Hobbies and interests
JROTC
Student Council or Student Government
Community Service And Volunteering
Business And Entrepreneurship
DaJla Jones
5,064
Bold Points1x
Finalist1x
WinnerDaJla Jones
5,064
Bold Points1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
I am the youngest of 6 kids, an ambitious leader who strive for excellence.
Education
University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
Dillard 6-12
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
Career
Dream career field:
Public Safety
Dream career goals:
Sports
Track & Field
Varsity2019 – 20223 years
Public services
Volunteering
AFJROTC — Organizer & Participate2021 – 2024
Darran Cherep Remembrance Scholarship
As an 18-year-old African American female and a college freshman, my career aspirations have been shaped by a deep sense of responsibility to serve my community. Through my involvement in Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC), mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and engaging in various leadership roles, I have developed the skills necessary to pursue a career in law enforcement and the Air Force, specifically in the Security Forces field. This path aligns with my passion for leadership, service, and helping others, and I am committed to using these experiences to make a meaningful impact. From a young age, I admired individuals who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others. The discipline, structure, and honor associated with law enforcement and the military drew me in. As a cadet in AFJROTC, I gained valuable leadership experience and learned about responsibility, integrity, and teamwork—qualities that are vital in both law enforcement and the military. The program also emphasized the importance of security, protection, and the role that law enforcement officers and military personnel play in keeping communities and countries safe. These experiences solidified my decision to pursue a career in law enforcement and the Air Force’s Security Forces field, which offers an opportunity to serve my country while ensuring the safety and well-being of others. The Security Forces field specifically appeals to me because it combines my interests in law enforcement with my desire to contribute to the protection of both people and resources. Security Forces members are entrusted with safeguarding military bases, personnel, and sensitive information—critical aspects of national security. I feel a deep sense of pride knowing that I can play a role in protecting our country, both on a larger scale and within my local community. The training and experiences I will gain in the Air Force will provide me with the tools to become a strong, effective leader who can respond to challenges with skill, poise, and professionalism. A key driving force behind my decision to pursue law enforcement and a career in Security Forces is my passion for helping others. Through my involvement in AFJROTC and mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters, I’ve learned the importance of being a positive role model and advocate for those in need. As a mentor, I saw firsthand how guidance, encouragement, and a sense of security empower others to reach their potential. I want to extend this same sense of care and protection to the broader community, ensuring that individuals feel safe and supported. In law enforcement and military service, I will be in a position to serve and protect vulnerable populations, advocate for justice, and foster a sense of safety in the communities I work with. As an African American female, I am also motivated by the opportunity to break barriers and become a role model for others who may not see themselves represented in law enforcement or the military. I hope to inspire others from my community to pursue careers in these fields, demonstrating that anyone, regardless of background, can excel and make a difference in these essential professions. By pursuing this path, I aim to change the narrative, showing that diversity and inclusion are integral to creating stronger, more effective teams in law enforcement and the military. I am committed to using my skills and passion to protect, serve, and advocate for others. Through this career, I hope not only to fulfill my own purpose but also to inspire and lead others, ensuring that the communities I serve are safe, supported, and empowered.
TEAM ROX Scholarship
As an 18-year-old African American female and a college freshman, my journey toward becoming a leader, mentor, and advocate for others has been shaped by my experiences in both structured and informal settings. Through my involvement with AFJROTC, mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and my own personal growth, I have developed a deep passion for helping others become the best versions of themselves. This passion is not just something I feel, but something I actively pursue with a sense of purpose.
Growing up, I always had a strong desire to make a positive impact in my community. My first significant leadership experience came through the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) program. AFJROTC not only instilled discipline, responsibility, and teamwork but also gave me the opportunity to step into leadership roles that allowed me to guide others. As a cadet, I learned the importance of setting a good example, maintaining high standards, and leading by example. The program taught me that leadership is not about asserting power but about serving others and guiding them toward success. Whether it was organizing community service projects or assisting with training new cadets, I saw firsthand how effective mentorship and teamwork could empower individuals to reach their full potential.
