Thesis: Marcus Aurelius’ words teach that real power comes from controlling your mindset, not your circumstances. His message shaped how I handle challenges, lead others, and understand my purpose as a young man preparing for college, sports, and a career in psychology. This short sentence from Marcus Aurelius has had a huge impact on the way I understand myself and how I move in the world. “You have power over your mind—not outside events” is simple, but it carries a message that’s powerful, especially for someone like me balancing academics, sports, leadership, and real challenges outside of school. What Aurelius is basically saying is: life won’t always go the way you want, but your mindset determines how far you can go. That idea has changed the way I deal with pressure, setbacks, and expectations. As a multi‑sport athlete and team captain, I’ve had to learn how to stay mentally locked in even when everything around me feels unpredictable. You can prepare for a game all week, but that won’t stop a bad call, a tough opponent, or a play you wish you could take back. When that happens, the old me might’ve gotten frustrated, but the more I grew, the more I realized that what I can control is how I respond. That is exactly what Aurelius is talking about. The scoreboard, the crowd, the weather, the pressure, those are outside events. How I think, how I lead, how I bounce back, those are inside my control. Aurelius’ message also lines up with how I try to lead my teammates. Being captain of three different sports isn’t just about being vocal or being the most talented. It’s about being steady when others around you might be struggling. There have been plenty of times when my team looked at me to figure out how to react. If I stayed calm, they stayed calm. If I kept pushing, they kept pushing. That taught me how much my mindset shapes the people around me. Aurelius pushes readers toward self‑mastery, and leadership requires the same thing. If I can’t control my own reactions, I can’t guide anybody else. This idea also helped me outside of sports. My academic journey hasn’t always been easy. Being an Early College Scholar, taking college courses in high school, leading two honor societies, and balancing athletics means stress shows up whether I’m ready or not. Marcus Aurelius’ words remind me that stress itself is an outside event but how I deal with it is up to me. Instead of letting pressure break me down, I learned to manage my time better, stay disciplined, and keep my long‑term goals in mind. Having this mindset helped me earn over 30 college credits before graduating high school and stay grounded even when things get overwhelming. Aurelius also says, “Realize this, and you will find strength.” To me, that means strength doesn’t always look like being fearless, it looks like being able to control emotions when things get tough. Learning how to stay focused, patient, and intentional gave me a strength I didn’t know I had. This was especially true during moments where life got stressful at home or when I had to be there for other people while handling my own challenges. Emotional strength, which Aurelius focuses on, has become just as important to me as physical strength. This message also connects to why I want to become a psychologist. I've always paid close attention to people, their moods, their reactions, what stresses them, what motivates them. Aurelius’ words line up with what psychologists help people understand: you might not control everything around you, but you can learn to control the way you think and approach life. I want to help young people realize their own strength, too. Growing up, I’ve seen classmates and teammates struggle with things they didn’t talk about, family issues, insecurities, school pressure, losses, and fears. I’ve also been the person younger athletes or friends pull aside when they’re going through something. Helping them taught me that listening, supporting, and guiding someone emotionally is one of the strongest forms of leadership. Aurelius’ words also relate to something deeper for me, my faith. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that I won’t always understand or control what God allows me to go through. But I can control how I respond to it. I can control how hard I work, how I treat people, how I prepare, how I pray, and how I carry myself. This is another version of what Aurelius means: focusing on the internal instead of the external. When I stay focused on what I can control, peace comes easier. Confidence comes easier. And so does consistency. Another thing this passage helped me understand is accountability. It’s easy to blame outside events—the school workload, the ref, the coach, the weather, somebody else’s attitude. But Aurelius reminds us that excuses don’t lead to growth. Strength comes from facing yourself honestly. I’ve learned to look at myself first: How can I improve? How can I handle things differently? What can I change right now? That mindset is why I’ve been able to succeed academically, athletically, and personally. As I prepare to go to college, Aurelius’ message is something I know I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. College will bring new challenges, harder classes, tougher competition, new environments, and more responsibility. But the one thing I’ll always be able to control is my mind: my habits, my discipline, my reactions, my goals, my attitude. If I can stay true to that, then I can handle whatever college and life bring my way. In the end, Marcus Aurelius’ words remind me that strength isn’t loud or flashy. It’s quiet. It’s steady. It shows up in the decisions you make when things get hard. It shows up in the way you lead, the way you treat people, and the way you push through tough situations without letting them defeat you. His message has shaped how I see my future, how I understand myself, and how I plan to improve the world through my career in psychology. If I control my mind, then no outside event can stop me from becoming the man I’m meant to be.

