1. I learned English at a young age while growing up and attending school in Chicago. English has always been the primary language used in my education, communication, and everyday life. Over time, reading, writing, and speaking English helped me build confidence in expressing my ideas, communicating with others, and succeeding academically. Strong communication skills have also helped me become a better leader, student, and mentor within my community. 2(a). One obstacle I encountered in my educational journey was balancing school responsibilities with personal and community responsibilities outside of school. There were times when managing assignments, deadlines, leadership activities, and family responsibilities became stressful and overwhelming. Trying to handle everything at once sometimes affected my focus and time management. 2(b). I overcame this obstacle by becoming more organized and disciplined. I started using planners, reminders, and schedules to manage my time more effectively. I also learned the importance of asking teachers, mentors, and family members for support when needed. Staying focused on my long-term goals motivated me to continue working hard even during stressful moments. 3. My educational role model is my mother because she has always encouraged me to work hard, stay focused, and believe in myself. She has shown me the importance of perseverance, responsibility, and determination even during difficult situations. Watching her continue to push forward and support our family has motivated me to take my education seriously and strive for success. Her guidance continues to inspire me to become a leader and make a positive impact on others. 4(a). I plan to continue my education by attending college and pursuing a degree in business administration, accounting, or pre-nursing. I want to continue learning through internships, leadership opportunities, and hands-on experiences that will prepare me for my future career. I also hope to continue developing skills in communication, leadership, and service throughout my educational journey. 4(b). After completing my formal education, I hope to build a successful career where I can positively impact others and support my community. Whether through business, finance, or healthcare, I want to help people, create opportunities, and become someone who inspires others through leadership, compassion, and hard work. 5. Outside of school, I give back to my community through involvement with SGIE (Something Good in Englewood), a community-focused organization that supports youth and families in underserved neighborhoods. I have helped support programs focused on mentorship, youth development, and creating positive opportunities for young people. Giving back to others is important to me because I believe everyone deserves encouragement, support, and opportunities to succeed regardless of their background.

My name is Damien Bluitt, and I am a dedicated high school senior with strong interests in business administration, accounting, and pre-nursing. I am passionate about building a successful future while also helping others and creating positive change within my community. Growing up in Chicago has shaped many of my values and taught me the importance of resilience, compassion, faith, and service. Seeing both the struggles and strength within underserved communities inspired me to become someone who not only works toward personal success, but also uplifts others along the way. The principles of love, faith, and community service play an important role in who I am and how I want to impact the world. Love, to me, means showing kindness, understanding, and support to people even during difficult times. I believe small acts of care and encouragement can make a major difference in someone’s life. Faith has helped me remain focused and motivated through challenges and uncertainty. It reminds me to stay hopeful, work hard, and trust that my efforts can lead to something meaningful. Community service has shown me the importance of giving back and using my abilities to support those around me. One way I have practiced these values is through my involvement with SGIE (Something Good in Englewood), a community-focused organization that supports youth and families in underserved neighborhoods. Through this experience, I have seen how mentorship, encouragement, and positive opportunities can inspire young people and help them believe in themselves. Being involved in programs that focus on youth development and community engagement strengthened my desire to continue serving others and making a difference where it is needed most. My future goals in business, accounting, or healthcare are all connected to service and leadership. In business and accounting, I want to help organizations and communities achieve financial stability and growth while creating opportunities for others. In healthcare, I want to provide compassionate care and support to individuals and families during some of the most important moments of their lives. No matter which path I pursue, I want my work to reflect integrity, compassion, and a commitment to helping people. I plan to make a positive impact by continuing to serve underserved communities, mentor younger students, and use my education to create opportunities for others. I want to become a leader who inspires people through hard work, kindness, and service. My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact by helping others feel supported, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Through love, faith, and community service, I hope to contribute to a stronger and more compassionate world.

One specific problem I personally encountered was learning how to balance school responsibilities, leadership activities, and personal responsibilities outside of school. During my junior and senior years of high school, I was involved in academics while also helping with community-based activities connected to youth programs and family responsibilities at home. There were times when everything felt overwhelming at once. I had assignments, deadlines, and important events all happening during the same periods, and it became difficult to manage my time effectively. One situation that stands out was during a week when I had multiple school assignments due while also helping prepare and organize activities connected to a community youth program. At first, I tried handling everything without creating a plan. I thought I could simply remember everything in my head and finish tasks as they came up. That approach did not work well because I started forgetting deadlines, becoming stressed, and feeling mentally exhausted. I noticed that when I became overwhelmed, my productivity decreased and it became harder to focus on important tasks. After realizing this, I decided to make changes to how I organized my time. I started writing down assignments, responsibilities, and deadlines in a planner and using reminders on my phone to stay on track. I also learned how to prioritize tasks based on importance and urgency instead of trying to complete everything at once. In addition, I became more comfortable asking teachers, mentors, or family members for support when I needed guidance or extra time to manage certain responsibilities. What worked best was creating structure and learning how to manage my schedule more effectively. Once I became more organized, I felt less stressed and more confident handling multiple responsibilities. I also learned that taking short breaks and giving myself time to reset mentally helped improve my focus and productivity. However, one thing that did not work was trying to handle everything completely on my own without communicating when I needed help. I realized that asking for support is not a weakness, but an important part of growth and leadership. If I faced a similar situation again, I would start planning earlier instead of waiting until I already feel overwhelmed. I would also continue improving my time-management skills by setting clearer goals and maintaining a better balance between school, leadership activities, and personal responsibilities. This experience taught me responsibility, resilience, and the importance of organization, and it helped me grow into a more disciplined and prepared person.

My name is Damien Bluitt, and I am a dedicated high school senior with strong interests in business administration, accounting, and pre-nursing. I am passionate about building a successful future while also creating positive change in my community. Growing up in Chicago has shaped many of my values and goals. I have seen both the struggles and strength within underserved communities, and those experiences taught me the importance of hard work, leadership, compassion, and giving back to others. They also motivated me to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. One of the biggest influences in my life has been learning the importance of resilience and community support. I understand that many people face challenges that can limit their opportunities, including financial hardship, lack of resources, or unstable environments. Seeing these realities inspired me to stay focused on my education and become someone who can help others overcome obstacles. Whether through business, healthcare, or financial leadership, I want my future career to positively impact people and provide support to those who need it most. My passion for business administration and accounting comes from my interest in leadership, problem-solving, and financial responsibility. I enjoy learning how businesses operate and how financial decisions can affect individuals, organizations, and communities. I want to develop the skills necessary to help businesses grow, create opportunities for others, and promote financial stability. At the same time, my interest in pre-nursing reflects my desire to directly help people through care, compassion, and service. Healthcare professionals play an important role in improving lives, and I admire the dedication and strength required to support patients and families during difficult times. Leadership and service have also become important parts of who I am. Through my involvement with SGIE (Something Good in Englewood), I have supported efforts focused on youth development, mentorship, and creating opportunities for underserved communities. These experiences showed me how important it is to encourage young people and provide safe, supportive environments where they can grow and succeed. Being involved in community-focused programs helped me strengthen my communication, teamwork, and leadership skills while also teaching me the value of uplifting others. The degree I am pursuing will help me achieve both my personal and professional goals by giving me the education, knowledge, and experience needed to succeed in my chosen field. Through college, I hope to build strong leadership skills, gain hands-on experience, and prepare myself for a career where I can make a lasting impact. Whether I pursue business, accounting, or healthcare, I want to use my education to improve lives and strengthen communities. In the future, I plan to use my degree to create opportunities for others, promote financial and personal stability, and serve communities that are often overlooked. I hope to become a leader who inspires others through hard work, compassion, and determination. My ultimate goal is not only to achieve success for myself, but also to use that success to uplift others and leave a positive impact on the world around me.

My name is Damien Bluitt, and I am a dedicated high school senior with a strong passion for architecture, civil engineering, and community development. Ever since I was younger, I have been fascinated by how buildings, neighborhoods, and public spaces are designed and how they can shape people’s lives. I want to pursue a career where I can combine creativity, leadership, and technical skills to help build stronger and safer communities. Growing up in Chicago has shown me both the beauty and the struggles within many neighborhoods, and those experiences have inspired me to become someone who creates positive change through design and development. Through my chosen major, I plan to make a positive impact on the world by designing affordable, safe, and modern spaces that improve the quality of life for families and communities. I believe architecture and engineering are more than just constructing buildings—they are about creating environments where people can feel safe, supported, and inspired. In the future, I hope to work on projects that help revitalize underserved neighborhoods, provide better housing opportunities, and create community spaces for young people to learn and grow. I also want to encourage more young Black students to pursue careers in architecture, engineering, and construction by mentoring and supporting them along the way. One cause that is especially important to me is supporting youth and families in underserved communities. I am connected to SGIE (Something Good in Englewood), an organization that focuses on creating positive opportunities for young people through mentorship, education, and community programs. This cause matters to me because I understand how important it is for young people to have safe spaces, support systems, and opportunities to succeed. Many students face challenges that can make it difficult to stay motivated or believe in themselves, and programs like SGIE help give them hope, guidance, and encouragement. I want to continue being involved in efforts that uplift my community and help others recognize their potential. If awarded this scholarship, it would help me continue pursuing my educational goals by reducing the financial burden of college expenses. It would allow me to focus more on my education, internships, and professional growth opportunities that will prepare me for my future career. This scholarship would not only support my journey toward earning a degree, but it would also bring me one step closer to making a lasting impact through my work and service to others.

