Throughout my life, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges people face in maintaining their mental health, particularly in underserved communities. From a young age, I became passionate about supporting those struggling with mental health issues, recognizing the profound impact mental well-being has on every aspect of a person’s life. I have been involved in various mentorship programs, providing emotional support, listening, and offering guidance to others navigating their mental health challenges. Since high school, I have worked closely with teens facing mental health struggles, providing them with a space to talk openly about their feelings without judgment. This experience has not only helped me understand the importance of mental health care but also reinforced my commitment to supporting others. Whether through one-on-one meetings or group conversations, I ensure that those I help feel heard, valued, and empowered to seek professional support when needed. In addition to mentoring, I have volunteered with mental health advocacy programs to raise awareness about mental health resources and help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. This experience has further fueled my desire to pursue a career that allows me to support individuals on a larger scale. As I move forward in my studies and future career, I plan to major in health sciences, focusing on mental health and wellness. I believe that the key to emotionally supporting others lies in understanding their needs and offering practical resources and emotional reassurance. My goal is to become a counselor or therapist, utilizing my skills to provide therapeutic support to individuals, particularly in marginalized communities where access to mental health resources is often limited. I envision creating safe spaces for individuals to discuss their struggles openly, breaking down the barriers that prevent them from seeking help. Through my future career, I hope to provide counseling and advocate for mental health reforms that can make emotional support more accessible to everyone.

For me, going to college is about more than just earning a degree—it is an opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and personally while equipping myself with the knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact on my community. College represents a gateway to opportunities that will allow me to sharpen my ability to advocate for marginalized groups, challenge systemic injustices, and ultimately build a career that reflects my commitment to service. Education has always been a powerful tool for change, and I see college as a critical step toward becoming an effective leader and advocate. I plan to pursue a degree in Political Science with a pre-law focus or Psychology, as both fields will provide me with the foundation necessary to understand human behavior, societal structures, and the legal system. My ultimate goal is to become a lawyer who fights for justice, ensures fair representation, and works to dismantle the barriers that continue to oppress underrepresented communities. Beyond academics, I view college as a place to develop my leadership skills further and expand my network of like-minded individuals passionate about advocacy and social change. Throughout high school, I have engaged in various humanitarian efforts, including working with the No Kid Hungry initiative. I dedicated my time to ensuring children facing food insecurity had access to meals. I have also been involved in delivering meals to elderly individuals during COVID-19, supporting those most vulnerable. These experiences have reinforced my belief that everyone deserves access to essential resources, and I want to continue addressing these disparities on a larger scale. Additionally, my work with the RPS Superintendent Student Advisory Council, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan’s Youth Advisory Council, and the City of Richmond Human Rights Commission has given me a platform to influence policies and advocate for the needs of my community. These roles have shown me the power of policy-making and the importance of having informed leaders who truly understand the struggles of the people they serve. By attending college, I will be able to gain the expertise and credentials necessary to be one of those leaders. However, college is not just about career preparation but also personal growth. I am excited to be in an environment where I can challenge myself intellectually, engage in meaningful discussions, and gain perspectives from people of different backgrounds. I want to immerse myself in opportunities that will broaden my understanding of the world, whether through internships, student organizations, or research. Ultimately, what I hope to accomplish through college is a solid academic foundation, real-world experience, and the confidence to step into spaces where I can drive meaningful change. I want to graduate with the ability to use my voice effectively, whether in the courtroom, public policy, or community activism. My goal is not just to succeed for myself but to uplift those around me, ensuring that future generations can access the same opportunities I have been fortunate to pursue. Going to college is a step toward realizing my dreams, but more importantly, it is a step toward serving others. I am eager to take full advantage of this opportunity and use what I learn to be a force for justice, equality, and progress in my community.