The movie that has had the greatest impact on my life is “The Pursuit of Happyness.” I first watched it when I was younger, but as I grew older, especially in high school, its message hit me differently. The story of Chris Gardner—his persistence, his struggles, his determination as a father, and his refusal to give up even when life seemed impossible—felt personal to me. It connected to the examples I’ve seen in my own family, the challenges I’ve pushed through as a student‑athlete, and the goals I have for my future. What inspires me most about the movie is how real it feels. Chris Gardner doesn’t have an easy path; in fact, everything seems to be working against him. He loses his job, struggles to make ends meet, and even ends up homeless with his son. But instead of giving up, he gets up every single day and keeps trying. Watching his journey reminded me that success isn’t something that just appears—it’s something you earn through consistency and faith, even in the middle of circumstances that feel unfair or overwhelming. His relationship with his son also impacted me deeply. In the movie, Gardner does everything he can to protect, support, and encourage his child, even when he’s dealing with his own pain. That level of responsibility and love reminded me a lot of how my mom has shown up for me. My mom has always worked hard, held things together, and kept our home grounded even when things weren’t easy. Seeing a parent fight for their child in the movie made me appreciate the sacrifices my mom makes every single day. It also taught me that part of being a man is being accountable, dependable, and willing to do whatever it takes for the people you love. “The Pursuit of Happyness” also shaped the way I view my future career in psychology. Throughout the movie, Gardner shows empathy and emotional strength. Even while facing his own struggles, he listens to others, tries to understand people, and works hard to improve his situation. That mindset, being able to relate to people, help them through difficult times, and motivate them to keep going, is exactly why I want to become a psychologist. I want to support young people the same way Gardner supported his son and the same way mentors and coaches have supported me. The movie reminded me that emotional strength is just as important as physical strength, and sometimes even more impactful. Another reason the movie influenced me is because it showed that failure is not the end. Gardner faced setback after setback, but each time he learned something that moved him closer to his dream. As a student‑athlete balancing academics, leadership roles, and sports, I’ve had moments where I felt overwhelmed or unsure of myself. Watching this movie helped me understand that challenges are part of the process. They don’t define you, you define yourself by how you respond. Most importantly, “The Pursuit of Happyness” taught me to believe in myself even when the path isn’t clear. It reinforced my faith, my discipline, and my confidence that I can achieve my goals through hard work and determination. The movie didn’t just entertain me; it shaped my mindset and encouraged me to stay focused on the bigger picture. That’s why it remains the most impactful film in my life. It motivates me to keep pushing forward, to stay true to my purpose, and to pursue my own version of happiness with everything I have.