One meaningful project I have been involved in is working with SGIE (Something Good in Englewood), a community-focused organization dedicated to supporting youth and families in underserved neighborhoods in Chicago. Through this involvement, I have helped contribute to creating positive opportunities for young people by supporting programs centered around education, mentorship, creativity, and community engagement. Many of the students connected to these programs come from challenging backgrounds, including families experiencing homelessness or financial hardship. Because of this, it is important to provide safe and supportive spaces where young people can feel encouraged, valued, and motivated to succeed. One initiative that stood out to me was helping organize opportunities for younger students to participate in educational and creative summer programs. We worked to connect students between the ages of 10–14 with hands-on learning experiences that introduced them to new ideas, skills, and opportunities they may not normally have access to. These experiences included exploring science, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving through partnerships with community organizations and educational programs. We also worked on helping students gain access to transportation and resources so they could fully participate in activities that would positively impact their growth and confidence. What made this experience especially meaningful was seeing how excited and engaged the students became when they were given opportunities to explore, create, and learn in supportive environments. Many young people in underserved communities do not always have access to enrichment programs, mentorship, or spaces where they feel safe expressing themselves. Being part of something that encouraged students to dream bigger and believe in themselves showed me how important community support truly is. This experience also helped me grow personally. I learned leadership, communication, teamwork, and the importance of giving back to others. It taught me that innovation is not always about creating advanced technology or inventing something completely new. Sometimes innovation means finding creative ways to connect people with opportunities, resources, and support systems that can improve their lives. My involvement with SGIE connects directly to my future goals in architecture and community development. In the future, I want to design safe housing, youth centers, and community spaces that improve the quality of life for underserved populations. I want my career to focus on building stronger communities where people feel safe, supported, and inspired to succeed. By continuing to serve others and use my skills to create positive change, I hope to make a lasting impact on the world around me.

My name is Damien Bluitt, and I am a dedicated high school senior with a strong passion for architecture, civil engineering, and community development. Ever since I was younger, I have been fascinated by how buildings, neighborhoods, and public spaces are designed and how they can shape people’s lives. I want to pursue a career where I can combine creativity, leadership, and technical skills to help build stronger and safer communities. Growing up in Chicago has shown me both the beauty and the struggles within many neighborhoods, and those experiences have inspired me to become someone who creates positive change through design and development. Through my chosen major, I plan to make a positive impact on the world by designing affordable, safe, and modern spaces that improve the quality of life for families and communities. I believe architecture and engineering are more than just constructing buildings they are about creating environments where people can feel safe, supported, and inspired. In the future, I hope to work on projects that help revitalize underserved neighborhoods, provide better housing opportunities, and create community spaces for young people to learn and grow. I also want to encourage more young Black students to pursue careers in architecture, engineering, and construction by mentoring and supporting them along the way. One cause that is especially important to me is supporting youth and families in underserved communities. I am connected to SGIE (Something Good in Englewood), an organization that focuses on creating positive opportunities for young people through mentorship, education, and community programs. This cause matters to me because I understand how important it is for young people to have safe spaces, support systems, and opportunities to succeed. Many students face challenges that can make it difficult to stay motivated or believe in themselves, and programs like SGIE help give them hope, guidance, and encouragement. I want to continue being involved in efforts that uplift my community and help others recognize their potential. If awarded this scholarship, it would help me continue pursuing my educational goals by reducing the financial burden of college expenses. It would allow me to focus more on my education, internships, and professional growth opportunities that will prepare me for my future career. This scholarship would not only support my journey toward earning a degree, but it would also bring me one step closer to making a lasting impact through my work and service to others.

As a college-bound student from an immigrant family, my journey has been shaped by resilience, sacrifice, and a deep appreciation for opportunity. My family’s experience of building a life in a new country has shown me what it means to start over, work hard, and persevere through uncertainty. Even though I may not always fully share the same journey, I have grown up understanding the importance of the sacrifices made to create a better future. That perspective has motivated me to take my education seriously and to see it as a responsibility as much as an opportunity. Being part of an immigrant family has also come with challenges. There are moments when language barriers, financial limitations, or lack of familiarity with the education system create obstacles that I have had to navigate independently. As a first-generation college student, I have often had to figure out processes such as applications, financial aid, and scholarships on my own. While this has sometimes been overwhelming, it has also helped me become more independent, resourceful, and determined. I have learned how to ask questions, seek guidance, and advocate for myself when I need support. These experiences have shaped my goals and strengthened my desire to succeed in college and beyond. I am interested in pursuing Business Administration, Accounting, or Pre-Nursing because each path allows me to serve others in meaningful ways. In business and accounting, I want to help individuals and organizations build financial stability and make informed decisions that lead to long-term success. In healthcare, I am drawn to the opportunity to provide care, comfort, and support to people during some of their most vulnerable moments. Regardless of which path I choose, my goal is to use my education as a tool to create positive change. I also plan to use my experiences as an immigrant family member to make a broader impact on the world. I want to be a voice and example for students who come from similar backgrounds and may feel uncertain about their future. I understand what it feels like to navigate unfamiliar systems, and I want to help make that journey easier for others by offering guidance, mentorship, and encouragement. I believe that sharing knowledge and experience can help break down barriers and create more access to opportunity. Through my education, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive world. I want to use my skills to uplift communities, promote understanding, and help people feel seen and valued regardless of where they come from. My journey has taught me that while challenges are a part of life, they can also become the foundation for growth, purpose, and impact.

Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy of service, sacrifice, and bravery speaks deeply to me because those same values have shaped how I understand responsibility in my own life. Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household, I learned early that sacrifice is not always dramatic—it is often quiet, consistent, and personal. I watched my mom make daily sacrifices to ensure I had stability and opportunity, and that experience taught me that real strength is shown through perseverance, commitment, and putting others before yourself. As a first-generation student, I have also had to make sacrifices of my own, staying disciplined academically, learning things independently, and pushing forward even when I did not always have guidance or resources readily available. These experiences have shaped my personal journey by helping me develop resilience, focus, and a sense of purpose beyond myself. I have come to understand education as more than personal success; it is a responsibility and a tool for service. Like Sgt. Ware’s example of courage and dedication, I am inspired to use my own journey as a way to contribute to something larger than myself. His legacy reminds me that bravery is not only found in extraordinary acts, but also in everyday decisions to keep going, to serve others, and to work toward change even when challenges are present. This mindset also influences how I view the challenges faced by the African diaspora in the United States today. Many of these challenges are rooted in long-standing structural inequalities that impact education, economic opportunity, healthcare access, and representation. I believe addressing these issues requires both immediate support systems and long-term structural change. One of the most critical areas for reform is educational equity. Students in under-resourced communities need stronger school funding, access to experienced teachers, mentorship programs, and college readiness resources that help bridge opportunity gaps. Education should not depend on zip code, yet in many cases, it still does. Another important area is economic empowerment. Expanding access to financial literacy programs, job training, and small business support can help individuals build generational stability. In healthcare, increasing access to affordable and culturally competent care is essential in addressing disparities that continue to affect Black communities disproportionately. These reforms are not isolated they are connected, and real progress requires a holistic approach. Driving this kind of change requires collaboration between multiple stakeholders. Policymakers at local, state, and federal levels must be involved in creating equitable laws and funding systems. Schools, educators, and universities play a role in preparing and supporting students. Nonprofit organizations help fill gaps by providing resources and advocacy. Healthcare professionals and community leaders are essential in identifying needs and delivering support. The private sector also has responsibility in creating equitable opportunities and investing in communities. Most importantly, the voices of the people directly impacted must be centered, because lived experience is critical in shaping effective solutions. Ultimately, Sgt. Ware’s legacy inspires me to see service as both a duty and a lifelong commitment. It motivates me to use my education and future career whether in Business Administration, Accounting, or Pre-Nursing to create opportunities, support communities, and contribute to meaningful change. I want to be part of efforts that not only address immediate needs but also build systems that promote equity, access, and long-term empowerment for the African diaspora and beyond.

I want to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector because I am deeply motivated by the idea of serving people, strengthening communities, and addressing real issues that often get overlooked. Coming from a single-parent, low-income household has made me more aware of how much support systems, access to resources, and opportunity can shape someone’s future. I have seen how challenges like financial hardship, limited access to guidance, and lack of resources can affect families and individuals. Because of that, I want to be part of work that directly helps people overcome barriers and improves their quality of life. The nonprofit sector stands out to me because it focuses on purpose over profit. It allows people to work toward solutions that uplift communities, whether that is through education, health, financial support, youth development, or community outreach. I am especially drawn to the idea of helping people who are in situations similar to the ones I have experienced. I understand what it feels like to navigate challenges without always having clear direction, and I want to help create pathways that make things easier for others. Through my work, I hope to create a positive impact by focusing on empowerment and access. I want to help people not just receive assistance, but also gain knowledge and tools that allow them to grow independently. For example, I would love to support programs that promote financial literacy, educational access, and mentorship for students from under-resourced communities. I believe that when people are given information, encouragement, and opportunity, they are more likely to build stable and successful futures. My interest in Business Administration, Accounting, and Pre-Nursing also connects to my desire to serve others in different ways. In nonprofit or community-focused work, business and accounting skills are important for making organizations sustainable, organized, and effective. At the same time, my interest in healthcare reflects my desire to care for people directly and support their well-being. No matter the role, my goal is to be in a position where I can combine practical skills with compassion and service. Ultimately, I want my work in the nonprofit sector to reflect empathy, leadership, and action. I hope to contribute to the community that the nonprofit is in and also programs that not only respond to immediate needs but also create long-term change. My goal is to help build stronger communities where people feel supported, valued, and capable of reaching their full potential.

