Those experiences made me curious. This curiosity still shapes who I am today. As someone who wants to be a journalist I think the best stories come from listening. Every community has experiences, traditions and voices that deserve understanding. I do not want to assume things. I hope to study. I want to keep learning from people whose lives and culturesre different from mine. I want to understand how countries approach healthcare, education, media and social issues. I also want to see how culture shapes the stories people tell about themselves. These are questions that textbooks alone cannot answer. They require talking to people observing and being willing to step out of what's familiar. Travel has already shown me that borders do not separate people much as they show how diverse humanity is. Whether I was learning a language adapting to a new way of life or seeing how communities support each other every experience made me more open-minded and compassionate. I hope to use these lessons in my career. As a journalist I want to tell stories with empathy. I want readers to see the facts and the people behind them. Like students financial limitations have limited my opportunities. Even though I love learning international educational experiences are often expensive and hard to access. This scholarship would help remove that barrier. It would let me pursue an opportunity that would expand my education and understanding of the world. Tia Lukeya Woods thought that learning is something you chase carry and choose. I hope to honor that belief. I will keep seeking knowledge wherever it's whether in classrooms, books or communities worldwide. The perspectives I gain will not end with me. I will use them in my education my journalism career and my commitment, to helping others understand each other through truthful storytelling and compassionate communication.

Education has always represented opportunity to me. It is the foundation that will allow me to build a meaningful career, serve my community, and create opportunities for others. My goal is to earn a bachelor's degree in journalism, where I can strengthen my skills in writing, reporting, research, and multimedia storytelling while developing the integrity and professionalism that great journalists are known for. Professionally, I aspire to become a journalist who informs the public with accuracy, fairness, and compassion. We live in a world where misinformation spreads quickly, making ethical journalism more important than ever. I want to tell stories that give a voice to people who are often overlooked, highlight issues that affect local communities, and encourage meaningful conversations. Whether I work for a newspaper, magazine, television station, or digital publication, I hope my reporting will help people better understand the world around them and make informed decisions. To prepare for this career, I plan to take advantage of internships, student media organizations, leadership opportunities, and networking experiences throughout college. I believe learning extends beyond the classroom, and I want to gain real-world experience that will help me become a confident and responsible journalist. My commitment to civic and public service comes from my belief that serving others does not always require holding public office or leading a large organization. Service can begin with listening, educating, and empowering people through reliable information. Journalism is a form of public service because it connects communities, raises awareness about important issues, and holds institutions accountable. By reporting truthfully and responsibly, journalists help strengthen trust and encourage civic engagement. Beyond my future career, I am committed to giving back through volunteer work and mentorship. I hope to support organizations that promote literacy, education, and youth development while encouraging young people to discover the power of writing and communication. I know firsthand how much encouragement and access to opportunities can shape someone's future, and I want to be someone who provides that support to others. Receiving this scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving these goals. It would allow me to focus more on my education, continue developing my skills, and prepare for a career dedicated to informing and serving others. My ultimate goal is not simply to earn a degree or build a successful career, but to use my education to make a lasting, positive impact. Through ethical journalism, community involvement, and a lifelong commitment to public service, I hope to help create a more informed, connected, and empowered society. Education has always represented opportunity to me. It is the foundation that will allow me to build a meaningful career, serve my community, and create opportunities for others. My goal is to earn a bachelor's degree in journalism, where I can strengthen my skills in writing, reporting, research, and multimedia storytelling while developing the integrity and professionalism that great journalists are known for. Professionally, I aspire to become a journalist who informs the public with accuracy, fairness, and compassion. We live in a world where misinformation spreads quickly, making ethical journalism more important than ever. I want to tell stories that give a voice to people who are often overlooked, highlight issues that affect local communities, and encourage meaningful conversations. Whether I work for a newspaper, magazine, television station, or digital publication, I hope my reporting will help people better understand the world around them and make informed decisions. To prepare for this career, I plan to take advantage of internships, student media organizations, leadership opportunities, and networking experiences throughout college. I believe learning extends beyond the classroom, and I want to gain real-world experience that will help me become a confident and responsible journalist. I also hope to challenge myself by exploring different areas of journalism, from investigative reporting to multimedia storytelling, so I can adapt to an ever-changing media landscape and better connect with diverse audiences. My commitment to civic and public service comes from my belief that serving others does not always require holding public office or leading a large organization. Service can begin with listening, educating, and empowering people through reliable information. Journalism is a form of public service because it connects communities, raises awareness about important issues, and holds institutions accountable. By reporting truthfully and responsibly, journalists help strengthen trust and encourage civic engagement. Beyond my future career, I am committed to giving back through volunteer work and mentorship. I hope to support organizations that promote literacy, education, and youth development while encouraging young people to discover the power of writing and communication. I know firsthand how much encouragement and access to opportunities can shape someone's future, and I want to be someone who provides that support to others. I also hope to participate in community events and outreach programs that promote civic engagement, helping individuals understand the importance of staying informed and involved in the decisions that affect their communities. Receiving this scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving these goals. It would allow me to focus more on my education, continue developing my skills, and prepare for a career dedicated to informing and serving others. My ultimate goal is not simply to earn a degree or build a successful career, but to use my education to make a lasting, positive impact. Through ethical journalism, community involvement, and a lifelong commitment to public service, I hope to help create a more informed, connected, and empowered society. I want my education to be measured not only by the knowledge I gain, but also by the positive influence I have on the lives of others. Every story I tell, every person I interview, and every community I serve will reflect my commitment to using journalism as a force for understanding, accountability, and meaningful change.

