For the longest time, I thought making a difference meant doing something big. I thought that impact was defined in awards and titles and recognition. I've learned as I've gotten older that some of the biggest differences we make happen in moments that we may never get credit for. What makes me unique is my ability to be present with people. In a society when so many individuals are focused on themselves, I have always been someone others can turn to. Whether it’s a friend who is going through a hard time, a family member who needs advice or just someone who needs someone to listen, I do my best to make people feel seen and understood. I'm usually the one who checks in, encourages or finds a way to make someone laugh when they need it most. I didn’t always understand how important that was. When I was growing up, I spent a lot of time focusing on accomplishing my personal goals. As a first generation college student from a single parent household raised in the hood, I knew that getting a degree would not only influence my future but set an example for my family. I worked hard academically and stayed involved in my community, but I realized that people remember how you make them feel far longer than they remember your accomplishments. What inspires me is knowing that someone is always watching, even when I do not know it. People are watching how you deal with people, how you react to difficult situations, how you carry yourself. I may never know the lives I have influenced, but I do believe that the example we set is important. A younger student could be watching someone like them working towards their goals. Someone took the time to listen, and a friend may feel less alone. They may seem small, yet those moments may stick with someone for years. I’m not special because I’m the loudest person in the room or because I have all the answers. The reason for this is that I am always willing to be there for other people. I do this because I believe that being kind never goes to waste and that helping someone even in a small way; goes a long way, and can make someone's day. I might never know the names of all the people impacted by my actions, and that’s okay. What is important is continuing to lead with compassion, and being my authentic self . If someone sees my experience as a first-generation college student and believes they can as well achieve their goals, then that to me means I've made a difference, and that to me is a legacy worth leaving.

Pursuing higher education has always been a dream of mine, but the path to get here has not been simple. Growing up in a single-parent household after losing my father changed my life in ways I couldnt grasp at the time, and it shaped the way I see responsibility, perseverance, and opportunity. The older I got his absence became more noticeable, school events where his seat stayed empty, the encouragement I missed, and in the milestones I wished he could witness. These reminders of loss became something I had to learn to live and grow with. My mom became my strength in moments where I felt weak. She worked multiple jobs, long hours, raising three children on her own, and still made sure I had everything I needed or wanted. Ensuring that I got a great education and reach any goals I had. My mother taught me that no matter what obstacles come your way you have to keep going and push through. However, her hard work couldn't guarantee that college would be affordable. Every expense tuition, housing, books seemed like another barrier between me and my dreams. As a first-generation college student, I didn’t have anyone to show me the way. I had to figure out financial aid, deadlines, and applications on my own, all while juggling school, a job, sports, and the unspoken pressure to succeed for my family. I used to spend nights wondering if my dreams were just to big to reach, if the expense of higher education would be a burden. But then I began to think about my younger siblings and the young children in my community, who don’t see many people who look like them acheive success, and obtain higher education. It was that reminder that I knew I had to keep going. My education is much bigger than myself and my goals. Its the first step to breaking generational curses, and to inspire those who have become me and will come after me. Its to show that regardless of where you start it doesnt determine where you will end up. I plan on using my undergraduate degree in Pre-Law to help my community with something that I did not have when I was growing up someone who will fight for my community, see them, and believe in their future. I want to be an advocate for those voices that feel unheard and provide guidance and mentorship to young black children that feel overlooked or lost. The next generation is our new leaders and they require support, leadership, and access to resources that could change their lives. Winning this scholarship would not only reduce the financial burden that I face, but it would also get me one step closer to being the advocate, the leader, and the role model that my community needs. Thank you for considering my application.

Losing my father when I was six was one of the hardest experiences of my life. Twelve years later, that grief still follows me. But growing up in a single-parent household shaped me into the person I am today. My mom has always been my greatest example of strength and perseverance. Raising three kids on her own and working multiple jobs just to make sure we had what we needed, she showed me what true resilience looks like. Watching her never give up—even when life was hard—taught me that sometimes you have to do hard things, even when you don’t want to. Her sacrifices gave me a deep respect for her and a clear example of determination. She constantly reminded me that education is the one thing nobody can ever take from me. That lesson has guided me through challenges, grief, and moments of self-doubt, and it drives me every day as I pursue my college degree. I want to use my experiences to help others who might feel like life is stacked against them. Losing my father and growing up in a single-parent household gave me empathy and perspective that I hope to share through mentorship and advocacy. I want to create spaces where young people, especially those from similar backgrounds, can find guidance, encouragement, and opportunities—so they know they are not alone, and their dreams are possible. Right now, Im working toward my goals by pursuing a Liberal Studies degree on the Pre-Law track at North Carolina A&T. One day, I hope to become a lawyer and fight for justice, equality, and opportunity, giving back to my community in the same way my mom gave everything for me. She taught me how to keep going, and I want to show others that they can too.

