As a single mother, I am uniquely deserving of this award because my pursuit of higher education has been shaped not only by ambition but by sacrifice, resilience, and an unshakable sense of purpose. My journey is not just about earning a degree—it is about rewriting a narrative that began long before I understood its weight. Growing up in Far Rockaway’s Redfern Houses, I was surrounded by instability, violence, and constant reminders of how easily circumstances can dictate outcomes. I remember the sound of sirens becoming so familiar that I could distinguish their types before I became a teenager. In the midst of that environment, I made a quiet promise to myself: I would not become a statistic. At the time, I thought that promise was only about survival. Now, I understand that it became the foundation for everything I have fought to become. My “why” for pursuing higher education is deeply personal. It is rooted in that promise, but it has grown into something much larger. It is about my children. It is about showing them that setbacks are not endings, that timelines do not define worth, and that perseverance can turn even the most uncertain path into something meaningful. When I had to defer my dream of becoming an attorney to provide stability for my family, it was one of the most difficult decisions I have ever made. I chose to put my children first, even though I knew it meant delaying the life I had envisioned for myself. But I never let go of that dream, I carried it quietly, nurturing it through years of work, growth, and determination. There were moments when the weight of responsibility felt overwhelming, moments of exhaustion, doubt, and fear that I had waited too long. But each time, I reminded myself why I started. I reminded myself of the young girl who refused to be defined by her circumstances, and of the mother who refused to let her children believe that dreams expire with time. That is what kept me going. What makes my journey unique is not simply the challenges I have faced, but the persistence I have shown in rising every time I was forced to pause. I built a career in the legal field, continued my education, earned my MBA, and now, as I pursue my law degree, I am finally stepping fully into the purpose I have carried for decades. Every step has been intentional. Every setback has fueled my determination rather than diminishing it. My “why” also extends beyond my family. Through my work and community involvement, I have seen how a lack of access, support, and advocacy can limit even the most determined individuals. I am pursuing this path not just for personal fulfillment, but to become someone who can stand in those gaps—for people who feel unseen, unheard, and underserved. Receiving this award would not only ease a financial burden; it would validate a journey built on perseverance, sacrifice, and faith in something greater than myself. I am not just pursuing a degree; I am fulfilling a promise, breaking cycles, and creating a legacy for my children and my community.

I embody selflessness through a sustained commitment to serving others while persevering through challenges that have shaped both my personal and professional journey. As a single mother, legal professional, and law student, I have consistently balanced my ambitions with the responsibility of supporting my family and uplifting my community. These experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy, discipline, and purpose that guides my actions. One of the most significant examples of selflessness in my life is my decision to defer my dream of becoming an attorney in order to provide stability for my children. As their primary provider, I chose to work full-time in the legal field rather than immediately pursue law school. While this required me to place my personal ambitions on hold, it ensured that my children’s needs, financial, emotional, and developmental, were met. Although my path was delayed, I never lost sight of my goal. Instead, I continued to invest in my future by building my career, earning my MBA, and ultimately returning to pursue my law degree. This journey reflects both altruism and perseverance: I remained committed to my passion while prioritizing my family's well-being. My dedication to service extends beyond my household into my community. As a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, I have actively participated in initiatives aimed at supporting underserved populations. I have contributed to food and clothing drives, school supply distributions, and mentorship programs for young girls. These efforts are deeply personal to me because I was raised in Far Rockaway, a community where access to resources and guidance is often limited. Giving back allows me to support individuals facing challenges similar to those I once experienced, while reinforcing my belief in the importance of community upliftment. Additionally, I have engaged in pro bono work and initiatives such as CUNY Citizenship Now, assisting individuals navigating complex immigration processes. Through this work, I have witnessed the profound impact of accessible legal support on individuals and families. These experiences strengthened my belief that service through the law is a powerful way to advocate for those who are often unheard. Perseverance has been a defining theme throughout my life. From overcoming early academic setbacks to returning to higher education while managing the demands of work and parenting, I have remained steadfast in my pursuit of growth. Each challenge has strengthened my resilience and reinforced my commitment to making a meaningful impact through my career. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my educational journey but also enable me to continue serving others more effectively. I intend to use my legal education to advocate for marginalized communities and help address systemic barriers that limit opportunity. My goal is to build a career defined not only by professional success, but by a lasting commitment to service, equity, and the empowerment of others.