"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."– Aristotle (as paraphrased by Will Durant in The Story of Philosophy) The idea that "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit" challenges a common misconception: that excellence is a rare, extraordinary occurrence rather than a consistent pattern of behavior. This statement, drawn from Aristotle's philosophy and paraphrased by historian Will Durant, presents a powerful argument about the role of discipline, repetition, and character in personal and professional success. This statement rejects the notion that excellence is a singular moment of brilliance or luck. Instead, it suggests that success in academics, sports, art, leadership, or personal growth results from habitual actions repeated over time. The underlying message is clear: our daily behaviors define our character and ultimately shape our future. Excellence is not something we do once but cultivate through continuous effort and practice. In contemporary society, there is often an overemphasis on natural talent. Many believe that individuals who achieve greatness are born with a unique gift—whether in music, science, business, or athletics. While natural ability may provide an advantage, Aristotle's perspective highlights something more profound: talent alone is not enough; it must be nurtured through disciplined practice. A pianist does not become a virtuoso by playing the piano once, nor does a writer produce great literature by writing a single page, excellence results from small, intentional efforts accumulated over time. This concept aligns closely with modern research on habit formation and skill acquisition. Psychologist Anders Ericsson introduced the idea of deliberate practice, arguing that expertise in any field requires thousands of hours of focused, structured practice. Similarly, author James Clear, in his book Atomic Habits, emphasizes that our lives are essentially the sum of our repeated actions. Success is not determined by willpower alone but by the systems and habits we build. Aristotle's statement foreshadows these modern insights, that who we become is dictated not by occasional bursts of effort, but by what we do consistently. The idea that excellence is a habit extends beyond skill development, it also applies to our moral and ethical character. Just as practicing a skill repeatedly leads to mastery, practicing virtues such as honesty, kindness, and discipline leads to a strong character. A person does not become compassionate by performing one good deed, nor does one become a leader by making a single wise decision. Instead, these qualities emerge over time, as individuals make daily choices aligned with their values. Consider the way trust is built in relationships. A person does not become trustworthy overnight; others rely on them through repeated acts of honesty, dependability, and consistency. Similarly, a great leader does not become one by making a single decision but by continuously making choices that reflect integrity, vision, and courage. Aristotle's philosophy offers a guide to self-improvement. It views character through habit. If excellence is a habit, then personal growth is always within reach. Individuals can shape their character by making conscious daily decisions to act with integrity, discipline, and purpose and positively impact the world around them. A key implication of Aristotle's statement is that success is not dependent on motivation alone. Many struggle with maintaining motivation, especially when faced with challenges, failures, or setbacks. However, Aristotle suggests that habits can sustain us when motivation wavers. For example, students often start the school year highly motivated but may lose enthusiasm when faced with challenging coursework. Those who rely solely on motivation may struggle, while those who have developed strong study habits, such as setting aside dedicated time for learning each day, are more likely to persevere and succeed. Athletes, too, embody this principle. A runner training for a marathon does not rely on the excitement of race day to push through months of training. Instead, they build a habit of running consistently, regardless of how they feel on any given day. The act of showing up and doing the work, even when difficult, separates those who achieve excellence from those who fall short. This lesson extends to personal struggles as well. Individuals facing adversity, whether financial difficulties, personal loss, or mental health challenges, often find strength in their routines. Getting up each day, taking small steps forward, and maintaining healthy habits provides stability in uncertain times. Through habit, people build resilience, discipline, and the ability to overcome obstacles. One of the most important aspects of Aristotle's philosophy is that excellence is not a destination but a continuous process. This perspective is especially valuable in a world that often glorifies quick success and instant gratification. True excellence requires patience, persistence, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Consider some of the most significant historical figures: Leonardo da Vinci, Marie Curie, Martin Luther King Jr., and Serena Williams. Their impact was not the result of a single action but of years of dedication, practice, and habit formation. They understood that greatness is built over time through thousands of small choices that align with a larger vision. This philosophy can be applied to anyone's life, regardless of their goals. Whether aspiring to be an educator, entrepreneur, scientist, artist, or public servant, individuals must recognize that success is a daily practice. Excellence is not something one stumbles upon, it is cultivated through consistent effort. Understanding that excellence is a habit has profound implications for how we inspire and educate future generations. If young people are taught to see their daily actions as building blocks of their future selves, they can approach life with a growth mindset. Instead of fearing failure, they can view challenges as opportunities for growth. Educators, mentors, and parents play a crucial role in fostering this mindset. Encouraging students to focus on their habits rather than just their results helps them build confidence and resilience. By emphasizing effort, consistency, and self-discipline, we empower young people to take control of their development and strive for excellence in all areas of life. Aristotle's assertion that "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit" is both a challenge and an inspiration. **It reminds us that success is not about momentary brilliance but sustained effort over time.** Whether applied to academics, personal character, or professional achievements, this philosophy teaches us that **greatness is within our reach, if we are willing to work every day. In a world where distractions, short-term thinking, and instant gratification often take precedence, Aristotle's wisdom is more relevant than ever. Suppose we embrace the idea that excellence is built through daily habits. In that case, we can take control of our destinies, overcome challenges, and strive to be our best versions. Ultimately, this mindset transforms individuals and entire communities, creating a culture where perseverance, integrity, and excellence are the norm rather than the exception. By understanding and applying this principle, we can all move closer to our highest potential, not through isolated moments of greatness, but through the daily practice of excellence in everything we do.