Life is full of people, experiences, and challenges that have shaped me, especially growing up as a second-generation immigrant. Along the way we face situations, such as death, loss, trauma, poverty, illness, mental disorders, and so much more. How we handle life’s challenges really changes the way we see the world. Basically, the way we go through each day changes how we notice and understand the people around us. For me, growing up I have always known I was different. Living with my traditional African family influenced my way of life, my thoughts and opinions, and how I saw myself. Even as a kid, I knew that my culture and experiences would matter in some bigger way later on. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon; country of my family. Life shifted in a way that really changed me, mostly for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. I learned French, my native tongue, and the smells and tastes of our beautiful West African cuisine became part of who I am. Every story comes with struggles, and for me, figuring out my identity was the hardest part. When you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, negative experiences and comments about yourself can be very damaging. I always experienced xenophobia, racism, colorism, and hatred from other people, but I didn't let those experiences stop me from loving my culture and where I came from. Getting through all of this taught me to be resilient, to care about others, and to use my voice whenever I can. One moment I remember, and still do today, is translating for my grandmother. Whether at the doctor, the grocery store, or church, I love making her feel understood and cared for, because I know how painful it can be to feel invisible. Being involved in my church through volunteering, dance ministry, and helping at communication booths has taught me the value of community, empathy, and leadership. Experiences like that inspired me to want a career in journalism and psychology—so I can share real stories, educate people, and help others feel noticed. I plan to make a positive impact on the world through journalism by sharing real stories, uplifting voices that are often overlooked, and using what I’ve learned from my experiences and my church community to educate and support others. Combined with a minor in psychology, I hope to understand people deeply and use that knowledge to provide emotional support, raise awareness about mental health, and mentor others. Africa, the place that I love so much, has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. A place filled with history, power, resilience, beauty, creativity—oh how Africa, I will always love you, Motherland. Everyone will always have a different path in life. Mine have taught me empathy, emotional strength, and the importance of protecting mental health, especially for people who are often overlooked. As my experiences with mental health have taught me so much about life, I want to use what I’ve learned to support, uplift, and understand others who may be struggling silently. Ultimately, I want to use my gifts through storytelling, mentorship, and community work to make the world more compassionate, informed, and welcoming for everyone.

Life is full of so many people and experiences, and they really shape who we are. Along the way we face situations, such as death, loss, trauma, poverty, illness, mental disorders, and so much more. How we handle life’s challenges really changes the way we see the world. Basically, the way we go through each day changes how we notice and understand the people around us. For me, growing up I have always known I was different. Living with my traditional African family influenced my way of life, my thoughts and opinions, and how I saw myself. Even as a kid, I knew that my culture, my experiences, and my perspective would matter in some bigger way later on. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon; country of my family. Life shifted in a way that really changed me, mostly for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. I learned French, my native tongue, and the smells and tastes of our beautiful West African cuisine. Every story comes with struggles, and for me, figuring out my identity was the hardest part. When you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, negative experiences and comments about yourself can be very damaging. I always experienced xenophobia, racism, colorism, and hatred from other people, but I didn't let those experiences stop me from loving my culture and where I came from. Getting through all of this taught me to be resilient, to care about others, and to use my voice whenever I can. One moment I remember, and still do today, is translating for my grandmother. Whether at the doctor, the grocery store, or church, I love making her feel understood and cared for. Experiences like that inspired me to want a career in journalism and psychology—so I can share real stories, educate people, and help others feel noticed. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by using my journalism skills to share stories that matter, amplify voices that are often ignored, and provide information that empowers communities. Combined with a minor in psychology, I hope to understand people deeply and use that knowledge to provide emotional support, raise awareness about mental health, and mentor others. Africa, the place that I love so much, has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. A place filled with history, power, resilience, beauty, creativity—oh how Africa, I will always love you, Motherland. Everyone will always have a different path in life. Mine have taught me empathy, emotional strength, and the importance of protecting mental health, especially for people who are often overlooked. As my experiences with mental health have taught me so much about life, I want to use what I’ve learned to support, uplift, and understand others who may be struggling silently. In the end, my goal is to use my gifts to make the world a little better, for everyone.

Mental health has deeply impacted my life and shaped the way I see myself, others, and the world around me. Along the way we face situations, such as death, loss, trauma, poverty, illness, mental disorders, and so much more. The way experiences and life is designed, will be affected by how people deal with those situations. Therefore, the way we live our day-to-day lives affects how we see the world, and the people around us. For me, Growing up I have always known I was different. Living with my traditional African family all influenced my way of life, my thoughts and opinions, and how I saw myself. Even at a young age, I understood that my culture, my experiences, and my unique perspective would one day have a deeper meaning. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon; country of my family. Life took a turn, and changed me for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. I learned French, my native tongue, and the smells and tastes of our beautiful West African cuisine. Every story has its struggles, and for me, it was my identity. When you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, repeated bullying and negative comments can seriously affect your mental health and sense of self. For me, experiencing xenophobia, racism, and colorism for many years deeply affected my mental health and caused me to struggle with confidence, anxiety, and feeling like I did not belong. These experiences taught me how powerful words can be, and how mental health struggles often come from being misunderstood or mistreated for things you cannot change. One moment I remember and still do today, is translating for my grandmother, something that I do all the time. Whether it's doctors appointments, grocery shopping, or church, I always loved making her feel understood and cared for, because I know how painful it is to feel invisible or unheard. Africa, the place that I love so much, has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. A place filled with history, power, resilience, beauty, creativity—oh how Africa, I will always love you, Motherland. Everyone will always have a different path in life. Mine have taught me empathy, emotional strength, and the importance of protecting mental health, especially for people who are often overlooked. As my experiences with mental health have taught me so much about life, I want to use what I’ve learned to support, uplift, and understand others who may be struggling silently. My ultimate goal is to bless the world with my gifts and ultimately make the world a better place for all.

