I have chosen to pursue a degree in healthcare because I am deeply passionate about improving the lives of others and addressing the healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the human body, how it functions, and how various factors—physical, mental, and social—interact to influence a person’s overall well-being. As I grew older, I became acutely aware of the significant inequities in healthcare, particularly within communities of color. These disparities, ranging from unequal access to care to the underrepresentation of diverse voices in the healthcare workforce, motivated me to pursue a career in healthcare and make a difference where it is most needed. One of the main reasons I chose healthcare is because it offers an opportunity to impact people’s lives in meaningful ways. Whether through direct patient care, health education, or advocating for better health policies, healthcare professionals have the power to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals. As a woman, I feel a deep responsibility to not only contribute to the healthcare field but to also be a voice for those who are often overlooked or underserved, particularly women of color and marginalized communities. I hope to make a positive impact in the healthcare field by addressing these systemic disparities. One of my main goals is to work toward greater health equity, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status, have access to high-quality care. I am particularly focused on mental health, an area that is often under-addressed in many communities, especially among people of color. I plan to use my healthcare degree to provide culturally competent care that meets the unique needs of diverse populations, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life feel heard, understood, and supported in their health journeys. In addition, I want to be part of the movement to increase diversity within the healthcare workforce. Representation matters, especially in fields like healthcare, where diverse perspectives can lead to better patient care and outcomes. As a Black woman, I understand the challenges that come with being underrepresented in many fields, and I hope to serve as an inspiration for others to pursue careers in healthcare. By sharing my story and advocating for diversity, I want to encourage more young women of color to follow their passions in this field, showing them that they too can make a difference and thrive in healthcare. Through my education and future career, I plan to break down the barriers that prevent underserved communities from accessing the healthcare they need. I am committed to improving health outcomes, promoting wellness, and ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. This scholarship will help me advance in my journey, allowing me to continue my studies and pursue a career where I can make a meaningful, lasting impact. As a woman in healthcare, I hope to be a catalyst for change, both within the field and in the communities I serve.

I am passionate about creating a positive impact on marginalized communities, and my background and interests have shaped my dedication to addressing the complex issues of mental health, economic disparity, and systemic inequities. My experience has led me to recognize how interconnected these challenges are, particularly in the context of underserved urban environments. Growing up, I saw firsthand the challenges faced by families in low-income neighborhoods, including financial hardship, lack of access to quality healthcare, and inadequate support systems. These experiences have ignited my passion for mental health, as I realized how economic and social disparities directly impact an individual's emotional and psychological well-being. While my academic focus is in psychology, I am deeply motivated to combine this knowledge with my commitment to advocating for equitable, sustainable solutions in urban communities. I want to contribute to efforts that combat homelessness, gentrification, and the lack of affordable housing—issues that disproportionately affect Black and other marginalized communities. Mental health struggles often stem from these very social and economic issues, making it crucial to tackle these challenges together. I believe that addressing both the emotional and practical aspects of people’s lives is essential to creating lasting change in these communities. One of my long-term goals is to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting single Black mothers and their children in overcoming mental health challenges. This goal is rooted in my belief that mental health struggles, compounded by issues like homelessness and financial instability, can perpetuate cycles of trauma and poverty. My nonprofit would aim to provide not only mental health services but also mentorship, resources, and community support to break the cycle of poverty and help families regain their stability. I would focus on providing culturally competent mental health care, which is often lacking in many marginalized communities, ensuring that people get the help they need in ways that are relevant to their experiences and backgrounds. While my primary goal is to support mental health in underserved communities, I am also deeply aware of the larger systemic factors that contribute to these challenges. Homelessness, lack of affordable housing, and economic inequality all play a role in shaping the mental health of individuals and families. Addressing these broader urban issues will be essential in creating the foundation for sustainable, long-term solutions. I believe that mental health support, when paired with economic empowerment, can foster stronger communities and give individuals the tools they need to break free from cycles of poverty and instability. I am motivated by the idea of helping others navigate and overcome the barriers they face, particularly in urban environments where resources can be limited. By combining my background in psychology with a commitment to health equity, I aim to contribute to a broader movement that addresses both the immediate challenges and the long-term systemic issues affecting underserved communities. My work in the field of psychology, coupled with my nonprofit vision, will allow me to help create environments where families, especially those facing systemic barriers, can thrive emotionally, economically, and socially.

