Behind every success story is a silent hero whose sacrifices and unwavering support make the impossible possible. For me, that hero is my mom. Throughout my educational journey, my mom has stood as a constant pillar of support and guidance. Raised in a single-parent household, with my biological father absent for my entire life, my mom has been the driving force behind my achievements and the beacon of hope for my future. Her unwavering dedication and love have propelled me to where I am today. Despite the challenges of raising four children on her own, my mom has always prioritized education. She ensured that I was enrolled in the best programs, beginning with KIPP: STRIVE Academy for middle school. This institution laid a strong foundation for my academic journey, fostering a love for learning and a drive for excellence. Recognizing my potential, she further enrolled me in The Westminster Schools of Atlanta for high school, a prestigious institution with tuition exceeding $30,000 a year. Through her relentless efforts, I was able to secure financial aid, making it possible for me to attend and thrive in an environment that challenged and nurtured my abilities. Her support extended beyond school enrollments. She understood the importance of holistic development and ensured that I had access to tutors and additional help whenever necessary. She also funded extracurricular activities, not just for me but also for my three younger brothers. Her sacrifices, often made with a smile on her face, have been the bedrock of our family’s resilience and success. My mom’s influence is not limited to material support. She has instilled in me valuable knowledge and life lessons that continue to guide me. Her determination, resourcefulness, and unwavering faith in my abilities have shaped my character and ambitions. She has taught me the importance of perseverance, hard work, and compassion, which are values that I carry with me in all my endeavors. As I navigate my academic journey at Howard University and beyond, I am continually inspired by my mom's strength and dedication. Her support has not only helped me reach my educational goals but also molded me into a person who values education and is committed to making a difference. My success is a testament to her sacrifices and unwavering belief in my potential. My mom has been the cornerstone of my educational achievements. Her relentless support, both in tangible resources and life lessons, has been instrumental in my journey. Her sacrifices and unwavering commitment to our family’s success inspire me daily. I am profoundly grateful for her love and dedication, which have paved the way for my accomplishments and dreams.

Imagine a world where every child, regardless of their background or financial status, has the opportunity to unlock their full potential through quality education. This vision is not just a distant dream but a pressing necessity, especially for students like me who have navigated the complex and often prohibitive landscape of educational access. As a student at Howard University, I am acutely aware of the barriers that exist, not just for myself, but for countless others striving for a better future. My journey, marked by financial struggles and the pursuit of academic excellence, fuels my passion for making education accessible to all. Access to education is a social issue that I care deeply about. As a college student, I experience firsthand the challenges and rewards of pursuing higher education. The journey to further my education has been marked by financial hurdles, a reality that resonates with many students. College is expensive, and even before reaching this stage, finding quality education can be a struggle. Growing up in Atlanta, my mother recognized the importance of a strong educational foundation. To provide me with the best possible education, she enrolled me in The Westminster Schools of Atlanta, a private school 45 minutes from our home, where tuition exceeds $30,000 a year. Thankfully, I was able to obtain financial aid to cover these costs, but the struggle to afford education is a persistent issue, especially now in college, where I continue to navigate the financial demands of tuition and other expenses. The significance of access to education extends beyond my personal journey. I have three younger brothers who I deeply care about and wish to see succeed. Their future opportunities are tied to the quality of education they receive, making the accessibility and affordability of education an even more pressing concern for me. Through my career, I dream of addressing this issue by leveraging my skills and passion for accounting and finance. My ultimate goal is to become a Chief Financial Officer (CFO), where I can influence and implement policies that make education more accessible and affordable for all students. As a Management Team Leader in the School of Business at Howard University, I am developing leadership skills and gaining insights into financial management that will be crucial in my future endeavors. One of the ways I envision making a difference is by creating scholarship programs and financial aid initiatives specifically targeted at low-income families and underrepresented communities. These programs would provide much-needed support to students who have the potential to excel academically but lack the financial resources to pursue their education. Additionally, I aim to advocate for policy changes that address the systemic barriers to education, such as the funding disparities between public schools in affluent areas versus those in underserved communities. Another approach I would take is to collaborate with non-profit organizations and educational institutions to develop mentorship and tutoring programs. These programs would not only provide academic support but also offer guidance and encouragement to students navigating the educational landscape. By fostering a supportive community, we can help students overcome obstacles and achieve their academic goals. In envisioning a future where education is a universal right rather than a privilege, I am inspired by the potential to effect real change. This mission is deeply personal, motivated by my own experiences and my desire to pave the way for my three younger brothers and countless others.

