"The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab Although this one is gaining traction, it might still be considered a bit under the radar for some. The book’s exploration of immortality and the human desire to be remembered really struck a chord with me. It made me think deeply about the impact we leave behind and the value of our individuality. Discussions on #BookTok about Addie’s journey have helped me reflect on my own aspirations and the legacy I want to create. "The House in the Cerulean Sea" by TJ Klune This charming and heartfelt novel is about finding where you truly belong, which resonates deeply with me. On #BookTok, the book is celebrated for its warmth and inclusive message. It’s inspired me to embrace my own quirks and seek out spaces where I feel accepted, reflecting a personal journey of finding my place in the world. "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern While not a complete stranger, this book doesn’t always get as much spotlight as some others. Its enchanting and imaginative world-building transported me to a place where magic and reality blend seamlessly. The #BookTok community’s appreciation for its lyrical prose and unique narrative style has inspired me to find beauty and wonder in my own life, even in the mundane. "The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller This novel’s deep dive into personal relationships and the complexities of choices really spoke to me. It’s not as widely discussed, but #BookTok readers who have encountered it share a profound connection with its emotional depth. For me, it was a powerful exploration of how our past choices shape who we are, prompting me to reflect on my own life decisions and their impact. "Piranesi" by Susanna Clarke This book’s unique take on reality and identity fascinated me. Its dreamlike setting and the protagonist’s quest for understanding have been a topic of intriguing discussions on #BookTok. It has encouraged me to think about how I perceive my own reality and the importance of creating my own narrative in a world that often feels overwhelming. "Mexican Gothic" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia A lesser-known gem, this book blends horror and historical fiction in a way that’s both gripping and thought-provoking. The #BookTok community’s appreciation for its atmospheric storytelling and cultural elements has resonated with me, making me appreciate the power of genre fiction to explore deeper themes and personal experiences. "The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi This novel’s rich depiction of Indian culture and a woman’s journey towards independence struck a personal chord with me. It’s a beautiful example of how literature can offer a window into different cultures and experiences. The conversations on #BookTok about the book’s vibrant setting and strong protagonist have inspired me to explore and celebrate diverse perspectives in my own life. These lesser-known titles have each made a personal impact by providing fresh perspectives, inspiring introspection, and fostering a deeper connection to literature. The discussions and insights shared on #BookTok about these books have enriched my reading experience and encouraged me to explore and appreciate diverse narratives.

Billie Eilish’s music has really touched me, and my top three songs—“Blind Faith,” “Hostage,” and “Watch”—each mean a lot to me because they connect with my own experiences in unique ways. “Blind Faith” hits home because it deals with trust and vulnerability, which are big themes for me given my struggles with anxiety and OCD. The song’s eerie vibe and deep lyrics remind me that it’s okay to face these tough emotions head-on. It helps me feel less alone in dealing with my mental health issues and gives me a bit of strength to keep pushing through. “Hostage” speaks to me on a different level. Growing up Black in a predominantly white area, I often felt isolated and misunderstood. The song’s intense emotions and themes of longing and struggle reflect the feelings I’ve had about feeling different or out of place. It’s like Billie’s lyrics give voice to those complex emotions I’ve dealt with and help me process them better. “Watch” stands out because of its message about self-worth and resilience. As someone who’s faced pressures and challenges from growing up in a predominantly white environment, the song’s call to stand strong and value yourself really resonates. It’s a reminder to stay confident and not let others bring me down, which is something I need to hear often. Billie Eilish’s music has been a real source of comfort and inspiration for me, reflecting my struggles and helping me feel connected to something bigger. Each of these songs captures a part of my journey and continues to inspire me to be resilient and true to myself.

Incarceration has cast a long shadow over my life, shaping my perspectives and profoundly influencing my academic and career ambitions. My uncle's repeated incarcerations for drug-related offenses have been a constant, painful presence since I was born. This experience has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, systemic injustice, and the urgent need for reform, steering my path toward social advocacy and justice. Growing up, the instability caused by my uncle's absence was palpable. Family gatherings were often marked by his absence, and the emotional toll on my family, especially my father, was significant. These experiences exposed me to the harsh realities of the criminal justice system and its impact on families. I learned early on about the stigma and challenges that come with having an incarcerated family member, including financial strain and emotional distress. Witnessing my uncle's struggles both inside and outside prison walls ignited a sense of urgency in me to understand the root causes of his situation and the broader societal issues at play. Academically, this personal connection to incarceration has driven me to delve deeply into sociology, criminal justice, and public policy. My coursework at Spelman College has provided a solid foundation in these areas, allowing me to critically analyze the systemic factors contributing to mass incarceration, such as poverty, lack of education, and inadequate mental health resources. Engaging with these subjects has broadened my understanding and fueled my passion for advocating for change. My uncle's experiences have motivated me to take on leadership roles in organizations committed to social justice. As a member of the Young Democrats of Georgia, I have actively advocated for criminal justice reform, focusing on policies that address the root causes of crime and support rehabilitation over punishment. Serving on the executive board has given me practical experience organizing campaigns, engaging with policymakers, and mobilizing community support. Furthermore, my involvement in the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, International, has reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in law, specifically in public interest law. I am determined to use my legal education to advocate for marginalized communities and work towards a more equitable justice system. The pain and disruption caused by my uncle's incarceration have underscored the importance of compassionate, informed legal representation and the need for systemic reform. In conclusion, my uncle's incarceration has profoundly impacted my life, instilling in me a deep understanding of the criminal justice system's flaws and the urgent need for change. This experience has shaped my academic interests, driving me to explore sociology, criminal justice, and public policy, and has inspired my career ambitions in public interest law. I am committed to using my education and experiences to advocate for policies that promote rehabilitation, reduce recidivism, and support families affected by incarceration. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a more just and compassionate society, ensuring that future generations are spared the pain and disruption that my family has endured.