I am a first-generation college graduate, a single mother, and someone whose life has been shaped by both challenge and determination. I grew up in Far Rockaway’s Redfern Houses during the early 1990s, in an environment where violence and instability were part of everyday life. Sirens, shootings, and constant uncertainty were normal, and at a young age, I learned how deeply circumstances can affect people’s futures. Even then, I made a quiet promise to myself that I would not become a product of my environment. That promise has carried me through every chapter of my journey. My path has not been straightforward. I graduated from high school early and began college at sixteen, believing I had everything figured out. When I struggled and ultimately had to return home, I felt a deep sense of failure and embarrassment. For a long time, I believed I had fallen short of the vision I had for myself. With time, however, I came to understand that I simply was not ready then, and that my journey would require patience, growth, and resilience. A few years later, working as a legal fraud investigator reignited my passion for the law. From that point forward, I committed to building a life that reflected my original dream, even if it took longer than I had planned. Over the years, I developed a career in the legal field, serving in roles such as legal secretary, contracts administrator, and paralegal. My work has exposed me to areas including employment law, compliance, labor relations, and immigration, and each experience has deepened my understanding of how the law can both help and hinder people. At the same time, I became a mother. As a single parent, my responsibilities expanded in ways that required me to constantly put my children first, even when it meant delaying my own ambitions. I made the decision to prioritize stability for my family, while quietly continuing to work toward my goals. I later returned to school to complete my MBA, and now, as a law student, I am finally walking the path I set for myself many years ago. Balancing school, work, and parenting is demanding, but it has also strengthened my discipline, focus, and sense of purpose. My life experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and responsibility to my community. Through my involvement with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, and community work in Far Rockaway, I have participated in initiatives that provide food, clothing, school supplies, and mentorship. These efforts have allowed me to remain connected to the community that raised me and to contribute in meaningful ways. Through my career in law, I hope to help create a more just and equitable world by addressing the systemic barriers that impact underserved communities. I am especially passionate about areas such as immigration, employment law, and economic justice, where legal advocacy can directly improve people’s lives. I want to be an attorney who not only understands the law but also understands the people behind each case, their struggles, their fears, and their hopes. Ultimately, my goal is to use my education and lived experiences to uplift others and to serve as both an advocate and a resource. I know what it feels like to face obstacles, to feel uncertain, and to start over. Because of that, I am committed to helping others navigate their own challenges with dignity and support, while contributing to a system that works more fairly for everyone.

As a single mother pursuing higher education, I have faced a series of challenges that have required resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. My academic journey has not followed a traditional path. Instead, it has been shaped by the responsibility of raising children while working toward long-deferred personal and professional goals. Navigating these dual roles has required constant adaptation and a deep commitment to both my family and my education. One of the most significant challenges I have faced is balancing financial stability with academic advancement. After completing my undergraduate education, I made the difficult decision to defer my plans for law school in order to work full-time and support my growing family. As the sole provider for my children, I had to prioritize financial security and stability. The realities of childcare, housing, and everyday living expenses made it impractical to pursue a legal education at that time. Although stepping away from my goal was not easy, I remained committed to building a career within the legal field while keeping my long-term aspirations in focus. Returning to graduate school as a single mother introduced a new set of challenges. While pursuing my Master of Business Administration and now attending law school, I have had to balance rigorous academic demands with full-time professional responsibilities and parenting. My daily life is structured around competing priorities, often requiring me to shift seamlessly between roles from professional, student, and mother without pause. Late nights studying after fulfilling work and parental obligations have become routine, and personal time is often sacrificed to ensure that all responsibilities are met. Time management is one of the most persistent challenges I face. As a single parent, there is little room for error or flexibility when unexpected situations arise. Whether it is addressing my children’s needs, managing unforeseen financial obligations, or meeting academic deadlines, I must constantly prioritize and adapt. Unlike many of my peers, I do not have the benefit of a consistent support system to share these responsibilities. As a result, I have learned to rely heavily on discipline, organization, and resourcefulness to navigate each day successfully. In addition to logistical challenges, there is also an emotional and mental component to this journey. The responsibility of being both a provider and a role model for my children adds an additional layer of pressure. I am not only striving to achieve my own goals, but also to demonstrate perseverance, resilience, and the value of education to my children. There have been moments of self-doubt, fatigue, and uncertainty, particularly as I work to fulfill a dream that has been deferred for many years. However, these moments have also strengthened my resolve and reinforced my commitment to seeing this journey through. Despite these challenges, my experiences as a single mother have been a powerful source of motivation. My children serve as a constant reminder of why I continue to push forward, even when the obstacles seem overwhelming. They inspire me to remain focused and determined, and they give purpose to every sacrifice I make. I am committed to creating a future not only for myself but also for them, as someone who embodies stability, opportunity, and achievement. Ultimately, the difficulties I face as a single mother pursuing higher education have shaped me into a more disciplined, resilient, and resourceful individual. These experiences have strengthened my ability to manage competing demands, think critically under pressure, and remain focused on long-term goals despite short-term challenges. As I continue my legal education, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that they have prepared me not only to succeed academically, but also to thrive in the legal profession.