I am a first-generation college student from a single-parent, low-income household, and my journey has been shaped by resilience, responsibility, and a strong desire to create a better future. Growing up, I watched my mom work hard to provide stability for me, and her sacrifices taught me the value of discipline, perseverance, and gratitude. Because of my background, I learned early that success does not come easily you have to stay focused, stay consistent, and keep pushing forward even when things feel uncertain. My educational journey has not always been easy. As a first-generation student, I have had to figure out many things on my own, including college applications, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities. At times, this process felt overwhelming, especially without someone to guide me through every step. However, those challenges helped me become more independent, resourceful, and determined. I learned how to ask questions, seek support, and take initiative instead of giving up when things were difficult. One of my greatest strengths is my resilience. I do not allow setbacks to define me; instead, I use them as motivation to improve. I am also adaptable and disciplined, which has helped me stay focused on my goals even during stressful times. A weakness I continue to work on is overthinking and putting pressure on myself to get everything right the first time. However, I am learning that growth comes from progress, not perfection, and that mistakes are part of learning. My hopes and dreams are to build a successful career in either Business Administration, Accounting, or Pre-Nursing. I am drawn to business and accounting because I want to understand how organizations function and help people achieve financial stability and literacy. I am also drawn to nursing because I want to provide care, compassion, and support to people during vulnerable moments in their lives. No matter which path I fully pursue, my vision for the future is to be in a position where I can help others, create opportunities, and give back to my community. Beyond personal success, I want to be a source of inspiration for others who come from similar backgrounds. I want younger students to see that being first-generation or coming from a low-income household does not limit what they can achieve. Instead, it can build strength, motivation, and purpose. This scholarship would play a major role in helping me reach my goals. Financial support would reduce the burden on my family and allow me to focus more on my education rather than worrying about expenses. It would give me access to opportunities, resources, and experiences that will help me grow academically and professionally. More importantly, it would bring me one step closer to my dream of building a career where I can serve others and make a positive impact in my community and the world. Overall, my journey has taught me that my circumstances do not define my future. With hard work, support, and determination, I am committed to turning my challenges into strengths and using my education to create lasting change.

My career goals center on building a stable, impactful future where I can use my skills to help others and create opportunities in my community. I am currently interested in Business Administration, Accounting, and Pre-Nursing because each path aligns with different parts of who I am and what I want to accomplish. In business and accounting, I want to develop strong leadership and financial skills that can help organizations operate ethically while also promoting financial literacy for individuals and families. In healthcare, I am drawn to the idea of providing direct care, support, and compassion to people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. No matter which path I fully pursue, my overall goal is to build a career where I can make a meaningful difference while also achieving personal and financial stability. Playing chess has played an important role in developing the mindset I will need to achieve these goals. Chess has taught me how to think ahead, stay patient, and make decisions carefully rather than impulsively. Every move requires strategy, planning, and the ability to consider consequences, which directly connects to real-life decision-making. I have learned that success often comes from preparation and the ability to adapt when situations change unexpectedly. Just like in chess, life does not always go according to plan, so being flexible and thinking critically is essential. Chess has also taught me discipline and resilience. There are times when you make mistakes or lose a match, but instead of giving up, you learn from those mistakes and improve your strategy for the next game. That mindset has helped me in school and in life because I understand that setbacks are not failures they are opportunities for growth. It has also strengthened my focus and patience, which are important skills for long-term goals that require consistent effort over time. Another lesson I have gained from chess is the importance of thinking several steps ahead. I have learned to set goals, anticipate challenges, and prepare for different outcomes. This way of thinking will help me in my career because both business and healthcare require careful planning, attention to detail, and the ability to make thoughtful decisions under pressure. Overall, chess has shaped the way I approach challenges and goals. It has taught me strategy, patience, discipline, and resilience skills that I will carry into my education and future career. These lessons continue to motivate me to stay focused, think critically, and work consistently toward becoming successful and making a positive impact in my field.

I believe my unique talents and skills come from my lived experiences, resilience, and my ability to connect with people from different backgrounds in a genuine way. Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household and being a first-generation student has shaped how I see the world. It has made me more empathetic, patient, and understanding because I know what it feels like to face challenges without always having the resources or guidance you need. Because of that, I try to listen first, judge less, and understand people’s situations before making assumptions. One of my strongest skills is adaptability. I have learned how to adjust to different challenges, solve problems with limited resources, and keep moving forward even when things are difficult. Whether it is in school, personal responsibilities, or planning for my future, I have had to stay focused and figure things out on my own at times. This has strengthened my critical thinking and taught me how to stay calm under pressure. I also developed strong communication skills because I often had to advocate for myself, ask questions, and seek out help when I needed guidance. These experiences have helped me become more confident in expressing myself and understanding others. I plan to use these skills to help build a more empathetic and understanding global community by using my education and future career as a platform for impact. I am interested in pursuing Business Administration, Accounting, or Pre-Nursing because each path gives me the opportunity to serve people in different but meaningful ways. In business and accounting, I want to promote fairness, transparency, and financial literacy so that individuals and communities can make informed decisions and build stability. I believe financial understanding can reduce stress and open doors for many people who feel limited by their circumstances. In healthcare, I would focus on providing compassionate care and treating every patient with dignity, especially during moments when they are vulnerable or afraid. I want people to feel seen, heard, and respected no matter who they are or where they come from. Beyond my career goals, I also want to contribute through mentorship and community involvement. I understand how important it is to have someone who believes in you and guides you when things feel uncertain. I want to be that support system for younger students and individuals who may be going through similar experiences. By sharing my story and encouraging others, I hope to help them see that their background does not limit their future. Overall, I plan to use my resilience, communication skills, and empathy to contribute to a more understanding world. My goal is not only to succeed personally but also to help create environments where people feel supported, valued, and empowered. I want my impact to extend beyond myself and contribute to a global community that is more compassionate, inclusive, and aware of the different experiences people carry.

Attending higher education is a key step in helping me achieve my long-term goals because it will give me the knowledge, skills, and opportunities I need to grow both personally and professionally. As a first-generation student from a single-parent, low-income household, I understand that education is the pathway that can help me break barriers and create a more stable and successful future. College will not only provide me with a degree, but it will also expose me to new ideas, experiences, and networks that I would not have access to otherwise. Through higher education, I will gain technical and professional skills in my chosen field, whether I pursue Business Administration, Accounting, or Pre-Nursing. In business and accounting, I will learn how organizations operate, how to manage finances responsibly, and how to make informed decisions that can support economic growth. In healthcare, I would develop the clinical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to care for patients and support their well-being. These skills are important because they will allow me to contribute in meaningful and practical ways to society. Beyond academics, college will also help me develop confidence, communication skills, and leadership abilities. Working with professors, classmates, and mentors will challenge me to think critically and expand my perspective. It will also push me to become more independent and disciplined, which are qualities I will need in my future career. I plan to create a positive impact by using my education to give back to my community and support others who come from similar backgrounds. I want to be someone who helps create opportunities rather than just benefits from them. In business and accounting, I hope to promote financial literacy and help individuals and organizations build stability. In healthcare, I want to provide care and compassion to people who are going through difficult times. No matter which path I choose, my goal is to serve others and make a difference. I also plan to use my experiences as motivation to inspire others. I want to show younger students that their background does not define their future. Coming from a low-income household has taught me resilience and determination, and I want to use those lessons to encourage others to keep pushing forward. I hope to mentor and support students in my community so they understand that higher education is possible for them too. Overall, higher education is not just a personal goal for me—it is a foundation that will allow me to grow into a leader, professional, and role model. It will give me the tools I need to succeed while also preparing me to give back and make a lasting positive impact on the world around me.

Coming from a single-parent, low-income household has shaped my mindset, work ethic, and determination. My mom’s sacrifices taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. Seeing her push through challenges motivated me to stay focused on my education and future, even when resources and support were limited. One of my biggest challenges has been navigating school and college preparation with limited guidance and resources. As a first-generation student, I had to learn about financial aid, scholarships, and applications mostly on my own. Although it was overwhelming at times, it helped me become independent, resourceful, and more confident in asking for help when needed. My background has also taught me resilience and discipline. I learned how to stay focused even when life felt stressful or uncertain. Instead of allowing challenges to discourage me, I used them as motivation to keep moving forward and take my education seriously. I plan to use my experiences to make a positive impact by helping others from similar backgrounds. I want to show that your circumstances do not define your future. Whether I pursue Business Administration, Accounting, or Pre-Nursing, I want to create opportunities and support others. In business or accounting, I can promote financial literacy. In healthcare, I can directly care for and support people in need. Right now, I am actively working toward my goals by staying focused in school, applying for scholarships, and building the skills I need for college and my future career.

