As a first-generation college student and Jamaican immigrant, I’ve learned the value of resilience, empathy, and community. Moving to the United States at 15 from Montego Bay was not just a geographical shift—it was a major emotional and cultural adjustment. Despite challenges, I’ve used every step of my journey to build toward one clear goal: making a meaningful difference in the lives of others, especially children who are often left behind or misunderstood. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by becoming a pediatric occupational therapist who serves underrepresented communities and advocates for greater access to care. To me, this career is about far more than therapy techniques—it's about helping children gain confidence and independence while supporting families who may not have the resources or knowledge to advocate for their needs. My dream is to be the kind of healthcare provider who listens, understands, and empowers others, especially those whose voices are often unheard. In many communities, including those I grew up in, developmental delays are often misdiagnosed, ignored, or stigmatized. I want to change that. I plan to educate families and caregivers about occupational therapy, early intervention, and child development, so they can recognize when a child needs support and how to access it. By building trust and raising awareness, I can help break harmful cycles of silence and misunderstanding. Education is my launchpad. At the University at Buffalo, I’m pursuing a combined BS/MS program in Occupational Therapy, where I’ll gain clinical knowledge, hands-on experience, and leadership training. This path will prepare me to directly support children with autism, learning disabilities, and physical or cognitive challenges. But I also want to focus on equity in healthcare, and use my voice to push for more inclusive, culturally aware practices in therapy. Beyond my profession, I also plan to give back through mentorship and advocacy. I want to support other young people—especially girls of color—who are interested in healthcare careers but feel unsure where to begin. Whether it’s leading workshops, speaking to high school students, or mentoring undergraduates, I believe sharing our stories and successes helps others find their path. Long-term, I hope to return to Jamaica and help strengthen community-based care for children with developmental needs. There’s still so much stigma, limited access to trained professionals, and a need for modern resources. Even if I can’t change the entire system, I want to contribute in ways that are meaningful—by donating time, resources, or training to local clinics and schools. At the heart of everything I do is a desire to make others feel seen, supported, and capable. Whether it’s helping a child take their first independent step or guiding a family through a confusing diagnosis, I want to be someone who creates hope and possibility. I don’t just want a successful career. I want a purposeful life—one rooted in compassion, service, and impact. Through my education, my future profession, and my values, I know I’ll carry this mission forward. And I’m ready to start.

Education has always represented more than a career path for me—it’s a means of empowerment and a tool for change. As a Jamaican immigrant and first-generation college student, I’ve witnessed how access to education can transform lives. I moved from Montego Bay to Yonkers during high school, and while the adjustment was challenging, it deepened my desire to help others—especially those in underserved communities. My ultimate goal is to become a pediatric occupational therapist who supports children in overcoming developmental delays and gaining independence. I believe that my further education will provide me with the tools, experience, and knowledge I need to make a lasting, positive impact on the world around me. Through my studies in health sciences and occupational therapy, I will gain a strong foundation in anatomy, child development, neuroscience, and therapeutic techniques. But beyond academics, college will give me access to hands-on clinical experiences that will prepare me for the real-world challenges of healthcare. I will learn how to create treatment plans tailored to each child’s unique needs, communicate with families, and collaborate with other professionals in a clinical setting. These skills will allow me to work effectively and compassionately with children who have autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, or physical and cognitive impairments. However, my goals go beyond just becoming a therapist. I want to be an advocate—especially for families who lack access to resources. As someone from a low-income background, I understand the barriers many face when seeking care. There are families who cannot afford therapy, who don’t know where to look, or who face stigma when asking for help. In many Caribbean and immigrant communities, developmental challenges are often misunderstood or ignored. I want to use my education not only to treat patients but also to educate families and build trust in these communities. I plan to work toward making therapy more accessible, culturally sensitive, and inclusive. In college, I also plan to get involved in student leadership, volunteer organizations, and outreach programs that focus on healthcare and community service. These opportunities will help me become a stronger communicator and leader—skills that are vital for someone who wants to advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to work with others to raise awareness, host events, and reach younger students who might one day follow a similar path. Long-term, I hope to contribute to local clinics or schools through community outreach or even nonprofit work. Whether it's through direct therapy, mentoring students, or building partnerships between U.S. institutions and Jamaican communities, I want to give back in ways that are meaningful and sustainable. My education is the first step in turning that vision into reality. In short, my further education will allow me to develop into a well-rounded healthcare professional—one who heals, educates, and advocates. I am not just seeking a degree; I’m preparing to become someone who lifts others up, especially children and families who feel unseen or underserved. With each class, internship, and experience, I will grow closer to that mission, and I will never forget where I started or who I’m striving to serve.