The primary social justice issue I plan to address with my law degree is systemic inequality, particularly as it affects marginalized and underrepresented communities in areas such as economic justice, access to opportunity, and immigration. Growing up in Far Rockaway’s Redfern Houses, I witnessed firsthand how structural barriers, poverty, violence, and limited access to resources shape life outcomes. My early experiences in an environment marked by trauma instilled in me both resilience and a deep awareness of how inequities are perpetuated. These formative years ultimately shaped my commitment to using the law as a tool to advocate for those who are often overlooked or underserved. I intend to pursue this work in a public interest capacity, focusing on legal advocacy that directly supports individuals and families navigating complex systems. My professional experience has prepared me for this path. Over the past two decades, I have worked in various legal roles, including as a legal secretary, contracts administrator, and paralegal in both private practice and higher education. In my current role as a paralegal specialist, I have gained exposure to employment law, labor relations, compliance, and immigration law. Additionally, earning an Advanced Certificate in Immigration Law further deepened my understanding of the legal challenges faced by immigrant communities. These experiences have reinforced my desire to become an attorney who can provide not only legal expertise but also meaningful access to justice. My commitment to addressing systemic inequality is deeply rooted in both my personal and professional journey. I understand how easily individuals can fall behind when they lack adequate support systems, whether due to financial hardship, family responsibilities, or systemic barriers. I also recognize how transformative access to guidance, advocacy, and resources can be. This understanding drives my interest in working in areas such as community economic development, employment rights, and immigration advocacy, all fields where legal intervention can have a tangible and lasting impact. Beyond my professional experience, my community involvement reflects my dedication to service. Through my work with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, and collaborations with local organizations in Far Rockaway, I have contributed to initiatives that provide essential resources, including food distribution, educational support, and mentorship for young girls. I have also participated in pro bono efforts and initiatives such as CUNY Citizenship Now, which serve vulnerable populations. These experiences have shown me the importance of combining legal knowledge with empathy, cultural awareness, and a genuine commitment to uplifting others. Ultimately, I plan to use my law degree to help dismantle the systemic barriers that hinder individuals from achieving stability and success. I aim to advocate for policies and provide legal services that promote economic security, protect workers’ rights, and support immigrant communities. My goal is not only to represent clients but also to empower them, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to navigate systems that were not designed with them in mind. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a more equitable society and help create pathways for future generations to thrive.

Growing up in the Redfern Houses of Far Rockaway during the 1990s, I learned that survival often requires a selective kind of hearing. By age 13, the sirens were so consistent that I could distinguish a police cruiser from an ambulance by the pitch of the blare. I promised myself then that I would not become a statistic, yet I did not realize that the trauma of my environment was silently weaving itself into the fabric of my mental health. My academic journey began with a sprint; I graduated high school a year early and matriculated at Lincoln University at just 16 years old. However, the "quiet" of campus life—the chirping of crickets instead of the sirens I knew—triggered a profound sense of isolation and anxiety. Coupled with consecutive deaths in my family, I found myself drowning in a distress I could not yet name. When I fell .001 points short of the required GPA to remain, I returned home feeling I had become the very "failure" I feared. It took years of reflection to recognize that I wasn't a failure, but a young woman battling undiagnosed depression and anxiety without a toolkit. When I finally returned to school years later, working full-time during the day while pursuing my Paralegal and Bachelor’s degrees at night, the pressure was immense. The birth of my children added a new layer of complexity. Navigating the "deferred dream" of law school while managing the weight of sole parenthood and the lack of support from a non-custodial parent led to a dark period of postpartum depression. For a long time, I believed that strength meant carrying the burden alone. The turning point in my personal growth came when I realized that true resilience requires vulnerability. I recognized that I could no longer "white-knuckle" my way through systemic barriers and internal struggles. I took the brave step of seeking professional help, integrating a comprehensive support system that includes therapy, medication, and the guidance of a wellness coach. This holistic approach allowed me to dismantle the stigma I had carried since childhood. By addressing my mental health head-on, I was able to complete an MBA and an Advanced Certificate in Immigration Law, all while maintaining a 20-year career in the legal field. Perhaps my greatest achievement in this area is breaking the cycle for the next generation. Because I am open about my ongoing journey with therapy and wellness, I have empowered my daughter, now a high-achieving high school sophomore, to recognize her own needs and seek professional support. We view mental health not as a weakness to be hidden, but as a component of our family’s collective academic and personal success. My educational goal of earning a Juris Doctor at CUNY Law is fueled by this history of recovery. I plan to use my degree to advocate for justice and economic security for disenfranchised communities, specifically through the Community & Economic Development Clinic. I want to be the advocate I once needed: one who is skilled, empathetic, and resourceful. To manage my recovery as I enter the rigors of law school, I remain intentional in my wellness plan. I continue to utilize therapy to process the demands of a "non-linear" life and rely on my wellness coach to maintain the balance between my roles as a student, a professional, and a single mother. I firmly believe that by extending the same grace and empathy to the individuals I will represent, I can help eliminate the systemic barriers that hinder others' advancement.