Growing up in the inner city shaped the way I view the world, myself, and my future. It taught me resilience at an early age because I learned how to adapt to challenges that many people outside of those environments may never fully understand. While there was a strong sense of community, culture, and perseverance around me, there were also realities such as violence, financial struggles, underfunded schools, and limited opportunities that affected many families, including my own. Seeing those conditions firsthand made me realize how important it is to work hard, stay focused, and create opportunities not only for myself, but also for the people around me. One of the biggest challenges I faced growing up was learning how to remain motivated in environments where negativity and distractions were common. In many inner-city communities, it can sometimes feel like people expect less from you before you even have the chance to prove yourself. There is pressure to fit into certain stereotypes, and success can feel difficult to reach when resources and support are limited. At times, balancing school, personal responsibilities, and outside pressures became overwhelming. However, those experiences forced me to become mentally strong and disciplined. Instead of allowing my environment to define me, I used it as motivation to push myself harder and think beyond my circumstances. Another challenge was navigating opportunities that were unfamiliar to my family and me as a first-generation college student. Applying to colleges, searching for scholarships, and understanding financial aid were all processes I had to learn largely on my own. There were moments when I felt uncertain about whether I was making the right decisions or whether I truly belonged in certain spaces. Still, I refused to let fear stop me from pursuing my goals. I began asking questions, seeking guidance from mentors and teachers, and taking initiative to educate myself about the opportunities available to me. Those experiences taught me independence, persistence, and the importance of advocating for myself. Despite the challenges, growing up in the inner city also gave me strengths that I carry with me today. It taught me how to connect with people from different backgrounds, how to remain determined during difficult situations, and how to appreciate opportunities that others may take for granted. It also gave me a deeper sense of empathy because I understand what it feels like to struggle and work through adversity. That perspective motivates me to pursue a future where I can give back to my community and help create opportunities for others who come from similar environments. I have overcome many challenges by staying focused on my goals, believing in my potential, and refusing to allow my circumstances to limit my future. Every obstacle I faced strengthened my determination to succeed. Rather than seeing where I come from as a disadvantage, I see it as a source of strength that has prepared me to handle adversity, lead with resilience, and continue striving for a better future for myself and those around me.

As a first-generation college student, my journey represents more than just earning a degree—it represents breaking barriers and creating new opportunities for myself and my family. Growing up, I understood that higher education could open doors to a better future, but I also realized that navigating the college process would come with challenges. Since my parents did not have the experience of attending college themselves, many parts of the process, such as applications, financial aid, scholarships, and choosing a career path, were things I had to learn largely on my own. While that responsibility was sometimes overwhelming, it also motivated me to become more independent, determined, and resourceful. Being first-generation has taught me the value of perseverance and hard work. I learned early on that success is not handed to you; it is built through consistency, sacrifice, and resilience. There were moments when I questioned whether I was prepared for the pressure and expectations that come with pursuing higher education, but those moments only strengthened my desire to succeed. I want to show my family and younger students in my community that it is possible to overcome obstacles and pursue goals that may once have seemed out of reach. My education is not only for me it is also for the people who supported me and for those who will look at my journey as motivation for their own. My motivation for pursuing careers in Business Administration, Accounting, and Pre-Nursing comes from my desire to create stability, help others, and make a meaningful impact in society. I am interested in business and accounting because I enjoy leadership, problem-solving, and understanding how organizations function. I also recognize how important financial literacy and economic opportunity are in many communities. I want to gain the skills necessary to help businesses grow responsibly while also educating and empowering others financially. Too many people struggle because they lack access to financial knowledge, and I hope to use my education to help close that gap. At the same time, I am drawn to Pre-Nursing because of the opportunity to directly care for and support people during difficult moments in their lives. Nurses play a critical role in healthcare by not only treating patients physically, but also comforting them emotionally. I admire the compassion, patience, and strength required in the medical field, and I would be honored to have a career where I can make a difference in someone’s life every day. Ultimately, my career goals are shaped by both my personal experiences and my desire to create opportunities for others. Being a first-generation student has shown me the importance of resilience, determination, and community support. It has motivated me to pursue a path where I can achieve success while also giving back and helping others reach their own potential. I want my story to be an example that challenges can become motivation and that with dedication and purpose, it is possible to create a future that extends beyond yourself.

I perceive myself as a positive force in society by striving to support others, lead by example, and use my education and experiences to create opportunities for people around me. I believe that positive change does not always come from large actions; it often comes from consistency, compassion, and the willingness to help others grow. Right now, I try to contribute positively through my academic efforts, leadership, and interactions with my peers and community. I aim to be someone others can depend on for encouragement, honesty, and motivation. Whether it is helping classmates with schoolwork, supporting friends through challenges, or participating in activities that benefit my community, I believe every action contributes to the type of society we build together. As I continue to grow, I hope to expand my impact through my future career and personal goals. I am interested in fields such as Business Administration, Accounting, and Pre-Nursing because each path offers a different way to improve people’s lives. In business and accounting, I hope to help organizations operate ethically and efficiently while also promoting financial literacy and economic opportunity within communities. Financial knowledge is important because many people struggle due to a lack of access to information and resources, and I would like to help close that gap. In healthcare, I would have the opportunity to directly support individuals during vulnerable moments in their lives. Nurses not only care for patients physically, but they also provide emotional support and reassurance. Regardless of which path I ultimately pursue, my goal is to use my career as a platform to help others and create meaningful change. Current social norms strongly shape the way I think about being a positive force in society. Today’s society places a high value on leadership, individuality, and social awareness. Young people are encouraged to speak out about issues such as inequality, mental health, education, and economic struggles. Social media has also changed the way people influence others because ideas and movements can spread quickly across the world. This creates an environment where individuals have more power than ever to inspire change, but it also comes with pressure to constantly meet expectations or present a perfect image. Because of this, I believe it is important to remain authentic and grounded in values such as empathy, integrity, and accountability rather than focusing only on personal success or public approval. At the same time, society often emphasizes competition and achievement, which can sometimes make people prioritize themselves over their communities. Seeing this has shaped my belief that true success should include uplifting others along the way. I want to be remembered not only for my accomplishments, but also for the positive impact I had on the people around me. In the future, I hope to mentor younger students, contribute to my community, and continue developing into a leader who values service just as much as achievement. By staying committed to growth, compassion, and responsibility, I believe I can continue being a positive force in society both now and in the future.

If I were given the wings to fly to any community in the world to learn or serve, I would choose to go to underserved urban communities like Englewood in Chicago and also similar communities globally that face poverty, limited healthcare access, and underfunded schools. I would want to study how different communities survive, build resilience, and continue to grow even when resources are not equal. Growing up in Englewood and being involved with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE) has shown me both the challenges and the strength that exists in neighborhoods like mine. I want to understand how systems affect these communities and how people within them still find ways to succeed, create, and lead. What draws me most is the people. I have seen young people who are full of potential but do not always have access to the same opportunities as others. I have also seen how programs, mentorship, and consistent support can completely change someone’s mindset and future. If I could travel and serve other communities like this, I would want to bring both learning and support learning how different places address issues like education, healthcare, and funding, and also contributing by serving through youth programs, healthcare outreach, or community development. This experience connects deeply to my values of service, equity, and education. I believe everyone deserves a fair chance regardless of where they come from. My interest in nursing, business administration, and accounting all connect to this because they allow me to serve people in different ways through healthcare, through financial support systems, and through helping organizations grow. I want to use what I learn in different communities to bring back ideas that can help improve conditions in my own. The “Butterfly Effect” of this experience would be powerful. If I learn how other communities successfully support their youth, improve healthcare access, or manage resources, I can bring those ideas back to Englewood and similar neighborhoods. Even small changes like better youth engagement programs, improved financial organization for nonprofits, or stronger healthcare outreach can create long-term impact. One experience can lead to better systems, which then lead to better opportunities for families and future generations. I also believe that sharing stories and knowledge between communities can inspire others to believe in change and take action themselves. If I took this journey, I would be carrying the guidance and influence of important mentors and ancestors with me. First, I carry my mother, who runs a nonprofit campaign focused on equitable funding. Her work has taught me what it means to advocate for fairness, especially in education and community resources. She has shown me that leadership requires courage, consistency, and care for others. I would also carry the lessons from my experiences at SGIE, where I have learned patience, responsibility, and the importance of showing up for young people who need support. In addition, I carry the strength of my community and the legacy of Black resilience. Growing up as a young Black person has taught me about perseverance, identity, and pride in where I come from. It has also taught me to move with purpose and to create opportunities not just for myself, but for those who come after me. Overall, this journey wouldn't just be about travel it would be about growth, service, and connection. This will allow me to learn from other communities while also bringing back knowledge that can create change. Most importantly, I would be carrying the voices, sacrifices, and dreams of the people who shaped me, and using them to help build a better future for others.