1. Please tell us a bit about yourself and what specifically motivates you. If you could do anything with your life, what do you imagine you’d do? My name is Faith, and I’m a 17-year-old high school senior originally from Montego Bay, Jamaica, now living in Yonkers, NY. I’ve always been a quiet but determined individual who finds purpose in helping others and expressing myself through creativity—whether that’s reading romance novels, writing reflections, or making DIY dorm decor. I’m deeply motivated by the idea of making meaningful change, especially in the lives of children. If I could do anything with my life, I’d be a pediatric occupational therapist, working in hospitals or schools to support children with disabilities as they develop the skills needed to live full, independent lives. That dream stems from both my passion for healthcare and my desire to be a stable, encouraging presence for kids who face daily challenges. I’m especially inspired by my family’s resilience and the sacrifices they’ve made to provide better opportunities for me. I want to honor that by achieving success not just for myself, but for my community. I’m also motivated by the idea of creating spaces where others feel seen, safe, and supported—something I’ve craved in my own journey. Whether I’m studying health sciences, working one-on-one with children, or even creating accessible therapy tools, I want my life to be rooted in compassion, service, and continuous growth. I envision a future where I am not only building a career I love but also giving back—perhaps one day returning to Jamaica to improve access to therapy services for children there. 2. What excites you about STEM? How do you feel you could make a positive impact on the world through a job in information technology? What excites me most about STEM is its endless ability to solve problems and change lives. STEM is a field where curiosity meets impact—where one idea can evolve into a tool that changes how we live, connect, and grow. I’ve always been intrigued by how technology shapes healthcare, especially in areas like digital therapy platforms, patient monitoring systems, and accessibility tools for people with disabilities. Even though my primary career goal is to become a pediatric occupational therapist, I recognize how critical information technology (IT) is to that field. From using software to track developmental progress to employing virtual tools in therapy sessions, IT is a powerful force for good. I want to learn more about this intersection of health and technology. With that knowledge, I could help design inclusive, easy-to-use programs that make therapy more engaging and accessible for children. I’m especially passionate about making these tools available to underserved communities, both in the U.S. and in Jamaica, where access is often limited or nonexistent. It’s important to me that all children, regardless of where they live or how much their families earn, can receive the support they need to thrive. As someone from a low-income and immigrant background, I also want to advocate for tech equity. Too many communities still lack access to life-changing resources because they aren’t digitally connected. I believe that with the right training, I could help close that gap—whether through software development, telehealth solutions, or IT systems that make healthcare more efficient and inclusive. 3. Please describe the greatest challenge you’ve had to overcome and how you managed to get past it. The greatest challenge I’ve had to overcome was moving from Montego Bay, Jamaica, to Yonkers, New York, at the start of high school. At first, everything felt overwhelming—the fast pace, the cultural differences, the accents, and even the school system. I struggled with social anxiety and felt out of place, especially in the classroom, where I often hesitated to speak up or ask questions. There were moments I doubted whether I’d ever feel confident again. But instead of giving up, I pushed myself to adjust, slowly but surely. I stayed focused on my goals, leaned into my love for learning, and sought help when I needed it. I made an effort to talk to my teachers, participate more in class, and build relationships one step at a time. Over time, I began to find my voice and embrace the unique perspective I brought as a Jamaican immigrant. That experience shaped me into a more resilient, adaptable person. It also deepened my empathy for others who feel like outsiders. Now, I know how to navigate unfamiliar spaces and advocate for myself. That growth prepared me not just for college, but for my future career in occupational therapy, where I’ll work with children who are also adjusting to life’s challenges. I’ve learned that every hard moment can become a stepping stone if I stay grounded in my purpose, remain open to change, and believe in my ability to transform fear into confidence and uncertainty into growth.