In my journey to achieve my future goals, I am committed to creating brighter futures for others in my community of choice. My faith serves as the foundation of my actions, and I draw inspiration from the World Changers Church International, where the focus is on bringing positive transformation to people's lives. Just as the name suggests, I, too, aspire to be a world changer, making a positive impact on the lives of those around me. One of the ways I am already working towards creating a brighter future for others is through my clothing line, TRENDZ Clothing and Apparel. By offering stylish and affordable clothing options, I aim to help people look good without putting a strain on their finances. Fashion and appearance can significantly impact an individual's self-confidence and overall well-being. Through my clothing line, I hope to empower individuals to feel good about themselves, regardless of their financial circumstances. Enforcing a sense of being unapologetically you and setting your own trends. As I continue my education and acquire my CPA and MBA qualifications, my ultimate goal is to become a CFO who leads with compassion and sets an example for others. As a financial leader, I want to utilize my position and influence to create a positive impact on the lives of my colleagues, employees, and the community at large. By fostering an environment that values fairness, inclusivity, and personal growth, I aim to uplift those around me and encourage them to reach their full potential. Beyond the professional sphere, I have already shown a propensity for spreading positivity among my friends and acquaintances. Being known as the one who always sees the brighter side of things and remains resilient in the face of adversity, I want to continue being that bright light for others. I recall one day being told that I could have one arm cut off and still saying “Oh well, at least I have another one.” I believe that through empathy, encouragement, and a positive outlook, I can make a difference in people's lives, helping them overcome challenges and find joy even in difficult circumstances. Ultimately, my desire is to be a source of inspiration and support for others, offering encouragement, hope, and motivation. I want to be the person who leaves a lasting positive mark in the lives of those I encounter, never to be erased. Whether it's through my clothing line, my professional endeavors, or simply through being there for others on a personal level, I strive to make life just a little more worth living for those around me. By embodying compassion, resilience, and a dedication to lifting others up, I hope to contribute to the creation of a brighter future, one person at a time.

At the end of Disney movie “Mulan”, the emperor says “The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.” As a child, I never fully understood the significance of this quote, but my high school experience proved to me that I am the most rare and beautiful flower. Throughout my freshman year, I embarked on a promising journey, adapting smoothly to a new school environment, participating in numerous clubs, building friendships, and gaining the admiration of my teachers. However, the unexpected arrival of the coronavirus transformed my academic landscape, presenting me with significant challenges that I had to overcome. As a result, I encountered a dip in my academic performance, struggling with motivation, and experiencing the frustration of earning lower grades than I was accustomed to. Prior to the virtual learning transition, I prided myself on consistently achieving A grades. However, with the shift to virtual education, I found myself grappling with new obstacles and lacking the drive to excel. The consequence was a B in history at the end of my freshman year, followed by three C grades in sophomore year, an experience that left me in tears. Yet, I realized that I couldn't blame anyone but myself for the dip in my grades. Instead of allowing this challenge to defeat me, I decided to confront it head-on. Through perseverance and determination, I managed to overcome the obstacles presented by the pandemic and its impact on my academic journey. Despite the uncertainties and disruptions, I remained steadfast in my commitment to succeed. I not only graduated with honors but also earned recognition as a member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta, the math honors society. This experience of facing and surmounting challenges has taught me invaluable lessons that I believe will prepare me for my future career as a Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In the realm of finance and leadership, I understand that unpredictable circumstances and unprecedented challenges will inevitably arise. Like the unanticipated shift to virtual learning, the corporate world can present unexpected hurdles that demand adaptability and resilience. As I reflect on my journey through high school, I recognize the importance of embracing change and maintaining a sense of determination even in the face of adversity. My ability to work through personal struggles during high school has equipped me with the tools necessary to confront unforeseen obstacles in my future career. Like in my academic journey, I am confident that my perseverance and willingness to adapt will allow me to navigate through uncertainties and find innovative solutions. As a future CFO, I understand that my role will extend beyond analyzing numbers and making financial decisions. I will be leading a team, influencing outcomes, and driving strategic initiatives. My experience in overcoming challenges during high school has shown me the significance of fostering a resilient and supportive team environment. I believe that the lessons I learned in embracing change and motivating myself to succeed will translate into being an effective leader who inspires and guides my team through any uncertainties that may arise in the corporate world. In conclusion, my journey through the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic has been a transformative experience that has shaped me into a stronger and more adaptable individual. The lessons learned in perseverance, adaptability, and self-motivation have primed me for a successful future career as a CFO. Armed with the confidence to confront uncertainties and embrace change, I eagerly anticipate the opportunities that lie ahead and the positive impact I can make in the world of finance and leadership.

