Education is a transformative journey that shapes our identity and our ability to contribute meaningfully to society. Reflecting on the values that Chidubè upheld—academic excellence, personal and spiritual growth, and a steadfast commitment to community upliftment—I recognize how these principles align with my own journey. My path has been defined by resilience in the face of adversity, an enduring pursuit of knowledge, and a profound desire to make a lasting difference. As a psychology major at Howard University, I have developed a deep understanding of how mental health impacts marginalized communities. My passion for this field stems from personal experiences with mental health challenges and a desire to fill the gaps in accessible care. I firmly believe that education is not just a personal asset but a communal responsibility; the knowledge I acquire is meant to be shared, fostering growth and healing for those in need. My journey has not been without setbacks—battling seasonal depression and ongoing mental health struggles has tested my resolve. Yet, these experiences have shaped my resilience, compelling me to persist with renewed determination. Personal and spiritual growth have been pivotal in my evolution. My faith has served as a guiding force, offering solace during times of uncertainty and reminding me that adversity can be a catalyst for growth. Embracing this perspective has helped me maintain a growth mindset, where each experience, whether triumphant or challenging, serves as a stepping stone toward greater understanding and compassion. Community service is more than a hobby; it is an extension of my values. My volunteer efforts have spanned from assisting at food banks and feeding the homeless to donating warm clothing during the colder months and working with nonprofits in women's prisons across North Carolina. The most transformative of these experiences was my participation in Howard's Alternative Spring Break program in New Orleans. Working in a community garden, we planted, maintained, and harvested produce, which we used to prepare meals for the local community. These meals were placed in a community fridge accessible to anyone in need. In the afternoons, we tutored students at a K-8 school and engaged with the Girl Scouts club, encouraging the children to envision higher education as an attainable goal. This experience reinforced my belief that impactful change often begins with small, consistent acts of service. This scholarship represents more than financial support; it is an investment in my ability to bring about meaningful change. Graduating on time in May is a crucial milestone, but the journey does not end there. I aspire to leverage my degree to create safe, inclusive spaces that prioritize mental wellness in underrepresented communities. I believe in the power of full-circle moments—by investing in me, you are indirectly investing in the countless lives I hope to touch. My mission is to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and provide holistic support for those who need it most. In conclusion, I strive to honor Chidubè's legacy through my unwavering commitment to academic excellence, continuous personal and spiritual growth, and a deep dedication to community upliftment. My journey has taught me that success transcends individual achievement; it is about using our experiences and knowledge to uplift others. With this scholarship, I aim to turn aspirations into action, creating a meaningful and lasting impact on the world.

As a passionate advocate for mental wellness and holistic healing, I have learned firsthand how transformative it can be to prioritize the well-being of the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. This scholarship funding would have a profound impact on my educational journey by alleviating the financial burdens that come with pursuing a degree in psychology. As I approach graduation from Howard University, the financial strain of completing my final semester weighs heavily. With this support, I will be able to focus on my studies and step confidently into the next chapter of my journey toward becoming a clinical psychologist. My personal experience with mental health has shaped my vision for the impact I hope to make in the realm of holistic healing. Battling seasonal depression and ongoing mental health challenges has taught me the importance of addressing wellness from multiple perspectives. Healing is not just about treating symptoms; it is about understanding the root causes and nurturing the whole person. My goal is to provide culturally competent care that integrates traditional psychological practices with mindfulness, meditation, and other holistic approaches. I want my clients to feel empowered to take charge of their mental well-being, knowing they are supported not just clinically but emotionally and spiritually. Holistic health is particularly crucial in marginalized communities where mental health resources are often limited or stigmatized. Many individuals in these communities face barriers that prevent them from seeking help, including financial constraints, lack of representation among healthcare providers, and mistrust in the system. I aim to be a part of the solution by creating safe, accessible spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued. I want to normalize conversations around mental health and advocate for policies that make holistic care more accessible to everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to realizing this vision. The financial relief will allow me to graduate on time and pursue further training without the overwhelming stress of student debt. Beyond my personal academic journey, this investment is a catalyst for change. By pouring into my education, you are indirectly pouring into the lives of those I will serve. I believe in the ripple effect of kindness and care — when we heal ourselves, we create the capacity to heal others. In conclusion, this scholarship is more than financial aid; it is a stepping-stone toward making a meaningful impact in the realm of holistic health and healing. With this support, I am determined to use my education and experiences to uplift and empower others, ensuring that no one feels alone on their journey to wellness. Together, we can create a world where mental health is prioritized, understood, and celebrated.

### Embracing My Journey: The Path to Purpose and Impact My name is Deja Dixon, and I proudly hail from Knightdale, North Carolina. Growing up in a working-class family with three brothers taught me the values of resilience, hard work, and compassion. These foundational principles have guided me on a journey filled with both challenges and growth, ultimately shaping the person I am today. My path to attending Howard University, one of the most prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the nation, has been marked by perseverance and an unwavering belief in the power of education and community. For as long as I can remember, I have been passionate about serving others. Volunteering has always been more than a hobby; it is a way of life that allows me to give back to the community that has given so much to me. From helping at food banks and feeding the homeless to donating warm clothing during the cold months, I have sought to provide support where it is needed most. One of my most transformative volunteer experiences was participating in Howard University's Alternative Spring Break program in New Orleans, Louisiana. During this week, I worked alongside fellow students in a community garden where we planted seeds, maintained crops, and harvested produce to make meals for the community. We placed the meals in a community fridge accessible to anyone in need. In the afternoons, I tutored at a K-8 school and assisted with the Girl Scouts club. It was deeply fulfilling to inspire young students to dream big and pursue higher education. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to making a lasting difference. Attending an HBCU like Howard University holds profound meaning for me. Historically Black Colleges and Universities were established to provide higher education opportunities to African Americans during a time when such opportunities were scarce. To walk the same halls as pioneers, activists, and thought leaders who changed the course of history is both humbling and inspiring. Howard is not just a school; it is a place where Black excellence is celebrated, where we are reminded that we are the dream and the hope of the enslaved. Being part of this rich legacy has given me a sense of pride and responsibility. At Howard, I have found a community that uplifts, supports, and encourages me to be the best version of myself. It is a place where I feel seen, heard, and valued. My time here has not only enriched my academic knowledge but has also instilled in me a deeper understanding of the power of community. My journey has not been without its challenges. At the end of last year, I was diagnosed with seasonal depression, a battle that I continue to face. Navigating mental health while balancing academic responsibilities has been difficult, but it has also taught me resilience and the importance of self-care. Instead of allowing my struggles to hold me back, I use them as fuel to push forward. I am passionate about raising awareness of mental health, especially within the Black community where the stigma often prevents people from seeking help. I want others to know that it is okay to struggle and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. As a psychology major, I aspire to become a clinical psychologist dedicated to providing culturally competent care to marginalized communities. My own experiences with mental health have shown me the importance of representation in therapy. Too often, people of color are misunderstood or misdiagnosed because their therapists lack cultural competence. I want to be the person who sees beyond the surface, who listens to my clients' stories, and who helps them heal. My goal is to create safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and validated. Through my actions and choice of study, I plan to make a lasting impact on my family and community. Education has the power to transform lives, and I want to be an example to my family and others in my community that it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. By breaking generational cycles and advocating for mental health awareness, I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate the financial burden of completing my degree, allowing me to graduate on time this May. More importantly, it would be an investment in my future and the communities I serve. I firmly believe in full-circle moments; by pouring into me, you are enabling me to pour into others. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to use my experiences and education to uplift those around me. In conclusion, my journey to this point has been one of growth, resilience, and purpose. Attending Howard University has given me the tools and community needed to thrive, and my experiences have fueled my passion for making a meaningful difference. I am committed to using my education and experiences to uplift my family and community, ensuring that the impact of my actions resonates far beyond myself. With each step forward, I am reminded that success is not solely defined by personal achievements but by the legacy we leave in the lives we touch.

