My parents came here for a better future, that mantra is my motivation. In 2004, my mother and father sought refuge in Middle America, and one year later, I was their first child born on American soil. Their experience is deeply ingrained in me. Our native land, Somalia, was and still is ridden by corruption, poverty, and violence. But I am proud of my background, because it shows our perseverance, and it grounded me in my passion to make the world a better place. I always dreamed of bettering the world, and most importantly protecting the people in it. Knowing the violence my parents went through pushed me to study criminal justice. I was sick of seeing the way crime affected my community even in America. This is what my parents had run from, violence, but everywhere in the world, it occurs. I witnessed gun violence, domestic violence, and cruelty. That is why I am studying Criminal Justice currently. While progressing through my major, I have two jobs that exemplify my passion for community and victim rights. I work as a Community Impact worker with AmeriCorps, a national community service effort. This job has allowed me to hear my community's voices. Additionally, I hold a second position in my city as an Advocate specializing in helping victims of exploitation. But a thing my parents told me is hard work is good work, and to be the fruit of the earth. This is why I continue to progress in my education, and I am going to law school to become a prosecutor. The F.O.O. scholarship is a stepping stone for me. It will allow me to step closer to completing my education, and stepping into a career to make the world a better place, a safer place.

Growing up in a community marked by crime, violence, and poverty profoundly shaped my worldview and aspirations. The memories of my childhood are intertwined with stark realities: the sound of sirens piercing the night, the aftermath of confrontations that often turned violent, and the palpable tension that hung in the air. Witnessing this cycle of crime and despair fostered a deep sense of concern within me. I often found myself asking difficult questions: Why do some communities struggle more than others? What can be done to break the cycle of violence? It was these formative experiences that ignited my passion for pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. I wanted not just to understand the intricacies of the system but to contribute positively to the solutions that could foster change. As I embarked on my journey at college, I was determined to make a difference. I quickly got involved as a Community Impact worker, a role that has allowed me to immerse myself deeper into the issues my community faces. In this position, I collect data from local residents, actively engaging with them to understand their needs and concerns better. Each conversation reveals a tapestry of stories filled with struggles and resilience, compelling me to think critically about the ways we can address these challenges. The hands-on experience of gathering input from community members has underscored the importance of grassroots perspectives in crafting effective outreach and intervention strategies. In addition to data collection, I’ve had the privilege of organizing volunteering opportunities for my fellow students. Connecting college students with the community has been a rewarding experience, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. The students and I work together on various projects, aimed at providing support and resources to those in need. This initiative not only empowers community members but also enriches the students’ educational journeys, allowing them to engage with real-life issues beyond the classroom. It’s transformative to see the impact of collective efforts—each act of service reinforces the idea that change is a communal responsibility, that we can uplift one another in pursuit of a better future. Navigating the challenges of a criminal justice program while being actively involved in my community has not been without hurdles. Yet, every struggle has reinforced my commitment to this path. I understand that knowledge is just one piece of the puzzle; genuine change requires empathy, engagement, and action. My upbringing has equipped me with a unique perspective that I am eager to apply in addressing the systemic issues that perpetuate crime and poverty. I aspire not only to be a part of the solution but to lead the charge toward a more just society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, devoid of the shadows of violence and despair. As I reflect on my commitment to community work, I am continually reminded of the countless lives touched and changed through empathetic action. It fuels my ambition to empower others to harness their passions for the greater good, emphasizing that our contributions, no matter how small, can lead to significant change. By nurturing emerging leaders and encouraging innovative ideas, I hope to inspire a new generation of community advocates who are equally passionate about creating meaningful connections and driving social progress. Together, we can build a vibrant community of collaboration, where everyone's voice is heard, and everyone's efforts converge in pursuit of a common goal—uplifting our communities and effecting lasting change. My mission is clear, to pave the way for those who are ready to take up the mantle of community work, ensuring that the spirit of service continues to flourish.