In addition to AFJROTC, my involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters provided a more personal and impactful avenue for my desire to help others. As a mentor, I had the privilege of working with younger students and offering them guidance and support in various aspects of their lives, from academics to personal challenges. Being a Big Sister was not just about providing advice but also about being a consistent, reliable presence in their lives. I learned how important it is to listen actively, offer encouragement, and help others believe in their own abilities. The experience was humbling, and it reinforced my belief that mentorship is about building trust and empowering others to take ownership of their future.
Through these experiences, I realized that my purpose and passion lie in uplifting others and helping them recognize their own potential. I began to understand that everyone faces challenges, but with the right support, encouragement, and guidance, they can overcome those obstacles and achieve their goals. Whether I am helping a fellow cadet in AFJROTC improve their leadership skills or working with a young mentee from Big Brothers Big Sisters on their confidence and academic performance, I find fulfillment in being a positive influence.
As a college freshman, I am excited to continue my journey of personal growth while also seeking out new opportunities to mentor and lead. I have come to understand that my purpose is not simply to achieve personal success but to help others realize their own dreams and reach their full potential. I am driven by the desire to make a lasting impact, whether it’s through formal mentorship programs, community service, or simply being there for someone in need of guidance.
In summary, my experiences in AFJROTC and Big Brothers Big Sisters have not only shaped my leadership skills but have also cemented my belief in the power of mentorship and support. Helping others be their best is not just a passion for me—it is my purpose. I am determined to continue using my skills, knowledge, and empathy to empower others to achieve greatness and become leaders in their own right.
John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
My aspiration to pursue a career in criminal justice and commission as an officer in the USAF is deeply rooted in my personal experiences and a desire to make a meaningful impact. Growing up as the youngest of six, with a significant age gap and a mother working long hours in corrections, I faced numerous challenges. My struggles with depression during middle school led me to rely heavily on social media for support, which ultimately resulted in me being Baker Acted. This challenging period prompted my mother to change careers to become a school teacher, and our family engaged in therapy to rebuild our bond. This experience clarified my aspirations.
High school became a transformative phase where I discovered my passion for leadership and mentorship. Serving as Miss Freshman, Class Vice President, Class President for my Junior and Senior years, Lead Mentee with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Group Commander of AFJROTC provided me with opportunities to guide and support others. These roles were not only about leadership but also about empathy, discipline, and resilience—qualities essential for a career in criminal justice and as an AF officer.
AFJROTC played a crucial role in broadening my perspective. It introduced me to the diverse and inclusive nature of the military and challenged stereotypes, enriching my understanding of leadership. As an African American girl, I encountered various viewpoints that reinforced my commitment to serving others and breaking down barriers.
My decision to pursue a career in criminal justice is driven by a desire to contribute to a fair and just society. This field’s emphasis on maintaining order, supporting victims, and ensuring justice aligns with my personal values and experiences. The leadership roles I undertook have equipped me to tackle complex challenges with empathy and integrity. By entering this field, I aim to make a positive impact and support communities in need. Commissioning as an officer in the USAF represents the next step in my journey. The discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills honed through all my roles have prepared me for this commitment. I aspire to serve my country with dedication and lead by example, fostering an environment of inclusivity and support. My goal is to inspire others and contribute to a mission larger than myself, paving the way for future generations.Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in achieving my professional goals. It would alleviate the financial burdens of college, allowing me to focus on completing my degree and preparing for my career in criminal justice and the Air Force. The support would enable me to engage fully in my studies and extracurricular activities, further developing the skills necessary for success in both fields.Overall, my personal journey and experiences have motivated me to pursue a career where I can make a significant impact. Through a commitment to justice, leadership, and service, I am dedicated to creating positive change and contributing to a better society. This scholarship represents a crucial step toward realizing my aspirations and making a meaningful contribution to my country and community.
Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship
As a young girl I experienced depression. Just to give a glimpse of my early childhood, I am the youngest of six with a six year age gap and my mother worked long hours in corrections. I depended on social media as my support system in middle school, this path led me to being Baker acted. To be there for me, my mom changed career and became a school teacher. We also took family therapy. This was my turning point. My family bond became stronger. I became stronger. My journey through high school as Miss Freshman, Class Vice President my Sophomore year, Class President my Junior-Senior year, Lead mentee of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Mentoring Tomorrow Leaders, Group Commander of AFJROTC (Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) has been nothing short of my transformation. Stepping into these leadership role wasn't just about learning the ins and outs of military protocol; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and finding my own voice in a world where representation matters. From day one high school provided me with a sense of belonging and purpose. As I immersed myself in lead positions , I quickly realized the importance of mentorship and leadership. Despite initial doubts and stereotypes, I found myself excelling in leadership positions, mentoring my peers, and leading by example both throughout the school and my community. Being the mentor and leader that I am now allowed me to develop essential skills such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience. I learned the value of perseverance and dedication, traits that would later prove invaluable as I navigated through the decision-making process for my future career. Throughout high school, my involvement in AFJROTC opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within the military. As a young African American girl, I saw firsthand the diversity and inclusivity within military, challenging preconceived notions about who belongs in the military and what leadership looks like. My experiences as a mentor and leader in high school and my community laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force as a 1st Sergeant. The sense of purpose, camaraderie, and dedication instilled in me during my time in high school inspired me to continue serving my country in a more profound capacity. As a 1st Sergeant, I aspire to continue breaking down barriers and paving the way for generations. I have learned that leadership knows no bounds, and with determination and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to. Through mentorship, leadership, and a commitment to breaking down barriers, I am ready to embark on this journey and make a difference in the world. Winning this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me attain my goals of completing my Masters degree and enlisting in the Air Force. However, financing a college education can be a significant challenge, especially considering the costs associated with tuition, textbooks, housing, and other expenses. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with attending college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and extracurricular activities. Whether it's through leadership opportunities, community service projects, or specialized training programs, these experiences would further prepare me for the challenges and responsibilities of serving in the military. Overall, it would be a crucial stepping stone towards realizing my aspirations and making a meaningful contribution to both my country and my community.
Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
DaJ’la Jones
2681 NW 1st Street
Boynton Beach, Florida 33435
5619036352
My journey through high school has been nothing short of transformative. I am the youngest of six siblings and battled with mental health. As a young African
American woman with hopes to join the Air Force one day wasn't just about learning the ins
and outs of military protocol; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and
finding my own voice in a world where representation matters. From day one, my high school
leadership positions provided me with a sense of belonging and purpose. As I immersed
myself into my roles, I quickly realized the importance of mentorship and leadership. Despite
initial doubts and stereotypes, I found myself excelling in leadership positions, mentoring my
peers, and leading by example as Group Commander, 2024 Class President, Big Brothers Big
Sisters, Mentoring Tomorrow Leaders and throughout the school community. Being a mentor
and leader within my high school allowed me to develop essential skills such as discipline,
teamwork, and resilience. Throughout high school, my involvement in a variety of leadership
positions has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within our communities. These
experiences have laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force as an
Officer. The sense of purpose, camaraderie, and dedication instilled in me during my time in
high school inspired me to continue serving my community and country in a more profound
capacity. As a leader in the Air Force, I aspire to continue breaking down barriers and paving
the way for future generations of young African Americans. Now I know that leadership knows
no bounds, and with determination and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Winning this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me attain my goals of completing
my four-year degree and enlisting in the Air Force. However, financing a college education can
be a significant challenge, especially considering the costs associated with tuition, textbooks,
housing, and other expenses. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial
burdens associated with attending college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and
extracurricular activities. By reducing the need for student loans and part-time work, I would
have more time and energy to dedicate to my academic pursuits and personal development.
Furthermore, completing my four-year degree is a crucial step towards enlisting in the Air
Force as an officer. The Air Force highly values education and leadership skills and having a
bachelor's degree is often a requirement for officer positions. With the assistance of this
scholarship, I would be better positioned to afford and complete my degree, thereby fulfilling
one of the prerequisites for enlisting as an officer. Whether it's through leadership
opportunities, community service projects, or specialized training programs, these
experiences would further prepare me for the challenges and responsibilities of serving in the
military. It would be a crucial steppingstone towards realizing my aspirations and making a
meaningful contribution to both my country and my community.
