Growing up in a close-knit community in inner-city Dallas, I experienced the power of education and service firsthand. Inspired by Joyce Tolbert's belief that showing God's love through service can spark change, I have dedicated my life to uplifting those around me. At the age of twelve, I began volunteering at a local furniture store, initially to fill my time after school. However, this experience blossomed into a profound passion for community engagement. Witnessing the joy on the faces of those I served, I understood that listening and supporting others could ignite hope and purpose. During my college journey, I deepened my commitment to service by initiating a mentorship program to empower high school children of color. This program not only provided academic support but also focused on self-esteem, goal-setting, and the significance of education. Through our sessions, which include reading scriptures and affirmations, we instill a belief in their potential and the importance of personal growth. As a result, the children improve daily, demonstrating the positive impact of the small yet meaningful lessons we emphasize in our program. My dedication to virtuous living goes beyond just community service; it’s woven into the very fabric of who I am. I strive to lead by example, balancing academic excellence with active participation in my church's youth group. These experiences have shown me the profound importance of integrity, perseverance, and using my voice to advocate for positive change. Education has always been my guiding star. As a second-generation college aspirant, I see higher education not just as a personal milestone, but as a powerful tool for uplifting my community. My passion for learning is reflected in my rigorous course load, but it’s about more than just grades. I dream of pursuing a degree in Entrepreneurship, to become both an educator and a business owner in underserved communities. I want to nurture young minds and inspire a lifelong love for learning. My vision includes creating innovative programs that connect classroom lessons to real-world applications, emphasizing community service and civic engagement. I believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and I hope to be a catalyst for change, showing them that they can achieve anything with hard work and dedication. Together, we can build a brighter future, one where education empowers and transforms lives. In essence, the B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E. spirit encapsulates core values and aspirations. It reminds me daily that true fulfillment comes from serving others, that education is a powerful catalyst for change, and that with faith and determination, we can overcome any obstacle. Like Joyce Tolbert, I believe in the ripple effect of love and service, and I am committed to carrying forward her legacy by dedicating my life to uplifting others through education and community outreach. As I stand on the threshold of higher education, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my story. I pledge to honor the spirit of this scholarship by continuing to embody the B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E. principles in all that I do, striving to make a positive impact on the lives of others, just as Joyce Tolbert did throughout her inspiring life.

Being Black to me is a source of strength, resilience, and cultural richness. It means embracing my heritage, celebrating my ancestry, and standing in solidarity with fellow black individuals in the ongoing fight for equality and justice. It means defying stereotypes, breaking barriers, and striving for excellence in the face of adversity. Choosing to attend a Historically Black University was a deliberate decision rooted in my desire to immerse myself in a supportive community that celebrates and uplifts Black excellence. At Jackson State University, I found a nurturing environment where I could thrive academically, socially, and culturally. It provided me with invaluable opportunities to connect with like-minded peers, engage with inspiring mentors, and cultivate a sense of pride in my identity. In the future, I envision myself as a catalyst for positive change within underserved communities, particularly those within the African American community. Drawing upon my entrepreneurial skills and education, I aspire to establish businesses and initiatives that address pressing social issues, contribute to economic development, and empower individuals to overcome systemic barriers. One avenue I plan to explore is the creation of job training programs and mentorship initiatives aimed at providing pathways to economic stability and upward mobility for marginalized populations. Additionally, I am passionate about advocating for policy reforms that promote equity and dismantle systemic inequalities. By choosing an HBCU, I have not only furthered my education but also deepened my understanding of the profound impact of Black institutions in shaping the trajectory of our collective future.