My name is Deon Wright Jr., and I am a student, athlete, and advocate dedicated to making a lasting impact on my community and beyond. Throughout my life, I have been driven by a passion for justice and equity, which has led me to pursue a degree in Political Science or Psychology as a foundation for my future legal career. My ultimate goal is to become a lawyer who advocates for marginalized communities, ensuring that those historically overlooked have access to fair representation and opportunities. Growing up, I saw firsthand how systemic inequalities affect underserved communities, particularly people of color. This realization motivated me to take action, not just in my personal life but also through leadership and service. As a board member of the City of Richmond Human Rights Commission, a member of Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan’s Youth Advisory Council, and a RPS Superintendent Student Advisory Council representative, I have worked to bring awareness to issues affecting my peers and my community. These experiences have reinforced my belief that actual change comes from both grassroots advocacy and policy reform—two areas that align with my future aspirations. Political Science will give me a strong understanding of governance, law, and policymaking, giving me the tools to challenge unjust systems and work toward legislative change. Conversely, psychology will help me understand the mental and emotional impact of systemic inequalities on individuals and communities. Combining these disciplines will allow me to approach legal issues with analytical reasoning and empathy, which are essential for a lawyer committed to social justice. With this academic foundation, I plan to focus on criminal justice reform, education equity, and civil rights advocacy. Too often, marginalized communities face legal barriers that prevent them from accessing fair treatment, whether in courtrooms, schools, or housing systems. I want to fight against these injustices and ensure that all people, regardless of background, have a voice in the legal system. Beyond my professional aspirations, I am committed to uplifting and inspiring the next generation. I understand the power of representation. As a young Black man entering the legal field, I recognize that I will be part of a small but growing percentage of Black lawyers in the U.S. According to the American Bar Association, only about 5% of lawyers in the country are Black, highlighting the need for increased diversity and inclusion in the field of law. To help bridge this gap, I plan to mentor and support young students of color, encouraging them to explore law, policy, and advocacy careers. Whether through community programs, school mentorship, or public speaking engagements, I want to show other young people that they, too, can break barriers and create change in spaces where they are underrepresented. My journey is not just about personal success but about making a difference. Through my studies and future career, I will continue to fight for justice, advocate for marginalized communities, and inspire others to challenge inequities in their ways. I believe that the impact of one person can create a ripple effect, and I am committed to using my platform, education, and voice to build a more just and equitable world.