The most challenging aspect of balancing my role as a law student with being a single mother is the constant navigation of a "dream deferred" amidst the weight of sole responsibility. I had to pause my legal aspirations twice to ensure my children's financial security and support, as I lacked the necessary resources and childcare to successfully matriculate earlier. This challenge was compounded by the fact that the non-custodial parent has refused to contribute or physically participate since 2013, leaving me to manage the entirety of our household’s financial and emotional needs alone. By returning to the CUNY School of Law now, I am teaching my children, a high school junior and sophomore, that it is never too late to achieve their dreams. We are on a collective journey of academic success, and they see firsthand that a resilient mindset can turn traumatic past experiences into fuel for future goals. I want them to understand that age and past setbacks do not define one's potential; rather, the "grace to tell my story" and the courage to continue pursuing a degree are what build a legacy. We discussed my returning to school and the stress and limitations that may occur, and I have their full support. This scholarship is a critical tool for securing both my professional future and the academic trajectory of my children: Financial Stability for the Household: As a single mother managing a household on a set salary, the financial burden of law school, in combination with my Master's degree and undergraduate degrees, is significant. This support ensures that my pursuit of a degree does not compromise the resources available for my teenagers' own educational milestones. We are approaching SAT and ACT preparation for both students; this scholarship will help ensure we can pivot accordingly. Focus on High-Impact Advocacy: By easing financial strain, I can better dedicate myself to meaningful clinical opportunities at CUNY Law, such as the Community & Economic Development Clinic, which aligns with my goal of advocating for justice and economic security for disenfranchised communities. I am currently working full-time as a paralegal specialist at LaGuardia Community College, which limits my ability to network and attend events during the day. There are NBLSA-hosted events and conferences that I would love to attend, but I am unable to because of financial strain. Breaking Systemic Barriers: My ultimate goal is to eliminate the systemic barriers that hamper the advancement of the next generation. This scholarship helps me model for my children that academic excellence is possible despite trials and tribulations. My daughter is watching my footsteps as we navigate her college selections because she would like to become an Environmental Science Lawyer, and my son would like to become an Aerospace Engineer. Both children are aware that their goals require dedication, hardwork and financial support. We are striving to secure as many scholarships and free opportunities as possible, since they are a year apart and will have to be achieved on one income. Professional Advancement: It provides the pathway to transition from my current role as a paralegal specialist into my lifelong dream of becoming an attorney, allowing me to carry the "torch onward" and advance beyond the preceding generation.

Building a career and a future as a Black woman and a single mother has taught me that resilience is not just an individual trait, but a family mission. Growing up in Far Rockaway’s Redfern Houses, I witnessed the systemic barriers that I now work to dismantle as a Juris Doctor candidate. My journey has been defined by the delicate balance of professional ambition, academic rigor, and a profound commitment to my family. My path to the law was never linear because my priorities were rooted in my children's stability. I twice deferred my legal education to ensure I could provide the necessary finances and support for my household. Today, my children are teenagers—one a junior and the other a sophomore in high school, and they are both high academic achievers. We are currently on a collective journey of academic success; as I pursue my law degree, I am modeling the same dedication and excellence I expect from them. I have spent over 20 years in the legal field, often working full-time during the day while attending classes in the evening. This balance requires intentional time management and a visionary approach to problem-solving. By pursuing my J.D. at the CUNY School of Law, I am showing my children that with grace and empathy, it is possible to overcome any trial and contribute meaningfully to the community. While I have achieved significant professional milestones, including earning an MBA and an Advanced Certificate in Immigration Law, the financial weight of a legal education is a substantial hurdle. This scholarship would provide the critical financial support needed to: Sustain Academic Excellence: By easing the financial burden, I can focus more deeply on my studies and clinical opportunities, such as the Community & Economic Development Clinic. Ensure Family Stability: As a single parent managing the costs of two high-achieving high school students, this support ensures that my pursuit of a degree does not compromise my children’s educational resources. Fuel Community Advocacy: Financial assistance allows me to continue my pro bono work and community service with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., without the strain of excessive student debt. My goal is to graduate in May 2029 and advocate for economic security and justice for disenfranchised communities. This scholarship is not just an investment in my degree; it is an investment in a family dedicated to carrying the torch of progress forward to the next generation

My life as a Black female growing up in Far Rockaway’s Redfern Houses during the early 90s was never easy. By age 13, I had lived through enough trauma to identify whether a blaring siren belonged to an ambulance, a police vehicle, or a fire truck. I promised myself then that I would not become a statistic and that the environment would not break me. Today, those experiences fuel my motivation to succeed as a mother, a professional, and a future attorney. My journey toward the law has been a "dream deferred" but never abandoned. After an early academic setback at age 16, I realized I lacked the emotional capacity for college at such a young age. However, my passion for justice was reignited while working in fraud investigation and compliance. I returned to school, working full-time during the day while taking evening classes to earn my associate and bachelor’s degrees. The pursuit of my Juris Doctor was paused twice as I navigated the immense responsibilities of being a single mother. I chose to prioritize my two children's financial security and support, eventually earning an MBA in Accounting to better provide for my family. Far from a hindrance, my lived experience as a Black woman and a mother has given me a resilient mindset and a visionary approach to problem-solving. In the 20 years since I first returned home to Far Rockaway, I have consistently worked within the legal profession. Currently, as a Paralegal Specialist in higher education, I handle complex matters in labor relations, employment law, and immigration. To further my impact, I earned an Advanced Certificate in Immigration Law and contributed to the CUNY Citizenship Now! initiative. My professional life is a testament to my belief that each generation must carry the torch further than the last. My dedication to change is most visible through my community service: As a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., I participate in nationwide walks for Breast Cancer and the March of Dimes. I mentor young girls aged 8 to 11 and collaborate with the Far Rockaway Greek Council to provide groceries for community refrigerators and school supplies for local students. I have provided pro bono services to my community during my tenure on the Executive Board of the New York City Paralegal Association. As a Juris Doctor candidate at CUNY Law, I plan to leverage my two decades of legal experience to advocate for justice and economic security for all citizens. I am particularly eager to join the Community & Economic Development Clinic to support disenfranchised communities. My goal is to eliminate the systemic barriers that hamper the next generation, serving as a champion for those who need a resourceful and empathetic helping hand