Imagine an intuitive young girl curious about the world around her. Ever since I was a young girl, I have never been afraid to entangle myself in the world. Growing up in South Texas, I have always been surrounded by a thriving community. Nothing was done in the community that I didn't know about. Every day, something was ready for me to participate in, such as gardening at the school, performing for the community, or just picking up trash off the road. Over the years, I have greatly learned what it looks like to help my community, how to improve it, and how minor impacts can make a huge difference. My dad was very involved in the school system as a teacher. This is where I learned about the importance of education. My dad was very strict in his studies, so I always read a book or did some work after school. Half the time, I did not enjoy it, but it perfectly reflected in my grades that It was rewarding. As I grew up, I steadily prioritized my studies and enjoyed being in sports. I love the challenge sports bring; it keeps my spirit up. Over the years, I have done many sports, such as cheerleading, volleyball, basketball, etc. I wanted to keep this habit for the rest of my life, so I went to Jackson State University. When I arrived at Jackson State, I tried out for sports. Unfortunately, I did not make the team, but I knew I still wanted to be involved in school. As I continued my studies here, I witnessed a world where you can authentically be yourself and find people with the same interests, goals, and aspirations. These are just a few main parts of being at Jackson State University. As I have been here, It has been a breeding ground for young African Americans, including myself, to become their best version. Also, it gives us a safe place to define who we are and learn more about ourselves as we continue the college experience. I have never associated home with school in my younger years because I did not feel a sense of closeness with my schools. This school has beautiful individuals caring for your physical, mental, and emotional state. I believe this is very significant for a school because we are all individuals experiencing life, so people need to have an environment to express themselves. Even when we are not feeling ourselves, something is there to change our spirits. The teachers feel like my very own mom, aunties, and uncles. They always look for our best interests in all aspects of our lives. There is nothing that this school would not do for its students. I am very grateful and honored to go to such a great school. Every time I step on campus, it feels like being at home. When I arrived at JSU, I knew I wanted to have the same impact on the college as I did with my community at home. So, I decided to pursue entrepreneurship. Being an entrepreneur is putting people's desires before your own. I am always happy to see my impact on the community in an uplifting way. My community back home is still thriving today because everyone contributes to the same goal for the community: improvement. Although Jackson has a great community, its economic state is low. As an entrepreneur, I want to invest in Jackson properties to grow Jackson's financial state. Many businesses are needed in Jackson, such as retail stores, manufacturing stores, organic stores, etc. The love is enormous in Jackson, so I believe these businesses can reflect the residents living here in Jackson. Many people call it crazy to stay in Jackson, but with faith, Jackson can look like the beautiful capital it is meant to be. I will not leave here till it does.

Death leaves a sorrow that no one can heal. It suddenly enters your life and engulfs your world. It tastes very bitter. Everything felt so alive and bright when you think about a time when death didn't exist yet. I told him to go, but he won't go. It means staying here. Against my will, I was forced not to leave this stranger. At first, I was upset that it didn't come out of my world. I quickly got used to his presence. Eventually, I began to regain control of my world while living with this. It wasn't easy, but it was definitely worth it...  I had this feeling for months when death took my brother. I remember when I first heard the news. My friends and I were going shopping together, and I got a phone call from my mother stating Darnell had shot himself in the head. Instantly, I fell to the floor, balling my eyes out. It was a feeling I had never experienced in life. It was raw and cold, like I had just been in a deep freezer. I don't remember how I got home, but my family greeted me with hugs and sorrow. The house was chilly that day. My red eyes and despairing face said it all. I was crying till the sun came through my bedroom window. I knew working would help me control my emotions. So, I continued to work for the next three months. Although my brother passed away three months, It still felt like I heard the news just yesterday. So, I decided to take time off my job. Finally, I accepted that I was depressed. In the movies, depression is portrayed as someone who always feels sorry for themselves, so I never suspected I was in that condition. When I finally took a glimpse of myself in the mirror, I saw I was depressed, trying to make it seem like I wasn't. Eventually, I started school. At the start of every fall semester, there are tons of events for everyone to indulge in around campus. So, I decided to link with my college friends and have some fun. I knew I had to do something on campus that enlightened my soul. So I started joining organizations. It was the best decision I ever made. I made a difference on campus and in the community. I also visited a school therapist. After a while, I felt better than the girl I was before my brother died. I was stronger, wiser, and, most importantly, happier. If anyone has had a similar experience, I would like to tell them that God has not left their side since their sibling passed away. So don't lose your trust in God. It will be difficult, but time will heal all wounds. If you enjoy a hobby, do it more often than you normally would. Even if it's only for a short time, it helps to distract the mind from grieving. I took a break before school started. So, if losing a sibling is just as hard for you, I encourage you to do the same. If not, find someone or a friend who has gone through a similar experience and vent to them. They will know what is best for you in times like these. I had friends that I considered family who watched over me 24/7 as I struggled with depression. I am grateful to have such friends. Because of them, I wouldn't be the woman I am today. You are not alone...