Faith plays an important role in my life because it gives me strength, direction, and peace during difficult times. It helps me stay grounded when life feels overwhelming and reminds me that my goals have purpose beyond just myself. My faith teaches me patience, discipline, and the importance of continuing forward even when things are not easy. When I face stress from school, family responsibilities, or personal challenges, my faith helps me stay focused and not lose sight of the future I am working toward. My faith has also impacted my academic goals by pushing me to stay committed to my education. It reminds me that my opportunities are not something to take for granted, and that I should use them wisely. When school feels difficult or stressful, I think about the bigger purpose behind my work. I want to succeed not only for myself, but for my family and my community. My faith encourages me to keep going even when I feel tired or discouraged, and to believe that hard work will lead to growth and success over time. Beyond faith, my biggest motivation to pursue higher education comes from my family and my community experiences. My mother has played a major role in pushing me toward higher education. She runs a nonprofit campaign focused on equitable funding, and watching her work has shown me the importance of education, advocacy, and leadership. She has taught me that knowledge is power and that education can be used to create real change in communities that are often overlooked. Seeing her dedication inspires me to follow a similar path of service and impact. My involvement with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE) has also pushed me toward higher education. Through SGIE, I have worked with youth programs and seen how important education, mentorship, and support are for young people. I have seen students who just need encouragement and guidance to believe in themselves. These experiences made me realize that I want to be in a position where I can continue helping others on a larger scale. Whether through nursing, business administration, or accounting, I want to use my education to build stronger systems of support for my community. Teachers, mentors, and community leaders have also influenced my decision to pursue higher education. They have encouraged me to stay focused, set goals, and believe in my ability to succeed even when challenges arise. Their support has helped me understand that college is not just about earning a degree, but about gaining the tools needed to make a lasting impact. Overall, faith gives me strength and direction, while my family, mentors, and community experiences give me motivation and purpose. Together, they have shaped my decision to pursue higher education and inspired me to aim higher for my future. I want to continue growing academically and personally so that I can give back, support others, and create opportunities for the next generation. Social media handles: Instagram- Trendsetter_d7

My career goal as a nurse is to become a compassionate, skilled healthcare professional who provides quality care while also addressing the emotional and mental needs of patients. I am especially interested in pediatrics or community health nursing because I want to work with children, families, and underserved populations who may not always have equal access to healthcare. To me, nursing is not just about treating illness it is about building trust, educating patients, and helping people feel safe during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives. I plan to make a difference in my community by focusing on both direct care and long-term impact. In direct care, I want to be a nurse who listens, shows patience, and treats every patient with dignity and respect, no matter their background or situation. Many people in communities like mine do not always feel fully seen or understood in healthcare settings, and I want to help change that by being someone who provides culturally aware and compassionate care. I want my patients to feel comfortable asking questions, expressing concerns, and trusting that they are being heard. Beyond direct patient care, I also want to make a difference by addressing health education and prevention. A lot of health issues can be improved when people have the right information early. I want to help families understand how to take care of their health, recognize warning signs, and access resources before problems become more serious. In underserved communities, education can be just as important as treatment, and I want to be part of bridging that gap. My community involvement through Something Good in Englewood (SGIE) has already helped prepare me for this path. Through SGIE, I have worked with youth programs where I supported students, helped guide activities, and created a safe and positive environment. These experiences taught me patience, responsibility, and the importance of consistency. They also helped me understand how powerful it is to simply show up for others, especially young people who need encouragement and stability. I am also motivated by my experiences growing up in a community where access to resources is not always equal. I have seen how important programs, funding, and support systems are for families and youth. This connects to my interest in community health nursing because I want to help improve access to care and ensure that people in neighborhoods like mine receive the same quality of healthcare as others. In the future, I also hope to use my nursing career to give back through outreach programs, health education events, and partnerships with community organizations like SGIE. I want to be involved not just inside hospitals, but also outside of them, helping to bring healthcare information and support directly to the community. Overall, my goal as a nurse is to combine compassion, knowledge, and service. I want to be someone who helps patients feel cared for, supports families through difficult times, and works toward improving healthcare access in my community. Nursing is the path I chose because it allows me to turn my passion for helping others into a lifelong commitment to making a real difference.

I have gained important experience through both volunteer work and community involvement, especially through Something Good in Englewood (SGIE), as well as through lessons I have learned from mentors in my life, including my mother. I have also grown up as a young Black person in America, and that identity has shaped how I see the world, how I move through different spaces, and how I understand responsibility, opportunity, and resilience. These experiences together have shaped my values, my work ethic, and my goals for the future. I have not held a traditional paid job yet, but my volunteer experience through SGIE has been one of the most meaningful parts of my growth. Through SGIE, I have worked with youth programs that support children and teens in my community, many of whom face challenges like limited resources, unstable housing, and lack of support systems. My role has included helping with activities, supporting younger students, and making sure they feel included and respected. These experiences taught me patience, consistency, and accountability. I learned that even when you are not being paid or recognized, your presence can still have a powerful impact on someone else’s life. Being a young Black person has also shaped my understanding of responsibility and representation. I have learned that sometimes I am placed in situations where I have to carry myself in a way that reflects not just who I am individually, but how I want to represent my community. At times, I have felt pressure to prove myself in spaces where people may already have assumptions about me. Instead of letting that discourage me, it has pushed me to stay focused, work harder, and remain confident in my abilities. It has also made me more aware of how important it is to create opportunities and spaces where Black youth feel supported, valued, and understood. One of the biggest lessons I have learned through SGIE and my lived experience is that leadership is about service. It is about showing up, listening, and being consistent. I have learned that sometimes the most meaningful support is not big or loud it is simply being present for someone who needs encouragement. I have also learned emotional awareness by working with students who may be going through things they do not always talk about openly. A major mentor in my life is my mother, who runs a nonprofit campaign focused on equitable funding. Watching her advocate for fairness, especially in education and community resources, has influenced how I see both leadership and justice. As a Black woman leading that kind of work, she has shown me what it means to push for change even when systems are not always designed to support you. From her, I have learned discipline, resilience, and the importance of speaking up for communities that are often overlooked. Looking ahead, I want to continue growing through education in business administration, accounting, and pre-nursing. In business and accounting, I want to help organizations like SGIE manage resources and funding so they can continue serving communities like mine. In nursing, I want to provide care in a way that is compassionate, respectful, and culturally aware, especially in underserved Black communities where healthcare access is not always equal. Over time, I want to grow into someone who not only succeeds personally, but also uplifts others. My experiences as a Black student, my volunteer work, and my family influence have taught me that growth is not just about achievement it is about impact, responsibility, and creating space for others to succeed as well.

My personal experiences with finances and financial education have shown me both the importance of money management and the challenges that come when financial knowledge is limited. Growing up, I have seen that finances are not just about having money, but about knowing how to use it wisely, plan ahead, and make decisions that support long term stability. In my household, I have learned that financial situations can change quickly, and that being informed about money is very important for building a secure future. One of my biggest influences in understanding finances is my mother, who runs a nonprofit campaign focused on equitable funding. Through her work, I have seen how funding decisions affect schools, communities, and opportunities for young people like me. Watching her manage budgeting, fundraising, and advocacy work has helped me understand that financial education is powerful. It determines whether programs can grow, whether resources reach the right people, and whether communities are given a fair chance to succeed. This experience showed me that finances are not just personal they affect entire communities. However, I also recognize that my financial education is still developing. Like many students my age, I have not had full exposure to advanced financial literacy topics such as investing, credit management, or long-term financial planning in depth. Most of my understanding has come from real-life observation, school learning, and community experiences rather than formal financial training. Because of this, I am motivated to continue learning so I can make smarter financial decisions in my future. My experience with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE) has also helped me understand the importance of finances in community programs. I have seen how important funding is in keeping youth programs active and accessible. When resources are limited, it directly affects the number of students who can be served and the quality of support they receive. This has made me realize that financial knowledge is not just useful for individuals, but essential for organizations that serve others. I plan to use what I learn about finances to better my future in several ways. First, in my goal to study business administration and accounting, I want to build strong financial literacy skills so I can manage money responsibly. I want to understand budgeting, saving, and financial planning so I can create stability for myself and my future family. I also want to use these skills to help organizations like SGIE manage funding more effectively, apply for grants, and ensure that resources are used in the best way possible. Second, I want to use financial knowledge to break cycles of financial struggle in my family and community. By understanding how money works, I can make better decisions that lead to long-term growth instead of short-term survival. I also want to share what I learn with others, especially younger students, so they can develop strong financial habits early. Overall, my ambition is to become financially educated and responsible so I can create stability for myself while also giving back to my community. My need for financial education comes from real-life observation and experience, and my boldest goal is to use that knowledge to create opportunities, support organizations, and help build a stronger financial future for myself and others.

The nursing industry interests me as a career choice because it combines science, care, and service in a way that directly impacts people’s lives. Nursing is not just about treating illness it is about supporting people through some of their most vulnerable moments and helping them feel safe, understood, and cared for. That level of human connection is what draws me to this field. I want a career where my work has a real purpose, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make a difference every day. My long-term goal for a successful nursing career is to become a nurse who is both skilled and compassionate, especially in underserved communities. I am interested in pediatric or community health nursing because I enjoy working with young people and want to help improve access to healthcare in areas like Englewood. I also want to be someone who patients and families can trust, not just for medical care but also for emotional support and guidance. Success to me is not only about advancing in my career, but about how many lives I can positively impact through my work. I have already taken steps that show my passion for helping others. One of my biggest personal experiences has been my involvement with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE). Through SGIE, I have worked with youth programs that support children and teens, many of whom come from challenging backgrounds. I help assist with activities, guide students, and create a positive environment where they feel safe and encouraged. These experiences have helped me develop patience, leadership, and compassion skills that are very important in nursing. Being around young people who need support has strengthened my desire to be in a helping profession. I have also had experiences that connect to mental health and personal challenges in my community. There have been moments where I have seen students feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected. In those situations, I have learned the importance of simply being present, listening, and showing kindness. These experiences have taught me that care is not always about big actions it is often about small moments of understanding that can change someone’s day. While I do not yet have formal medical experience such as internships or clinical training, my volunteer work has given me a strong foundation in care and responsibility. Through SGIE, I have gained experience working closely with people, understanding their needs, and responding with patience and respect. I am also preparing myself for future medical exposure through my planned studies in pre-nursing, where I hope to gain hands-on clinical experience and strengthen my skills in patient care. Overall, my passion for nursing comes from my desire to serve others with kindness and purpose. My experiences with SGIE and my interactions in my community have shown me the importance of compassion, patience, and consistency. I want to build a career where I can combine those values with medical knowledge to improve lives. Nursing is not just a career goal for me it is a commitment to helping others and making a lasting impact in my community.