link from my Lawyering Seminar Class from last semester, where we examined time, place, and manner. Standing on the sidewalk outside CUNY School of Law, one can feel the weight of the First Amendment in the very air. As a law student and an advocate, I have often grappled with the tension between the raw, urgent need for expression and the structured, sometimes stifling reality of legal doctrine. The mission of the Abolitionist Law Organization (ALO), to dismantle carceral systems, is a powerful testament to why free speech matters. It is the voice of the marginalized reaching for the ears of the powerful. Yet, as I have learned through my study of the law, the "importance" of free speech is not just found in the right to shout, but in the complex rules that ensure everyone can be heard. Free speech is the lifeblood of social change. When ALO planned to protest a partnership between CUNY and a financial group linked to private prisons, they weren't just making noise; they were engaging in a storied American tradition. They wanted to create a "spectacle," to be visible to those entering the building for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This visibility is vital. If speech is hidden, it loses its power to prick the conscience of a community. However, my research into "Time, Place, and Manner" restrictions has shown me that the strength of the First Amendment actually lies in its limitations. It sounds like a paradox, but consider the environment of a law school. For speech to be meaningful, there must also be a space for thought and education. If a protest becomes so loud that a student can no longer study for finals, or so physically obstructive that a professor cannot enter a classroom, one right begins to infringe upon another. The legal requirement that restrictions be "narrowly tailored" is what protects us from government overreach. It ensures that the NYPD or a university administration cannot shut down a protest simply because they find the message "embarrassing" or inconvenient. They must demonstrate a significant interest—such as public safety or the integrity of the educational environment. In the case of ALO, being asked to move across the street to Rafferty Triangle might feel like a defeat to a passionate organizer, but legally, it is a compromise that keeps the "marketplace of ideas" functioning. The protest continues, the message is still delivered to the same audience, but the school remains a place of learning. Personally, I believe the true importance of free speech is found in this delicate balance. It is a reminder that democracy is a shared space. We have the right to demand change, but we also have a responsibility to the public order that allows that very right to exist. Whether we are wearing blue jumpsuits to represent detainees or arguing the nuances of a court case, we are all participating in a system that values the voice of the individual—provided we leave enough room for the voices of others.

I have lived long enough to understand that life isn’t linear and my life as a young, Black female growing up in Far Rockaway’s Redfern Houses during the early 90s, has never been easy. In fact, I would say that my experiences were traumatic. Now, in my 40s, I vividly recall the numerous shootings and fights, and the noise from sirens, so consistent that by age 13, I could identify whether the blaring was that of an ambulance, police vehicle, or fire truck. At that time, I promised myself that no matter what, I would never allow the environment to break me, and that I would not become a statistic that was so prevalent during my upbringing. Through reflection and contemplation, I have realized that this level of trauma has always fueled my motivation to succeed in school, career, and family. I have given and continue to give myself enough grace to tell my story, and to continue pursuing my law degree. During the first chapter of my academic career, I dedicated all my free time to studying and subsequently graduated high school a year early. Doing so, provided me the opportunity to matriculate at Lincoln University on a partial scholarship, at the ripe age of 16. Inspired by my parents, both of whom often spoke of the injustices they faced growing up in the South, both preand during the Civil Rights Era, I planned to study criminal law in college and then apply to law school, with the ultimate goal of becoming a lawyer. Typical of the average teenager, I thought I had it all figured out. However, I quickly realized that my new academic chapter wouldn’t be as easy as the first. From the very beginning, I faced significant challenges, including adjusting to the new, quieter environment on campus. The constant noise I was used to was reduced to the sounds of crickets chirping at 2 am. I also suffered a great deal of distress being homesick, which created difficulties managing the workload. Those experiences, coupled with consecutive deaths in my family, led to my inability to maintain the required grade point average to remain at Lincoln. Although my last semester was exceptional, I fell .001 points short of staying aboard. Upon realizing my fate, I instantly despised my perceived failure because I believed that by getting kicked out of college, I had become the very statistic that I promised myself I wouldn’t become. It was embarrassing making the journey back to Far Rockaway to face family and friends who had just celebrated my success and had wished me well not even two years prior. Upon reflection, I realized that I lacked the mental and emotional capacity to tackle becoming a college student at such a young age. As a current part-time 1L at the City University of New York School of Law, looking back on the challenges I've experienced and overcome, the best advice I would give is: never let your past stop you from achieving your dreams. I have grown so much from that 18-year-old student who was academically dismissed in 1998 till now, a 46-year-old parent of two teenagers. I appreciate every challenge and bump that has been thrown at me, and it is a reminder to just keep fighting. Life is not linear, but with determination, you will end up where you need to be if you are doing the work.