My name is Deja Dixon, and I am from Knightdale, North Carolina. Growing up in a working-class family with three brothers taught me the importance of hard work, empathy, and resilience. These values have shaped who I am today, driving my passion for volunteering and my desire to make a positive impact on the world around me. I have always believed that true success is measured not by personal achievements alone but by the difference one makes in the lives of others. This belief continues to guide my actions and aspirations. Volunteering has always been more than just a pastime; it is a fundamental part of my identity. In my free time, I have engaged in various community service activities, such as helping at food banks, feeding the homeless, and donating warm clothing during the colder months. These experiences have not only allowed me to help those in need but have also taught me humility, gratitude, and the importance of community support. My dedication to service reached new heights when I participated in Howard University's Alternative Spring Break program. While many students spent their spring break relaxing, I chose to spend mine in New Orleans, Louisiana, volunteering alongside fellow Howard students. We worked tirelessly in a community garden, planting seeds, maintaining crops, and harvesting produce. The food we gathered was used to make meals for the local community, which we placed in a community fridge accessible to anyone in need. Seeing the community come together to support one another was an incredibly humbling experience that reinforced my belief in the power of collective action. In the afternoons, we volunteered at a K-8 school, where I helped with tutoring and assisted in the Girl Scouts club. One of the most rewarding moments was seeing the children become excited about higher education, realizing they too could achieve their dreams. My friends often describe me as lighthearted, compassionate, and resilient — someone who consistently pushes them to be their best selves. I take pride in being a dependable source of support, always ready to lend a listening ear or offer encouragement. These traits reflect my commitment to uplifting those around me, whether through personal relationships or community service. I firmly believe that when we uplift others, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our immediate surroundings. Whether I am volunteering or simply being a shoulder for someone to lean on, I strive to create positive change wherever I go. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my educational goals. As a senior at Howard University, I am determined to graduate on time this May, but financial constraints pose a significant challenge. With this support, I can focus on completing my degree without the burden of financial stress. More importantly, this scholarship would not just be an investment in my education — it would be an investment in the communities I continue to serve. I firmly believe in full-circle moments; by pouring into me, you are enabling me to pour into others. I intend to pay it forward by continuing to dedicate my time and efforts to those who need it most. In conclusion, service is at the heart of who I am. Through every challenge and opportunity, I have learned that true fulfillment comes from uplifting others. With this scholarship, I will continue to turn my compassion into action, striving to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around me. I hope to inspire others to recognize that success is not just about personal gain but about the legacy we leave behind in the lives we touch.

Life has a way of presenting obstacles that test our resilience and shape our character. One of the most challenging setbacks I faced was my struggle with mental health. As a teenager, I battled anxiety and depression, and at 16, I was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). At first, this diagnosis felt overwhelming. I found myself questioning my strength and doubting whether I could overcome the weight of my mental health struggles. However, this challenge ultimately became the catalyst for personal growth and the foundation of my career aspirations. My first experience with therapy was disheartening. My therapist quickly labeled me with depression without taking the time to understand my full story or how my identity as a Black woman impacted my mental health. I felt misunderstood and unsupported, which led me to quit therapy altogether. However, as my symptoms worsened, I realized I couldn’t give up on myself. I sought help again, this time requesting a Black therapist. The difference was transformative. She took the time to listen, to understand my experiences, and to look beyond surface-level symptoms. She was the first to suggest that I might have PTSD, a diagnosis that finally made me feel seen. This experience taught me the importance of persistence and self-advocacy. I learned that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to turn pain into purpose. I began to view my mental health journey as a source of strength rather than weakness. I pushed myself academically and personally, engaging in mental health advocacy and volunteering in my community to support others facing similar struggles. I turned it up to 11 by channeling my experiences into motivation, determined to create change and provide culturally competent care as a future clinical psychologist. Participating in a mentorship program with Inspire11 would be an invaluable opportunity to continue turning it up to 11. Having mentors who understand the challenges of navigating higher education and career development would provide me with guidance and insight as I pursue my goals. Mentorship would not only help me refine my skills and build professional connections but also allow me to gain perspective from those who have faced and overcome similar obstacles. It would be a full-circle moment where I could learn from others and eventually give back by mentoring those who come after me. The obstacles I have faced have shaped my resilience, empathy, and determination. I have learned that success is not about avoiding challenges but about how we rise after falling. With the support of Inspire11's mentorship program, I am eager to continue pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and turning every setback into an opportunity to grow and uplift others.

My journey with mental health has profoundly shaped my career aspirations, driving my passion to become a clinical psychologist. As a senior at Howard University majoring in psychology, I have come to understand that my struggles were not setbacks but stepping- stones toward a greater purpose. My experiences with anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) have given me insight into the importance of empathy, representation, and holistic mental health care. I was first diagnosed with depression as a teenager, but I felt there was more to my mental health struggles than just sadness. My first therapist, a white woman, quickly diagnosed me without delving into my personal history or acknowledging how my identity as a Black woman shaped my mental health. I often felt like I was educating her about my experience rather than receiving support. Frustrated, I quit therapy, feeling disillusioned and misunderstood. As my symptoms worsened, I realized that giving up on my mental health was not an option. I sought therapy again, this time requesting a Black therapist. The difference was life changing. My new therapist took the time to hear my story before rushing to conclusions. She was the first to suggest that I might have PTSD, a diagnosis I had previously associated only with war veterans or those from high-crime areas. This experience taught me the importance of culturally competent care. It also made me reflect on how many others may give up on therapy simply because they feel misunderstood. This revelation fueled my desire to become a clinical psychologist. I want to be the kind of therapist who looks beyond surface-level symptoms and truly understands the unique experiences of each client. According to the American Psychological Association, only 5.49% of psychologists in the United States are Black. This underrepresentation often leaves people of color feeling isolated in their mental health struggles. I am determined to change that by providing a safe and empathetic space where clients feel seen and heard. My battle with mental health is ongoing, but I no longer see it as a burden. Instead, it is my motivation to help others navigate their own journeys. I believe that success is not about the absence of struggle but about using those struggles to create positive change. I want to turn my pain into purpose by offering others the support I once needed. This scholarship would allow me to continue my education and graduate on time this May, alleviating the financial stress that comes with pursuing higher education. With this support, I can remain focused on my academic goals and continue on the path to becoming a clinical psychologist. My goal is to pour into others just as others have poured into me. This is a full-circle moment where my experiences are no longer just my own; they are the foundation for the impact I hope to make in the world.