“Kindness in Action” Describe a meaningful act of kindness or support you offered someone. Why was that moment important? One of the most meaningful acts of kindness I’ve offered was helping a younger teammate who was struggling both academically and emotionally. He was extremely talented athletically, but his grades were slipping and he was dealing with challenges at home. One day after practice, he pulled me aside and told me he felt like giving up because everything felt too heavy. Instead of brushing it off, I took the time to listen to him, encourage him, and help him come up with a plan to get back on track. I started checking on him daily, tutoring him after school, and making sure he stayed focused during practice. Over time, his grades improved, and he started smiling and enjoying school again. That moment was important to me because it reminded me that leadership is more than titles or being a team captain—it’s about showing up for people when they need it most. It also confirmed my desire to become a psychologist, someone who can help young people work through their challenges and see their own potential. Kindness doesn’t always require big actions; sometimes it’s simply being the person someone can trust, talk to, and lean on. “Creating Connection” How have you helped bring people together, create belonging, or make your community a more inclusive place? I help create connection in my community by being a leader who brings people together—whether it’s on the field, in the classroom, or in my volunteer work. As a team captain in three different sports, I make it a priority to make sure every teammate feels included, valued, and supported. I have played with students from different backgrounds, personalities, and experiences, and I’ve learned how to bridge gaps by communicating, encouraging, and setting the tone for unity. At school, my roles as President of the National Honor Society and Beta Club allow me to build a positive culture where students feel seen and uplifted. I help organize tutoring, service projects, and mentoring activities that bring people together for a shared purpose. In my community, I volunteer at Highlands Church and work each summer as a camp counselor for the Housing Authority of Birmingham District. Both roles give me a chance to connect with younger kids, create safe spaces for them to express themselves, and build up their confidence. I believe belonging starts with someone taking the first step to reach out, include others, and make them feel welcome. I try to be that person. Whether I’m mentoring a teammate, supporting younger kids, or leading service activities, I focus on lifting others up and helping everyone feel like they are part of something meaningful.

My name is Deitric Young, and I am a senior at Woodlawn High School in Birmingham, Alabama. I am an honor student, an Early College Scholar with more than 30 college credits, and a three‑sport varsity athlete. I have competed in football, basketball, and baseball for years, and I am a team captain in all three sports. Athletics have taught me discipline, leadership, and the importance of setting the tone for others both on and off the field. Outside of sports, I am heavily involved in academics and leadership organizations. I currently serve as President of the National Honor Society, President of Beta Club, and I am a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. Through these roles, I lead service projects, tutor peers, and help create a positive culture within my school. Community involvement is extremely important to me. I volunteer with Highlands Church, where I help mentor younger kids, assist with outreach events, and participate in service activities throughout the city. I also work each summer as a camp counselor for the Housing Authority of Birmingham District, supporting youth programs and helping children develop confidence, teamwork skills, and social‑emotional awareness. After high school, I plan to major in Psychology with a minor in Business. My goal is to become a psychologist who helps young people and families grow emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I want to use my education to encourage healing, build strong communities, and create more access to mental health resources, especially in underserved areas. If I had the chance to start my own charity, it would be called “The Vision Center” because I believe every young person deserves to clearly see their potential and their future. The mission of my charity would be to empower youth through mentorship, mental health support, academic guidance, and leadership development. I would focus on serving teens in low‑income communities, especially young athletes balancing school, sports, and personal challenges. Volunteers at The Vision Center would play several important roles. Some would serve as academic mentors, helping students with coursework, college applications, and scholarship opportunities. Others would assist with mental‑wellness workshops, confidence‑building activities, and peer‑support groups. Volunteers with athletic experience could lead sports‑based mentorship programs that teach teamwork, discipline, and character. The charity would also offer family support resources, because when homes are strengthened, students thrive. Overall, the goal would be to create a safe, supportive place where young people can grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually—so they feel capable of achieving their dreams. In everything I do, whether in the classroom, on the field, at church, or in the community—I try to be a leader who serves others. I believe my purpose is bigger than myself, and I am committed to using my gifts to impact the people around me. This scholarship would help me continue my journey of becoming a psychologist and a mentor who gives back to the same type of community that helped shape me.