Growing up in a community marked by crime, violence, and poverty profoundly shaped my worldview and aspirations. The memories of my childhood are intertwined with stark realities: the sound of sirens piercing the night, the aftermath of confrontations that often turned violent, and the palpable tension that hung in the air. Witnessing this cycle of crime and despair fostered a deep sense of concern within me. I often found myself asking difficult questions: Why do some communities struggle more than others? What can be done to break the cycle of violence? It was these formative experiences that ignited my passion for pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. I wanted not just to understand the intricacies of the system but to contribute positively to the solutions that could foster change. As I embarked on my journey at college, I was determined to make a difference. I quickly got involved as a Community Impact worker, a role that has allowed me to immerse myself deeper into the issues my community faces. In this position, I collect data from local residents, actively engaging with them to understand their needs and concerns better. Each conversation reveals a tapestry of stories filled with struggles and resilience, compelling me to think critically about the ways we can address these challenges. The hands-on experience of gathering input from community members has underscored the importance of grassroots perspectives in crafting effective outreach and intervention strategies. In addition to data collection, I’ve had the privilege of organizing volunteering opportunities for my fellow students. Connecting college students with the community has been a rewarding experience, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. The students and I work together on various projects, aimed at providing support and resources to those in need. This initiative not only empowers community members but also enriches the students’ educational journeys, allowing them to engage with real-life issues beyond the classroom. It’s revitalizing to see the immense impact of collective efforts—each act of service reinforces the idea that change is a communal responsibility, that we can uplift one another in pursuit of a better future. Navigating the challenges of a criminal justice program while being actively involved in my community has not been without hurdles. Yet, every struggle has reinforced my commitment to this path. I understand that knowledge is just one piece of the puzzle; genuine change requires empathy, engagement, and action. My upbringing has equipped me with a unique perspective that I am eager to apply in addressing the systemic issues that perpetuate crime and poverty. I aspire not only to be a part of the solution but to lead the charge toward a more just society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, devoid of the shadows of violence and despair.

As a criminal justice student with a strong commitment to social change, my current role as a Community Impact worker has profoundly shaped my understanding of the dynamics at play within my community. In this position, I am tasked with collecting and analyzing data that identifies pressing issues in the area around me. This work has been both illuminating and inspiring, as it sheds light on the significant economic and educational gaps that often hinder progress for marginalized individuals and families. By utilizing this data, I have been able to collaborate with my university to tailor volunteering activities that not only engage students but also address these critical needs. Moreover, I have been able to establish meaningful partnerships between the campus and local community organizations, amplifying our collective efforts to foster positive change. Growing up in a predominantly Black community, I have always been acutely aware of the challenges my community faces. This awareness was an inherent part of my upbringing, yet my work as a Community Impact worker has enabled me to deepen my understanding of these issues. The data I collect reveals systemic inequalities that are often invisible to the wider society. For instance, I have discovered that many families struggle with accessing quality education and economic opportunities simply due to their geographic location and the history of disinvestment in their neighborhood. With each dataset I analyze, I become increasingly motivated to explore how I can leverage my education and experiences to contribute toward tangible solutions. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role has been the opportunity to connect with local nonprofits and community members who are committed to making a difference. These interactions have fostered important relationships with individuals who share a common vision of empowering our community. By working alongside dedicated activists and volunteers, I have witnessed firsthand the passion and resilience that exist within our neighborhoods. This collective energy contributes significantly to the efforts to bridge the economic and educational gaps prevalent in our society. These connections have helped me understand that effective community development requires a holistic approach—a partnership between educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and residents. In reflecting on my journey, I feel a profound sense of responsibility to the community in which I was raised. The passion I have developed for advocating for social justice and equity has truly been shaped by my experiences and the relationships I have cultivated along the way. My position as a Community Impact worker has provided a vital context for me to channel this passion, using my academic background to inform practical solutions to real-world challenges. I am more committed than ever to helping shape an environment where children and families have equal opportunities to flourish, and that commitment is rooted deeply in my own personal history and identity. As I continue my studies and my work, I aim to foster stronger connections between the university and my community, ultimately creating a ripple effect of positive change. I recognize that my role is not an isolated endeavor; rather, it is part of a larger movement toward equity, empowerment, and justice for all. In this way, my mission is not only professional but profoundly personal, echoing the values and hopes of the community that has shaped my journey.