Reflecting on my journey thus far, I am compelled to emphasize my unwavering passion for enacting critical change in the parts of the world suffering the most during these tumultuous times. As I navigate through my academic endeavors at Spelman College and beyond, my heart is drawn to the plight of marginalized communities, the injustices they face, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions. My experiences in organizations like the Young Democrats of Georgia and Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International have deepened my understanding of the systemic issues plaguing societies worldwide. From advocating for important causes to engaging in meaningful political discourse, I am driven by a sense of duty to amplify the voices of the voiceless and advocate for equitable policies that uplift the most vulnerable among us. A pivotal moment in my advocacy journey was organizing a campus event focused on LGBTQ+ rights and mental health. Witnessing the overwhelming support and participation from the Spelman community reinforced my belief in the power of collective action. This experience underscored the importance of creating spaces for dialogue and awareness, solidifying my commitment to fostering inclusive environments where all voices are heard and respected. Furthermore, my selection as a CIEE Frederick Douglass Daniel O'Connell Global Fellowship Cohort member in Dublin, Ireland, underscores my commitment to addressing global challenges head-on. As I prepare to immerse myself in studying international sociology and immigration, I am acutely aware of these issues' profound impact on millions of lives worldwide. This fellowship represents more than just an academic opportunity; it is a chance to engage with diverse perspectives, gain invaluable insights, and develop a more nuanced understanding of global migration patterns, social justice, and human rights. Through this experience, I hope to gain valuable insights and perspectives that will inform my efforts to enact meaningful change on a global scale. The dream of becoming a member of the Payne International Development Fellowship on the path to U.S. Diplomacy aligns perfectly with my aspirations to make a tangible difference in the world. This fellowship is an opportunity to deepen my knowledge and expertise and as a platform to advocate for policies that promote peace, prosperity, and human dignity in the world's most vulnerable regions. The Payne Fellowship is more than a career stepping stone; it is a vital avenue for contributing to global development and fostering international cooperation, which is crucial in today’s interconnected world. Beyond my professional ambitions, my personal experiences have profoundly shaped my worldview. Growing up, I witnessed the struggles of marginalized communities firsthand, which instilled in me a deep-seated empathy and a drive to advocate for those often overlooked. My academic pursuits at Spelman College have provided a solid foundation in understanding the complexities of social justice issues, and my extracurricular involvement has equipped me with the practical skills to address these challenges effectively. As I chart my course for the future, I am driven by a profound sense of purpose and urgency. Now, more than ever, we need dedicated individuals willing to stand up and fight for justice, equality, and human rights. Through my academic pursuits, advocacy work, and commitment to diplomatic service, I am determined to be a force for positive change in the world, particularly in the parts that are suffering the most during these challenging times. The journey ahead is daunting, but with a steadfast resolve and a clear vision, I am confident I can contribute to creating a more just and equitable world.

Life's journey often leads us through shadowed valleys of mental health struggles, where anxiety and OCD become silent companions shaping our beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. My path, too, has been marked by these formidable challenges, sculpting my understanding of the human experience in profound ways. My beliefs about mental health have been shaped by the crucible of personal struggle with chronic anxiety and OCD. Initially, I grappled with the misconception that these conditions were signs of weakness, stains to be concealed rather than embraced. Yet, as I navigated the labyrinth of my own mind, I unearthed a profound truth – mental health knows no boundaries of strength or weakness; it is a complex tapestry woven from the threads of vulnerability and resilience. Through the relentless tug-of-war with chronic anxiety and OCD, I came to believe in the spectrum of mental health experiences, each unique and valid in its own right. This realization, born from the depths of my own struggles, now guides my advocacy efforts, driving me towards a future where empathy eclipses judgment and understanding erases stigma. The contours of my relationships bear the indelible imprint of my journey, each connection etched with the scars of battle and the triumph of resilience. In the throes of despair, I found myself isolated, the weight of my struggles erecting walls between myself and those I cherished. Yet, through the tender tendrils of empathy and understanding, I discovered the lifeblood of connection, anchored by the unwavering support of loved ones. In vulnerability, I found strength, and in shared experiences, I found solace. My journey with anxiety has deepened the bonds with those who stood by me, illuminating the transformative power of empathy. These relationships, nurtured amidst the storms of struggle, now serve as beacons of hope, guiding me towards healing and resilience. My journey with chronic anxiety and OCD has ignited a passion within me, propelling my career aspirations towards advocacy and support. In the shadow of despair, I once doubted my ability to pursue meaningful work, the weight of my struggles casting doubt upon my dreams. Yet, emerging from the crucible of my own journey, I discovered a newfound sense of purpose – to lend my voice to those silenced by stigma, to champion mental health reform, and to pave the way towards a brighter tomorrow. Volunteering at organizations dedicated to mental health awareness became not merely a means of giving back but a testament to my commitment to effect change. These experiences, born from the crucible of struggle with chronic anxiety and OCD, have instilled within me a fervent desire to challenge stigma, foster empathy, and advocate for a world where mental health is met with compassion and understanding. In the tapestry of life, mental health conditions weave their intricate patterns, shaping beliefs, sculpting relationships, and guiding aspirations. My journey has been a testament to the transformative power of struggle, resilience, and empathy. As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I carry with me the echoes of my experiences – a compass guiding me towards a future where understanding conquers stigma, and the light of hope shines bright in the darkest of nights.