One situation I am personally aware of that showed compassion happened through my involvement with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE), while working with younger students in my community program. There was a moment when one of the students was having a really difficult day. He came into the program already quiet and disconnected from the group. During the activity, he was not participating and seemed frustrated, like he did not want to be there. Instead of ignoring him or forcing him to join in, one of the program leaders and I chose to approach him with patience and understanding. We did not pressure him or embarrass him in front of the group. Instead, we spoke to him calmly and gave him space to express how he was feeling. At first, he did not say much, but after a while, he opened up and shared that he was dealing with problems at home and felt overwhelmed. The leader listened carefully without judging him or rushing him. I also stayed and listened, making sure he knew he was being heard. After that, we encouraged him to participate in a smaller, simpler part of the activity instead of expecting him to jump into everything at once. Slowly, he began to engage again. What stood out to me most in that moment was how simple compassion made a difference. No one gave a lecture or tried to “fix” everything immediately. Instead, the focus was on listening, understanding, and giving him space to feel safe. That small act of patience changed his entire attitude for the rest of the day. Later on, he was smiling, participating, and interacting with the other students again. This situation affected me deeply because it showed me the real power of compassion in action. Before this, I understood compassion as being kind or helpful, but this experience helped me see that it also means being present and emotionally aware of what someone else is going through. It is about slowing down and meeting people where they are instead of expecting them to always be okay. It also influenced how I see my role in my community. It reminded me that small actions like listening, showing patience, or simply not judging someone can have a real impact on someone’s emotional well-being. This experience strengthened my commitment to working with youth and serving my community through SGIE. It also connected to my interest in nursing because I realized that healthcare and caregiving are not only about physical treatment, but also emotional support and understanding. Overall, witnessing and participating in that compassionate moment changed the way I interact with others. It taught me to pay closer attention to people’s emotions and to respond with patience instead of assumptions. It also reinforced my belief that compassion is one of the most powerful tools we can use to support and uplift others, especially young people who may be silently struggling.

My ambition, drive, and impact are all connected to my goal of using my education to improve my community and create opportunities for others. I am a high school student planning to pursue degrees in business administration, accounting, and pre-nursing. These fields are important to me because they allow me to serve people in different ways—through healthcare, financial responsibility, and supporting organizations that strengthen communities. My ambition is not only about personal success, but about creating lasting change for people who may not always have access to the same opportunities. My ambition comes from my upbringing and the experiences I have witnessed in my community. Growing up, I saw both challenges and resilience around me. One of the biggest influences in my life is my mother, who runs a nonprofit campaign focused on equitable funding. Watching her advocate for fairness in education and resources showed me that ambition is not just about dreaming, but about taking action to create change. That example taught me to aim high while still staying grounded in service to others. My drive comes from personal responsibility and lived experiences. I have had moments where life circumstances made it difficult to stay focused, whether it was stress at home, school pressure, or feeling overwhelmed. Instead of giving up, I learned to stay disciplined and keep pushing forward. My involvement with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE) also strengthened my drive. Working with young people who depend on support and encouragement reminds me that my consistency matters. Even when I feel tired, I still show up because I know my presence can make a difference. Mental health and suicide prevention are also important topics that connect deeply to my experiences. Many students my age face pressure, stress, and personal struggles while balancing school, family, and expectations. I have experienced moments of emotional stress where things felt overwhelming, and during those times I learned the importance of support systems. SGIE and trusted mentors helped me stay grounded and reminded me that I was not alone. Because of this, I believe mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health. It has also shaped how I treat others I try to be more patient, understanding, and supportive because I never know what someone may be going through. My impact is shown through my service in SGIE and my advocacy for equitable funding. Through SGIE, I help support youth programs that provide safe spaces for young people, especially those from underserved backgrounds. I work with students, encourage them, and help create a positive environment where they feel seen and supported. I am also involved in conversations about equitable funding because I believe all communities deserve equal access to resources. These experiences have taught me that impact starts with consistency, care, and showing up for others. In the future, I plan to continue building on my ambition, drive, and impact through my education and career. In business administration and accounting, I want to help organizations like SGIE manage funding, apply for grants, and build stronger systems that support community programs. In nursing, I want to provide care that supports both physical and emotional needs, especially in underserved communities where healthcare resources are limited. I want to be part of systems that support people instead of overlooking them. Overall, my ambition pushes me forward, my drive keeps me focused through challenges, and my impact is already shown through my service and advocacy. My experiences continue to shape the leader and professional I am becoming.

A college degree will change the path of my life by giving me the education, skills, and opportunities I need to build a stable and successful future, not just for myself, but for future generations of my family. Coming from a background where I have seen challenges like financial instability and unequal access to resources, I understand how important education is in breaking cycles and creating new opportunities. A college degree represents more than personal success to me it represents change for my family’s future. For my family, a college degree would mean access to better financial stability and more knowledge that can be used to support others. With a degree in business administration and accounting, I will be able to understand how money, organizations, and systems work. That knowledge will allow me to help my family make smarter financial decisions and possibly build long-term stability. It also means I will be in a position where future generations of my family will have someone to look up to who completed college and opened doors that were not always available before. I want to be an example that shows younger family members that college is possible and worth it, no matter the challenges you face. Personally, a college degree means growth, independence, and purpose. It means I will be able to turn my goals into reality and use my education to make a real difference in my community. It also represents discipline and perseverance because I have worked hard throughout high school while balancing responsibilities at home and in my community. Earning a degree would show me that I am capable of pushing through challenges and achieving something that will impact not just my life, but other people’s lives as well. I am passionate about helping others, especially through education, healthcare, and community development. This passion comes from my experiences with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE), where I have worked with young people who come from different backgrounds and sometimes difficult situations. Through SGIE, I have helped support youth programs, guided students, and created positive spaces where kids feel safe and encouraged. I have also been involved in conversations about equitable funding, which is something I care deeply about because I have seen how lack of resources affects communities like mine. I have actively pursued my passion by staying involved in SGIE and by continuing to take my education seriously as I prepare for college. I am also interested in pre-nursing because I want to learn how to care for people directly and support their health and well-being. Nursing, business administration, and accounting may seem different, but they all connect to my passion for service. Whether I am helping a patient, supporting a nonprofit, or managing resources, my goal is to give back and make a difference. Overall, a college degree will change my life by giving me the tools to create opportunities, support my family, and serve my community. It represents not only my personal achievement, but also the beginning of a legacy of education, stability, and service that I hope will continue for future generations of my family.

A specific moment when my upbringing and family circumstances challenged me was during a period when my family was going through housing instability and I saw firsthand how quickly life can change. During that time, things at home were uncertain, and it affected my focus, my emotions, and my sense of stability. As a high school student it was difficult trying to balance school responsibilities while also dealing with stress about basic needs and where things were going next and if I was going to have to move again and what that would look like for me and mt education as a high school student. In that moment, I had to make a decision about how I would respond. Instead of letting the situation completely pull me away from my goals, I focused on what I could control. I made sure I kept attending school consistently, even when I felt overwhelmed. I also leaned on my support system, including trusted mentors and my involvement with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE). SGIE became a place where I could stay focused on something positive and productive. Being around younger students and helping with programs gave me a sense of responsibility and reminded me that I still had purpose even while dealing with challenges at home. There were days when I felt mentally drained, but I still chose to show up and participate in school and community activities. I would take time to complete assignments, ask for help when I needed it, and stay engaged in programs that kept me grounded. Instead of isolating myself, I used those experiences as motivation to keep moving forward. I also started paying closer attention to the importance of stability and resources in a person’s life, because I was living through what it feels like when those things are uncertain. That experience shaped the way I approach my future in a major way. It taught me resilience and discipline, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of why I want to pursue careers in nursing, business administration, and accounting. I realized that many people in my community face similar challenges, and sometimes even worse, without support systems to help them through it. Because of that, I want my future work to focus on helping create stability for others. Now, when I think about my future, I do not just think about personal success. I think about impact. I want to be in positions where I can support families, improve access to resources, and help people who are going through difficult situations. Whether I am working in healthcare as a nurse or supporting organizations through business and accounting, I want to use my skills to bring structure, care, and opportunity to communities like mine. Overall, that moment of instability did not stop me it shaped me. It taught me to stay focused even when life is difficult and to turn challenges into motivation for building a future where I can help others find stability, support, and hope.