My name is Deja Dixon, and I am a senior at Howard University pursuing a degree in psychology. My passion for mental health advocacy stems from personal experiences that have shaped my educational journey and reinforced my desire to help others. My ultimate goal is to become a clinical psychologist, providing culturally competent care to marginalized communities. Along the way, I have encountered significant obstacles, but each challenge has taught me resilience, empathy, and the power of perseverance. One of the most impactful obstacles I faced was my struggle with mental health. As a teenager, I battled anxiety and depression, which worsened over time. At the age of 16, I was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but this diagnosis did not come without hurdles. My first experience with therapy left me feeling misunderstood. My therapist, a white woman, quickly labeled me with depression without asking about my history or how my identity as a Black woman shaped my experiences. I felt unseen and unheard, as if I was educating her more than receiving the help I needed. Disheartened, I quit therapy. As my symptoms worsened, I realized that giving up on my mental health was not an option. I sought therapy again, this time specifically requesting a Black therapist. The difference was profound. My new therapist prioritized understanding my story before assigning labels. She saw beyond the surface and diagnosed me with PTSD, a revelation that helped me better understand myself. This experience taught me that representation and cultural competence matter, and it fueled my desire to become a therapist who provides the kind of support I once needed. Through this journey, I learned that obstacles are not roadblocks; they are opportunities for growth. My battle with mental health is ongoing, but I no longer see it as something that holds me back. Instead, it pushes me forward. I have learned to advocate for myself and others, turning my pain into purpose. This perspective has not only shaped my personal growth but also my educational goals. I am determined to complete my undergraduate degree and pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology to address the mental health disparities in underserved communities. Financial hardship has been another challenge throughout my college experience. I am applying for scholarships to ensure I can graduate on time this May. Earning this scholarship would alleviate financial stress, allowing me to focus on my studies and finish strong. It represents more than just financial aid; it is an investment in my future and my mission to make a difference in the lives of others. In conclusion, the obstacles I have faced have shaped me into a resilient and compassionate individual. My experiences with mental health struggles have taught me the importance of empathy and perseverance. I aspire to turn these lessons into meaningful change by becoming a clinical psychologist who provides inclusive, understanding, and holistic care. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to overcome challenges and help others do the same.

Success is often measured by titles, wealth, or societal recognition, but for me, success is defined by growth, resilience, and the ability to create meaningful change in the lives of others. As a senior psychology major at Howard University, my journey has been marked by challenges that have shaped my perspective and fueled my passion for mental health advocacy. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance; it is an opportunity to turn my vision of success into reality by allowing me to graduate on time and continue my journey toward becoming a clinical psychologist. For much of my life, I associated success with the absence of struggle. However, my personal battle with mental health has taught me that true success is not about living without obstacles but learning how to rise despite them. I was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) at the age of 16 and more recently with seasonal depression. These experiences forced me to confront my mental health head-on and challenged me to redefine what it means to thrive. Rather than allowing my struggles to hold me back, I now view them as the foundation upon which I build resilience and empathy. As someone who once felt misunderstood in the mental health system, I am passionate about becoming the kind of therapist I once needed. In my early experiences with therapy, I felt like a case number rather than a person. My first therapist, a white woman, quickly diagnosed me with depression without understanding the complexities of my experiences as a Black woman. It was not until I sought out a therapist who looked like me that I truly felt seen and heard. She took the time to understand my story and diagnosed me with PTSD, something I never would have considered on my own. That experience highlighted the importance of representation and cultural competence in mental health care. Success, for me, is about paying it forward by creating spaces where others feel seen and validated. With only 5.49% of psychologists in the United States being Black, I am determined to be part of the change that diversifies mental health care. I want to help others navigate their mental health journeys without feeling invisible or misunderstood. Achieving this goal requires not only determination but also the ability to complete my education without financial barriers. This scholarship is essential to my journey because it allows me to focus on my studies and graduate on time this May. Financial hardship has been a consistent obstacle throughout my college experience, and I am actively applying for scholarships to bridge the gap. Earning this scholarship would alleviate the financial burden and allow me to concentrate on the final stages of my undergraduate journey, preparing me for the next steps toward a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. In addition to academic achievement, success also looks like resilience in the face of adversity. My battle with mental health is ongoing, but I am intentional about using my experiences to inspire others. Whether through sharing my story or advocating for better mental health resources, I aim to turn my struggles into a source of strength for those who feel alone in their battles. I also believe in the power of full-circle moments. Just as I have been supported by mentors, therapists, and those who saw potential in me when I struggled to see it in myself, I hope to one day do the same for others. This scholarship represents more than financial aid; it is an investment in someone who is committed to pouring back into the community. I want to be a beacon of hope for others, showing that success is not defined by perfection but by persistence and the willingness to uplift others along the way. Success is a dynamic journey marked by growth, resilience, and impact. This scholarship is not just about helping me achieve a degree; it is about enabling me to fulfill my purpose of transforming lives through mental health advocacy. With this support, I will continue striving to make mental health care more inclusive and compassionate. I am determined to turn my vision of success into reality — not just for myself, but for those who need to know that they are not alone in their journey toward healing.

My name is Deja Dixon, and I am a senior at Howard University majoring in psychology. My passion for psychology is deeply rooted in personal experiences with mental health and a desire to support others who face similar struggles. Over the years, I have learned how pivotal representation and understanding are in the journey toward mental well-being. From a young age, I battled anxiety and depression, which intensified significantly by eighth grade. At 16, I was diagnosed with PTSD, but the journey to this realization was neither simple nor straightforward. My first experience with therapy was disheartening. I was assigned a white therapist who, during our very first session, diagnosed me with depression without asking about my past or acknowledging how being a Black woman in America shaped my mental health. Rather than feeling heard, I found myself educating her on the complexities of my identity. After a few sessions, I felt defeated and quit therapy altogether. However, as my symptoms worsened over time, I realized I could not navigate this journey alone. I decided to give therapy another chance, but this time, I made a crucial change—I specifically requested a Black therapist. From our very first session, I noticed a difference. Instead of reading off a list of symptoms or rushing to label my condition, she asked me to share my story. She listened patiently, absorbing the details of my experiences. When I finished, she asked a question that changed my perspective: "Has anyone ever told you that you might have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?" I was stunned. Like many others, I associated PTSD with veterans or individuals from war-torn areas. I had never considered that personal trauma could manifest in the same way. This experience was transformative. It opened my eyes to the importance of representation in mental health care. According to the American Psychological Association, only 5.49% of psychologists were Black in 2023. This statistic made me reflect on how many individuals, like myself, might have given up on therapy because they were tired of explaining their experiences to therapists who could not fully understand them. It also made me wonder how many people were misdiagnosed because their therapists only saw the surface rather than the deeper, more nuanced parts of their experiences. Studying psychology at Howard University has provided me with a foundation to turn my passion into a career. I have learned not only about the science of psychology but also about the importance of empathy, cultural competence, and holistic care. I aspire to become a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma and mental health disorders, particularly within underserved communities where mental health resources are limited. I want my future clients to feel safe, seen, and understood—the way my second therapist made me feel. Life has taught me that hardships are inevitable, but healing is possible with the right support system. Through my own journey, I have realized that representation is not just important; it is essential. My goal is to be that representation for someone else. I want to help others find strength in their struggles, hope in their healing, and the courage to keep moving forward. The challenges I have faced have given me purpose, and I am committed to using my experiences to make a difference in the lives of others.