Among the captivating melodies and captivating lyrics of Taylor Swift's 1989 album, one song stands out as my absolute favorite - "Shake It Off." While it may seem like a generic choice, it holds a special place in my heart for several reasons, making it the clear winner in my books. The moment the infectious beat of "Shake It Off" hits, I can't help but be drawn into its catchy rhythm. From the very first note, it gets my toes tapping and my spirits lifted. I still vividly remember dancing to it during a halftime show for the Atlanta Hawks when I was in the 4th grade with the “Parkside Pandarettes.” The excitement and joy of that performance have become a core memory for me, forever associating the song with a significant and cherished moment from my childhood. Beyond its catchy tune and joyful memories, "Shake It Off" carries a powerful and relatable message. The song's theme of resilience and self-empowerment resonates deeply with me. Life often throws unexpected challenges our way, and there are aspects we cannot control or alter. Taylor's lyrics serve as a reminder that in the face of adversity, it's essential to embrace a positive attitude and let go of the things we can't change. As I've grown, I've learned to implement this valuable life lesson into my everyday existence. "Shake It Off" encourages me to overcome obstacles and continue pushing forward, even when faced with trials and tribulations. The line, "Players gonna play…haters gonna hate…I’m just gonna shake it off" serves as a powerful affirmation of staying true to oneself and not allowing negativity or criticism to deter me from pursuing my dreams and passions. Others will try to steer me off course, but I am just going to do me. The song's empowering message has become a mantra in my life, reminding me to remain resilient and unwavering in the pursuit of my goals. Its lyrics serve as a source of strength and motivation, urging me to embrace life's challenges with a positive mindset and keep moving forward. Moreover, "Shake It Off" from Taylor Swift's 1989 album holds a special place in my heart, earning its title as my favorite song. Its upbeat melody, association with cherished memories, and empowering message of resilience make it an anthem that never fails to lift my spirits. As I journey through life, I'll continue to dance to its rhythm and embrace the message of letting go and shaking off any negativity that comes my way. With "Shake It Off" as my soundtrack, I'm inspired to face life's ups and downs with confidence, knowing that I have the power to rise above challenges and stay true to myself.