I am Deon Wright Jr., a dedicated student, athlete, and community advocate passionate about justice and equity. Growing up, I was taught the importance of using my voice and actions to create meaningful change. Whether on the football field as a four-year Varsity starter, in student leadership as a member of the Honor Council, or in civic engagement as a board member of the City of Richmond Human Rights Commission, I have always strived to be a leader who uplifts others. These experiences have fueled my passion for law and public service, leading me to pursue a degree in Political Science or Psychology as a stepping stone to law school. I chose to study Political Science or Psychology because both fields will equip me with the knowledge and skills to advocate for marginalized communities. Political Science will provide me with an understanding of law, governance, and policy, while Psychology will help me analyze human behavior and address the systemic challenges that affect vulnerable populations. My goal is to become a lawyer who not only represents individuals in need but also works to reform policies that disproportionately harm communities of color. Throughout my high school career, I have been actively involved in initiatives that promote social change. As a member of Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan’s Youth Advisory Council and the RPS Superintendent Student Advisory Council, I have worked to address issues affecting students and the larger community. Additionally, my experience delivering meals to families during the pandemic and participating in food drives has reinforced my belief that advocacy must go beyond words, it requires action. I plan to impact my community by continuing my advocacy work and ensuring that marginalized voices are heard. Through my education and future career in law, I aim to fight for criminal justice reform, equal educational opportunities, and fair housing policies. Additionally, I hope to mentor young students, particularly Black males, and encourage them to pursue careers in law and policy. Representation matters, and I want to be an example that inspires the next generation to believe they can enact change. The legal profession remains one of the least diverse fields in the country. According to the American Bar Association, only about 5% of lawyers in the United States are Black, highlighting the significant gap in representation. As someone entering this field, I understand I will be among a small percentage of Black men pursuing a legal career. However, I view this challenge as an opportunity to break barriers and create pathways for others to follow. Increasing the number of Black professionals in law and policy requires mentorship, exposure, and access to resources. I plan to inspire the next generation by sharing my journey, supporting mentorship programs, and advocating for scholarships and internship opportunities for students of color. I want young Black students to see they belong in courtrooms, boardrooms, and legislative spaces. By fostering a culture of mentorship and representation, I hope to help increase the number of Black lawyers and policymakers committed to justice and equality. My journey is fueled by a desire to create meaningful change in my community. Through my chosen degree program and future legal career, I aim to be a voice for the unheard and a champion for justice. While the odds may not always be in my favor, I embrace the challenge of breaking barriers and inspiring others to do the same. The fight for equity continues, and I am committed to playing my part in shaping a more just and inclusive future.

Success is often measured in accolades, wealth, or status, but for me, success is about impact, growth, and the ability to effect meaningful change. It is about using my education, experiences, and skills to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard and to work toward a more just and equitable society. As someone who aspires to become a lawyer, my definition of success is deeply rooted in service, ensuring marginalized communities have access to the resources, representation, and justice they deserve. This opportunity will help me succeed by equipping me with the knowledge, connections, and practical experiences necessary to make a tangible difference. It will provide me with a strong academic foundation, mentorship, and opportunities for hands-on learning, all of which are crucial in my journey toward becoming a legal advocate and community leader. My Vision of Success Success is not a destination but an ongoing journey of learning, growth, and contribution. It is about having the ability to influence policies, challenge injustices, and create spaces where all individuals, regardless of their background, are given equal opportunities to thrive. My vision of success includes: 1. Becoming a Knowledgeable Advocate – I aim to gain a deep understanding of the legal system, policies, and historical injustices that continue to affect marginalized groups. Success means using that knowledge to drive meaningful reform. 2. Uplifting Marginalized Communities – Whether through legal representation, policy advocacy, or community engagement, I want to be in a position where I can help those who have been systematically disenfranchised. Success means ensuring that individuals and communities are empowered, informed, and equipped with the tools to navigate legal and social barriers. 3. Continuous Learning and Leadership—Success is about pushing myself beyond my comfort zone, embracing challenges, and seeking leadership opportunities. It means excelling academically and taking initiative in student organizations, mentorship programs, and legal internships to build a well-rounded perspective. How This Opportunity Aligns with My Goals This opportunity will serve as a critical stepping stone in my journey by providing me with the resources and support necessary to turn my vision of success into reality. Here's how: 1. Academic Rigor and Skill Development – A strong legal education is the foundation of my future career. This opportunity will expose me to coursework, case studies, and discussions that will refine my analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and public speaking skills—essential traits for any lawyer. 2. Mentorship and Networking – Learning from experienced professionals and building relationships with mentors will be invaluable as I navigate my path. Having access to individuals who have walked this journey before me will provide guidance, encouragement, and insight into what it takes to succeed in law. 3. Real-World Application – Law is not just about theoretical knowledge but about application. This opportunity will allow me to engage in internships, moot court competitions, and community service initiatives where I can gain hands-on experience in legal advocacy and policy-making. 4. A Supportive Community of Like-Minded Individuals—Surrounded by peers committed to justice and equity will push me to grow personally and professionally. It will also provide a space for collaboration, intellectual discourse, and collective action toward meaningful change. Conclusion Success is not solely about personal achievements but about the impact I leave behind. It is about using my education and platform to create a more just and equitable society, particularly for those historically denied a seat at the table. This opportunity is not just a stepping stone but a launchpad for my aspirations. With the proper education, mentorship, and experiences, I am confident that I will be equipped to become a powerful advocate for change, embodying the very essence of success that I strive toward.