Life is very vast and filled with different people and experiences, that shape who we are. Along the way we face situations , such as, death, loss, trauma, poverty, illness, mental disorders, and so much more. The way experiences and life is designed, will be affected by how people deal with those situations. Therefore, the way we life our day to day lives, affect how we see the world, and people around us. For me, Growing up I have always known I was different. Living with my traditional African family, all influenced my way of life, my thoughts and opinions, and how I saw myself. Even at a young age, I understood that my culture, my experiences, and my unique perspective would one day have a deeper meaning. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon; country of my family. Life took a turn, and changed me for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. I learned French, my native tongue, and the smells and tastes of our beautiful West African cuisine. Every store has its strugles and more me it was identity. my identity. When you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, negative experiences and comments about yourself can be very damaging. For me, i always experienced xenophobia, racism, colorism, and hatred from other people. but I didn't let those experiences stop me from loving my culture and where I came from. One moment I remember and thing I still do today, is translating for my grandmother, something that I do all the time. Whether it's doctors appointments, grocery shopping, or church, I always loved to make her feel like she was understood and cared for. Every story has its struggles, and for me, dealing with bullying and negative comments about my identity made me understand why mental health is so important, especially as a student trying to learn and grow. Africa, the place that I love so much has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. A place filled with history, power, resilience, beauty creativity, oh how Africa, I will always love you, Motherland. Everyone will always have a different path in life. Mine have taught me empathy, strength, and pride in where I come from. My experiences have taught me resilience and empathy, and I try to advocate for mental health in my community by listening, supporting friends and family, and helping people feel understood, just like I translate for my grandmother so she feels seen and cared for. My ultimate goal is also to use my knowledge of mental health and psychology to help students and community members cope with challenges, share their experiences, and feel supported, while raising awareness so no one feels alone in their struggles.

Life is very vast and filled with different people and experiences, that shape who we are. Along the way we face situations , such as, death, loss, trauma, poverty, illness, mental disorders, and so much more. The way experiences and life is designed, will be affected by how people deal with those situations. Therefore, the way we life our day to day lives, affect how we see the world, and people around us. For me, Growing up I have always known I was different. Living with my traditional African family, all influenced my way of life, my thoughts and opinions, and how I saw myself. Even at a young age, I understood that my culture, my experiences, and my unique perspective would guide me in pursuing higher education and achieving my goals in journalism and psychology. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon; country of my family. Life took a turn, and changed me for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. I learned French, my native tongue, and the smells and tastes of our beautiful West African cuisine. Every store has its strugles and more me it was identity. my identity. When you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, negative experiences and comments about yourself can be very damaging. For me, i always experienced xenophobia, racism, colorism, and hatred from other people. but I didn't let those experiences stop me from loving my culture and where I came from. One moment I remember and thing I still do today, is translating for my grandmother, something that I do all the time. Whether it's doctors appointments, grocery shopping, or church, I always loved to make her feel like she was understood and cared for. Every story has its struggles, and for me, it was my identity, which made me determined to earn a degree that allows me to educate, uplift, and give back to my community. Africa, the place that I love so much has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. A place filled with history, power, resilience, beauty creativity, oh how Africa, I will always love you, Motherland. Everyone will always have a different path in life. Mine have taught me empathy, strength, and pride in where I come from. My experiences have taught me resilience and empathy, and I am committed to higher education because it will give me the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact through my career and community work. I want to use what I’ve learned to give back, whether through sharing knowledge, mentoring younger students, or reporting on stories that educate and empower. My ultimate goal is to use my degree in journalism and psychology to tell important stories, educate others, and provide support to people who feel unheard, so that I can make the world a better, more understanding, and compassionate place.

Life is very vast and filled with different people and experiences, that shape who we are. Along the way we face situations , such as, death, loss, trauma, poverty, illness, mental disorders, and so much more. The way experiences and life is designed, will be affected by how people deal with those situations. Therefore, the way we life our day to day lives, affect how we see the world, and people around us. For me, Growing up I have always known I was different. Living with my traditional African family, all influenced my way of life, my thoughts and opinions, and how I saw myself. Even at a young age, I understood that my culture, my experiences, and my unique perspective would one day have a deeper meaning. Watching movies like The Barbie Movie and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever made me realize that being different was something to celebrate, not hide, and they inspired me to embrace my identity fully. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon; country of my family. Life took a turn, and changed me for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. I learned French, my native tongue, and the smells and tastes of our beautiful West African cuisine. Every store has its strugles and more me it was identity. my identity. When you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, negative experiences and comments about yourself can be very damaging. For me, i always experienced xenophobia, racism, colorism, and hatred from other people. but I didn't let those experiences stop me from loving my culture and where I came from. One moment I remember and thing I still do today, is translating for my grandmother, something that I do all the time. Whether it's doctors appointments, grocery shopping, or church, I always loved to make her feel like she was understood and cared for. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever especially reminded me of the power and pride in Black identity, and The Barbie Movie showed me the freedom of creating your own path, which is something I want to carry into my life and future career. Africa, the place that I love so much has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. A place filled with history, power, resilience, beauty creativity, oh how Africa, I will always love you, Motherland. Everyone will always have a different path in life. Mine have taught me empathy, strength, and pride in where I come from. As my experiences have taught me plenty about life, i will use those to help others. My ultimate goal to bless the world with my gifts and ultimately make the world a better place for all.