During high school, I played volleyball all 4 years. For two of those years I had the opportunity to serve as captain of my volleyball team. I was very proud of that role but it quickly became overwhelming. Balancing academics, practices, and a part-time job, while also being expected to lead and uplift a team, took a major toll on me. I started to lose confidence in myself, both as a player and a leader. My mental health was starting to decline and I felt like I was suffocating in the one thing that used to be my escape. There were moments I wanted to walk away from the sport I loved because I felt like I was failing not only my team, but myself. It was during this time that my coach became a source of guidance, and support in ways I never expected. She saw the weight I was carrying before I even had to say anything. Instead of adding more pressure, she gave me space to be honest about how I was feeling. My coach helped me break things down, what was happening on the court, what I could control, and how to work through the things I couldn’t. But more than that, she cared about what was happening in my life outside of volleyball. She was a listening ear when I talked about school stress or personal challenges, and she reminded me that being strong didn’t mean being perfect. Her advice helped me rebuild the confidence I had lost, and in return, I offered her my own help and advice. We often pushed each other outside of our comfort zones, and our relationship grew stronger because of that mutual trust and honesty. Even after graduation, we still stay in touch. She still checks in on me, and I do the same for her. Our connection went beyond the typical coach-player dynamic we were each other’s safe space, and that’s something I’ll always be grateful for. The experience taught me a lot about resilience, compassion, and integrity—traits that David valued deeply. Like David, I learned to lead with empathy and to recognize that strength isn’t about doing everything alone, but about having the courage to ask for help when it’s needed. I also discovered the importance of being someone others can count on, just as my coach was there for me. Through our relationship, I became a more supportive teammate, a better communicator, and a more confident individual. I now try to carry those values into every part of my life. Her belief in me helped me rediscover belief in myself. And while volleyball was the setting, the lessons she taught me have stuck far beyond the court. In every challenge I face now, I remember the strength I found through her support and I strive to be that same kind of support for others.

My name is Danya Thorpe, Im from Pittsburgh Pa, and I am a current freshman at the Illustrious North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University, studying Liberal studies on the Pre-law track. My decision to attend a Historically Black College and University was influenced by many different factors. As a first generation student, it was important for me to attend college and further my education, along with creating my own legacy. I wanted to attend a school that was built by people like me; and people who look like me, each factor contributes to bettering my future and to improve my educational experiences that would shape my future for better. Attending an HBCU wasnt always in my plans until my junior year of highschool when I went on an HBCU tour. That experienced opened my eyes to something I never thought I needed. The community, the school spirit, seeing people who look like me and has the same goals, a space just for us to be, is what I needed. Leaving that tour, I quickly realized I neeed to be at an institution that had a sense of community and belonging. I wanted to study somewhere where diversity is celebrated where I could see my self refleced by my peers and professors. HBCUs have a proud legacy of nurturing Black excellence, producing influential leaders, and empowering students to succeed despite societal challenges and when the odds are stacked against them. I wanted to be part of a tradition that values not only academic achievement but also the cultural and social experiences that come from being surrounded by people who understand my background. Thats why I chose North Carolina A&T, it meant choosing an environment where I could be challenged academically while still being supported emotionally and culturally. Another key factor that drew me to attending an HBCU was the strong support system. You will never find the support in everyday life as you would at an HBCU. The mentorship, campus life, faculty members, the strong alumni networks that provide ongoing guidance and support, and who create an environment where students are encouraged to pursue their dreams. Knowing that I would be surrounded by individuals who genuinely care about my personal and academic growth was a significant factor in my decision. My future goals include completing my undergraduate degree and continuing my education in law school. I aspire to work in the legal field to fight against injustices within our justice system and to be as a voice for those who are unheard. My future goals also include one day, helping the youth, by creating mentorship programs and opportunities that allow them to see their potential beyond their circumstances. We have to stop overlooking our younger generations and instead nurture them giving them the tools and resources they need to make our communities and society stronger. To help them better their futures and give them the same support that my HBCU once gave me. Choosing an HBCU meant more than just earning a degree or picking the school with the best homecoming, it meant being somewhere where I am accepted and a place that will prepare me to reach my goals and inspire others to reach theirs.