Relationships have played a major role in shaping who I am, the goals I’ve set for myself, and the kind of man I’m working hard to become. Whether they are connections with my family, friendships built through sports and school, mentorships that push me to grow, or even the way I view future romantic relationships, each one has influenced how I think about success, purpose, and character. I believe no one reaches their full potential alone. My life experiences have shown me that the people you surround yourself with can either push you closer to your dreams or distract you from them. That understanding guides how I choose my relationships today and how I plan to build them in the future. My family is the foundation of every dream I hold. My mom has been my greatest example of strength, discipline, and faith. Watching her balance work, serve in leadership roles, raise a family, and still carry herself with grace has shaped the way I move through life. She has taught me what consistency looks like and why it matters. She has also shown me that accomplishments mean nothing if you lose your character along the way. Because of her, I’ve learned to stay grounded, even with the awards, athletic titles, and academic success I’ve been blessed to achieve. Her example motivates me to set my standards high, work hard, and stay humble no matter how far I go. My goal is to become a psychologist, and that dream was shaped by the relationships I’ve witnessed in my home, school, and community. I’ve always paid attention to how people support one another, how listening can be powerful, and how emotional and mental strength can change a person’s life. I’ve seen how important it is for people to feel understood, and that inspired my desire to help others. Being able to uplift people, guide them, and help them heal is something I see myself doing for the rest of my life. Those lessons taught me that real strength isn’t only physical or athletic, it is emotional, relational, and spiritual. These experiences made me realize that my calling involves helping people overcome challenges, understand themselves better, and build healthier relationships of their own. My friendships have also played a major role in the man I am becoming. Being a multi‑sport athlete and serving as team captain in football, basketball, and baseball have taught me leadership, communication, patience, and accountability. Through sports, I’ve learned how to build trust, work through differences, and push people toward a common goal. Those same skills will be essential in my future career in psychology, where empathy, teamwork, and connection matter. My friends motivate me, celebrate my wins, and challenge me when I fall short. I have learned that surrounding myself with positive, disciplined, faith‑driven people keeps me focused and aligned with my purpose. These relationships have shown me the importance of loyalty, honesty, and pushing each other to be the best versions of ourselves. When I think about future romantic relationships, I view them as partnerships built on respect, stability, and shared values. I’ve seen examples of both healthy and unhealthy relationships, and those observations have taught me what I want for my future. A strong relationship should bring peace, not stress; clarity, not confusion. As I grow into adulthood, I want any relationship I’m in to be rooted in support, mutual purpose, and spiritual growth. I want a partnership where we uplift each other, encourage each other’s goals, and build something meaningful together. I believe relationships should help you grow, not hold you back. Overall, the relationships in my life continue to guide me toward becoming a man of integrity, compassion, and purpose. My long‑term goal is not just to be successful in my career but to remain surrounded by people who make me better, remind me of my values, and support the calling God has placed on my life. Every relationship I build teaches me something about who I am and who I want to be. For that reason, relationships will always play a major role in my journey, shaping not only my present but also the future I am working toward.

My name is Deitric Young, and one of the qualities that has shaped my life more than anything else is my deep desire to truly understand people. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been the person friends, family, and even acquaintances naturally gravitate toward when they need someone to talk to. I’ve always listened without judgment, offered empathy without hesitation, and created a sense of safety for those who felt overwhelmed or misunderstood. Over time, I realized that these weren’t just personality traits—they were meaningful strengths that could be used to make a real difference in the world. That realization is what led me to pursue a career in psychology. I want to help people navigate the challenges life places in front of them, especially those who feel unheard, unseen, or unsure of how to move forward. My goal is to create spaces where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to heal. I believe that everyone deserves to be understood, and everyone deserves a chance to grow into the healthiest version of themselves. Psychology gives me the opportunity to be part of that process in a purposeful and impactful way. What motivates me most is the idea of uplifting others. I want to help people recognize their own strength, even when they can’t see it themselves. I want to guide them through difficult moments, not by giving them all the answers, but by helping them discover the answers within. Whether I’m working with individuals, families, or entire communities, I want my work to reflect compassion, patience, and genuine care. I want to be the kind of psychologist who doesn’t just treat symptoms, but who helps people feel whole again. I’ve learned that making a positive impact doesn’t always come from dramatic actions or grand gestures. More often, it comes from being present. It comes from listening when someone feels like no one else will. It comes from being patient when someone is struggling to find their footing. It comes from walking beside someone during their hardest moments and reminding them that they don’t have to face those moments alone. Those small, consistent acts of support can change a person’s life, and that’s the kind of impact I hope to make. Ultimately, I want my career to be a reflection of the empathy and understanding that have always guided me. I want to help people heal, grow, and rediscover their sense of purpose. That is the psychologist I hope to become, and that is the legacy I want to leave behind.