Life is full of people, experiences, and challenges that have shaped who I am and helped me figure out the kind of impact I want to make through my education and future career. Along the way, I’ve faced challenges like bullying, mental health struggles, and identity questions, and overcoming them has shown me the power of resilience and the importance of using knowledge and education to help others. The way experiences and life is designed, will be affected by how people deal with those situations. Therefore, the way we life our day to day lives, affect how we see the world, and people around us.For me, growing up I always knew I was different. Living with my traditional African family shaped my thoughts, my opinions, and my understanding of the world, and it also gave me the perspective I hope to use in journalism to share real, powefull stories. Even at a young age, I understood that my culture, my experiences, and my unique perspective would one day have a deeper meaning in life and in the work and career i want to pursue. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon; country of my family. Life took a turn, and changed me for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. I learned French, my native tongue, and the smells and tastes of our beautiful West African cuisine became part of who I am. These experiences shaped not only my identity but also my empathy and understanding of people. Every story has struggles, and for me, it was my identity. Growing up as a teen, facing bullying, xenophobia, and colorism made me realize how important it is to uplift voices that are too often ignored—something I hope to do through journalism and psychology. One moment I remember, and still do today, is translating for my grandmother. Whether at the doctor, the grocery store, or church, I love helping her feel understood. Experiences like this inspired me to use education and my future career to help others feel seen, understood, and supported. My experiences have also shown me how much our communities rely on connection and care, and how much change can come from giving people the attention and voice they deserve. Africa, the place I love so much, has given me my afro, my dimples, my features, and the way my skin glows in the sun—and it has given me the confidence and perspective I hope to share through storytelling and education. Growing up in two worlds, the U.S. and Cameroon, taught me that perspective is powerful and that learning from different cultures and experiences makes you a better communicator, listener, and storyteller. Education has been my anchor throughout all of this. It has taught me discipline, curiosity, and the ability to explore ideas, voices, and stories that I can use to inspire change in my community. I want to use what I’ve learned to give back, whether through sharing knowledge, mentoring younger students, or reporting on stories that educate and empower. Pursuing journalism and a minor in psychology will allow me to combine storytelling with understanding people, so I can make a meaningful impact on those around me and on my community. Everyone’s path in life is different. Mine has taught me empathy, strength, and pride in where I come from, and it inspired me to pursue journalism and psychology so I can use my voice to make a positive impact. These 2 things have such big understand of the human mind and connection which we ultimately help me and my voice. As my experiences have taught me so much, I want to use what I’ve learned to help others. Through my education, I hope to share stories that matter, educate my community, and make the world a better place. i also hope to not only educate my community, but to give them a different outlook on life and how the world is My ultimate goal is to bless the world with my gifts by telling stories, giving voices to the people who feel like their voices are not being heard, and not only to lift everyone up through journalism, psychology, and everything I do in my life, but all in all to make the world a safe, trustworthy, and compassionate place for all, no matter race, gender, beliefs, or identity.

Life is very vast and filled with different people and experiences, that shape who we are. Along the way we face situations , such as, death, loss, trauma, poverty, illness, mental disorders, and so much more. The way experiences and life is designed, will be affected by how people deal with those situations. Therefore, the way we life our day to day lives, affect how we see the world, and people around us. For me, Growing up I have always known I was different. Living with my traditional African family, all influenced my way of life, my thoughts and opinions, and how I saw myself. Even at a young age, I understood that my culture, my experiences, and my unique perspective would one day have a deeper meaning. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon; country of my family. Life took a turn, and changed me for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. Learning the magnificent French language, learning my native tongue, cooking and smelling the aroma of the our beautiful West African cuisine. Every store has its struggles and more to me it was identity, my identity, when you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, negative experiences and comments about yourself can be very damaging. For me, I always experienced xenophobia, racism, colorism, and hatred from other people, but I didn't let those experiences stop me from loving my culture and where I came from. One moment I remember and some thing I still do today, is translating for my grandmother. Something that I do all the time. Whether it's doctors appointments, grocery shopping, or church, I always loved to make her feel like she was understood and cared for. Africa, the place that I love so much has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. A place filled with history, power, resilience, beauty creativity, oh how Africa, I will always love you, Motherland. Everyone will always have a different path in life. Mine has taught me empathy, strength, and pride in where I come from, and it inspired me to pursue journalism and psychology so I can use my voice to make a positive impact. As my experiences have taught me plenty about life, I want to use those lessons to help others through storytelling and understanding people, sharing stories that educate, inspire, and empower. My ultimate goal is to bless the world with my gifts by sharing stories, giving voices to the unheard, and making the world a better place through my future career.