Being a first-generation college student is more than a title — it’s a responsibility, an honor, and a privilege I carry with pride. I grew up in a single-parent household after losing my father at an early age, I watched my mother work tirelessly to raise three children on her own. Because of this she was unable to finish her education or pursue her own career dreams, she never allowed those challenges to define our future. Instead, she prioritized my education, enrolling me in schools that would prepare me for higher education and pushing me to always give my best. Her sacrifices laid the foundation for my own aspirations, and her belief in me fuels my determination every day. I’ve seen her face adversity with strength and grace, and because of that, I refuse to give up even when the odds are agaisnt me I am currently a first-year pre-law student, I chose this field so Ican be a voice for those who are often overlooked. My goal is to work within the legal field to advocate for justice reform and create opportunities for neglected communities like mine. I want to challenge the barriers that limit so many, and help build a fairer system for future generations. Being a first-generation student comes with challenges the road isn’t always clear, and there are days where I want to give up, but I know why I started this journey. I want to change the narrative for my family. I may be the first, but I will not be the last. My mother is my inspiration and my support, and I encourage her every day to chase her own dreams, no matter how late it may seem. I am breaking cycles and building new oppurtunies, not only for myself but for my family as well.

I am a criminal justice major on a Pre-Law track, my career goal is to work in the legal field, and to advocate for justice, equity, and create change within the legal system. I plan to use my platform to fight against the systemic injustices that disproportionately impact Black communities. My ultimate goal is to be a voice for those who may feel they don't have one. Being Black, to me, means stepping into my excellence and being my authentic self every single day. It means being proud of my skin, celebrating my culture, and knowing my worth even in spaces that weren’t built for me. It’s a deep pride in my heritage, my history, and my ability to thrive despite the odds being against me. I carry that pride with me in everything I do. In my community, the classroom, and one day the courtroom. I chose to attend an HBCU the illustrious North Carolina A&T, because I wanted to be surrounded by driven, intelligent Black people who, like me, are striving for greatness. There’s something powerful about learning and growing in a space where your identity is celebrated, not questioned. My HBCU gives me the confidence, support, and inspiration to aim higher. This scholarship would help lighten the financial burden on my family and allow me to stay focused on my academic and professional journey. I’m committed to making a difference and this opportunity brings me one step closer to doing just that.

One major issue facing the criminal justice system today is the number of Black men incarcerated. There are more of our Black men in prison cells than free on the streets. I'm not saying that all of them don't deserve to be incarcerated—some have committed serious crimes and should be held accountable for their wrongful doings. But we have to ask, "Why are so many being thrown into prison for minor offenses, such as low-level drug offenses, while others, like rapists, are receiving lighter sentences and even second chances in society?" The fact that we have to question this unfairness shows a deeper problem rooted in our society and our justice system. Black men are incarcerated at a rate 5.5 times higher than white men. It breaks my heart to know that our men are constantly being held back and put on the back pedal, simply because of the color of their skin. As a child whose father was incarcerated, I understand the effects it can have on a family and a young child. I was left questioning, "Why is my father in jail and not with me?" Sometimes, they may have not done anything except be Black in the wrong place at the wrong time. The high rates of Black men being in jail are tearing down our communities. They are taking away the people who are supposed to be protecting us and guiding us. This issue isn’t just about statistics—it’s personal to me. It shaped how I view the world and made me realize that I want to be part of the solution. I am in school studying pre-law to one day work in the criminal justice system or as a criminal defense lawyer. I want to represent those who may not have a voice for themselves. I want to keep our Black men out of the prison system. I want to represent the men who were never given a fair shot at life, even if a mistake was made, such as a small misdemeanor. I believe in rehabilitation over excessive sentencing. A non-violent offense should not cost someone 25+ years in prison for a mistake that could've been handled through education, community service, or shorter sentencing. I have not had many opportunities to work in the criminal justice realm yet, as I am just starting my education. However, I show my way of helping through advocating and continuing to educate myself and others about the justice system, its flaws, and how we can work to change it. As I continue to further my education, I hope to come across opportunities where I can work and volunteer firsthand to help the criminal justice system. I want to be an outlet for children and teens who have experienced having a parent—or another family member—in jail, something that I lacked as a child. As a young Black woman, the biggest thing we lack is representation. We need more of us in these fields to help make change and to help make decisions. People who haven't spent a day in our shoes are the ones determining our fate, and whether we deserve a second chance in society. I just don't believe that’s fair. We deserve a system that believes in fairness and second chances. My goal is to be a part of that; not just in the courts, but in our community. I know the career I’ve chosen won't be easy, and it will take time and dedication, but I am ready to start making these changes—because a child should never have to ask why their father isn't home.