### Pursuing My Purpose: How This Scholarship Will Support My Educational Goals My name is Deja Dixon, and I am a senior at Howard University majoring in psychology. Throughout my academic journey, I have been driven by a deep passion for understanding the complexities of the human mind and helping others navigate their mental health challenges. My experiences with mental health struggles, coupled with my unwavering faith, have inspired me to pursue a career in clinical psychology. This scholarship will not only alleviate the financial burden of my educational journey but also serve as a stepping stone toward achieving my long-term goals. From a young age, I have battled with mental health issues, which intensified in my teenage years. My diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder at the age of 16 marked a pivotal moment in my life. During this time, my mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, and both of my grandmothers were battling cancer. These challenges tested my resilience, but they also fueled my desire to understand mental health on a deeper level. My struggles motivated me to pursue psychology as a field of study, with the goal of helping others overcome their own obstacles. Howard University has provided me with an enriching academic environment where I have gained valuable knowledge and practical skills. However, the financial demands of higher education remain a challenge. This scholarship would significantly ease the financial strain, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on the financial pressures that often accompany pursuing higher education. With this support, I can continue to excel academically and take advantage of opportunities such as internships and research experiences that are crucial for my growth as a future clinical psychologist. In addition to my personal experiences, my faith has played a central role in shaping my educational journey. It has taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of using my experiences to uplift others. As I move forward in my academic career, I am committed to integrating faith and empathy into my approach to psychology, providing holistic support to those in need. My ultimate goal is to obtain a PhD in Clinical Psychology. After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to take a gap semester before embarking on this next chapter. I understand that pursuing a PhD is demanding, both academically and mentally, but I am prepared to face these challenges head-on. This scholarship will not only help me continue my education but also reaffirm my belief that with hard work, determination, and faith, I can achieve my dreams. In conclusion, this scholarship represents more than just financial aid; it is an investment in my future. It will empower me to continue my educational journey, alleviate the stress of financial burdens, and enable me to focus fully on my academic and professional goals. I am determined to use my experiences, education, and faith to make a positive impact in the lives of others, and with this support, I am one step closer to turning that vision into reality.

My name is Deja Dixon, and I am a senior at Howard University majoring in psychology. Throughout my life, I have always depended on God, leaning on my faith to carry me through not only the difficult moments but also the good times. My journey has been marked by significant challenges, but it is through these trials that I discovered the true depth of my faith and resilience. From a young age, I have struggled with my mental health. My battle intensified in eighth grade, but it wasn’t until I turned 16 that I was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). During this time, I wrestled with the belief that God had abandoned me. How could a loving God allow so much pain to touch my life? This question haunted me as my mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and both of my grandmothers battled cancer. My heart was heavy with anger and confusion, convinced that my faith had been in vain. As time went on, my perspective began to shift. Both of my grandmothers went into remission, and my mother found a medication that alleviated her pain. It was in these moments of reprieve that I realized God had never left me. The turning point in my faith journey came during my freshman year of college, and interestingly enough, it started with TikTok. Sermon clips began to appear on my feed, each one resonating deeply with what I was experiencing. These brief but powerful messages reminded me that I was not alone. Intrigued and inspired, I began to intentionally seek out sermons and follow different pastors. Eventually, I found a church that spoke to my heart. Attending Rock City Church transformed my relationship with God. I went from passively engaging with my faith to pursuing God with purpose. I started praying more, meditating regularly, and taking notes during church services. Although I was not initially consistent in attending church every Sunday, I made a conscious decision to prioritize my faith. This shift in mindset changed how I viewed my struggles. Instead of asking, "Why me?" I began to ask, "Why not me?" I realized that my hardships were not evidence of God's absence but rather opportunities for growth and testimony. Through this journey, I have learned to pair my faith with mindfulness coping mechanisms to manage my anxiety and depression. Casting my cares on the Lord has been the best remedy, bringing peace in times of turmoil. Life is still challenging, but with God by my side, I am confident that I can overcome any obstacle. My goal is to become a clinical psychologist. After taking a gap semester, I plan to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology. One of my undergraduate professors once warned us about the mental toll that graduate studies can take, emphasizing the competitiveness of Clinical Psychology programs. In the past, such advice might have discouraged me. Today, I see it as a challenge. My faith reminds me that with God, all things are possible. The journey may be long and arduous, but I trust that it will be worth it. The God I serve has never failed me, and I know He won't start now. I am grateful for every hardship that has strengthened my faith and every triumph that has affirmed it. With unwavering faith as my guiding force, I am determined to reach greater heights and help others find hope in their own journeys.

My name is Deja Dixon, and I am from Knightdale, North Carolina. I come from a working class family. My parents always stressed the importance of working hard and receiving a good education. We would have talks about financial debt, what it meant, and possible solutions. We also had talks about the benefits of education. My parents have always been lifelong learners and stressed the importance of a good education. Their commitment to education inspires me to pursue a doctorate degree. I remember excelling in class as early as primary school. I would always tell my friends that hard work would lead to acceptance in a great university. Of course, in elementary, most kids weren’t thinking that far ahead. However, this illustrates how long education has been of value to me. I graduated high school in the top ten percent of my class; ranked 16 out of 331 seniors. My unweighted grade point average was 3.82 and the weighted grade point average was 4.25. Upon much reflection, I am in much awe of my accomplishments. During high school, depression was a severe obstacle, with bad days outweighing the good. Halfway through junior year, Covid would ravage the world, forcing students to learn online. The reality of the pandemic prevented me from taking any standardized tests. I enrolled at Howard University in August 2021. Currently a senior, maintaining a grade point average of 3.49 and making the Dean’s list since my freshman year. Despite all the odds, I have persevered and will continue to do so until I am known as Dr. Deja Dixon. This scholarship will allow me to afford books, graduation fees, and application fees for graduate school. This scholarship would give me the opportunity to focus solely on my academics without having to balance a full-time job during my last semester at Howard. After graduation, Target has offered me a job as a generalist Human Resources Executive Team Lead. I value serving others just as much as I value my education. I often think about how much further I would be if my mental health struggles were identified earlier on. I know what it is to be resilient, yet I also know the power of having a support system. As a psychology major, I believe I can help foster a healthy work environment, combining my personal history and degree to create an effective support system for employees. This past summer I was an intern with Target’s Human Resources Executive Team Lead. We supported charities within the Knightdale community. There was also a community service event geared towards low-income neighborhoods, where Target provided toys and games for the children. Having the support of those around me made the difference between my quitting and me persevering. There is no doubt in my mind that when employees feel supported by their employers, that they will be more willing to stay with that company. The employees at Target valued recognition, whether it was verbal or with Target swag. I have a support system. I want to create that system for others, and I hope you will extend your support as well. Thank you.