My name is Darryel Brown, and this coming fall I will be a first-year student at Howard University pursuing a major in accounting. My passion for numbers and problem-solving led me to choose this field, as I believe it offers a strong foundation for a successful career in the business world. For me, this includes the glorious title of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). During my time at Howard University, I plan to immerse myself in the study of accounting and develop a solid understanding of financial principles, taxation, auditing, and other relevant areas. After completing an internship at the non-profit organization, The Dairy Alliance, I am eager to learn from experienced professionals and engage in hands-on projects that will enhance my analytical and critical thinking skills. The significance in this lies in the fact that on my way to the position of CFO, it is necessary for me to make informed, reasonable decisions that will benefit the company in the long run. Howard University's School of Business presents the perfect opportunity for this through business orientation classes, internships, business fairs, and so much more. The opportunity to attend such a prestigious university is something that I am beyond grateful for. I look forward to taking advantage of these opportunities to network with professionals, attend workshops, and gain practical insights into the industry. I will obtain a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree after completing my undergraduate studies at Howard. I believe an MBA will equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in leadership roles within the finance industry. More importantly because of that CFO position I aspire to have one day. As a CFO, I envision myself making a mark in the corporate world through playing a crucial role in shaping the financial strategy of a company, being a strategic partner to the executive team, and making informed decisions based on financial analysis. Although the road will jot be easy, I look forward to climbing the ladder to achieve my dreams. To achieve these goals, I understand the importance of gaining practical experience and building a strong professional network. Something that I have learned within these past couple of months is that it is all about who you know. Pit yourself out there with everyone because you never truly know who you are in the presence of. As a result fo experiencing this, I seize every opportunity to meet someone new and network in every space. I plan to seek internships and eventually even part-time positions in accounting firms or finance departments of companies to develop my skills and establish valuable connections within the industry. Overall, my journey at Howard University as an accounting major is just the beginning of my path towards becoming a CFO. I am committed to working hard, seizing every opportunity for growth, and continually expanding my knowledge and expertise in finance and business.

As I reflect on my personal journey, I am struck by how much my identity has been shaped by the choices I have made, and the impact those choices have had on those around me. Each of these experiences has contributed to my sense of self and my desire to make a positive difference in the world as a leader. One of the most significant choices I made was starting my own business, TRENDZ Clothing and Apparel. As an entrepreneur, I am driven by a desire to create something of value that could benefit others. I worked tirelessly to develop my products, learn about marketing, and build relationships with customers. Along the way, I faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but I persevered. Many of these obstacles did not necessarily come from running the business, but rather other things going on in my life. As a student athlete who is also a business owner, there is a lot of management that needs to happen in order to be successful. I was taught to strive for each and every one of my goals, even if I do not succeed after my first attempt. I took a lot of losses, like failing two classes during senior year. However, I did not allow this to hinder me from being great. While this indeed humbled me and taught some much needed lessons. Through this experience and the encounters I have had, I learned the importance of taking risks, pursuing my passions, and never giving up on my dreams. Beyond entrepreneurship, my identity has also been shaped by my role as a responsible big sister. Growing up, I was the oldest of four siblings, and I took this responsibility seriously. I still do. I worked hard to set a positive example for my younger siblings, helping them with their homework, encouraging them to pursue their interests, and always being there for them when they needed support. Nikai, Tyrone, and Tony are my world. This experience taught me the value of leadership, empathy, and compassion, and it motivated me to become involved in community service as well. I worked at a local food pantry for two summers, organized blanket drives for the homeless each year for my birthday, and helped to build houses for families in need during my Spring Break. Through these experiences, I learned the importance of giving back to others and working to create a more just and equitable society. Westminster allowed me to continue this in so many ways. One time during our Varsity Track and Field season, we fundraised in order to help one of our previous bus drivers pay his rent and support his family. Through book drives, food drives, and clothing drives, the importance of giving back and helping those in need when possible became even more significant to me. Finally, my faith has been a central part of my identity, and I have always felt a deep sense of responsibility to share my beliefs with others. I have been involved in various faith-based organizations throughout my life, including my church (World Changers Church International), and I have been inspired by the sense of community and purpose that comes from working with others to make a positive impact in the world. Through all of these experiences, I have learned the importance of taking risks, pursuing my passions, giving back to others, and sharing my beliefs with the world. I am excited to continue using my skills to make a positive difference in the world.