My story begins in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where I grew up surrounded by a close-knit community and a culture that values resilience, hard work, and family. As a Black Jamaican woman, I learned from an early age that success requires perseverance and a deep sense of responsibility to the people around me. My upbringing shaped my values and instilled in me a strong desire to make a positive impact on others. Moving to Yonkers, NY, two years ago marked a significant turning point in my life, as I transitioned into a new educational system and a different cultural environment. Though the change was challenging, it also taught me the importance of adaptability and staying true to my roots. Adjusting to a new life in the U.S. was not easy. I had to navigate a new school system, different expectations, and a faster-paced lifestyle. The transition pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated, but it also reinforced my belief that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles. My experiences in Jamaica, where community support and family bonds were central, helped me face the challenges of moving to a new country. I realized that my Jamaican background had prepared me to handle change and persevere through difficult times. It was during this time of transition that I discovered my passion for pediatric occupational therapy. An internship at a local hospital allowed me to see the significant difference therapists can make in the lives of children, particularly those facing physical and developmental challenges. I was inspired by how occupational therapists not only helped children improve their motor skills but also empowered them to gain independence in their daily lives. This experience solidified my commitment to pursuing a career where I could help children lead healthier, more fulfilling lives, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Higher education is the pathway that will allow me to turn my passion into a reality. As a first-generation college student, I recognize that the road ahead will not always be easy. However, I am determined to overcome any challenges that come my way. Higher education represents not only an opportunity to achieve my career goals but also a chance to break down barriers for individuals like me—those who come from marginalized backgrounds and face systemic challenges in pursuing their dreams. As a Black woman, I am deeply aware of the lack of representation in many professional fields, including healthcare. I want to be part of the change that ensures children, particularly those from communities like mine, receive the care and support they deserve. College is more than an academic pursuit for me; it is an opportunity for personal and professional growth. It will provide me with the tools I need to become an effective pediatric occupational therapist and allow me to contribute to a healthcare system that values diversity and inclusion. I aim to be a role model for future generations, showing that with perseverance, education, and a commitment to making a difference, success is possible. Pursuing higher education is my step toward not only realizing my dream of becoming a pediatric occupational therapist but also creating a pathway for others to follow. It is my way of ensuring that the next generation of children, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, has access to the support they need to thrive.

Service has always been an important part of my life, whether it’s supporting my family, giving back to my community, or being a reliable teammate. I believe that true service isn’t just about big gestures—it’s about the everyday actions that make a difference in people’s lives. For my family, service means being present and supportive in whatever way I can. As a first-generation college student and someone who moved to the U.S. from Jamaica two years ago, I understand the value of family support, and I do my best to give that back. Whether it’s helping with responsibilities at home, providing emotional support, or simply being someone my loved ones can rely on, I strive to be there for my family in meaningful ways. Moving away from home has made me appreciate even more the sacrifices my family has made for me, and I see my education as a way to honor their hard work. I want to succeed not just for myself, but for them as well. In my community, I have always looked for ways to give back. One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had was my summer internship at a hospital, where I saw firsthand how much small acts of kindness can mean to people. Observing healthcare professionals work with patients, especially children, made me realize how service in healthcare goes beyond treatment—it’s about showing empathy, understanding, and patience. That experience reaffirmed my passion for becoming a pediatric occupational therapist, a career that will allow me to dedicate my life to serving others by helping children develop the skills they need to thrive. I have also contributed to my school and local community through volunteering. Whether it was assisting with school events, helping peers with academic challenges, or participating in service projects, I have always enjoyed supporting those around me. I believe that service isn’t just about large-scale efforts—it’s also about the little things, like offering encouragement to someone who needs it or helping a friend through a tough time. These experiences have shown me that even small actions can have a meaningful impact, and they have inspired me to continue finding ways to serve others. As a teammate, whether in group projects or collaborative efforts, I always strive to be dependable and supportive. I understand the importance of working together, uplifting others, and ensuring that everyone feels valued. Whether it’s stepping up to take on extra responsibilities or helping someone who is struggling, I believe that being a good teammate means prioritizing collective success over individual achievements. I’ve learned that the best teams aren’t just made up of talented individuals, but of people who genuinely support and uplift one another. Ultimately, service is about making a difference in the lives of others, no matter how big or small. Whether it’s through my family, my community, or my future career in occupational therapy, I hope to continue living a life centered around kindness, support, and a commitment to helping others. Thank you for your consideration.