Black Leaders Scholarship
DaJ’la Jones
My journey through high school has been nothing short of transformative. As a young African
American woman with hopes to join the Air Force one day wasn't just about learning the ins
and outs of military protocol; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and
finding my own voice in a world where representation matters. From day one, my high school
leadership positions provided me with a sense of belonging and purpose. As I immersed
myself into my roles, I quickly realized the importance of mentorship and leadership. Despite
initial doubts and stereotypes, I found myself excelling in leadership positions, mentoring my
peers, and leading by example as Group Commander, 2024 Class President, Big Brothers Big
Sisters, Mentoring Tomorrow Leaders and throughout the school community. Being a mentor
and leader within my high school allowed me to develop essential skills such as discipline,
teamwork, and resilience. Throughout high school, my involvement in a variety of leadership
positions has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within our communities. These
experiences have laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force as an
Officer. The sense of purpose, camaraderie, and dedication instilled in me during my time in
high school inspired me to continue serving my community and country in a more profound
capacity. As a leader in the Air Force, I aspire to continue breaking down barriers and paving
the way for future generations of young African Americans. Now I know that leadership knows
no bounds, and with determination and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Winning this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me attain my goals of completing
my four-year degree and enlisting in the Air Force. However, financing a college education can
be a significant challenge, especially considering the costs associated with tuition, textbooks,
housing, and other expenses. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial
burdens associated with attending college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and
extracurricular activities. By reducing the need for student loans and part-time work, I would
have more time and energy to dedicate to my academic pursuits and personal development.
Furthermore, completing my four-year degree is a crucial step towards enlisting in the Air
Force as an officer. The Air Force highly values education and leadership skills and having a
bachelor's degree is often a requirement for officer positions. With the assistance of this
scholarship, I would be better positioned to afford and complete my degree, thereby fulfilling
one of the prerequisites for enlisting as an officer. Whether it's through leadership
opportunities, community service projects, or specialized training programs, these
experiences would further prepare me for the challenges and responsibilities of serving in the
military. It would be a crucial steppingstone towards realizing my aspirations and making a
meaningful contribution to both my country and my community.
Hester Richardson Powell Memorial Service Scholarship
DaJ’la Jones
My journey through high school has been nothing short of transformative. As a young African
American woman with hopes to join the Air Force one day wasn't just about learning the ins
and outs of military protocol; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and
finding my own voice in a world where representation matters. From day one, my high school
leadership positions provided me with a sense of belonging and purpose. As I immersed
myself into my roles, I quickly realized the importance of mentorship and leadership. Despite
initial doubts and stereotypes, I found myself excelling in leadership positions, mentoring my
peers, and leading by example as Group Commander, 2024 Class President, Big Brothers Big
Sisters, Mentoring Tomorrow Leaders and throughout the school community. Being a mentor
and leader within my high school allowed me to develop essential skills such as discipline,
teamwork, and resilience. Throughout high school, my involvement in a variety of leadership
positions has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within our communities. These
experiences have laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force as an
Officer. The sense of purpose, camaraderie, and dedication instilled in me during my time in
high school inspired me to continue serving my community and country in a more profound
capacity. As a leader in the Air Force, I aspire to continue breaking down barriers and paving
the way for future generations of young African Americans. Now I know that leadership knows
no bounds, and with determination and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Winning this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me attain my goals of completing
my four-year degree and enlisting in the Air Force. However, financing a college education can
be a significant challenge, especially considering the costs associated with tuition, textbooks,
housing, and other expenses. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial
burdens associated with attending college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and
extracurricular activities. By reducing the need for student loans and part-time work, I would
have more time and energy to dedicate to my academic pursuits and personal development.
Furthermore, completing my four-year degree is a crucial step towards enlisting in the Air
Force as an officer. The Air Force highly values education and leadership skills and having a
bachelor's degree is often a requirement for officer positions. With the assistance of this
scholarship, I would be better positioned to afford and complete my degree, thereby fulfilling
one of the prerequisites for enlisting as an officer. Whether it's through leadership
opportunities, community service projects, or specialized training programs, these
experiences would further prepare me for the challenges and responsibilities of serving in the
military. It would be a crucial steppingstone towards realizing my aspirations and making a
meaningful contribution to both my country and my community.