I have lived long enough to understand that life isn’t linear and my life as a young, Black female growing up in Far Rockaway’s Redfern Houses during the early 90s, has never been easy. In fact, I would say that my experiences were traumatic. Now, in my 40s, I vividly recall the numerous shootings and fights, and the noise from sirens, so consistent that by age 13, I could identify whether the blaring was that of an ambulance, police vehicle, or fire truck. At that time, I promised myself that no matter what, I would never allow the environment to break me, and that I would not become a statistic that was so prevalent during my upbringing. Through reflection and contemplation, I have realized that this level of trauma has always fueled my motivation to succeed in school, career, and family. I have given and continue to give myself enough grace to tell my story, and to continue pursuing my law degree. Inspired by my parents, both of whom often spoke of the injustices they faced growing up in the South, both pre- and during the Civil Rights Era, I planned to study criminal law in college and then apply to law school, with the ultimate goal of becoming a lawyer. Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of witnessing the impact of providing services to the community in real time, and like CUNY Law, I continue to embody the ideal of community support. As a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, I actively contribute to the organization's initiatives at both the international and local levels. I also collaborate with the Far Rockaway Greek Council, often in conjunction with the Queens chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., on various community initiatives. Lastly, during my tenure on the Executive Board of the New York City Paralegal Association, Incorporated, I actively provided pro bono services in my community. These experiences serve as constant reminders of the pressing need for advocates who are not only skilled and empathetic, but who are also resourceful and who positively impact marginalized and underrepresented communities; qualities that align with the esteemed tradition of CUNY Law. The school’s meaningful clinical opportunities, particularly in the Community & Economic Development Clinic, further underscore the commitment to service that resonates with me, and I eagerly anticipate participating in it within the next two years. I envision applying the education and experience gained at CUNY Law to advocate for justice, economic security, and financial support for all citizens, irrespective of their unique circumstances. In my first five years post-CUNY Law graduation, I plan to continue collaborating with the organizations that I currently work with, while cultivating and establishing relationships with new organizations that continue the tradition of promoting opportunities for the greater good of disenfranchised communities. I have always been taught that each generation is supposed to have the resources and capability to carry the torch onward, advancing beyond the preceding generation. However, without proper support, that vision can quickly be hampered by trials and tribulations which further fuels frustration and lack of motivation. To excel as a lawyer, I firmly believe in confronting challenges with resilience, while extending grace, empathy, and an understanding of the intricate circumstances surrounding individuals that I anticipate encountering along my legal journey. Eliminating systemic barriers that hamper the development and advancement of the next generation has always been an internal goal and as an individual who seeks every opportunity to become a champion for those I can help, I am looking forward to providing that all-important helping hand as legal counsel.