One of my biggest academic goals is to complete my degree in health sciences and become a pediatric occupational therapist. Ever since I learned about occupational therapy, I’ve been fascinated by how small interventions can lead to major improvements in people’s lives—especially children. I want to help kids who struggle with developmental delays, disabilities, or injuries gain the skills they need to live independently and confidently. To reach this goal, I plan to work hard in college, take advantage of internships and hands-on training, and eventually earn my master’s degree so that I can be fully prepared to make an impact in the healthcare field. Another major goal of mine is to graduate without overwhelming debt. As a low-income student, I understand the importance of financial planning, and I want to make sure I maximize every opportunity available to me. Whether it’s applying for scholarships, participating in honors programs, or seeking out work-study opportunities, I am committed to making my education as affordable as possible while still getting the best experience. Beyond academics, one of my professional goals is to make occupational therapy more accessible to underserved communities. I know that many families, especially those with financial struggles, don’t have easy access to therapy services for their children. I want to be an advocate for these families—whether that means working in schools, creating outreach programs, or pushing for policy changes that make therapy more affordable. My goal is to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the resources they need to thrive. Giving back to my community has always been important to me. One of the most meaningful ways I’ve contributed is through my summer internship at a hospital. During that time, I had the opportunity to observe healthcare professionals in action, and I saw firsthand how much of a difference compassionate, skilled care can make in people’s lives. That experience strengthened my passion for occupational therapy and showed me that even small efforts—like a kind word, an encouraging gesture, or a personalized therapy session—can change someone’s outlook and confidence. Outside of healthcare, I’ve also given back through volunteering in my school and local community. Whether it was helping to organize events, assisting peers with academic work, or participating in service projects, I’ve always found joy in supporting others. These experiences have inspired me to continue making a difference in any way I can. Seeing the impact of my efforts—whether big or small—has reinforced my belief that every action counts. In the future, I hope to combine my academic achievements with my passion for service to make a lasting impact. I want to be more than just a healthcare professional—I want to be a mentor, an advocate, and a voice for those who need it. My journey so far has shown me that helping others is not just something I want to do—it’s something I feel called to do. That’s what drives me, and that’s what I hope to continue doing for years to come. Thank you for your consideration.

Personally, going to college is about more than just earning a degree—it’s about growth, opportunity, and creating a future that I can be proud of. As someone who moved to the United States from Jamaica two years ago, I see education as the key to unlocking doors that might otherwise remain closed. College represents independence, a chance to challenge myself, and an opportunity to build the skills and knowledge I need to make a meaningful impact in the world. Since I was young, I’ve always been drawn to helping others, and I know that the best way to turn that passion into a lifelong career is through higher education. I plan to become a pediatric occupational therapist, and college is the first major step toward that goal. It’s where I’ll gain the medical knowledge, hands-on experience, and professional connections that will prepare me for a career in healthcare. More than that, it’s where I’ll learn to think critically, problem-solve, and grow into a confident and capable professional. Beyond academics, college also means personal growth. I’m excited about the opportunity to dorm, experience independence, and step outside of my comfort zone. I know that being in a new environment will challenge me in ways that high school never did, but I welcome that challenge. I want to push myself, build resilience, and gain the confidence to navigate life on my own. Financially, college is also a huge responsibility, and as a low-income student, I understand that I have to be strategic about my education. I want to make the most of every opportunity—whether that’s applying for scholarships, joining honors programs, or taking on internships that will help me stand out in my field. My goal is to graduate without overwhelming debt so that I can focus on my career and future without financial stress holding me back. At its core, college is about preparing for the future, and my future is one where I help children overcome obstacles and gain independence. I want to work with kids who struggle with developmental delays, disabilities, or injuries—helping them gain the skills they need to thrive in everyday life. College will give me the foundation to do that, from understanding human anatomy and motor skills to learning how to create individualized therapy plans. But more than anything, college is about proving to myself that I can achieve what I’ve always dreamed of. It’s about showing that hard work, perseverance, and passion can turn goals into reality. I know the next few years won’t always be easy, but I’m ready for the journey. At the end of it, I don’t just want a degree—I want to walk away knowing that I’ve grown as a person, built a strong future, and set myself on a path to truly make a difference in the world.