I think the way I’ve demonstrated resilience is by continuing to show up for myself and others, even when life has been really hard. Growing up, I faced bullying for years—people making comments about my hair, my accent, my race, and my skin color. I also struggled with depression and anxiety. There were moments when it felt like the world was against me, and it would have been easy to let those experiences define me or hold me back. But I chose to keep going, to keep building myself up, and to focus on my dreams instead of letting the negative hold me back. One way this resilience has inspired others is through the small things I do to support people around me. For example, I often translate for my grandmother, making sure she feels understood and cared for at the doctor, the store, or church. It’s simple, but it shows that even small actions of persistence and care can make a difference. I’ve also supported people who are struggling, whether that’s listening, offering advice, or just being present. They’ve told me that seeing me work through my challenges and still push forward gives them hope to do the same. Just sharing our issues with each other and being a listener, really inspires us to just be there for one another Resilience, for me, isn’t about being perfect or never feeling down—it’s about choosing to keep moving, learning from setbacks, and using what I’ve been through to help others. Whether it’s in school, at work, or in my community, I try to show that challenges don’t have to stop you. They can teach you empathy, patience, and strength, and that mindset is contagious. People notice when someone refuses to give up, even in small ways, and it can encourage them to believe in themselves too. In the future, I want to keep using my resilience to inspire others on a larger scale. Through my studies in journalism and psychology, I hope to share stories that uplift, inform, and validate people’s experiences. I want to create spaces—through writing, mentoring, or volunteering—where people feel seen and empowered, so they know that even when life feels impossible, it’s possible to keep going. Ultimately, my resilience has been about showing that your past or your struggles don’t define you. By choosing to grow, persevere, and care for others along the way, I hope I can help someone else find the strength to do the same.

I want to make a change in my life because I know I’m capable of more than just surviving—I want to thrive. Growing up, I faced challenges that could have held me back, from dealing with bullying about my hair, my accent, my race, and my skin color, to struggling with depression and anxiety. Those experiences sometimes made me doubt myself or feel like my dreams were out of reach. But over time, I realized that I don’t want to let the past define me. I want to use my experiences, my strengths, and my voice to create a future that’s full of purpose and growth. So far, I’ve taken steps to bring myself closer to that goal. I’ve worked on building my mental and emotional health through therapy, self-reflection, and finding ways to uplift myself even when life feels heavy. I’ve pursued opportunities that challenge me, like internships, school media work, volunteering, and extracurricular activities that strengthen my skills and confidence. I’ve focused on developing creativity, communication, and empathy—skills I know will help me in the future. Every step, no matter how small, has been about preparing myself to reach my goals and make the most of the opportunities ahead. Receiving this scholarship would help me take the next step by giving me the support I need to focus on my education and continue growing. It would allow me to dedicate more time and energy to my studies in journalism and psychology, pursue experiences that strengthen my voice, and gain the knowledge and skills I need to make an impact in my community. More than just financial support, this scholarship would feel like a vote of confidence in my potential—and that kind of encouragement goes a long way when you’re striving to overcome challenges. I also want to pay it forward. I hope to use my experiences and education to inspire and support others who are struggling, especially young people facing bullying, mental health challenges, or feelings of invisibility. Whether it’s mentoring, creating platforms for voices that are often ignored, or simply listening and showing someone that they’re seen, I want to help others feel empowered to grow and reach their dreams, just like this scholarship would help me. Ultimately, I want to make a change not just for myself, but for the people around me. Life has taught me that growth is possible even in the face of challenges, and I want to be a part of creating opportunities, encouragement, and hope for others—just as I’ve learned to create them for myself.

Pursuing higher education hasn’t been easy for me. Growing up, I faced bullying for nine years—people making comments about my hair, my accent, my race, and the color of my skin. Some days, it felt like the world was telling me I didn’t belong, that my dreams were too big for someone like me. Moving between countries and adjusting to new cultures only made it harder. I had to learn a new language, find my place in different schools, and navigate spaces where I sometimes felt invisible. Balancing all of that with school, work, and family responsibilities was exhausting, but it also taught me resilience, patience, and how to keep pushing even when everything felt heavy. The emotional weight of those experiences was probably the hardest part. There were times I doubted myself, questioned my worth, and wondered if all my effort would even matter. But slowly, I learned how to lift myself up. Therapy helped, and so did journaling, reflection, and leaning on the people I trusted. I realized education wasn’t just about grades—it was about growth, understanding myself, and finding ways to make my voice heard, even when it felt like nobody wanted to listen. These obstacles shaped my determination to succeed and my desire to make a difference. I want to pursue journalism because it’s a way to tell stories that matter, to shine light on experiences that are often ignored, and to give people in my community the kind of truthful, empowering information I wish I always had. I also plan to minor in psychology, because understanding people—their struggles, their triumphs, the way their minds work—will help me tell those stories with empathy and insight. I want my education to be more than just a personal achievement. I want to give back. Whether that’s mentoring younger students, reporting on local issues that affect real lives, or writing pieces that celebrate resilience and hope, I want to help people see their value and potential. Education has given me perspective and opportunity, and I want to use that to lift up those around me. Overcoming these obstacles has taught me that challenges don’t define you—they shape you. They test your strength, your patience, and your heart. I’ve learned that with determination, self-love, and care for others, struggle can turn into strength, and knowledge can turn into service. That’s what I hope to do with my education: grow, learn, and give back in a way that really matters.