My journey to Howard University was a long one. It was full of hard work, sweat, tears, self neglect and more. We know what it is to congratulate someone on reaching the mountains, yet we never know what it took to reach that destination. From the time that I was a little girl I knew that I wanted to be great. I wanted to attend a great school, obtain a great job, and live a great life. I believe most people can say they wouldn’t strive for anything less. Until you reach the mountaintops, you are unaware of how much more you have to accomplish. My acceptance into Howard University was my mountaintop. It was the destination that I had put years of work towards to reach. I believed that this was the hardest step for me. The rest of my story would be smooth sailing. I wasn’t prepared for what was to come. While I was home for winter break during my freshman year, I was sexually assaulted. This became a very dark place in my life. I decided to keep this information from my parents. I could figure this out on my own, I always did. I returned back to campus with this fresh wound in my heart and mind. I went through the semester and finished on the Dean’s list. Extremely depressed, I was able to put my all into that semester. I trusted that this would be my biggest obstacle as a student.That summer, I found out that I did not have enough money to stay at Howard. The pain and anguish that comes with knowing you are smart enough to get in but not rich enough to stay. I remember the defeat as if it were yesterday. I had worked so hard to reach the mountaintops, just to be thrown off. I became a remote student during my sophomore year. This cut down on costs while allowing me to stay enrolled at Howard. I ended up getting a full-time job and a part-time job to make ends meet. I finished my first semester successfully with As and Bs. Once again, I was proud of what I was able to accomplish. Three days after Christmas I would end up in the hospital for attempted suicide. Hiding my pain and the stress of that year had become too much for me. I was admitted to a mental hospital and was released the first week of January. God spared my life and for that I am determined to keep pushing forward. Upon my release, I went back into my routine of school and working. My family and friends continued to support and encourage me along my journey. Once again, I finished this semester successfully, ending on the Dean’s list once again. I am now entering my second semester of my junior year. Again, I am being met with obstacles. Over winter break, I applied for classes and obtained the remote courses I needed. However, upon later observation of my classes showed that over half of them were switched to in person. I was not given a heads up about the location of these courses changing. Classes start on January 8th, 2024 and I am faced with the option of being a homeless student, or taking a semester off. I have come this far and overcome so much to have to stop now. The money from this scholarship will allow me to find a place to live and graduate on time.

My journey to Howard University was a long one. It was full of hard work, sweat, tears, self-neglect and more. We know what it is to congratulate someone on reaching the mountains, yet we never know what it took to reach that destination. From the time that I was a little girl I knew that I wanted to be great. I wanted to attend a great school, obtain a great job, and live a great life. I believe most people can say they wouldn’t strive for anything less. Until you reach the mountaintops, you are unaware of how much more you have to accomplish. My acceptance into Howard University was my mountaintop. It was the destination that I had put years of work towards to reach. I believed that this was the hardest step for me. The rest of my story would be smooth sailing. I wasn’t prepared for what was to come. While I was home for winter break during my freshman year, I was sexually assaulted. This became a very dark place in my life. I decided to keep this information from my parents. I could figure this out on my own, I always did. I returned back to campus with this fresh wound in my heart and mind. I went through the semester and finished on the Dean’s list. Extremely depressed, I was able to put my all into that semester. I trusted that this would be my biggest obstacle as a student. That summer, I found out that I did not have enough money to stay at Howard. The pain and anguish that comes with knowing you are smart enough to get in but not rich enough to stay. I remember the defeat as if it were yesterday. I had worked so hard to reach the mountaintops, just to be thrown off. I had accomplished so much yet it continued to feel like so little. I gave myself three days to let the tears fall. After those three days I had to figure out my next steps. I became a remote student during my sophomore year. This cut down on costs while allowing me to stay enrolled at Howard. I ended up getting a full-time job and a part-time job to make ends meet. I finished my first semester successfully with As and Bs. Once again, I was proud of what I was able to accomplish. Three days after Christmas I would end up in the hospital for attempted suicide. Hiding my pain and the stress of that year had become too much for me. I was admitted to a mental hospital and was released the first week of January. Upon my release, I went back into my routine of school and working. Once again, I finished this semester successfully, ending on the Dean’s list once again. I am now entering my second semester of my junior year. Again, I am being met with obstacles. Over winter break, I applied for classes and obtained the remote courses I needed. However, upon later observation of my classes showed that over half of them were switched to in person. I was not given a heads up about the location of these courses changing. I am faced with the option of being a homeless student or taking a semester off. I have come this far and overcome so much to have to stop now. The money from this scholarship will allow me to find a place to live and graduate on time. As a future psychologist, I want to help young adults who are faced with continuous obstacles.

The concept and lifestyle that go with mental health have gained a strong importance in my life, following my struggles. During my sophomore year of high school, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Since my diagnosis, I have been working towards navigating through life in a way that is most beneficial to my well-being. I have learned that when it comes to mental health battles, knowing when to ask for help is the first step. I’ve learned that “help” comes in many different forms. There are times when you have to make decisions you may not want to make, to strengthen your mind. Since my diagnosis, I have had two hospitalizations to a mental hospital. Although the decision to self-admit was not an easy one, I realized that it was a step necessary to healing. We must prioritize what we need over what we may want at the moment. My hospitalizations were usually due to a build-up of stress and trauma that I wanted to “handle myself”. When speaking about mental illness, people often talk about not wanting to inconvenience others with their problems. I’ve learned that there exist resources for this exact reason. Receiving therapy and reaching out to others is not a sign of weakness. If anything, this is one of the biggest signs of strength. I have also learned that putting your mental health on the back burner does not make your troubles go away. All this does is postpone dealing with the problem, essentially allowing future stress to build upon what you have stored. During my stay in the hospital, I read a quote that was posted on the wall. The quote states, “ If you do not make time for your health, you will have to make time for your illness”. This is a quote that has since occupied my mind. I have become more diligent with facing obstacles head-on so they will not grow in size. My journey with improving my mental health has taught me lessons that can be applied to all aspects of my life. Although this journey can be difficult and exhausting, I have learned that beauty lies in pain. This seemed like such a cliche to hear when facing my hardest battles. Yet, I am now able to see the truth in this saying. If I could end this essay with advice to anyone dealing with mental health setbacks and illness, I would leave these three suggestions. Always remember that a bad day does not equate to a bad life. Self-care is not a privilege but a necessity. My last piece of advice would be to remember that no one has gotten to where they are without help. These are the pieces of advice that have kept me going. I recognize the importance of mental health and I hope that everyone who reads this will be able to see the importance as well.