As I reflect on my personal journey, I am struck by how much my identity has been shaped by the choices I have made, and the impact those choices have had on those around me. Each of these experiences has contributed to my sense of self and my desire to make a positive difference in the world as a leader. One of the most significant choices I made was starting my own business, TRENDZ Clothing and Apparel. As an entrepreneur, I am driven by a desire to create something of value that could benefit others. I worked tirelessly to develop my products, learn about marketing, and build relationships with customers. Along the way, I faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but I persevered. Many of these obstacles did not necessarily come from running the business, but rather other things going on in my life. As a student athlete who is also a business owner, there is a lot of management that needs to happen in order to be successful. I was taught to strive for each and every one of my goals, even if I do not succeed after my first attempt. I took a lot of losses, like failing two classes during senior year. However, I did not allow this to hinder me from being great. While this indeed humbled me and taught some much needed lessons. Through this experience and the encounters I have had, I learned the importance of taking risks, pursuing my passions, and never giving up on my dreams. Beung able to acknowledge these things are what shape leaders. Beyond entrepreneurship, my identity has also been shaped by my role as a responsible big sister. Growing up, I was the oldest of four siblings, and I took this responsibility seriously. I still do. I worked hard to set a positive example for my younger siblings, helping them with their homework, encouraging them to pursue their interests, and always being there for them when they needed support. Nikai, Tyrone, and Tony are my world. This experience taught me the value of leadership, empathy, and compassion, and it motivated me to become involved in community service as well. I worked at a local food pantry for two summers, organized blanket drives for the homeless each year for my birthday, and helped to build houses for families in need during my Spring Break. Through these experiences, I learned the importance of giving back to others and working to create a more just and equitable society. Westminster allowed me to continue this in so many ways. One time during our Varsity Track and Field season, we fundraised in order to help one of our previous bus drivers pay his rent and support his family. Through book drives, food drives, and clothing drives, the importance of giving back and helping those in need when possible became even more significant to me. Finally, my faith has been a central part of my identity, and I have always felt a deep sense of responsibility to share my beliefs with others. I have been involved in various faith-based organizations throughout my life, including my church (World Changers Church International), and I have been inspired by the sense of community and purpose that comes from working with others to make a positive impact in the world. Through all of these experiences, I have learned the importance of taking risks, pursuing my passions, giving back to others, and sharing my beliefs with the world. I am excited to continue using my skills to make a positive difference in the world.

I am a walking cliche. Nearly every single cliche college essay topic one can think of, I check the box. However, this will not be an essay about how I am a lower class black student attending a prestigious private institution while my mom works double shifts every night, actively providing for our family of seven; or my glorious mission trip to Ecuador where I contributed to the construction of a classroom; or how my biological father has barely been in my life despite living 20 minutes away for practically 9 years now; or how devastated I was after my mother and father figure divorced after almost 10 years; or how my cheerleading team has won the FCC National Championships twice. This will not even be an essay on how I struggled in a class and it ended up being okay. Instead of overusing these referenced topics, I will discuss the choices I have made which impact all those I come in contact with. Through my hard work and determination, I have successfully started my own business where I am responsible for growth, stability, direction, and daily operations. I make every effort to lead by example in my professional and personal life by being a person of integrity; choosing to do right even when no one is looking. I am the eldest of 4, therefore being a leader starts at home. The position of the big sister instills more than a sense of accountability for me to act in a respectable and responsible manner. It also reminds me that my actions are constantly under the meticulous examination by the impressionable eyes of Nikai, Tyrone, and Tony. This part of my identity does not cease outside the threshold of my home. I am also an active member at World Changers Church International. Through biblical teaching and principles, I am honored to say this is not just a name; it is a part of who I am. At church, I am a member of the service planning team. In addition, I have served on panels where I discuss my life experiences. My faith is my foundation, and as a believer, it is a privilege to share that love with others. Since the age of 6, I have attended Summerhill Community Ministries’ (SCM) after school program and summer camp. SCM has provided me with a heart to serve people. At the age of 15, I began working for the program in the food pantry and summer camp. The job instilled characteristics such as time management, initiative, and communication. When the camp concluded for the 2022 summer session, I was awarded Best All-Around worker by the director and my supervisor. Serving my community gives me great pleasure especially with this being where I am from. They say it takes a village to raise a child and I am grateful for all those that have sown into my life, as well as the future villagers that will be a part of my success story. A wise person said, “You are born looking like your parents, but you die looking like your decisions.” I have made a quality decision to not allow the things I cannot control define who I am. I will not be another statistic, I am the writer of my story, and I will have a happy ending. I am driven to succeed and destined for greatness. As I continue to write my story I will not be the cliche that loses its impact. Instead, I will be the impact in the lives of others that will never be erased.