Basketball: My Journey of Growth and Resilience Basketball has been more than a sport for me, it has been a source of strength, discipline, and purpose. Over the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of playing varsity basketball and serving as team captain. These accomplishments represent more than wins and titles; they reflect the leadership, commitment, and perseverance I’ve developed through countless hours of practice and sacrifice. Being a captain taught me how to lead by example, motivate others, and maintain composure under pressure, skills that extend far beyond the court. However, my journey has not been without challenges. One of the greatest obstacles I faced was balancing academics with athletics. Playing three sports while maintaining a 3.61 GPA required strict time management and determination. There were nights when exhaustion tempted me to quit, but I reminded myself of my goals and pushed forward. Injuries also tested my resilience, forcing me to work harder to recover and stay competitive. The most difficult adversity came just two weeks before school started this year when we lost our brother and classmate to gun violence. His death shook our entire community and left a void in our hearts. Walking into the gym without his presence was painful, but it reminded me why I play, not just for myself, but for those who can’t. That tragedy taught me the importance of cherishing life, supporting others, and using my platform to promote peace and unity. It strengthened my resolve to be a positive influence and a role model for younger athletes. Basketball has taught me lessons that will guide me for the rest of my life. I’ve learned that success is not just about talent; it’s about preparation, consistency, and character. I’ve learned how to work with others toward a common goal, how to lead with integrity, and how to persevere through adversity. These qualities will help me achieve my future goals, including earning a degree in Psychology and becoming a mentor for youth. I want to inspire others to overcome challenges and believe in themselves, just as my coaches and teammates believed in me. Basketball has shaped me into who I am today, a leader, a fighter, and a dreamer. No matter what obstacles come my way, I know that the lessons I’ve learned on the court will help me rise above and make a difference in the world. Phillipinas 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Football has been more than just a sport to me, it’s been a foundation for growth, discipline, and self-discovery. My experience as a football player has influenced my character in ways that extend far beyond the field. It’s taught me how to lead, how to persevere, and how to stay grounded in the face of challenges. The lessons I’ve learned through football have shaped who I am today and continue to guide how I show up in every part of my life. One of the biggest ways football has impacted me is by teaching me the value of hard work. Success in football doesn’t come easy, it requires early mornings, late nights, and a relentless commitment to improvement. I’ve learned that talent alone isn’t enough. You have to put in the work, stay consistent, and push through discomfort. That mindset has carried over into my academics and personal goals. When things get tough, I remind myself of the grind I’ve already endured and the strength I’ve built through it. Football has also taught me how to be a team player. On the field, no one wins alone. Every play depends on trust, communication, and unity. I’ve learned how to support my teammates, how to lead by example, and how to stay humble even when I’m in the spotlight. Those experiences have helped me become a better listener, a more thoughtful leader, and someone who values collaboration in all areas of life. Another important lesson football has taught me is how to handle adversity. There have been games we’ve lost, injuries I’ve had to recover from, and moments where I doubted myself. But through it all, I’ve learned how to stay focused, bounce back, and keep moving forward. Football has shown me that failure isn’t the end, it’s a chance to grow stronger. That resilience has helped me face challenges off the field with confidence and determination. Beyond the physical and mental lessons, football has given me a sense of purpose and pride. It’s connected me to my community, helped me build lifelong friendships, and given me a platform to inspire others. I’ve mentored younger players, volunteered at youth camps, and used my role as an athlete to promote positivity and discipline. I understand that being a football player means being a role model, and I take that responsibility seriously. In every way, football has shaped my character. It’s taught me how to work hard, lead with integrity, and stay resilient. It’s helped me grow into someone who doesn’t shy away from challenges, who values teamwork, and who strives to make a difference. I’m proud of the person football has helped me become, and I carry those lessons with me wherever I go.