To me, being a student at North Carolina A&T State University means stepping into a legacy of excellence, resilience, and purpose. As a freshman, I know I’m not just attending any university — I’m joining a community built on the achievements of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who look like me. Choosing NC A&T wasn’t just about where I wanted to go to college — it was about who I want to become. “Achieving Great Goals in Everything – Producing Renowned Individuals Dedicated to Excellence.” That’s what Aggie Pride means to me. It represents more than school spirit — it’s a commitment to excellence, authenticity, and impact. As a Black woman in America, it also means walking into every room with confidence, knowing that I am not only capable but destined to make a difference. At NC A&T, I won’t just be another student. I plan to be a force of change, a legacy in the making. Even before setting foot on campus, I’ve felt inspired by the energy and empowerment this university represents. I’m excited to get involved in student organizations, community service, and leadership opportunities that will allow me to uplift others and help shape the future of our campus. I believe real change starts from within, and I’m ready to grow alongside people who are passionate about building a better world. To me, college is not just about earning a degree — it’s about evolving into the woman I know I’m meant to be. NC A&T is giving me the foundation to do that. I plan to carry the values I gain pride, perseverance, leadership, and excellence, into every space I enter. Whether it’s in my future career, my community, or on global platforms, I will move with intention and represent NC A&T with honor. My long-term goals include building a career that elevates underrepresented voices, creates opportunities, and proves what’s possible when passion meets purpose. I want to use my education to spark change — not just for myself, but for others. I want to be a role model for young Black girls, showing them that they don’t have to dim their light to succeed. They can be powerful, brilliant, and completely themselves. Being a student at North Carolina A&T means everything to me. It marks the beginning of a lifelong journey shaped by pride, perseverance, and purpose. I’m not here to blend in — I’m here to stand out, lift others as I climb, and leave a legacy that speaks to the strength of my roots and the power of my dreams. Thank you for considering application.

November 13, 2014. A day that is engraved in my head that I will never forget. The day where my life changed in only a matter of minutes. The day where the person I cherished most was gone. This was the day I had lost my father due to gun violence. After losing my father, it made me open my eyes to the world around me, to have more awareness of the society we live in. My father's case was never solved and it's something I think will forever disturb me. My career goals are to pursue a degree in law and criminal justice. I want to be the voice that my community so desperately needs, to be the change needed to fight for justice and equity. I've seen how the systems always work against people who look like me when in reality it should be working for us. From wrongful convictions, long sentencing for minor issues, racial injustice is deeply rooted in our society. I don't want to wait for the next person to create change... I want to be the person in the courtroom fighting for it. I plan to use my education to advocate for those who been silenced, overlooked, misunderstood, or no longer here to fight themselves, like my father. My impact won't be limited to a courtroom. I believe change starts before we go Infront of a judge. It starts in our conversations, in our schools, and communities. One day I hope to open to a community organization that focuses on legal education, youth mentorship and mental health support. A safe space where we can talk about these issues that our society is built on. I want to create a space where young people can learn about their rights, have guidance when feeling lost, and know that someone supports them in a world where society is usually against us. I myself am still young and learning, but the only way to create change is to be willing to lead myself. I am passionate and believe my education and career goals can benefit a greater purpose in our society. This scholarship won't just help me afford college tuition and lessen the financial stress but help me keep pushing towards a goal that's bigger than myself. I want to prove that where you come from does not determine where you're going. I want to be the example for other girls like me that we can lead, create change, and be in rooms where our voices will be heard.

My name is Danya, I am a high school senior who plans to attend an HBCU in the upcoming Fall, planning to pursue law and criminal justice. My goals is more than just about me, it's about breaking the generational curses in my family, and proving that higher education is possible, even when the odds are against you. I am a first generation student, most people in my family did not have the opportunity to pursue secondary education, not because they didn't want to but because, financially they couldn't. My mother sacrificed so much for me to ensure I received the opportunities she never had. She couldn't finish school, because she had to work multiple jobs to make sure I had all I needed and support my educational journey. Seeing my mother work as hard as she does has taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of never settling for less than what I deserve. Education has always been my way forward. I’ve worked hard in school, not just for myself, but for my mother and for the generations before me who didn’t have the same chances. I want to study law and criminal justice because I’ve seen the impact of an unjust system on people who look like me. I want to be in that field to create that change in the community. Being in this field is not only just obtaining my degree, but it is to prove to myself and other black girls that we belong in spaces where decisions are made, our voices matter, and we have the power to create real change in a system that has continuously put us down and overlooked us. Winning this scholarship would mean everything to me. It would ease the financial burden on my mother and allow me to focus on my education without the constant worry of how we’ll make ends meet. It would represent a step forward for my family and I that we can break barriers and create a better future. More than that, It would show that our struggles don’t define us, but our perseverance does. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity, not only to achieve my dreams but to pave the way for others in my family to believe that higher education is possible. With this scholarship, I can take the next step toward my future, and one day, I hope to use my education to uplift others the way my mother has always uplifted me.