I want to pursue a degree in nursing because I want a career that allows me to directly care for people, support them during difficult moments, and make a real difference in their health and quality of life. Nursing stands out to me because it is not just about science or medicine, but also about compassion, patience, and human connection. I have always been someone who enjoys helping others, and I want a profession where that passion can turn into daily action. My interest in nursing has grown through my experiences in my community, especially through my involvement with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE). Working with SGIE has shown me how important care and support are for young people and families who may not always have access to enough resources. I have seen how small acts of kindness, encouragement, and guidance can make a big difference in someone’s confidence and motivation. These experiences helped me realize that I want a career where I can provide consistent care and support to people who need it most. I am also motivated to pursue nursing because I care deeply about health equity. In many communities like Englewood, access to quality healthcare is not always equal. People may struggle to get the attention, resources, or education they need to stay healthy. I want to be part of changing that reality. Nursing gives me the opportunity to not only treat patients, but also educate them, advocate for them, and help reduce the gaps in healthcare access. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and receive quality care, no matter where they come from or what their situation is. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by being a source of support, trust, and care. I want patients to feel comfortable and safe when they are under my care. Whether I choose pediatrics or community health nursing, my goal will be to build strong relationships with patients and help them understand their health in a way that feels clear and manageable. I also want to focus on prevention and education, because helping people stay healthy before problems get worse is just as important as treating illness. In addition, I hope to use my role as a nurse to give back to communities like the one I grew up in. I want to work in areas where people may not always have easy access to healthcare and make sure they feel seen and supported. I also want to be a positive role model for younger students, showing them that they can pursue careers in healthcare and make a difference in their communities as well. Overall, I want to pursue nursing because it combines my passion for helping others with my desire to create real change. I hope to contribute to my community by providing compassionate care, advocating for health equity, and being someone patients can rely on during important moments in their lives.

I have decided to pursue a career in nursing because I want to dedicate my life to helping people in a direct and meaningful way. Nursing stands out to me because nurses are often the first people patients rely on when they are in pain, scared, or unsure about their health. I want to be someone who can provide comfort, care, and support during those important moments. For me, nursing is not just about treating illness it is about treating people with respect, patience, and compassion. My decision to pursue nursing also comes from my experiences in my community and my work with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE). Through SGIE, I have worked with young people who come from challenging situations, including homelessness and limited access to resources. Being around them has shown me how important it is to have caring adults who are present, patient, and supportive. I realized that I naturally enjoy helping people feel safe and cared for, especially when they are going through difficult times. That experience helped me understand that I want a career centered on service and human connection. I was also inspired by seeing how much of a difference caring professionals can make in people’s lives. Whether it is a nurse helping a patient recover, or a mentor encouraging a young person to keep going, I have seen how powerful support can be. It made me want to be that same kind of support system for others, especially in communities like mine where access to care is not always equal. I want to help bridge that gap by providing quality care and treating every patient with dignity. In addition, I am drawn to nursing because it connects to my long-term goal of serving communities in multiple ways. Along with my interest in business administration and accounting, I see nursing as another path where I can make a real impact. It allows me to help people directly while also being part of a system that improves overall community health. Overall, I chose nursing because it combines compassion, service, and purpose. It gives me the opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives every day, and that is something I truly value and want for my future. I found out about this scholarship from a website named BOLD, a website full of scholarships to make the finding of scholarships easier for graduating seniors like me.

Sustainability should be a priority in my future fields business administration, accounting, and nursing because all of them connect directly to how resources are used and how long communities can stay healthy, stable, and successful. Sustainability is important because it focuses on meeting today’s needs without harming future generations. If businesses, healthcare systems, and organizations do not think about environmental impact, it can lead to wasted resources, higher costs, and unhealthy living conditions, especially in underserved communities. In business administration, sustainability matters because companies make daily decisions that affect the environment. Things like energy use, waste production, and supply chain choices all have long-term effects. I want to be someone who helps organizations make smarter decisions that reduce waste and improve efficiency. For example, I could support businesses in choosing eco-friendly materials, reducing paper use by going digital, and improving systems so they use less energy. Even small changes in business operations can add up to a big environmental impact over time. In accounting, sustainability is also important because money decisions and environmental decisions are connected. Accountants can help track spending and show where resources are being wasted. In the future, I see myself helping organizations create budgets that support sustainable practices instead of harmful ones. For example, I could help companies or nonprofits like SGIE make financial choices that reduce unnecessary waste and invest in long-term, environmentally responsible solutions. Accounting is not just about numbers it is about making sure resources are used wisely. In nursing and healthcare, sustainability is important because hospitals and clinics also produce a lot of waste and use a lot of energy. I want to be part of a healthcare system that is more environmentally responsible. This could include reducing single-use waste when possible, supporting recycling programs in healthcare settings, and encouraging more efficient use of medical supplies without putting patient care at risk. Healthy environments also lead to healthier people, so protecting the environment is connected to protecting patients. In the future, I see myself helping reduce environmental impact by combining all of these skills. Whether I am working in a business, financial setting, or healthcare environment, I want to promote responsibility and smart resource use. I also want to support organizations that serve communities like Englewood, where environmental issues often connect with social and economic challenges. Many underserved communities face pollution, lack of green spaces, and limited resources, so sustainability can directly improve their quality of life. Overall, I believe sustainability is important in my fields because it affects both people and the planet. As I grow in my education and career, I want to be someone who makes thoughtful decisions that reduce waste, protect resources, and support healthier communities for the future.

One volunteering event I helped organize was a community-based youth program through Something Good in Englewood (SGIE). The goal of the event was to create a safe and engaging space for kids in the Englewood community, especially those who may not always have access to structured programs or resources. While I was not the only organizer, I played an active role in planning, setting up, and making sure the event ran smoothly for the younger students who attended. My role in the event involved helping prepare activities for the kids, assisting with setup, and making sure participants felt welcomed and included. During the event, I worked directly with the youth by guiding them through activities, helping them stay engaged, and supporting them when they needed help or encouragement. Some of the kids needed extra attention, whether it was understanding instructions or simply feeling comfortable in a new environment. I made sure to be patient with them and to treat each child with care and respect so they felt valued. Even after the activities were over, I helped clean up and make sure the space was left organized for future use. This experience of volunteering and giving back to my community taught me that service is about action and consistency. It is not just about showing up once, but about being dependable and willing to put in effort to improve someone else’s experience. Through SGIE, I learned that small actions like listening to a child, encouraging them, or helping them complete a task can have a big impact on how they see themselves and their environment. Leadership through service is important because it is based on action, not just words. A leader is not just someone who gives instructions, but someone who is willing to help, support, and work alongside others. In my experience, leadership meant stepping up when something needed to be done, even if it was not directly assigned to me. It also meant being patient, responsible, and setting a positive example for others to follow. Serving in this way also showed me that leadership is about building trust. When people see that you are consistent and genuinely care, they are more likely to trust you and work with you. In a community setting, that trust is very important because it helps create stronger programs and better outcomes for the people being served. Overall, organizing and participating in this SGIE volunteer event helped me grow as both a helper and a leader. It showed me that giving back is not just about what you do, but how you make people feel, and that true leadership comes from serving others with care, respect, and dedication.

As a graduating high school student, I want to become a nurse because I want a career where I can directly help people and make a real difference in their lives. Nursing stands out to me because it is not just about a job or a paycheck it is about caring for people during some of their most vulnerable moments. Whether someone is sick, injured, scared, or going through a hard time, nurses are often the ones who are there to comfort them, support them, and help them heal. I want to be that kind of person for others. My interest in nursing also connects to my experiences in my community, especially through Something Good in Englewood (SGIE). Being involved with SGIE has shown me how important care, patience, and support are when working with people who come from challenging situations. I have worked with young people who need encouragement, guidance, and someone who believes in them. That experience helped me realize that I enjoy helping others in a meaningful way, especially when I can see the positive impact it has on their lives. Nursing feels like a natural extension of that passion for service. Another reason I want to become a nurse is because I care about health and access to care in communities like mine. In many areas, especially underserved communities, people do not always get the medical attention or support they need in time. I want to be part of changing that by becoming someone who provides quality care and treats every patient with respect and understanding, no matter their background or situation. I believe healthcare should be fair and compassionate for everyone. In terms of a specific area of nursing, I am interested in pediatrics or community health nursing. Pediatric nursing appeals to me because I enjoy working with children and helping them feel safe, especially in situations that may be scary for them. I would want to be someone who helps kids feel comfortable in medical settings and supports their growth and health from an early age. Community health nursing also interests me because it focuses on helping entire communities stay healthy, not just individual patients. This connects to my passion for service and my desire to help improve conditions in places like Englewood. Overall, I want to become a nurse because I want a career rooted in compassion, service, and impact. Nursing gives me the opportunity to combine my love for helping others with my desire to contribute to healthier and stronger communities. My experiences so far have shown me that I am passionate about supporting people, and nursing is the path where I can turn that passion into a lifelong purpose.