Jaimeson Williams Legacy Scholarship
DaJ’la Jones
My journey through high school has been nothing short of transformative. As a young African
American woman with hopes to join the Air Force one day wasn't just about learning the ins
and outs of military protocol; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and
finding my own voice in a world where representation matters. From day one, my high school
leadership positions provided me with a sense of belonging and purpose. As I immersed
myself into my roles, I quickly realized the importance of mentorship and leadership. Despite
initial doubts and stereotypes, I found myself excelling in leadership positions, mentoring my
peers, and leading by example as Group Commander, 2024 Class President, Big Brothers Big
Sisters, Mentoring Tomorrow Leaders and throughout the school community. Being a mentor
and leader within my high school allowed me to develop essential skills such as discipline,
teamwork, and resilience. Throughout high school, my involvement in a variety of leadership
positions has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within our communities. These
experiences have laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force as an
Officer. The sense of purpose, camaraderie, and dedication instilled in me during my time in
high school inspired me to continue serving my community and country in a more profound
capacity. As a leader in the Air Force, I aspire to continue breaking down barriers and paving
the way for future generations of young African Americans. Now I know that leadership knows
no bounds, and with determination and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Winning this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me attain my goals of completing
my four-year degree and enlisting in the Air Force. However, financing a college education can
be a significant challenge, especially considering the costs associated with tuition, textbooks,
housing, and other expenses. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial
burdens associated with attending college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and
extracurricular activities. By reducing the need for student loans and part-time work, I would
have more time and energy to dedicate to my academic pursuits and personal development.
Furthermore, completing my four-year degree is a crucial step towards enlisting in the Air
Force as an officer. The Air Force highly values education and leadership skills and having a
bachelor's degree is often a requirement for officer positions. With the assistance of this
scholarship, I would be better positioned to afford and complete my degree, thereby fulfilling
one of the prerequisites for enlisting as an officer. Whether it's through leadership
opportunities, community service projects, or specialized training programs, these
experiences would further prepare me for the challenges and responsibilities of serving in the
military. It would be a crucial steppingstone towards realizing my aspirations and making a
meaningful contribution to both my country and my community.
El Jefe Entrepreneurial Scholarship
DaJ’la Jones
My journey through high school has been nothing short of transformative. As a young African
American woman with hopes to join the Air Force one day wasn't just about learning the ins
and outs of military protocol; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and
finding my own voice in a world where representation matters. From day one, my high school
leadership positions provided me with a sense of belonging and purpose. As I immersed
myself into my roles, I quickly realized the importance of mentorship and leadership. Despite
initial doubts and stereotypes, I found myself excelling in leadership positions, mentoring my
peers, and leading by example as Group Commander, 2024 Class President, Big Brothers Big
Sisters, Mentoring Tomorrow Leaders and throughout the school community. Being a mentor
and leader within my high school allowed me to develop essential skills such as discipline,
teamwork, and resilience. Throughout high school, my involvement in a variety of leadership
positions has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within our communities. These
experiences have laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force as an
Officer. The sense of purpose, camaraderie, and dedication instilled in me during my time in
high school inspired me to continue serving my community and country in a more profound
capacity. As a leader in the Air Force, I aspire to continue breaking down barriers and paving
the way for future generations of young African Americans. Now I know that leadership knows
no bounds, and with determination and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Winning this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me attain my goals of completing
my four-year degree and enlisting in the Air Force. However, financing a college education can
be a significant challenge, especially considering the costs associated with tuition, textbooks,
housing, and other expenses. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial
burdens associated with attending college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and
extracurricular activities. By reducing the need for student loans and part-time work, I would
have more time and energy to dedicate to my academic pursuits and personal development.
Furthermore, completing my four-year degree is a crucial step towards enlisting in the Air
Force as an officer. The Air Force highly values education and leadership skills and having a
bachelor's degree is often a requirement for officer positions. With the assistance of this
scholarship, I would be better positioned to afford and complete my degree, thereby fulfilling
one of the prerequisites for enlisting as an officer. Whether it's through leadership
opportunities, community service projects, or specialized training programs, these
experiences would further prepare me for the challenges and responsibilities of serving in the
military. It would be a crucial steppingstone towards realizing my aspirations and making a
meaningful contribution to both my country and my community.
