I am a Towson University Tiger for life because of the life-changing experiences I have received over the past four years. On May 21st, 2021 I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science. My involvement in Towson’s Grace Life Collegiate and being a Resident Assistant (RA) transformed me into the man I am today. On June 1st, 2021 I began attending the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) to obtain my Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. With my degree, I will become a physical therapist and open my own clinic and gym.
I believe one can help others by having a strong spiritual life. Thus, I joined Grace Life Collegiate as the bible study and prayer coordinator; I construct bible study groups and prayer events. These actions help my peers and I understand the importance of the Holy Trinity in one’s life. It is only through God that we can bear good fruits and make this world a better place. Also, one of my favorite scripture is Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” To achieve this, I became a RA. This position makes me a resource for students by resolving personal issues and creating an inclusive community.
I take pride in my great sense of compassion.
Ever since I was a child, I knew I had an aspiration for helping other people. The real question was “how?”. A year ago, I started an “#alllovegermainblaise” movement to inspire love and positivity amongst all people. I implemented this movement primarily on social media to create a sense of community. This is one of my biggest accomplishments, for I have seen firsthand how I have impacted the lives of others. One month after I started my movement, I noticed more freshmen attending campus events. I was a Residential Assistant (RA) for the freshman residence hall when I initiated my campaign. Thus, many of them were exposed to my message directly. Furthermore, some of the freshmen under my wing were shy and introverted. However, the positivity and charisma I displayed spurred them to socialize and attend school events. This led to my residents networking with other like-minded individuals. Also, my residents were exposed to more opportunities such as job fairs and mentorships. As a student, powerlifter, and class president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore, I plan to spread the same message of love and positivity to my peers and colleagues.
Furthermore, I will build a community center called “Blaise’s World” in the future. Blaise’s World will consist of “Blaise Physical Therapy Clinic” and “Blaise Gym”. My goal is to create a healthy environment where people can obtain physical and spiritual nourishment. Additionally, this community center will be a place where young adults can exercise and receive physical, educational, and spiritual guidance. To achieve this objective, there will be a mentorship program for individuals under 18. Mentees will receive free gym access and discounts by meeting with their mentor a minimum of twice a month and receiving a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA. Also, I will use the funds I obtain from the gym memberships for scholarships. Finally, I will ensure Blaise’s World is a place that is filled with a positive atmosphere. To do this, I will have bible scriptures on all the facility’s walls, especially Philippians 4:6 (NLT) “Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” Overall, Blaise’s World will be a place where patients receive compassionate care and spiritual encouragement throughout their service.
While I have been fortunate enough to attend Towson University for my whole undergraduate degree, it was not an easy journey. Due to my father’s job, I am not allotted any federal grants. Understandably, the government is under the impression that my father has adequate funds to support my academic pursuits. Under normal circumstances, this would be true. Unfortunately, this is not the case. My father is the first in his family to ever come to America, he is originally from Cameroon. As a result, he has taken on the mantle of financially supporting our family back in Africa. This means most of his finances are sent back home, and my father keeps just enough to pay bills here in America. Additionally, I have a twin sister who is also pursuing a master’s degree. Therefore, my dad sacrificed his retirement fund and took out loans for the last four years to support both of his children's school fees. This scholarship is not just “free money” to me. This fund is how I will give back to my father who has selflessly supported his family for many years. I am sharing my story because I have a dream that will become true. Therefore, scholarships like this make it possible for me to continue my education. If I am granted this scholarship, the “Act Locally Scholarship” will not only help further my education but will also aid the thousands of lives that will need my help in the future.