Edited I have lived long enough to understand that life isn’t linear, and my life as a young, black female growing up in Far Rockaway’s Redfern Houses during the early 90s, has never been easy. In fact, I would say that my experiences were traumatic. Now, in my 40s, I vividly recall the numerous shootings and fights, and the noise from sirens, so consistent that by age 13, I could identify whether the blaring was that of an ambulance, police vehicle, or fire truck. Through reflection and contemplation, I have realized that this level of trauma has always fueled my motivation to succeed in school, career, and family. I have given and continue to give myself enough grace to tell my story, and to continue pursuing my law degree. During the first chapter of my academic career, I dedicated all my free time to studying and subsequently graduated high school a year early. Doing so, provided me the opportunity to matriculate at Lincoln University on a partial scholarship, at the ripe age of 16. Inspired by my parents, both of whom often spoke of the injustices they faced growing up in the South, both preand during the Civil Rights Era, I planned to study criminal law in college and then apply to law school, with the ultimate goal of becoming a lawyer. Typical of the average teenager, I thought I had it all figured out. However, I quickly realized that my new academic chapter wouldn’t be as easy as the first. From the very beginning, I faced significant challenges, including adjusting to the new, quieter environment on campus. I also suffered a great deal of distress being homesick, which created difficulties managing the workload. Those experiences, coupled with consecutive deaths in my family, led to my inability to maintain the required grade point average to remain at Lincoln. Although my last semester was exceptional, I fell .001 points short of staying aboard. Upon realizing my fate, I instantly despised my perceived failure because I believed that by getting kicked out of college, I had become the very statistic that I promised myself I wouldn’t become. It was embarrassing making the journey back to Far Rockaway to face family and friends who had just celebrated my success and had wished me well not even two years prior. Upon reflection, I realized that I lacked the mental and emotional capacity to tackle becoming a college student at such a young age. A few years after returning to Far Rockaway, I began working as a temporary legal fraud investigator at Chase Manhattan Bank. I applied to the full-time, evening program at LaGuardia Community College’s Paralegal Program. I completed my applied associate in science degree with a focus in Paralegal Studies. I immediately transferred to NYC College of Technology’s Legal Assistant Studies Program, where I continued working full-time and taking evening classes. My bachelor’s degree was conferred in January 2005. In the more than 20 years since returning home from Lincoln, I have consistently worked within the legal profession in various capacities, except for the one I have always dreamed of, and that is as an attorney. Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of witnessing the impact of providing services to the community in real time, and like CUNY Law, I continue to embody the ideal of community support. As a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, I actively contribute to the organization's initiatives at both the international and local levels. My involvement includes participation in diverse community service events, such as nationwide walks for Breast Cancer and the March of Dimes, as well as fundraising efforts for organizations, like St. Jude's. I collaborate with the Far Rockaway Greek Council, often in conjunction with the Queens chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., in various community initiatives as well. Lastly, during my tenure on the Executive Board of the New York City Paralegal Association, Incorporated, I actively engaged in providing pro bono services in my community. Moreover, as a CUNY employee, I contributed to CUNY’s Citizenship Now initiative. These experiences serve as constant reminders of the pressing need for advocates who are not only skilled and empathetic, but who are also resourceful and who positively impact marginalized and underrepresented communities; qualities that align with the esteemed tradition of CUNY Law. The school’s meaningful clinical opportunities, particularly in the Community & Economic Development Clinic, further underscores the commitment to service that resonates with me, and I eagerly anticipate participating in it. My educational and professional experiences, along with my community involvement have served to enhance my natural curiosity, thirst for knowledge, and observational skills. The ability to network, to build interpersonal relationships, and helping others are critical skills that I employ to provide exceptional service to clients. Additionally, my skill set includes critical thinking and analysis, a resilient mindset, and a visionary approach to problem solving. I am intentional in utilizing several other components of my developed abilities, including time management, communication, leadership, and decision-making to ensure excellence and success. I envision applying the education and experience gained at CUNY Law to advocate for justice, economic security, and financial support for all citizens, irrespective of their unique circumstances. In my first five years post-CUNY Law graduation, I plan to continue collaborating with the organizations that I currently work with, while cultivating and establishing relationships with new organizations that continue the tradition of promoting opportunities for the greater good of disenfranchised communities. To excel as a lawyer, I firmly believe in confronting challenges with resilience, while extending grace, empathy, and an understanding of the intricate circumstances surrounding individuals that I anticipate encountering along my legal journey. Eliminating systemic barriers that hamper the development and advancement of the next generation has always been an internal goal and as an individual who seeks every opportunity to become a champion for those I can help, I am looking forward to providing that all-important helping hand as legal counsel. (edited to fit the limit)

For nearly twenty years, I have consistently worked within the legal profession in various capacities, except for the one I have always dreamed of, as an attorney. In my previous positions, I have held diverse roles, including legal secretary, contracts coordinator, and contracts administrator, across boutique firms, large firms, and financial institutions. Additionally, I have served as a paralegal in personal injury law, working for both plaintiff and defense firms. In my current capacity as a paralegal specialist in higher education, I have gained exposure to various legal areas, including employment law, labor relations, human resources, compliance, and immigration law. To further enhance my skills and understanding of the complexities of immigration law, I pursued and completed an Advanced Certificate in Immigration Law from CUNY's School of Professional Studies. As a four-time CUNY Alumna, with two Associate's in Applied Science, one Bachelor’s of Science, and one Advanced Graduate Certificate, and an employee of CUNY, the decision to apply to CUNY Law was a natural and straightforward choice. The esteemed history of CUNY and, more importantly, the Law School’s dedication to public interest and community support aligns with the person I have evolved into today. Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the impact of providing services to the community in real time. As a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, I actively contribute to the organization's initiatives at both the international and local levels. This involvement includes participation in diverse community service events, including nationwide walks for causes such as Breast Cancer and the March of Dimes, as well as fundraising for organizations like St. Jude's. I have been actively engaged in collecting toys for Christmas toy drives, gathering school supplies for back-to-school initiatives, and mentoring young girls ages 8 to 11. I collaborate with the Far Rockaway Greek Council, often in conjunction with the Queens chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., in various community initiatives. Our joint efforts include supplying groceries for the community refrigerator, distributing books to elementary-age students, offering clothing assistance to those in need, and providing both physical and financial support for their annual Thanksgiving food drive benefiting the residents of the Rockaway Peninsula. Lastly, during my tenure on the Executive Board of the New York City Paralegal Association, Incorporated, I actively provided pro bono services. Moreover, I contributed to CUNY’s Citizenship Now initiative as a CUNY employee. These experiences serve as constant reminders of the pressing need for advocates who are not only skilled and empathetic but also resourceful and impactful for the underprivileged and underrepresented. These qualities align with the esteemed tradition of CUNY Law. The meaningful clinical opportunities offered, particularly in the Community & Economic Development Clinic, further underscore the commitment to service that resonates with me, and I eagerly anticipate participating in it. In my first five years post-CUNY Law graduation, I plan to continue fostering partnerships with the organizations with which I currently have relationships, while finding ways to cultivate and establish new organizations that continue the tradition of promoting opportunities for the greater good. Eliminating the systematic barriers that hamper the development of the next generation has always been an internal goal. Each generation is supposed to have the resources and wherewithal to carry the torch onward. However, without proper support, that vision can quickly be hampered by trials and tribulations, which further fuel frustration and lack of motivation. As an individual who seeks every opportunity to become a champion for those I can help, I look forward to providing a helping hand as legal counsel.