I love writing because it feels like I finally get to be myself without filters. When I write, I can put everything in my head onto paper—my thoughts, my feelings, my experiences, and even the things I don’t say out loud. It’s like my brain gets to breathe, and somehow, the words come out in a way that makes sense of everything swirling inside me. Writing has always been my safe space, my way of processing life, celebrating my culture, and telling the stories that matter to me and the people around me. This oulet in itself has brought me so much joy and peace because of my love for literature, english and history. One of my greatest inspirations is Maya Angelou. The way she turned her life experiences, struggles, and triumphs into poetry and books has always amazed me. She taught me that words have power—they can heal, inspire, and connect people across time and space. I want to do that too, in my own way. Alongside my major in journalism, I hope to write poetry and eventually author books that capture experiences, voices, and stories that often go unheard. Writing creatively gives me a freedom that journalism doesn’t always allow, and combining the two feels like the perfect way to use my voice fully. In college, I plan to continue writing in multiple ways. I want to contribute to student media, whether reporting news, writing features, or sharing personal essays and creative pieces. I also want to keep a personal journal to reflect on my growth, my challenges, and everything I’m learning. Creative writing, poetry, and authoring longer works are all parts of how I see myself growing as a writer. Beyond that, I hope to take classes that challenge me to write in new styles, expand my voice, and refine my skills, so I can tell stories in the most meaningful and impactful way possible. Writing isn’t just putting words on paper—it’s how I understand the world, connect with others, and share my perspective. It’s a skill, a passion, and a part of my identity that I plan to carry with me through college and beyond. Whether I’m reporting a story, writing a poem, or crafting a book, I want my words to matter, to inspire, and to help people feel seen. Just like Maya Angelou did, I want to leave something behind that speaks to the world long after it’s written.

If I had to name my “Pie in the Sky” dream, it would be to become a journalist whose work actually changes lives. I don’t just want to report facts—I want to tell stories that matter, stories that make people feel seen, heard, and understood, especially those whose voices are often ignored. I want my work to shine a light on real experiences, to show the beauty, struggles, and resilience of people and communities that society sometimes overlooks. Honestly, it feels big, almost unreachable sometimes, but it’s the kind of dream that keeps me moving. This dream started from my own life. Growing up, I always knew I was a little different. Living with my traditional African family shaped the way I thought, saw the world, and understood myself. Later, moving to Cameroon, living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, and exploring small villages and the blue beaches of the coast gave me a deeper connection to my culture and identity. I learned French, my native language, and cooked traditional meals, smelling the aromas that reminded me of home. But life wasn’t always easy. For nine years, I faced bullying because of my hair, my accent, my race, and the color of my skin. Experiencing xenophobia, racism, and colorism hurt—sometimes it still hurts—but it also taught me resilience, empathy, and how to find ways to uplift myself, even when the world felt like it was against me. One of the moments that really sticks with me is translating for my grandmother. Whether at the doctor, grocery store, or church, making sure she felt understood made me realize how powerful it is to be present and actually listen. That’s what journalism feels like to me: a way to give people a voice, to translate their stories into something that matters, and to help the world see what it might otherwise ignore. To make this dream real, I know I’ll need steps—lots of them. I plan to pursue a degree in journalism while minoring in psychology, because understanding people’s minds will help me tell their stories in the most honest, empathetic way possible. I want to gain experience through internships, school media, and community projects. Every story I cover, every person I listen to, will teach me something new—not just about journalism, but about life. Maintaining my mental health is also part of this journey. Therapy, self-care, and leaning on people I trust keep me grounded. Courage, for me, isn’t the absence of fear—it’s choosing to keep moving forward, even when it feels heavy. Ultimately, my “Pie in the Sky” isn’t just about me. It’s about turning my experiences, creativity, and passion into something bigger than myself. I want to uplift voices, celebrate resilience, and remind people that their stories matter. Even when the world tries to dim your light, I want my work to show that it’s possible to shine brighter—and help others shine too.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve understood the importance of listening and being present for others. Growing up, I faced my own struggles with bullying, self-doubt, and the challenges of being a dark-skinned woman in a world that sometimes judges harshly. Those experiences taught me empathy in a very real way—I know what it feels like to feel unseen, misunderstood, or isolated, and I try to make sure no one around me feels that way. I’ve helped others with their mental health in small but meaningful ways. I’ve listened to friends who needed someone to vent to, offered advice when I could, and reminded people that they are not alone. Whether it was a classmate struggling with stress, a younger student feeling left out, or someone battling anxiety, I made myself available to hear them without judgment. Even translating for family members, making sure they feel understood, has been a way of supporting their emotional well-being. I’ve learned that sometimes just being present and showing care can make a huge difference, and that small actions of listening and validating feelings can go a long way. Looking forward, I plan to use my studies and future career in journalism to support others emotionally. Journalism allows me to tell stories that matter, to shine light on people’s experiences, and to give a voice to those who might feel invisible. I also plan to minor in psychology because understanding how the mind works will help me connect with people on a deeper level. Combining journalism and psychology will let me not only share information but also provide insight and empathy, helping people feel heard, understood, and supported. Ultimately, I want to help people feel seen and validated. I believe mental health support doesn’t always require professional titles—it starts with listening, showing compassion, and using your skills to lift others. Through my career in journalism, and with the knowledge I gain from psychology, I hope to reach wider communities, advocate for emotional well-being, and remind people that their stories matter and that they are never truly alone.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve dealt with being different, judged, and sometimes just… invisible. For nine years, I faced bullying—people making cruel comments about my hair, my accent, my race, and how dark my skin is. I can still feel the sting of those words, like little pinpricks that add up over time. For a long while, they made me question myself, my worth, and whether I’d ever truly belong anywhere. Those experiences taught me something painful but real: the world can be harsh, especially toward dark-skinned women and people of color. But it also forced me to figure out ways to lift myself up, even when it felt like nobody else would. Those years taught me more than I realized at the time. I learned to protect my mental health in small, quiet ways—finding joy in the tiny victories, celebrating the things that make me me. I started to understand my own strength: how to face hurtful words without letting them define me. I’ve learned to love my culture, my language, my family, and all the little things that make me who I am. It wasn’t easy, and I still have moments when the weight of it hits me, but those experiences gave me resilience and a deep sense of empathy for others who are struggling in silence. Journalism became my safe space and my dream. It’s more than a career—it’s my outlet, my microphone, my way to make noise in a world that sometimes ignores voices like mine. I want to tell real stories, give voice to people who are often invisible, and bring trustworthy information back to my community. I get excited thinking about using my words to make a difference, to shine light on stories that matter, and to help someone out there feel like, “Yes, someone sees me.” It feels like turning all the hurt I’ve carried into something meaningful, something that can actually help someone else. Recovering from the years of bullying and emotional stress is ongoing. Therapy has been my anchor—I’m learning to process my experiences, cope with hard days, and stop myself from slipping back into old patterns of self-doubt. I lean on self-care, reflection, and people I trust when I need them. Recovery isn’t about erasing the past; it’s about understanding it, learning from it, and choosing to grow anyway. And I try, every day, to keep moving forward without letting those old voices control my story. Through all of this, I’ve grown into someone determined, empathetic, and ready to make an impact. This hasn't been a very easy thing for me to make seen but my journey with bullying, self-discovery, and healing has shown me that even when the world tries to dim your light, you can still shine brighter. I want to bring that into my education, my passion for journalism, and everything I do, so I can help others feel heard, understood, and empowered. Everyone deserves that—and I want to be part of making it happen.