Every great person has one thing in common. They received help along the way to greatness. Some may argue that receiving help is a form of weakness. However, it is our moments of need that build the most character. The legacy we leave behind is so much more than our name, or what we have built over time. I am honored to say that I come from a family that is known for their support in the community. This is a legacy, powerful beyond measure, that I intend to continue. I remember one of the first times I helped someone other than my family. I was only four years old, although the memory feels as fresh as yesterday. My mother and I had a tradition of going to Krispy Kreme on Wednesdays if my week had gone well. As a four-year-old, there were very few things I loved as much as a Krispy Kreme donut, fresh from the back. We pulled up to the front of the store and my mother gave me my dollar to purchase my donut. It’s only too bad that dollar donuts are a thing of the past now. As I was walking to the front door, I remember seeing a man sitting at a table in front of the window. I noticed that he had a sad look on his face. I wondered how someone could be so sad at such a happy place. Donuts were supposed to make everyone feel better. However, I also noticed that he didn’t have a donut. I looked at my mom and told her that I didn’t want a donut that day. Instead, I wanted to give the man my donut, so he wouldn’t be sad anymore. My mother agreed that it was a great idea, and I went to the counter and purchased the man a donut. I remember how happy he was. This didn’t surprise me since donuts always brought a smile to my face as well. The man thanked me for being so kind. On the way home, eating the donut that my mom purchased for me after gifting my own to the man, I noticed that a few tears dropped from her eyes. She told me that what I had done was a very selfless thing. I should be proud of helping others because that is the life God would want us to live. After that day, I realized the importance of helping others. I remember how warm I felt. I remember the smile on the man’s face. Over the years, I have continued to dedicate my time and support to people in need. Every year, my family and I adopt a child from the angel tree for Christmas. I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to do this, as I was once a child who did not have many presents under the tree. I’ve worked with community food drives, given to the homeless, and provided free tutoring to low-income children. I’m not sure how big my impact has been, but I know my service has left the world a little better than I found it. Mollie Marti once said, “Helping others is not only a responsibility of life, it is what gives meaning to life.” With every person that I have helped, I have felt more whole and human myself. There is nothing that builds humanity, compassion, love and legacy, like the ability to help those in need. May my life be full of helping others, for God knows that I was once one who needed help.

During this past year, my outlook on education has changed dramatically. As a senior in high school, I felt that it was most important to choose a college of high prestige. I believed that the more prestigious the school, the better off I would be and the better I would feel about myself. I held on to these beliefs well into my freshman year of undergrad. Despite the many hardships I had come across, I still believed that prestige outweighed all of it. At the end of the year, I was able to realize that it wasn’t the reputation of the school that defined me. I decided that my mental health was more important than the esteem of my school. I began to value the support system of the staff over reputation. This was something that was deeply missing from the university. My growth was sparked by the hardships I faced during that year. I realized that even though I was at a prestigious university, I was not happy. I had a great financial burden that was resulting in debt and my mental health was deteriorating faster than I could recover. The stress of it all was not worth a simple name. I learned that the name is not everything. If the school is not able to support its students in the way that they deserve to be supported, it is not the school for me. My enrollment at the university made me feel that without it, I would not be anything. I believed that if I transferred to a less known school, it would mark me as a failure or someone who was not the brightest. It wasn’t until I began to think about transferring, I began to feel free. Many choices go into choosing the college right for you. To make a better decision the second time around, my values had to change. I had to prioritize my mental health and the support system that I would be provided with. Oftentimes, we feel that who we are is because of what we are attached to. When I decided that who I am had nothing to do with the school I attended, I felt truly free. This self-discovery not only helped my mental health, but it is allowing me to widen my range of educational opportunities that will help me financially as well. I have learned that I am a smart, generous, amazing, black woman. I realized that to get accepted into that school, I had to have been smart and well-rounded. I did not simply become these things once I was a student. No matter what school I decide to transfer to, these things will remain true. I am who I am and that has nothing to do with where I am.

I am pursuing a trauma surgeon field of interest. A few years ago when my grandmother was in the hospital, I stepped out into the hall and saw an emergency surgery was about to take place. I remember being fascinated and having a rush of adrenaline at the sight of this. There aren’t many surgeons of color and this makes the field even more appealing. I look forward to seeing the calm that comes over my patients when they see that a sister of color will be taking care of them. I will commit myself to diversity within my choice of profession by building bonds with patients of color. Oftentimes there is a distrust and disconnect between medical staff and patients of color. I am ready to begin to change my perspective on what it means to interact with others and to put your life in the hands of a surgeon. I will be able to show minority youth that it is possible and needed for them to pursue medical fields. I plan to speak at minority schools and mentor other minority surgeon aspiring youth. My financial needs are paying for college. Student debt is something that holds many people of color back in life. I am a black woman who is pursuing a field dominated by white men. The color of my skin and my sex will be things that may work against me while pursuing this field. Minorities have mountains of obstacles stacked against them. This scholarship will assure that financial debt will not be another obstacle standing in my way. As a recipient of this scholarship, I will be able to focus on my studies wholeheartedly. Within the next ten years, there is a lot that I would like to accomplish. First, I want to graduate from medical school. After I graduate from medical school I want to create a Black Surgeon’s network. This network will be composed of black surgeons and aspiring surgeons. I want this network to be worldwide. Black students will have access to their mentors through this network. I would also like to start my scholarships for aspiring black surgeons. I want this network to be present at every HBCU in the country. There will be events hosted for the many perspectives that go into being a black surgeon. This will be a space where we can be honest about the obstacles that will come with this field. It will also be a space to speak on the impact that comes with this field. I want future surgeons to be inspired and prepared for the challenges and advantages that come with being a surgeon. We can change the stigma of distrust between doctors and the minority community, one black surgeon at a time.

I am pursuing a trauma surgeon field of interest. A few years ago, when my grandmother was in the hospital, I stepped out into the hall and saw an emergency surgery was about to take place. I remember being fascinated and having a rush of adrenaline at the sight of this. There aren’t many surgeons of color, and this makes the field even more appealing. I look forward to seeing the calm that comes over my patients when they see that a sister of color will be taking care of them. I will commit myself to diversity within my choice of profession by building bonds with patients of color. Oftentimes there is a distrust and disconnect between medical staff and patients of color. I am ready to begin to change the perspective on what it means to interact with and to put your life in the hands of a surgeon. I will be able to show minority youth that it is possible and needed for them to pursue medical fields. I plan to speak at minority schools and mentor other minority surgeon aspiring youth. My financial needs are paying for college. Student debt is something that holds many people of color back in life. I am a black woman who is pursuing a field dominated by white men. The color of my skin and my sex will be things that may work against me while pursuing this field. Minorities have mountains of obstacles stacked against them. This scholarship will assure that financial debt will not be another obstacle standing in my way. As a recipient of this scholarship, I will be able to focus on my studies wholeheartedly. Within the next ten years there is a lot that I would like to accomplish. First, I want to graduate from medical school. After I graduate from medical school, I want to create a Black Surgeon’s network. This network will be composed of black surgeons and aspiring surgeons. I want this network to be worldwide. Black students will have access to their own mentors through this network. I would also like to start my own scholarships for aspiring black surgeons. My obstacles with my financial circumstances encourage me to support other aspiring surgeons, so they won't have to endure the same setbacks alone. I want this network to be present at every HBCU in the country. There will be events hosted for the many perspectives that go into being a black surgeon. This will be a space where we can be honest about the obstacles that will come with this field. It will also be a space to speak on the impact that comes with this field. I want future surgeons to be inspired and prepared for challenges and advantages that come with being a surgeon. We can change the stigma of distrust between doctors and the minority community, one black surgeon at a time.