Hi, I’m Faith! I was born and raised in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and moved to Yonkers, New York, two years ago. That transition was a big adjustment—new culture, new school, and a whole new way of life—but it taught me resilience and the importance of support systems. I’ve always believed that having the right people around you can make all the difference, and that’s something I want to provide for others through my future career as a pediatric occupational therapist. I’ve always had a passion for helping people, especially children. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing a child grow, gain confidence, and accomplish things they once thought were impossible. Occupational therapy stood out to me because it’s all about helping people regain independence in their daily lives. I want to work with children who struggle with developmental delays, disabilities, or injuries—helping them learn how to do things that many of us take for granted, like holding a pencil, tying their shoes, or even playing with their friends. One experience that really solidified my passion for this field was a summer internship at a hospital. I got the chance to observe different healthcare professionals in action, and what stood out to me the most was the work of the occupational therapists. They used creative, hands-on activities to help patients regain mobility, improve coordination, and develop essential life skills. Seeing how small, intentional exercises could lead to such big changes in someone’s life made me realize that this is exactly what I want to do. Beyond working one-on-one with children, I also want to make occupational therapy more accessible to families, especially those from low-income backgrounds. I know firsthand how financial struggles can limit opportunities, and it breaks my heart to think that some kids might not get the care they need simply because their families can’t afford it. I want to be part of the change—whether it’s by working in schools, creating affordable therapy programs, or advocating for better resources. Every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential, no matter their circumstances. I also love finding creative ways to make learning fun. I enjoy DIY projects, reading, and anything that allows me to be imaginative, and I plan to bring that same creativity into my therapy sessions. I want to incorporate storytelling, music, and play into my work so that therapy doesn’t feel like a chore—it feels like an adventure. I believe that when kids enjoy what they’re doing, they’re more likely to engage and make progress. At the end of the day, I just want to make a difference. I know I can’t change the entire world, but if I can help even a few children gain confidence in themselves, feel capable, and find joy in everyday life, that’s enough for me. This career isn’t just a job—it’s something I truly care about, and I can’t wait to get started, beginning with my college education. Thank you for your consideration.

Ever since I was young, I’ve wanted a career where I could make a real difference in people’s lives. As I learned more about occupational therapy, I realized just how life-changing it could be—especially for children. My goal is to become a pediatric occupational therapist who helps kids gain independence, whether it’s learning to hold a pencil, tie their shoes, or navigate daily life with a disability. I want to be someone they trust, someone who makes therapy feel less like a chore and more like a journey toward confidence and freedom. I’ve always loved working with children, and I know how much small victories can mean to them. A child finally buttoning their shirt on their own or writing their name for the first time might not seem like a big deal to some, but for them—and I —it’s everything. I want to be their cheerleader, reminding them that progress is progress, no matter how small. I want to celebrate their victories, support them through setbacks, and help them see that their challenges don’t define them. Beyond working directly with patients, I also want to make therapy more accessible to children from low-income and minority communities. I know firsthand how hard it can be to get quality healthcare when finances are tight. I’ve seen family members and friends hesitate to seek medical care because they couldn’t afford it or didn’t trust the system to have their best interests at heart. No child should have to struggle simply because they can’t afford the care they need. Whether it’s through advocacy, working in underserved areas, or pushing for more inclusive healthcare policies, I want to be part of the change that makes therapy available to all children, not just the ones who can afford it. Racial diversity in healthcare plays a huge role in making that happen. When patients see doctors, nurses, and therapists who look like them, it fosters trust. Too many people in minority communities avoid seeking medical care because of fear, past negative experiences, or simply feeling unheard. I want to change that. I want my future patients—especially children of color—to feel safe and understood in my care. They deserve to see someone who listens and understands where they’re coming from. Diversity in healthcare isn’t just about representation; it’s about better care. Different backgrounds bring different perspectives, and that leads to more creative, culturally aware solutions. A one-size-fits-all approach to medicine doesn’t work, especially in fields like occupational therapy, where culture and family dynamics shape a child’s daily life. If we want to create treatment plans that actually work, we need diverse professionals who consider all aspects of a patient’s experience—not just their symptoms. Additionally, increasing racial diversity in healthcare means addressing long-standing disparities in treatment. Many conditions—like hypertension, diabetes, and maternal mortality—disproportionately impact racial minorities due to a combination of socioeconomic and systemic factors. A diverse healthcare workforce is more likely to recognize these disparities and advocate for solutions that lead to better health outcomes for everyone. If more healthcare professionals come from underrepresented backgrounds, they can inspire future generations to pursue careers in medicine, creating a cycle of positive change. My biggest goal is simple: I want to help kids live fuller, more independent lives. I want to be a therapist they remember not just for helping them, but for making them feel seen, heard, and valued. By pushing for more diversity in healthcare, I hope to create a system where every child, no matter where they come from, has access to the care they need to thrive. Thank you for your consideration.