Life is full of people, experiences, and challenges that shape who we are. Growing up, I always knew I was a little different. Living in a traditional African household taught me so much about culture, family, and how to see myself in the world. Even as a kid, I felt that my experiences and perspective would one day mean something deeper, something that could guide how I see the world and help others in their own journeys. When I moved to Cameroon, that feeling only grew stronger. Living with my grandmother and cousins, helping on the farm, exploring small villages, and spending time near the blue beaches taught me about community, hard work, and appreciating simple beauty in everyday life. I learned French, my native language, and got to cook and smell the amazing aromas of West African meals, which made me feel connected to my roots in a very real way. But finding myself as a teen wasn’t always easy—xenophobia, racism, and colorism were things I had to deal with, and sometimes it hurt more than I wanted it to. Still, I’ve always loved my culture, my identity, and where I come from, and I’ve learned to carry that love with pride no matter what. One of the most meaningful things I do is translate for my grandmother. Whether it’s at doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping, or church, I make sure she feels understood. Doing that made me realize how important it is for people to feel heard and valued. That’s partly why I want to be a journalist—I want to give voice to stories that matter, to help people be seen, and to shed light on experiences that often go unnoticed or misunderstood. Over the years, I’ve stayed involved in activities that let me connect with people and serve others, from organizing youth projects to being part of news reporting and community events. I’ve also worked in a fast-paced job, which taught me teamwork, patience, and problem-solving, and completed an internship in healthcare, which gave me a deeper understanding of empathy and caring for others. These experiences helped me grow and showed me how much impact small actions can have on people’s lives. If I could start my own charity, it would focus on helping young people from immigrant and underserved communities tell their stories. Volunteers would mentor students, run media workshops, and help with projects like youth-led podcasts, newsletters, or interviews. I’d want it to be a safe space where kids can feel proud of their voices, gain confidence, and share their experiences with the world. I hope that through this, they could see the power of their own stories and how one voice can truly create change. All of this has taught me empathy, resilience, and pride in my identity. Moving forward, I want to use what I’ve learned, my love for storytelling, and my passion for journalism to make a difference in people’s lives and help my community feel heard. I hope to show that everyone’s story matters, and even small voices can create big change in the world around them.

Life can be very positives but can always be filled with negatives. Furthermore, you will always be faced with challenges that you need to overcome in order to move on to the nest step of your life. In this case, some people face it more than others. Correspondingly, my life equates to that feeling of life. For a lot of teens in their adolescence, like my self, it tends to get very complicated. You are faced with growth spruts, body changes, Middle, high school, beauty standards and the change in social life. For me, because of my unique background, it caused some different concequences. Growing up in African household, being a dark skin girl, not having lots of friends, being lonely, and being labeled as the weird kid, all issues I faced. From elementary to high, I faced a bullying crisis that lasted almost 9 years. In that time period, even maybe up until now, I had self doubt, feeling like I would never be good enough, horrible self esteem, doubting my looks and being on crisis mode. This caused me to be in a depressive mode, which affected school work, how well i did in school and my achievements, social skills and development. Especially in school, and in life, there is so much pressure to be the prettiest girl, have the best grades, many friends, and be involved in so much. For some kids, that may be extremely hard. Even now, as I am coming to the end of my adolescence school journey, I will say that it has made me realize how tough the world can be and through my strugles, I have a much tougher mentality. Issues such as genocide, poverty, discrimination, limited resources, are all examples of issues the world faces and is currently facing during this time period. Through these experiences I have learned so much, Making me the see the world around me better, being more open minded and having so much love , and hoping to make the world a better place. My experiences have made me to have a different mind, having more emotional and mental stability. Furthermore, I had to grow up quicker. Making sure my mental health is a priority is something that is really important to me, and I woudn't be the woman i am today without it. Surrounding yourself with positive people, and energy, protecting you peacefulness are all important to making this a priority.