I have chosen to pursue a degree in STEM because I’ve always been deeply fascinated by the question of why people think, feel, and act the way they do. Understanding human behavior on a deeper level has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. Psychology, as a branch of STEM, offers a unique opportunity to explore the complexities of the human mind using scientific methods. This field allows me to combine my curiosity about human behavior with evidence-based research to gain insights that can make a real difference in people’s lives. Psychology provides a way to better understand the factors that influence mental health, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being, and it’s this understanding that drives my desire to pursue a career in this field. As a person of color, I hope to have a significant impact in the STEM field by using my understanding of psychology to address the disparities faced by marginalized communities, particularly in mental health. In many communities of color, mental health issues are often under-addressed or misunderstood, and there is a lack of culturally competent care. These communities often face systemic barriers to accessing quality mental health care, leading to a cycle of untreated mental health issues that affect individuals and families. I want to be a part of the movement to change this by conducting research, advocating for policy change, and providing care that better reflects the diverse needs of these communities. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the impact of mental health issues within my own community. I saw how mental health challenges were often stigmatized or dismissed, and how the lack of culturally competent care made it difficult for people to get the help they needed. These experiences have shaped my belief that diversity is crucial to advancing the field of psychology. Having diverse perspectives in the field ensures that mental health care is more inclusive and can address the unique experiences of people from various cultural backgrounds. I want to be a voice for those whose mental health needs are often overlooked or misunderstood, particularly in communities of color, where stigma and lack of access are common barriers to care. In the long term, I also aspire to create a nonprofit organization focused on supporting single Black mothers and their children in overcoming mental health challenges. Many Black families, especially those headed by single mothers, face additional stressors, including financial instability, societal pressures, and lack of support. This nonprofit would provide counseling, mentorship, and resources tailored to the specific needs of Black families, helping them break cycles of trauma and build healthier, more resilient futures. By doing so, I hope to not only contribute to the advancement of mental health services but also to encourage more young people of color to pursue careers in STEM. I want to show them that they too can make a difference in fields like psychology, which have traditionally lacked diversity. By combining my passion for psychology with a dedication to health equity, I hope to create lasting, positive change. Through my education and career, I plan to be a part of the solution to the mental health disparities that affect marginalized communities, empowering them to thrive in the face of adversity.

1.) Tell us about yourself. My name is Davine Valentine, and I am a first-year student at North Carolina A&T University, majoring in psychology. I am passionate about mental health, particularly for underserved Black families. My goal is to use my education to support individuals dealing with mental health challenges and break the cycles of trauma in these communities. I have always been committed to service, volunteering at food banks, organizing care packages for the homeless, and participating in Christmas drives for families in need. Growing up in a close-knit family that values education and compassion, I am motivated to excel academically and make a positive impact in my community. 2.) How will this scholarship help you? This scholarship will help reduce the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more on my academic and career goals. I aim to graduate without accumulating debt, enabling me to concentrate on my studies and research in psychology. This financial assistance will allow me to continue my path toward earning a Ph.D. in psychology and ultimately starting a nonprofit that supports Black families dealing with mental health challenges. Without the pressure of tuition costs, I will be able to invest more in my education, furthering my ability to make a meaningful difference in the world. 3.) What are your academic and/or career goals? I am committed to earning a Ph.D. in psychology, with a focus on mental health and behavioral psychology. I aim to deepen my understanding of psychological conditions and learn effective ways to provide support to individuals in need. My long-term career goal is to create a nonprofit that provides counseling, mentorship, and resources to single Black mothers and their children who are struggling with mental health issues or trauma. I want to be part of the solution in addressing mental health disparities in underserved communities and contribute to breaking the cycle of trauma. 4.) How have you contributed to your community? I have been actively involved in volunteering throughout my life. I’ve worked at food banks, helped organize care packages for the homeless, and participated in Christmas drives to support low-income families. These experiences have allowed me to make a tangible impact on people’s lives and have strengthened my commitment to serving others. I also offer academic support to my peers and provide emotional support to friends and family when needed. I believe that giving back is a crucial part of creating stronger communities and empowering individuals. 5.) Tell us about a time you failed and what you learned from it. During my senior year of high school, I struggled with balancing work, school, and extracurricular activities. As a result, I missed some important assignments, which impacted my grades. Although it was a disappointing experience, it taught me the importance of time management and setting realistic goals. I learned to prioritize my responsibilities better and developed a stronger work ethic. Since then, I’ve focused on improving my time management skills, ensuring that I can balance my academic and personal commitments effectively. 6.) Describe your greatest strengths. My greatest strengths include empathy, problem-solving, and determination. I’m deeply empathetic, which allows me to connect with others on a personal level and offer support when they need it most. I also take pride in my ability to solve problems creatively, finding solutions even in challenging situations. Additionally, I am highly determined and persistent. When I set a goal, I remain committed to achieving it, regardless of the obstacles I face.