The Perfect Life Growing up in Jamaica, I longed for the “Perfect Life.” I strived to be a devout Christian, believing my unwavering faith would be rewarded. I was baptized at nine, attended church, studied the Bible, and sang in the choir. In return, I expected a life of stability, love, and a close-knit church community. In this “Perfect Life,” my parents grew old together, my brother had a family and pets, and I had my own—married with children and two cats. We were devoted church members: my mother a music leader, my father a guitarist, my brother a technician, and I a choir singer. However, life did not unfold as I envisioned. When I was ten, my parents divorced, leading to our isolation from the church. Two years later, my nineteen-year-old brother was killed by police brutality, shattering my world. I questioned everything—God’s promise, righteousness, and faith. Though I still trusted God, I withdrew from church, feeling abandoned. Through this darkness, my parents’ unwavering faith became my guide. Despite their pain, they chose compassion over resentment, reminding me that faith is not about seeking blessings but about embodying love, service, and grace. Inspired by them, I found solace in community service. I volunteered with my school’s Environmental and 4H Club, cleaning beaches and improving local spaces. Serving others rekindled my faith. Even after moving to the U.S., I continued this journey of healing. I joined the Westchester Parks Foundation to preserve the environment and volunteered at Westhab Dayspring Center, providing childcare for families in need. With each act of service, my faith strengthened—not in expectation of a “Perfect Life” but in the belief that I could create meaning despite hardship. Faith also gave me the courage to honor my brother’s legacy. I created a foundation in his name, aiding the homeless in Montego Bay and raising awareness about social injustices in Jamaica. I use social media to share resources for victims of domestic violence, police brutality, and mental health struggles. Though I once avoided music, a passion we shared, working on his foundation has allowed me to reconnect with it, turning my grief into something impactful. Despite these efforts, I still missed the sense of belonging church once provided. Adjusting to a new country and school was difficult, but during a summer internship at St. Joseph’s Medical Center, a friend helped me realize that faith is not confined to one place—I could build a new community. My parents’ divorce, my brother’s death, moving to the U.S., and adjusting to a new school were not part of the “Perfect Life” I once imagined. But faith has taught me that perfection lies in resilience, love, and service. I now strive to be a pillar of support for others, just as I once needed someone to lean on. Through my foundation and future career as an occupational therapist, I hope to make a meaningful difference while honoring my brother’s memory.