Life can be very positives but can always be filled with negatives. Furthermore, you will always be faced with challenges that you need to overcome in order to move on to the nest step of your life. In this case, some people face it more than others. Correspondingly, my life equates to that feeling of life. For a lot of teens in their adolescence, like my self, it tends to get very complicated. You are faced with growth spruts, body changes, Middle, high school, beauty standards and the change in social life. For me, because of my unique background, it caused some different concequences. Growing up in African household, being a dark skin girl, not having lots of friends, being lonely, and being labeled as the weird kid, all issues I faced. From elementary to high, I faced a bullying crisis that lasted almost 9 years. In that time period, even maybe up until now, I had self doubt, feeling like I would never be good enough, horrible self esteem, doubting my looks and being on crisis mode. This caused me to be in a depressive mode, have extreme social anxiety, things I still currently struggle with, which affected school work, how well i did in school and my achievements, social skills and development. s life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon.;country of my family. Life took a turn, and changed me for better and for worse. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. Learning the magnificent French language, learning my native tongue, cooking and smelling the aroma of the our beautiful West African cuisine. Every store has its strugles and more me it was identity. my identity. When you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, negative experiences and comments about yourself can be very damaging. For me, i always experienced xenophobia, racism, colorism, and hatred from other people. but I didn't let those experiences stop me from loving my culture and where I came from. One moment I remember and thing I still do today, is translating for my grandmother, something that I do all the time. Whether it's doctors appointments, grocery shopping, or church, I always loved to make her feel like she was understood and cared for. Africa, the place that I love so much has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. Through these experiences I have learned so much, Making me the see the world around me better, being more open minded and having so much love , and hoping to make the world a better place. I am so glad for those experiences, as I would not be the woman i am today without it.

Life is very vast and filled with different people and experiences, that shape who we are. Along the way we face situations , such as, death, loss, trauma, poverty, illness, mental disorders, and so much more. The way experiences and life is designed, will be affected by how people deal with those situations. Therefore, the way we life our day to day lives, affect how we see the world, and people around us. For me, Growing up I have always known I was different. Living with my tradition African family, all influenced my way of life, my thoughts and opinions, and how I saw myself. Even at a young age, I understood that my culture, my experiences, and my unique perspective would one day have a deeper meaning.. As life got grew more challenging and time ran faster, I soon then moved to Cameroon.;country of my family. Life took a turn, and changed me for the better. I vividly remember living with my grandmother and cousins, going to the farm, living in the beautiful small village, going to the stunning blue beaches, all things I deeply cherished. Learning the magnificent French language, learning my native tongue, cooking and smelling the aroma of the our beautiful West African cuisine. Every store has its strugles and more me it was identity. my identity. When you're young and finding yourself, especially as a teen, negative experiences and comments about yourself can be very damaging. For me, i always experienced xenophobia, racism, colorism, and hatred from other people. but I didn't let those experiences stop me from loving my culture and where I came from. One moment I remember and thing I still do today, is translating for my grandmother, something that I do all the time. Whether it's doctors appointments, grocery shopping, or church, I always loved to make her feel like she was understood and cared for. Africa, the place that I love so much has given me my beautiful big afro, my dimples, my lovely features, and the way my skin looks under the sun. While my story may sadly end here, Motherland Africa, a place that has blessed me with the things I cherish the most. A place filled with history, power, resilience, beauty creativity, oh how Africa, I will always love you, Motherland. Everyone will always have a different path in life. Mine have taught me empathy, strength, and pride in where I come from. As my experiences have taught me plenty about life, i will use those to help others. Having a scholarships is an ultimate blessing and being able to use my education to educate, help, give support to people with my college degree is one of my most important goals in life. My ultimate goal to bless the world with my gifts and ultimately make the world a better place for all.

Hi, My name is Tifuh Condoleezza Mobit, and I'm 17 Michigan born, but Mississippi Raised. Born from a Radiologist Oncologist and a Teacher, I can say that the medical field Is something that I have grown with all my life. My Dad owns a hospital in a small west-African country call Cameroon, there he has a cancer hospital family owned, to help and heal patients. As long as he Knew that was his dream. Growing up, seeing how many lives have been saved is so incredible to me and has inspired me in many different ways. From spending sleepless nights, to working for patients from the US, to always being tired, My Dad is the kindest, most dedicated, humblest person you will ever know and that is something that I admire about him. But he didn't always have it easy, as he grew up dirt poor and wasn't very well off but studied hard and made it all the way to England and then to Canada and then to the USA. In addition to that, most of my family being healthcare workers deeply inspires me. Being the intelligent man he is, all my smartness that I have all comes from him. As a Dark skin black woman, healthcare for women, WOC, and Black women is so important to me because I know that often no one hears us. Statistics show that Black women are most likely to die because of the lack of care that is given, and I would love the change that. That is why it is so important to have more WOC and Black women doctors. My goal is to be a medical journalist, and the reason why is because I would love to use my voice for the greater good to educate and help people in any way that I can. Giving correct information to the public and updates about public health issues is so important to me. Healthcare isn't an easy thing for lots of people, why? because of so Many things, just to name one poverty. Giving Knowledge to women, especially black women will be my greatest dream, so that change can be made. Ever since I was younger, I have always wanted to give back. Having been through lots of tough things in my life I will have to say that that has made me so emotionally mature for my age and has taught me a lot, which has helped me to understand my reasonings for wanting to go into the medical profession. Thanks for hearing my story, Sincerely, Condoleezza.