I am a sophomore at Howard University, majoring in Psychology. When I accepted my admission to Howard, I was welcomed with a decent number of scholarships. However, I have one permanently disabled parent and another who is working with Multiple Sclerosis. My mom’s diagnosis with Multiple Sclerosis makes us unsure of how much longer she will be able to work. Not only have I had one decrease in my family contribution, but I am at risk of having another decrease. I have started the process of filling out a special circumstance appeal, since my fafsa does not reflect my actual financial status. This will hopefully increase the amount of money I will receive from the Pell grant. In order for me to pay off the money I owe to my school, I have obtained both a full time and a part time job, all while being a full-time student. I am trying to pick up as many hours as possible, without being at risk of my grades dropping. In my free time, I apply for scholarships that can assist me with financial relief. Unfortunately, since my debt is more than I can afford with my jobs, I have to consider transferring to a cheaper university. I have started the process of sending in transfer applications to other schools. Although Howard University is where I want to call home for my undergraduate years, I understand that I do not currently have the means to stay enrolled or to find housing. This semester, I decided it was best for me to stay home and be a remote student. This decision allowed me to save on housing, food and other expenses. Another option that I have is to apply for private loans. However, last year my parents were denied taking a loan out on my behalf. This leads me to believe that they will more than likely be denied, and I will be left to try to find a cosigner. Although my options are quite limited, I am making sure that I utilize all of my resources before I consider taking time off from school. This scholarship will erase all of my current debt and will give me a head start to get ahead of any further debt. I believe that I will be a great candidate for this scholarship because I am resilient, and I will continue to take advantage of every resource available. Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to hearing from you.

My name is Deja Dixon, and I am a current sophomore at Howard University, majoring in Psychology. I come from Knightdale, North Carolina. I am the only girl and I have three brothers. Growing up, I had a love for education and helping others. I began to read and write at the age of four years old. By the time I was in kindergarten, I was reading beginner chapter books. I have loved school since the beginning of my academic career. Both of my parents went to college and expressed how amazing it had been. This led me and my brothers to pursue the same route. I realized that I wanted to major in Psychology when I was just a sophomore in high school. This was the year that I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Mental health is not an easy battle. However, it is one that so many of us try to fight alone. I didn’t want my mental illness to be something that held me back in life. I continued to do all I could to keep my grades up in school. Eventually, I graduated 16 out of 331 students, with a 3.82 unweighted gpa. Despite what I had endured mentally, I stayed resilient in hopes that things would improve. When I was accepted into Howard University, I decided that I wanted my story to inspire others that were dealing with mental disorders. In the face of adversity, greatness is born. With the right professional help and a support system, you can overcome any obstacle. I am a full-time student with two jobs, who just so happens to have PTSD. It is possible to still have a life even with mental illnesses. I plan to continue to show resilience throughout my college career. I want to become an advocate for those who feel that their mental illness has taken over their lives. I hope to become a light for those who have lost their way. I plan to become a holistic psychiatrist. I want to show my patients that drastic changes do not need to be made in order for them to live fulfilling lives. I want to provide them access to an array of options. Oftentimes, medication is pushed onto patients. I want to emphasize that although medication can be very helpful, it is not the only option. Coming from a low middle class family, I am aware of the financial barriers that prevent mental wellness. My hope is to help my community by opening low-income mental health facilities. A person’s wellness shouldn’t be determined by the amount of money in their pockets. Everyone needs adequate access to a support system. I can’t think of a better form of support than the open arms of a community. Together, we will be able to fight the stigmas around getting professional support. As a community we can show that it is okay to ask for help. I plan to expand these facilities to low-income communities around the United States. This is a battle that affects the individual but one that will be fought by the community. My legacy will be built on not what people can do for me, but what I can do for others. We all have a story, so why not use that story to uplift others. This is my story, and this is how I want to use it.

I want to see the world change in a way that we see each other as people and not what income bracket, we are in. I come from a middle class, hardworking family. My parents have worked so hard, yet they lack needs such as good health insurance. If we lived in a world where humanity meant more than income, everyone would have access to quality healthcare. We live in a world where there are countless people sleeping on the streets. If this world valued humanity over income, then everyone would have access to affordable housing. There wouldn’t be a need for people to sleep on back benches or sidewalks. I want to live in a world where we have the right to affordable higher education. I am a student that maintains great grades, yet my income level has put me at risk of staying in school. Depriving someone of a better future because they do not have the financial means is inhumane. All people deserve the opportunity to learn and improve despite their income. When we see each other as people, we allow everyone to make the decisions necessary for their lives. This includes the right to choose. We should be able to choose whether we are ready to be parents or not. The access to planned parenthood and clinics should not be a privilege of those with money, but a necessity for all. Having a child should not cost thousands of dollars. Adopting a child should not cost thousands of dollars either. It is only humane that people are allowed to build their family without ending up in debt. It is only humane that children are granted better lives with loving parents, without having to wait for someone who can afford to adopt them. This essay may seem focused on many aspects. The point behind all of this is to show how money is valued more than humanity. I want to show how a world run by money is a world that lacks humanity. It is true that money makes the world go round. However, it is also true that the things we put a price on, can be the option between life and death. It is not my argument that I want a world that exists without money. Yet, it is my argument that I long for a world that doesn’t allow money to fog our moral standards. I believe that everyone deserves to thrive in a world that is centered around their wellbeing and not their financial status. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness must be a guarantee for people of all walks of life. Norman Vincente Peale once said, “change your thoughts and you change your world”. Once we change what we value, we will achieve the greatest change of all. This is a world in which I want to live.

I plan to become a psychiatrist specializing in PTSD in adolescents. I was first introduced to psychology during my sophomore year of high school. I was able to take AP Psychology that year. I had an amazing teacher who would heighten my love for psychology. My own experiences with mental health also encouraged my passion. I understand the absurd lack of diversity within the mental health professions. This is a bigger dilemma than some would like to think. In 2018 I began seeing a psychologist. She almost immediately diagnosed me with depression, without the consideration of another diagnosis. When talking about what I faced as a black girl, I found myself having to educate her. There was never any understanding between us. We lived in two different worlds. After a while I stopped going to my sessions with her. A year later I was introduced to a new therapist. This therapist looked like me. Her initial approach was to learn about my past traumas. What had gotten me to this point? I began to talk about my life, and she understood. She understood the trauma that came with being black. This therapist diagnosed me with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I want to provide this comfort for my patients in the future. During my senior year of high school, I was able to take a college level psychology course at Wake Tech Community College. With access to more academic journals, I was able to read about the disparities of black people when it came to our mental health. What if we had more people in these fields that understood us? What if we had a community of professionals that understood there was a deeper aspect to what black people went through? If you don’t understand the world I live in, then how could you possibly help me navigate my way through it? My ability to reach and impact the youth will go beyond book knowledge. I understand the trauma that comes with being black, and that is not something that can be taught. I understand how it is to try to get a therapist to understand a world they have never stepped foot in. We need more mental health professionals that can say “I have taken a walk in your shoes”. I will reach the youth simply because I can relate to them. This is what our people need for the conversation of mental health to not only start but to continue. I have compassion for everyone who is overlooked. I believe that everyone should have access to the resources they need. Mental health does affect the rich. This is just another reason we need these resources for people of all incomes and backgrounds. My goal is to change the accessibility and stereotypes of mental health in the brown communities. I would like to create low-cost mental health facilities. The money from this scholarship will be the mental health investment that our community needs to thrive.