For as long as I can remember, the only thing I have ever desired to do professionally was become an attorney. For the past two decades, I've pondered the right moment to pursue law school while consistently prioritizing others' needs over my ambitions. Now, having attained my master’s degree and amassing twenty years of invaluable legal experience while raising two accomplished, academically inclined, and socially adept children as a single parent, I sense the time is ripe to shine the spotlight on my long-held aspirations. I’ve engaged in discussions with my children, acknowledging its significant impact on our family dynamics. Previous obstacles and concerns no longer hold me back, allowing me to dedicate myself to this new chapter of my life in all aspects. At forty-six, I'm intentional and resolute about shaping the upcoming phase of my life. Over the past ten years, I've been a paralegal specialist at LaGuardia Community College, marking my lengthiest tenure with a single employer and ensuring stable employment. As a proud member of twenty years in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., a supportive member of the Far Rockaway Greek Council, Inc., and a former executive board member of the New York City Paralegal Association, Inc. at its inception in 2007, I am consistently involved in various community initiatives. These initiatives have honed my ability to connect with diverse communities, allowing for impactful collaborations to promote solutions at the local level. For example, during the annual Back-to-School drive, I collaborated with the Far Rockaway Greek Council, Inc., to provide school supplies to local students through the Operation Big Bookbag initiative. This annual event is essential because it highlights the dire need for financial assistance to secure school supplies for local children. Oftentimes, students return to school in September underprepared with critical tools to ensure a successful school year. My participation in this initiative helps fill the gap for students lacking the proper tools to be successful in school. In my first five years post-CUNY Law graduation, I plan to continue fostering partnerships with organizations I currently work with, while finding ways to cultivate and establish new organizations that continue the tradition of promoting opportunities for the greater good. Eliminating the systemic barriers that hinder the development of the next generation has always been a core internal goal. Each generation is supposed to have the resources and wherewithal to carry the torch onward. However, without proper support, that vision can quickly be hampered by trials and tribulations, which further fuel frustration and lack of motivation. As an individual who seeks every opportunity to become a champion for those I can help, I look forward to providing a helping hand as legal counsel. This scholarship will allow me to continue my education without some of my current financial concerns. As a single mom of two teenagers, I find myself balancing my education with preparing them for their current and future endeavors. My son is a junior in high school, and my daughter is a sophomore in private school. Winning this scholarship would allow me to focus the funding I currently allocate towards my expenses towards the next generation.

As a young African American girl growing up in New York City public housing in a single-parent household, I knew only grit and determination would remove me from my environment. I knew early on that education was my ticket to a better life. I was fortunate to stay academically strong from elementary through high school. I even fought with my high school vice principal to review my credits and permit me to graduate a year early at age 16. What I did not understand about this incredible opportunity was that I was emotionally, socially, and mentally unprepared for transitioning from being in the top 50% of students, many of whom I knew my entire childhood, to college-age students from across the country. My college transition, coupled with increasing homesickness, consecutive deaths in my family, and the lack of wherewithal to consult with academic support, led to my dismissal after my sophomore year. Flunking out of college was a significant blow to my self-esteem and future aspirations. My only feasible decision was to enroll in LaGuardia Community College's Paralegal Studies program. I returned to my studies with renewed determination and learned the legal system's foundation. I eventually completed my bachelor’s degree in legal assistant studies after almost ten years of beginning college. As a result, I became a first-generation college graduate. Achieving this milestone required immense perseverance and a belief in my ability to overcome adversity. I was fortunate enough to secure a seat in the Pipeline program at the CUNY School of Law and to master the LSAT and its pre-law program. I am currently a rising part-time 1L in my dream school, CUNY School of Law, while working full-time as a Paralegal Specialist. Balancing work, family responsibilities, and my mental health required a level of resilience that I had to develop over time. Each setback I’ve experienced became an opportunity to learn and grow, reinforcing my determination to succeed. They have shaped me into a woman who, despite numerous challenges, continues to strive for excellence and to inspire others to do the same. Her words are a reminder that the measure of a person is not in the frequency of their falls but in their relentless determination to rise. Ultimately, it does not matter how many roads you must walk or how many times you must sit; gather your composure, pivot when necessary, and keep going. I am a living testimony that the virtue of perseverance will propel you to the final destination, which, for me, is becoming a lawyer.