Social media has become a powerful part of our daily lives, shaping how we connect, communicate, and even how we see ourselves. As someone who uses social media regularly, I’ve seen both its benefits and its challenges—especially when it comes to mental health and self-esteem. On the positive side, social media can be a space for creativity, self-expression, and community. It allows people to share their stories, celebrate their achievements, and find support from others who understand their experiences. I’ve personally found inspiration from creators who speak openly about mental health, identity, and personal growth. These voices help normalize conversations that were once considered taboo, and that’s a step in the right direction. But I’ve also felt the pressure that comes with constantly being online. Social media often presents a filtered version of reality—highlight reels that make it easy to compare ourselves to others and feel like we’re falling short. I’ve had moments where I questioned my worth based on likes, comments, or how I looked in a photo. That kind of comparison can be exhausting and damaging, especially for young people who are still figuring out who they are. I believe one of the biggest impacts of social media is how it can distort self-image and create unrealistic expectations. When we’re constantly exposed to idealized versions of beauty, success, and lifestyle, it’s easy to feel inadequate. This can lead to anxiety, depression, and a loss of confidence. I’ve seen friends struggle with these feelings, and I’ve had to learn how to set boundaries for myself to protect my mental health. To address these issues, I think we need to promote digital literacy and emotional awareness. Schools and communities should teach young people how to navigate social media in healthy ways—how to recognize unrealistic portrayals, how to manage screen time, and how to seek help when they’re struggling. We also need to encourage authenticity online. When people share their real stories—the ups and the downs—it helps others feel less alone. Personally, I try to use social media with intention. I follow accounts that uplift me, share content that reflects who I truly am, and take breaks when I need to recharge. I also talk openly with my peers about mental health and remind them that it’s okay to not be okay. By being honest and supportive, I hope to create a space where others feel safe to do the same. Social media isn’t going away, so it’s up to us to shape it into something that supports—not harms—our wellbeing. I’m committed to being part of that change.

To me, Black excellence is a celebration of strength, creativity, and perseverance. It’s about honoring the legacy of those who came before me—those who fought, sacrificed, and dreamed so that I could have the opportunities I do today. Black excellence means showing up with pride, purpose, and a commitment to growth, even when the odds are stacked against us. It’s not just about personal success; it’s about community, culture, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equity. I embody Black excellence by striving to be intentional in everything I do. In school, I work hard to maintain strong grades and challenge myself academically. I don’t just want to pass—I want to understand, to lead, and to inspire others to do the same. I take pride in being a student who asks questions, seeks out new opportunities, and stays curious. I know that my presence in academic spaces is a reflection of the sacrifices made by generations before me, and I carry that responsibility with pride. Outside the classroom, I stay active in my community through service and leadership. I’ve volunteered at local food drives, helped organize youth events, and mentored younger students who need guidance and encouragement. I believe that leadership isn’t about being in charge instead it’s about making a difference. Whether I’m helping someone study for a test or speaking up in a group discussion, I try to lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose. I also embrace Black excellence by being unapologetically myself. I celebrate my culture, my history, and my voice. I understand the importance of representation, and I take pride in showing up as a confident, thoughtful, and ambitious young Black person. I challenge stereotypes by living authentically and encouraging others to do the same. I know that excellence looks different for everyone, and I honor that by supporting my peers and creating space for diverse voices and experiences. Every day, I remind myself that Black excellence isn’t just about what I achieve but it’s about how I carry myself, how I treat others, and how I contribute to the world around me. It’s about resilience, joy, and the determination to keep going even when things get tough. It’s about lifting others as I climb and making sure that my success helps open doors for those who come after me. I’m proud to be part of a legacy of excellence, and I’m committed to continuing that legacy in everything I do; from the classroom to the community and beyond.