In January of 2021, I admitted myself to a mental hospital. During this process I really didn’t know what to expect. I was scared but also hopeful. I had been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in 2019 and I knew I needed help. I would probably say the hardest part of this was the ‘not knowing’. On my way to self-admit, I began to look up reviews on the hospital I would be at. I saw a ton of negative reviews. It also didn’t help that I had all of these stereotypes from the media of what a mental hospital looked like. Would I find myself contained in a room with foam walls? Would I have to wear a straitjacket? This only went on to heighten my anxiety. At the end of the day, I knew I couldn’t turn back. I knew it could potentially be bad, but it could also potentially be life changing. To this day, I am so glad the latter was true. I was admitted to the hospital for a total of seven days. During my time I met peers that would go on to impact my life. One of the biggest advantages of being there was being able to relate to others. I realized that I wasn’t alone in my mental health struggle. I started to understand that asking for help meant I was strong and not weak. I wasn’t in a place full of ‘crazy’ people. I was in a place full of peers that decided they needed to take a step towards healing. A lot of us realized that we had the answers to our situations and that we only needed a quiet place to reflect. Sometimes the world can be so loud that everything seems unbearable. I was able to find the calm and stillness that I had lacked on the outside. It would take a few chapters to speak on my experience hospitalized. Yet I feel it is more important to speak of the outcomes. During my last few days at the hospital, I made a crisis plan with the therapist. I realized I had spent most of my life running from the inevitable. I decided I was tired of running when I took the step to self-admit. My decision only solidified with the crisis plan. I was able to prepare for the things I could not prevent. Mental health is much more than a bad day. Mental health is about a lifestyle. In order for you to build relationships and a healthy future overall, your lifestyle must align with your wants. I had to learn how to take a break. Whether the break be from friends, family, school or even my own thoughts. I started to live my life as the author of my book. When life becomes too loud, I realize that I have the power to mute it. After my experience with mental health, I decided that I wanted to major in Psychology. I was able to receive the help that I needed and so desperately desired. This is a gift I want to give others that are struggling with their mental health. I understand what it means to struggle with a mental illness. My experiences will allow me to relate to my patients in ways they may have never been related to. I believe that my background will help build their resilience when it comes to seeking help. It is easy to tell someone to get help. Yet, it is another thing when you can explain how that help may look. As a future mental health professional, I will be able to provide the guidance that I wish I had been given. Mental health can be a losing battle when there is no one else in your corner. I am a living testimony that things do in fact get better.

I am pursuing a trauma surgeon field of interest. A few years ago when my grandmother was in the hospital, I stepped out into the hall and saw an emergency surgery was about to take place. I remember being fascinated and having a rush of adrenaline at the sight of this. There aren’t many surgeons of color and this makes the field even more appealing. I look forward to seeing the calm that comes over my patients when they see that a sister of color will be taking care of them. I will commit myself to diversity within my choice of profession by building bonds with patients of color. Oftentimes there is a distrust and disconnect between medical staff and patients of color. I am ready to begin to change the perspective on what it means to interact with and to put your life in the hands of a surgeon. I will be able to show minority youth that it is possible and needed for them to pursue medical fields. I plan to speak at minority schools and mentor other minority surgeon aspiring youth. My financial needs are paying for college. Student debt is something that holds many people of color back in life. I am a black woman who is pursuing a field dominated by white men. The color of my skin and my sex will be things that may work against me while pursuing this field. Minorities have mountains of obstacles stacked against them. This scholarship will assure that financial debt will not be another obstacle standing in my way. As a recipient of this scholarship I will be able to focus on my studies wholeheartedly. Within the next ten years there is a lot that I would like to accomplish. First, I want to graduate from medical school. After I graduate from medical school I want to create a Black Surgeon’s network. This network will be composed of black surgeons and aspiring surgeons. I want this network to be worldwide. Black students will have access to their own mentors through this network. I would also like to start my own scholarships for aspiring black surgeons. I want this network to be present at every HBCU in the country. There will be events hosted for the many perspectives that go into being a black surgeon. This will be a space where we can be honest about the obstacles that will come with this field. It will also be a space to speak on the impact that comes with this field. I want future surgeons to be inspired and prepared for challenges and advantages that come with being a surgeon. We can change the stigma of distrust between doctors and the minority community, one black surgeon at a time.

I am a college freshman at Howard University. I am majoring in Psychology on a premed track to become a psychiatrist or a surgeon. These are both fields that are underrepresented when it comes to people of color. I would love to provide a holistic approach to people of color. Oftentimes, people of color are put on medications they could do without. People of color are also more likely to be misdiagnosed with disorders such as ADD and ADHD. As a psychiatrist of color, I will be able to understand the need for accurate diagnoses and the deeper roots of these diagnoses. The minority community often has a negative connotation established with mental health. My goal is to reshape these preconceptions. If I take the route of the surgeon, I will make an impact as well for people of color. Black children are three times more likely to die a month after surgery. We need more minority surgeons to assure that patients of color are taken care of properly. Minorities are more likely to be dismissed at the hospitals. I want to help build the trust between doctors and people of color. This trust is crucial to the health of the minority community. I want my patients to know that they will have a doctor who will hear them, care for them, respect them and help them. As a psychiatrist or a surgeon, I will be building the bridge between physicians and minorities. In return this will improve the physical and mental health of these communities. Whichever path I choose the goal will be the same, to help people that are not represented. My goal is to give back to my community in every way possible. My future will also be overflowing with philanthropy work. I would like to start my own neighborhood for the homeless and youth who aged out of the foster care system. I would like to have a community of tiny homes that will be affordable for people of low incomes. I want to also have a nonprofit that is partnered with the neighborhood. I want this nonprofit to be in the center of the neighbor, so it will be easily accessible to the residents. This nonprofit will provide food, job fairs and other necessities needed to transition out of the low class. I also want to offer GED programs through the nonprofit, along with trade classes. Ever since I was a little girl, I had a special place in my heart for the homeless. It is our job as a people to take care of each other and not just ourselves. Capitalism is built on the failure of some so that others may succeed. I believe in a world where we lift each other up. There are enough resources to go around as long as we do not succumb to greed. This is a dream of mine that keeps me motivated. I understand that I am working to better not only myself but the world. Not only are you as good as the life you live but the legacy that survives.