A meaningful moment that shaped how I view activism came through my work with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE), where I had the chance to work closely with a Black member of the LGBTQIA+ community. As a member myself this experience stood out to me because it showed me how identity can overlap in powerful ways, and how those overlaps can also create deeper challenges that many people do not always see or understand. Before this experience, I understood the idea of fairness in a general way, but I did not fully understand how complex it can be for someone who belongs to more than one marginalized group. Working alongside this person helped me see how being both Black and part of the LGBTQIA+ community can shape how someone is treated in different spaces whether in school, in the community, or even in programs meant to support young people. It made me realize that some people have to deal with more barriers than others just because of who they are. What impacted me most was seeing how strong and committed this person was despite those challenges. Through SGIE programs, they still showed up for younger kids, helped support activities, and gave encouragement to others. They carried themselves with confidence and care, even when I later learned they had experienced moments of being misunderstood or excluded in other spaces. That changed how I think about strength. I used to think strength was just about pushing through personal goals, but now I see that strength also means continuing to serve others even when you are not always fully accepted. This experience shaped my understanding of activism in a real way. I realized that activism is not only about speaking up during big events or protests. It is also about how you treat people every day, how you create safe spaces, and how you make sure others feel seen and respected. It made me more aware that silence can sometimes allow unfair treatment to continue, even if it is unintentional. Because of that, I now feel more responsible for using my voice when something is not right. It also strengthened my commitment to equitable funding and community support. I started thinking more deeply about how resources are distributed in communities like Englewood and how important it is for programs to be inclusive and properly funded. If organizations do not have enough support, they cannot properly serve all youth, especially those who already face extra barriers because of race, identity, or background. This experience also connects to my future goals in business administration, accounting, and pre-nursing. In business and accounting, I want to help organizations like SGIE stay strong financially so they can continue serving diverse communities in fair and inclusive ways. In nursing, I want to provide care that respects every person’s identity and lived experience, making sure patients feel safe and understood. Overall, working with a Black LGBTQIA+ member of SGIE helped me understand that activism is about recognizing people’s full identities and standing up for fairness in every space. It shaped my belief that real change comes from respect, awareness, and consistent action to make sure no one is left out or overlooked.

Making a positive impact on the world means more than just having good intentions it means taking action and using what I learn to help others in real ways. I plan to make a positive impact by combining my education in business administration, accounting, and pre-nursing with my commitment to serving my community. My goal is not just to be successful for myself, but to create opportunities, improve lives, and bring resources to people who need them most. One of the main ways I plan to make an impact is through my involvement with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE). I already see how important programs like this are for youth, especially those who come from underserved communities or difficult situations. In the future, with a background in business and accounting, I want to help organizations like SGIE grow and become even more effective. I plan to use my knowledge to manage budgets, organize programs, and make sure resources are used in the best way possible. This will allow programs to reach more kids and provide stronger support systems. Instead of just participating, I want to help build and sustain programs that create long-term change. Another way I plan to make a positive impact is through healthcare. By studying pre-nursing, I will be able to directly help people who are sick, injured, or in need of care. Healthcare is one of the most important ways to serve others because it affects people’s quality of life. I want to work in communities where access to healthcare may be limited and provide care to people who might otherwise be overlooked. Being able to comfort someone, help them recover, or even just listen to them during a difficult time is a powerful way to make a difference. I also plan to continue advocating for equitable funding and fair access to resources. I’ve already seen how unequal funding can affect schools and communities, and I want to be part of the solution. With my education, I will have more knowledge and confidence to speak up, organize, and support efforts that push for fairness. This could include helping create programs, working with organizations, or supporting policies that bring more resources to underserved areas. In addition, I believe that making a positive impact starts with everyday actions. I will continue to help others around me, whether it’s supporting classmates, mentoring younger students, or being someone people can rely on. Small actions build strong communities, and I want to be someone who consistently contributes in a positive way. Overall, I plan to make a positive impact by using my education with purpose. Through business, healthcare, and community work, I will focus on helping others, creating opportunities, and making sure that people in communities like mine have the support they need to succeed. My goal is to leave a lasting impact by improving lives and building a stronger, more equal future.

Selflessness means putting others before yourself and choosing to help even when it’s not convenient or when you don’t get anything in return. I embody selflessness through my actions in my community, especially through my work with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE), and through the way I treat people in everyday situations. For me, being selfless is about consistency, not just one big moment. It’s about showing up again and again for people who need support. One of the strongest examples of my selflessness is my involvement with SGIE. Many of the kids we work with come from difficult situations, including homelessness or unstable home environments. Because of that, they don’t always have people they can rely on. When I help out with programs, I make it a priority to be someone they can trust. There have been times when kids needed extra help staying focused, understanding activities, or just needed someone to talk to. Even when I had my own responsibilities or was tired, I still took the time to be there for them. I listened, encouraged them, and helped them feel seen. That may seem small, but for them, it can mean a lot. Being selfless in those moments meant putting their needs ahead of my own comfort. Another example is my effort in campaigning for equitable funding. I’ve learned that many communities, including mine, don’t receive the same resources as others, especially when it comes to education and youth programs. Speaking out about this is not always easy, and it doesn’t directly benefit me in the moment. However, I continue to advocate because I know it can help create better opportunities for others. Whether it’s raising awareness or supporting conversations about fairness, I am using my voice to push for change that helps more than just myself. This shows selflessness because I am focused on improving conditions for future students and communities. I also show selflessness in smaller, everyday ways. For example, I help classmates when they don’t understand assignments, even if it takes extra time out of my day. I try to be supportive when someone is going through a tough time, whether that means listening or offering advice. These actions may not seem big, but they reflect my mindset of caring about others and wanting to help whenever I can. Overall, I embody selflessness by being dependable, caring, and willing to put others first. My work with SGIE, my advocacy for equitable funding, and my daily actions all show that I am committed to helping others, even when it requires effort or sacrifice.

Living a life of service means taking real action to improve your community, not just talking about change. I embody this through my work with Something Good in Englewood (SGIE) and my commitment to advocating for fair opportunities, especially through campaigning for equitable funding in under resourced communities. For me, service is about showing up, giving back, and using my voice to push for change that benefits others. Through SGIE, I have been directly involved in supporting young people and families in my community. Whether it’s helping with programs, working with kids, or contributing ideas, I’ve seen how small actions can have a big impact. SGIE focuses on creating safe spaces and opportunities for youth, especially those who may come from difficult situations, including homelessness or lack of access to resources. Being part of that work has shown me the importance of consistency, care, and leadership. It’s not just about volunteering once it’s about being committed to making a difference over time. In addition to my work with SGIE, I have also been focused on campaigning for equitable funding. I understand that many communities, especially on the South Side of Chicago, do not receive the same level of resources as others. This leads to unequal schools, fewer opportunities, and limited access to quality programs. By speaking out and raising awareness, I am working to challenge these inequalities. Campaigning for equitable funding means advocating for fair distribution of money so that all students and communities have access to the same quality of education and support. My future goals in business administration, accounting, and pre-nursing all connect to my commitment to service. With a background in business and accounting, I plan to help organizations like SGIE grow and stay financially strong so they can continue helping others. I want to learn how to manage money, build programs, and create opportunities that support communities long-term. In pre-nursing, I will be able to care for people directly by helping them stay healthy and recover from illness. Healthcare is another important way to serve, especially in communities that may not always have easy access to quality care. Overall, my acts of service with SGIE and my efforts to campaign for equitable funding show that I am already working toward a life of service. I am not waiting until the future. I am taking steps now to support my community and stand up for fairness. My education will only strengthen my ability to do this, allowing me to make an even bigger difference in the lives of others.

from The Republic by Plato “Until philosophers rule as kings or those who are now called kings and leading men genuinely and adequately philosophize... cities will have no rest from evils... nor, I think, will the human race.” The main idea of this passage is that a fair and peaceful society can only exist when the people in power are wise and truly understand what is right. Plato is arguing that most problems in society come from the fact that leaders are not focused on truth or justice. Instead, they care more about power, money, and their own success. Because of this, they make decisions that benefit themselves instead of helping everyone. Plato believes there is a big difference between people who want power and people who actually understand what is good. Many leaders want to be in charge because they like control or attention. They may not think deeply about what is fair or what is best for society as a whole. On the other hand, philosophers spend their time asking questions, thinking about life, and trying to understand truth and justice. They train their minds to see beyond surface-level things and focus on what really matters. However, philosophers usually do not try to become leaders. They often stay out of politics, which creates a serious problem. This problem is what Plato is pointing out in the passage. The wrong people are in charge. The people who want power are not always the ones who should have it, and the people who should lead are not the ones stepping up. Because of this mismatch, society suffers. There is injustice, conflict, and unfair systems because leaders are not guided by wisdom. Plato is saying that until this changes, society will continue to have problems. Another important idea in this passage is that leadership is not just about having authority. It is about understanding what is right and making decisions based on that understanding. A leader who does not know what justice is cannot create a just society. Even if they try to do good, they might fail because they do not truly understand what good means. Plato is suggesting that knowledge and character are more important than popularity or strength when it comes to leadership. This idea can also be connected to how society reflects its leaders. If leaders are selfish or careless, their decisions will shape society in a negative way. Laws, systems, and rules will reflect their mindset. On the other hand, if leaders are wise and thoughtful, they can create systems that are fair and beneficial for everyone. Plato is showing that the condition of a society is closely connected to the people in power. Plato’s message is still important today. Even though this was written a long time ago, the same issue still exists. Many people question whether leaders today truly care about justice or if they are more focused on personal gain. This passage challenges people to think about what qualities really matter in a leader. It suggests that instead of choosing leaders based on popularity or image, society should value wisdom, honesty, and a deep understanding of what is right. To bring my essay to an end, Plato’s passage explains that society will continue to face problems until wise and thoughtful people become leaders. He believes that true justice can only happen when power and knowledge come together. Without that balance, leaders will continue to make poor decisions, and society will suffer. This idea encourages people to think more carefully about leadership and what it truly means to lead others in a fair and responsible way.