1) Attribute I Embody Most: “Strive for Servant Leadership” Out of the eight attributes of Black Excellence, I believe I most embody “strive for servant leadership.” To me, servant leadership is about putting the needs of others first and leading by example with humility and empathy. Growing up, I’ve always had a strong desire to help others, whether through volunteering or offering support to my peers. I strive to approach leadership with the mindset of serving those around me. For example, I’ve been actively involved in volunteer work throughout my life, including working at a food bank, helping to create care packages for the homeless, and participating in Christmas drives to provide food and gifts for families in need. In each of these roles, I focused on serving with humility, understanding that the work was bigger than me and that my efforts could make a lasting impact. I aim to ensure that those I serve feel valued and supported, which aligns with my broader goal of empowering individuals, especially in underserved communities. Additionally, I embody servant leadership in my academic and professional life. I aim to uplift my peers by offering help when needed and creating a sense of community and trust. Whether it’s helping others with challenging assignments or providing emotional support during stressful times, I try to be the kind of leader who encourages collaboration and promotes the success of others. As I work toward my goal of earning a Ph.D. in psychology, I hope to continue leading by example, especially in the realm of mental health, where many individuals still lack the support they need. 2) Attribute I Need to Improve: “Dare to Take Calculated Risks” While I have made strides in certain areas, I recognize that I need to improve in the attribute of “daring to take calculated risks.” I’ve always valued security and comfort, which has led me to avoid risks, even when I know they could lead to growth. Coming to college, over seven hours away from home, was one of the biggest risks I’ve taken, and it has forced me to step out of my comfort zone. Although I’ve grown in many ways, I still find myself hesitant to take risks that could lead to significant changes in my academic or personal life. For example, I often hold back from pursuing leadership opportunities or challenging projects because I fear failure or uncertainty. My goal is to earn a Ph.D. in psychology with a focus on mental health, especially for underserved communities, and to start a nonprofit to support Black families who are dealing with mental health challenges. I know that achieving this will require me to take calculated risks—whether that’s applying for competitive internships, seeking leadership roles, or making bold decisions that push me outside my comfort zone. To improve in this area, I plan to start by taking small, manageable risks. I will seek out leadership opportunities in student organizations and take on projects that challenge me. By gradually taking on more risks, I hope to build my confidence in making bigger decisions that align with my larger goals. Additionally, I will look for mentorship from individuals who have successfully navigated risks in their careers, especially in psychology and nonprofit work. By learning from their experiences, I will gain the courage and insight to take actions that will lead to personal growth and help me accomplish my goal of creating a nonprofit focused on mental health support for Black families. Ultimately, I understand that growth comes from discomfort, and I am ready to embrace that discomfort to achieve my goals. By daring to take calculated risks, I believe I will unlock new opportunities and move closer to realizing my aspirations.

Starting my journey at North Carolina A&T State University has been like finding a place I didn’t know I was missing. Coming from a predominantly white high school, I often felt out of place, like I was straddling two worlds without fully belonging to either. I longed for a space where I could feel at ease in my identity as a young Black woman where I could connect with others who understood my background, my goals, and my challenges. At A&T, I’ve finally found that place. Here, I’m surrounded by people who not only look like me but who share similar experiences, struggles, and ambitions. For the first time, I feel completely at home. Being a student at A&T is more than just earning a degree; it means embracing my identity within a community that fosters support, understanding, and empowerment. A&T offers a unique culture where everyone is genuinely invested in each other’s success. Whether it’s faculty members who go the extra mile or classmates who cheer each other on, the atmosphere here is one of unity and acceptance. This university doesn’t just provide an education; it nurtures the whole person. I feel fortunate to be part of such a welcoming environment where everyone has a place. This sense of belonging and support inspires me to carry A&T’s values forward. The university has taught me about resilience, integrity, and the importance of lifting others as I climb. These values extend beyond academics; they define how I want to live and lead. As I move through my academic journey and beyond, I plan to embody these lessons, staying grounded, compassionate, and committed to making a difference in my community. My future goals are deeply personal. I’m determined to pursue a Ph.D. in psychology, with a focus on either behavioral or abnormal psychology. My own experiences growing up in a household with an absent and abusive father have shaped my passion for this field. I want to establish a nonprofit organization that supports single Black mothers and their children, offering resources and a safe haven for those facing similar challenges. This mission isn’t just a professional goal it’s a calling, inspired by my desire to give back and provide hope for families who face adversity. While working toward my academic and career goals, I’m also focused on graduating with as little debt as possible. Financial stability will allow me to focus on building my future without being held back by financial burdens. By being resourceful, applying for scholarships, and making careful financial choices, I’m determined to set myself up for success. Overall, my experience at A&T is shaping me into the person I’ve always aspired to be: a leader, a supporter, and an advocate. This university has given me a sense of belonging, confidence, and a clear path toward my dreams. I’m proud to be part of A&T, and I’m committed to using the values and education I’ve gained here to make a positive impact in the world.