Growing up in Jamaica, I longed for the "Perfect Life." This meant being a devout Christian and reaping the rewards promised to the faithful. I was baptized at nine, attended church regularly, studied the Bible, and sang in the choir. My vision of this "Perfect Life" was clear: my parents would grow old together, my brother would marry and have a home filled with pets, and I would have my own family, a house, and two cats. We would all remain devoted church members—my mom leading music, my dad playing guitar, my brother managing the tech, and me singing in the choir. But when I was ten, my parents divorced. This upheaval not only fractured my family but also severed our connection to the church community we had grown up in. We no longer fit the mold of the "typical" family. Then, just two years later, my world was shattered again when my nineteen-year-old brother became a victim of police brutality. His death left me questioning my faith, my religion, and the very foundation of what I had been taught about God's promise of a "Perfect Life." Though I still believe in God, I withdrew from the church. I felt abandoned by a community that had failed to support me during my darkest moments. However, I was deeply inspired by my parents, whose faith remained steadfast despite their grief. They responded to the church community that had failed them with compassion and forgiveness, modeling the core values of respect and empathy they had instilled in me. Their example led me to continue practicing my faith differently—through acts of service. Healing came through volunteering. I joined my school’s Environmental and 4H Club, helping to clean beaches and improve our local community. After my brother’s passing, though Jamaica remained my home, something felt incomplete. My family decided to move to the United States for a fresh start. There, I found new ways to serve my community. I volunteered with the Westchester Parks Foundation, preparing tree-planting sites to preserve the environment, and at the Westhab Dayspring Center, where I provided childcare for families in Yonkers. Determined to honor my brother’s memory, I created a foundation in his name to support the homeless population in Montego Bay and raise awareness about social injustices in Jamaica. Through social media, I share information about support systems for victims of domestic violence, police brutality, and mental health challenges. Establishing this foundation has helped me heal and reconnect with the music my brother and I once loved, transforming our shared passion into a way to celebrate his life and legacy. While volunteering provided solace, I still missed the sense of community I had as a child. Adapting to a new country and switching schools left me feeling isolated. This past summer, however, I interned at St. Joseph’s Medical Center, where a friend helped me realize I could create a new community in my new home instead of dwelling on my loneliness. My parents’ divorce, my brother’s death, my move to the U.S., and my struggles with isolation were not part of my "Perfect Life." Yet, these experiences have shaped me into someone who seeks to help others find belonging and support. I aim to continue growing my foundation’s outreach and become an Occupational Therapist, offering care to children who, like me, need someone to lean on. Though my life hasn’t unfolded as I once imagined, I now see that I am building a new kind of "Perfect Life"—one grounded in resilience, compassion, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference in others’ lives while honoring my brother’s memory.

My ideal bookshelf would resemble a library's bookshelf, complete with a ladder to reach the higher shelves. I would place my favorite books in the middle so I could easily grab them. My must-have titles would include The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, the Empyrean trilogy, the ACOTAR series, The Boys of Tommen series, the Shatter Me series, the Addicted series, the Calloway series, A Thousand Boy Kisses, The Folk of the Air series, the Off-Campus series, A Good Girl's Guide to Murder series, the Twilight saga, the Royal Elite series, the Dirty Air series, the Dark Verse series, the Blood and Ash series, The Things We Leave Unfinished, the Spanish Love Deception series, the Twisted series, The Love Hypothesis, the Royals of Forsyth series, the Flesh and Fire series, Love on the Brain, and the Letters of Enchantment duet. These books and many more have significantly impacted the Booktok community, helping readers like myself, to connect and form a trusted network. The Booktok community started due to a shared interest and love for books among readers. As the community grew, more recommendations were made, such as The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, which influenced readers like me to become more involved. The ACOTAR series also fostered a sense of community among members. I remember finishing the series and wanting to discuss it, turning to TikTok, and finding a video on Feyre and Rhys' family. This exemplifies the relatable aspect of the Booktok community, which has helped many readers, both new and old to connect. It also offers encouragement and accountability. Before Booktok, someone experiencing a reading slump might have stopped reading due to a lack of motivation. With Booktok, there is comfort in knowing that others are also experiencing slumps, and the constant recommendation of amazing books encourages readers to continue reading. Titles like Fourth Wing and Iron Flame from the Empyrean trilogy have impacted the community on a deeper level by creating a new genre, "romantasy." This genre has allowed romance and fantasy lovers to connect. Without Booktok's constant recommendations, many readers might not have known about the trilogy, and this genre might not have been formulated. Booktok has also significantly impacted its authors. Authors such as Lancali, Colleen Hoover, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Rebecca Yarros, Holly Black, and many others have received recognition for their work through Booktok. For example, in 2022, as a new reader of romance novels, the Booktok community recommended Colleen Hoover to me, leading me to read three of her well-known books. Another example is Holly Black, when I wanted to explore the fantasy genre, Booktok recommended The Folk of the Air series. Additionally, Booktok introduced me to Lancali when I was looking for a new genre to discover, influencing me to read I fell in love with Hope. The Booktok community has helped to nurture readers by shaping their character, helping them to understand their book and author preferences, recommending new and old authors, encouraging readers through their reading slumps, and helping new and exploring readers to experience unique and stimulating books.