Music has undeniably shaped the way I view the world, permeating my life since before I even entered this world. Although I may be just 18 years old, I have been dancing for 27 years, which may seem illogical, but it's the truth. The presence of music is everywhere, and its influence is profound. Throughout my journey, music has been an integral part of my experiences. From executing turns to the rhythm of jazz in dance class to counting beats over the infectious cheer music on the competition mat, music has consistently accompanied and guided my movements. It has provided a backdrop to my life, enhancing and amplifying my emotions, actions, and connections with others. Music, however, has not only been a companion; it has also challenged me and pushed me to become a better version of myself. I vividly recall a particular instance in which I was tasked with giving a solo performance in my high school wind ensemble. Unfortunately, due to inadequate preparation, I found myself ill-equipped and embarrassingly stumbling through the piece in front of the entire band. This experience was humbling but served as a powerful reminder of the discipline, dedication, and resilience required in the realm of music. Music has taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, self-discipline, and the pursuit of excellence. It has shown me that success and growth are not guaranteed; they require effort, practice, and a willingness to confront challenges head-on. Music has shaped my worldview by instilling in me the belief that mistakes and failures are not setbacks but opportunities for growth and improvement. It has taught me the importance of self-reflection, self-improvement, and the ability to adapt and learn from past experiences. Moreover, music has connected me with a diverse range of individuals, transcending cultural, linguistic, and social barriers. Through collaborations with fellow musicians and dancers, I have come to appreciate the beauty of collective creativity and the power of unity. Music has the remarkable ability to foster a sense of community and shared purpose, reminding me that we are all interconnected and capable of creating something beautiful together. In essence, music has profoundly influenced my perception of the world. It has shaped my understanding of personal growth, resilience, and the importance of collaboration. Whether through the joyous rhythm of dance or the soul-stirring melodies of an ensemble, music has been an unwavering force in my life, shaping my experiences, my aspirations, and ultimately, my view of the world.

My name is Darryel Brown, and this coming fall I will be a first-year student at Howard University pursuing a major in accounting. My passion for numbers and problem-solving led me to choose this field, as I believe it offers a strong foundation for a successful career in the business world. For me, this includes the glorious title of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). During my time at Howard University, I plan to immerse myself in the study of accounting and develop a solid understanding of financial principles, taxation, auditing, and other relevant areas. After completing an internship at the non-profit organization, The Dairy Alliance, I am eager to learn from experienced professionals and engage in hands-on projects that will enhance my analytical and critical thinking skills. The significance in this lies in the fact that on my way to the position of CFO, it is necessary for me to make informed, reasonable decisions that will benefit the company in the long run. Howard University's School of Business presents the perfect opportunity for this through business orientation classes, internships, business fairs, and so much more. The opportunity to attend such a prestigious university is something that I am beyond grateful for. I look forward to taking advantage of these opportunities to network with professionals, attend workshops, and gain practical insights into the industry. I will obtain a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree after completing my undergraduate studies at Howard. I believe an MBA will equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in leadership roles within the finance industry. More importantly because of that CFO position I aspire to have one day. As a CFO, I envision myself making a mark in the corporate world through playing a crucial role in shaping the financial strategy of a company, being a strategic partner to the executive team, and making informed decisions based on financial analysis. Although the road will jot be easy, I look forward to climbing the ladder to achieve my dreams. To achieve these goals, I understand the importance of gaining practical experience and building a strong professional network. Something that I have learned within these past couple of months is that it is all about who you know. Pit yourself out there with everyone because you never truly know who you are in the presence of. As a result fo experiencing this, I seize every opportunity to meet someone new and network in every space. I plan to seek internships and eventually even part-time positions in accounting firms or finance departments of companies to develop my skills and establish valuable connections within the industry. Overall, my journey at Howard University as an accounting major is just the beginning of my path towards becoming a CFO. I am committed to working hard, seizing every opportunity for growth, and continually expanding my knowledge and expertise in finance and business.