One of the obstacles I have overcome was the adversity of growing up as a black girl in predominantly white schools. I faced an obstacle of learning to love myself in an environment that didn’t always reflect or value my identity. Majority of my childhood, I struggled with self-acceptance, feeling disconnected from both my peers and even from myself at times. My journey to self-love was long and often difficult, but it has shaped who I am today and continues to influence how I navigate the world. From a young age, I was aware of the fact that I didn’t look like the majority of the children around me. Most of my classmates had fair skin, straight hair, blue eyes and features that aligned with the "beauty standards" For me I had thick 4c hair, darker skin, and fuller features. I often heard comments about my hair, the way I talk, or my skin color. I heard well-meaning but misguided remarks like, “Your hair is so big,” or “You’re so pretty for a Black girl,” which left me feeling like my identity was something that needed to be measured against a standard that was never mine to begin with. The turning point came during high school when I started to meet other young Black girls who embraced their natural beauty and their culture. They taught me to value my hair, my skin, and my background. Soon, I started to work through those thoughts of self-doubt and began to embrace who I was, as my authentic self. I started wearing my natural hair, stopped feeling ashamed of my slang, the way I talk, and began to see the beauty in my blackness. The journey of finding self love didn’t happen overnight. It took time but as I learned to love myself, I also learned how to stand up for myself. I stopped brushing off things like racism and microaggressions and started calling them out. I became more confident in who I am and learned to speak up for why representation and inclusivity are so important Looking ahead, I will apply the lessons of self-love to my future endeavors. I've realized that my worth isn’t about how other people see me, but how I see myself. This has given me the confidence to face challenges without worrying about being judged or rejected. I’ve learned that being Black is something to be proud of, not something that holds me back. I want to inspire others—especially young Black girls—to love and embrace who they are, regardless of societal pressures or stereotypes. Overall, the obstacle of learning self-love as a Black girl in a predominantly white environment taught me the importance of authenticity, self-worth, and resilience. By embracing my identity and recognizing its power, I’ve gained the strength to face any challenge that comes my way and to encourage others to do the same.

Adversity is a normal part of life that everyone has to face and go through at some point in their life. It can come in many different ways, big or small. Adversity is what builds character in humans and teaches us lessons. Everyone is going to come across it, but it's about how you overcome it. For me, overcoming adversity has been challenging but it has made me the person I am today, and it has tested my strength. One of the biggest adversities I have faced in my life was the loss of my dad. I was only 6 years old when my dad died and while at the time I didn't fully grasp the concept of death I knew my dad was gone, and my life was not going to be the same. The passing of my father was so sudden and unexpected my family and I were in shock and grief. I was able to quickly feel the absence of him and the change in my family's moods. The support of my family and my sisters is what got me through this time of adversity, without them I don't think I would be able to write this essay. In the course of my grief and sadness I had my family, friends, and teachers for support, they kept me distracted and made sure I remained happy and was able to express my feelings. My two sisters are a big reason on how I overcame this difficult time, knowing we were going through the same feelings. It gave me a safe space. We could cry and be sad together, but we could also laugh, enjoy each other's company and stay kids together. I knew that with them everything was going to be okay. Their presence was my strength and comfort, my source of joy. As time passed and I got older, I began to find comfort in the memories of my father and remembering the way he was. I remembered his strength, his confidence, his laugh and humor, the way he could make any room he stepped in full of laughs and good times, I remembered most of all the way he loved his family and his daughters. I started to realize I am his legacy and that the best way to keep his memory here with us is to carry on his legacy with love, and strength. Now that I am older there are many times I wish I had my dad here so he can be with me through all the accomplishment and to watch me grow up to be the young lady he always knew I would be. It's always going to be something that is hard to face and live with but I know that I am strong enough, and have been given the resources to overcome this adversity. In the future, I hope to advocate for young children who have lost a parent, and to become a resource for mental health awareness and be the support for those who are grieving. Losing a loved one is not easy, especially a parent, it can impact your whole life and your mental and emotional well being. It's very important that there are resources that can support those who are struggling. I hope one day, I can create a safe space for kids who I once was, support and help them with a difficult time. The loss of my dad was a huge part of adversity for me but with the support of my family and my own resilience I am able to overcome it.