Skylar's Hope Scholarship
DaJ’la Jones
My journey through high school has been nothing short of transformative. As a young African
American woman with hopes to join the Air Force one day wasn't just about learning the ins
and outs of military protocol; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and
finding my own voice in a world where representation matters. From day one, my high school
leadership positions provided me with a sense of belonging and purpose. As I immersed
myself into my roles, I quickly realized the importance of mentorship and leadership. Despite
initial doubts and stereotypes, I found myself excelling in leadership positions, mentoring my
peers, and leading by example as Group Commander, 2024 Class President, Big Brothers Big
Sisters, Mentoring Tomorrow Leaders and throughout the school community. Being a mentor
and leader within my high school allowed me to develop essential skills such as discipline,
teamwork, and resilience. Throughout high school, my involvement in a variety of leadership
positions has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within our communities. These
experiences have laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force as an
Officer. The sense of purpose, camaraderie, and dedication instilled in me during my time in
high school inspired me to continue serving my community and country in a more profound
capacity. As a leader in the Air Force, I aspire to continue breaking down barriers and paving
the way for future generations of young African Americans. Now I know that leadership knows
no bounds, and with determination and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Winning this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me attain my goals of completing
my four-year degree and enlisting in the Air Force. However, financing a college education can
be a significant challenge, especially considering the costs associated with tuition, textbooks,
housing, and other expenses. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial
burdens associated with attending college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and
extracurricular activities. By reducing the need for student loans and part-time work, I would
have more time and energy to dedicate to my academic pursuits and personal development.
Furthermore, completing my four-year degree is a crucial step towards enlisting in the Air
Force as an officer. The Air Force highly values education and leadership skills and having a
bachelor's degree is often a requirement for officer positions. With the assistance of this
scholarship, I would be better positioned to afford and complete my degree, thereby fulfilling
one of the prerequisites for enlisting as an officer. Whether it's through leadership
opportunities, community service projects, or specialized training programs, these
experiences would further prepare me for the challenges and responsibilities of serving in the
military. It would be a crucial steppingstone towards realizing my aspirations and making a
meaningful contribution to both my country and my community.
Udonis Haslem Foundation BDJ40 Scholarship
WinnerAs a young girl I experienced depression. Just to give a glimpse of my early childhood, I am the youngest of six with a six year age gap and my mother worked long hours in corrections. I depended on social media as my support system in middle school, this path led me to being Baker acted. To be there for me, my mom changed career and became a school teacher. We also took family therapy. This was my turning point. My family bond became stronger. I became stronger.
My journey through high school as Miss Freshman, Class Vice President my Sophomore year, Class President my Junior-Senior year, Lead mentee of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Mentoring Tomorrow Leaders, Group Commander of AFJROTC (Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) has been nothing short of my transformation. Stepping into these leadership role wasn't just about learning the ins and outs of military protocol; it was about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and finding my own voice in a world where representation matters. From day one high school provided me with a sense of belonging and purpose. As I immersed myself in lead positions , I quickly realized the importance of mentorship and leadership. Despite initial doubts and stereotypes, I found myself excelling in leadership positions, mentoring my peers, and leading by example both throughout the school and my community.
Being the mentor and leader that I am now allowed me to develop essential skills such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience. I learned the value of perseverance and dedication, traits that would later prove invaluable as I navigated through the decision-making process for my future career. Throughout high school, my involvement in AFJROTC opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within the military. As a young African American girl, I saw firsthand the diversity and inclusivity within military, challenging preconceived notions about who belongs in the military and what leadership looks like. My experiences as a mentor and leader in high school and my community laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in the Air Force as a 1st Sergeant. The sense of purpose, camaraderie, and dedication instilled in me during my time in high school inspired me to continue serving my country in a more profound capacity. As a 1st Sergeant, I aspire to continue breaking down barriers and paving the way for generations. I have learned that leadership knows no bounds, and with determination and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to. Through mentorship, leadership, and a commitment to breaking down barriers, I am ready to embark on this journey and make a difference in the world.
Winning this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me attain my goals of completing my Masters degree and enlisting in the Air Force. However, financing a college education can be a significant challenge, especially considering the costs associated with tuition, textbooks, housing, and other expenses. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with attending college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and extracurricular activities. Whether it's through leadership opportunities, community service projects, or specialized training programs, these experiences would further prepare me for the challenges and responsibilities of serving in the military. Overall, it would be a crucial stepping stone towards realizing my aspirations and making a meaningful contribution to both my country and my community.