My name is Derek Pearson, and I’m a driven high school junior with a deep passion for finance and business. My ultimate goal is to become a private equity professional and eventually launch my own investment banking and private equity hybrid firm. I’m inspired by the potential of financial markets to transform businesses and economies, and I want to be at the forefront of that change. What excites me most about finance is the opportunity to solve complex problems while making a meaningful impact, especially within underrepresented communities. I believe financial literacy and access to capital are essential tools for empowering individuals and creating a more equitable economy. My vision is to not only build a successful career but also to give back by helping close the wealth gap in underserved communities. I’m committed to achieving excellence in everything I do. I’ve taken honors and dual credit courses to prepare myself for the rigorous academic journey ahead, and I’ve embraced leadership roles in programs like Kappa League and Educational Justice. These experiences have helped me develop skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving—qualities that I believe make me a strong candidate for scholarships. Being the only African American in many of my classes has motivated me to strive for Black excellence and break barriers in the finance world. I’m dedicated to making the most of every opportunity, and I know that with financial support, I can continue to excel academically and reach my long-term career goals.