Growing up in a community where the echoes of pain reverberated through the streets, I came to deeply understand the profound impact of crime on individuals and families. My childhood was marked by witnessing the mental health struggles within my neighborhood—alcoholism, broken families, and the pervasive sense of hopelessness that seemed to engulf those around me. I remember the glassy eyes of individuals lost in their addiction, the tension in homes where violence lurked behind closed doors, and the children who wore their trauma like a heavy cloak, stifling their laughter. These experiences shaped my understanding of the hurt around me, fostering within me a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a difference. I found myself yearning to lift the shadows that loomed over my community, to provide a voice for those who felt unheard, and to advocate for victims who often suffered in silence. My passion for helping victims of crime has been fueled by the stories I have encountered throughout my life. Each narrative of despair became a thread woven into the fabric of my resolve. I realized that many of these individuals fell through the cracks of a system designed to protect them. They needed not only legal support but also emotional and psychological guidance as they navigated the aftermath of their trauma. My heart swelled with determination to become a beacon of hope amid this chaos, providing solace and assistance to the bruised and battered. This is what drives me to become a victim advocate, a role I believe is essential in ensuring that survivors of crime receive the compassion, respect, and resources they deserve in their healing journey. To pursue this calling, I am currently working towards a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Victim Services. My academic work has opened my eyes to the complexities of the criminal justice system and the many barriers that victims face. I have delved into courses that explore victimology, legal rights, and the psychological effects of crime, all the while reflecting on how these subjects resonate with the struggles I witnessed growing up. Each lesson empowers me to understand better the nuances of victim services, equipping me with the knowledge and tools needed to advocate effectively for those affected by crime. Practically applying what I learn through volunteer work with local organizations has further solidified my commitment, as I see firsthand the impact that support and advocacy can have on victims’ lives. In my journey, I envision a future where my work as a victim advocate will not only help individuals navigate the daunting aftermath of their experiences but also work towards societal change. I aspire to create awareness about the challenges faced by victims of crime, helping communities recognize and prevent the conditions that lead to such devastation. It is crucial to foster an environment of empathy and understanding, so survivors can find the path to healing rather than feel isolated by their pain. I believe that every voice matters and every story deserves to be heard. By standing beside victims, I aim to empower them to reclaim their narrative and advocate for their rights. Through my experiences, education, and unwavering passion, I am determined to make a lasting impact in the lives of crime victims. A one of compassion, love, and understanding. I want to be that advocate who stands tall for those who feel small, an unwavering presence of support that champions their right to justice and healing. It is this sentiment that drives me to help victims of crime, ensuring their struggles are never forgotten, and their healing is always prioritized.

Embarking on a journey in the criminal justice field as a Black woman is both a rewarding and a profoundly challenging journey. The weight of barriers weighs heavily on my aspirations, alongside the subtle and overt disapproval I often encounter from both my culture and society. Growing up, I heard the quiet yet persistent murmur of skepticism regarding my ambitions. In a world where stereotypes abound, my identity as a Black woman seemed to overshadow my aspirations, casting doubts not only from others but often from within. The message that this field is not meant for someone like me echoed through the narratives surrounding my upbringing—stories painted with cautionary tales, warnings born of the struggles faced by those who paved the way before me. Navigating the complexities of my identity while pursuing a path in criminal justice requires a substantial amount of mental fortitude. The expectations placed on me by my community, coupled with the expectations of a society that often fails to recognize my full humanity, create a unique psychological battleground. There is the pressure to conform to established norms within a culture that thrives on tradition, alongside a society that tends to view people like me through a narrow lens of prejudice and misunderstanding. This constant tug-of-war between cultural expectations and career aspirations can be mentally exhausting. Some peers and family members question my dedication, frequently implying that my desire to enter the criminal justice arena deviates from what they believe should be the embodiment of Black womanhood—often limited to roles that reflect nurturing or support rather than authority and justice. Yet, within this struggle lies an undeniable strength that I am beginning to embrace. Each instance of scrutiny serves as fuel, igniting a resolve within me to not only succeed but to thrive and carve out a space for others who look like me. It’s essential to recognize that my journey is interwoven with the broader narrative of Black women in this field, many of whom have navigated similar challenges. This realization helps to mitigate feelings of isolation; there is a community of us, even if we are not immediately visible. I find power in connecting with other Black women who share these experiences, creating a support system that reinforces our shared goals and ambitions. Moreover, engaging with my culture gives me perspective and grounding; I am continuously inspired by the resilience and tenacity of my strength, which has made me emerge triumphant. Through activism and advocacy, they have shown me the essence of fighting for justice, not only for myself but for those who are often voiceless. This duality of identity—being a Black woman and a future leader in the criminal justice sector—offers me the opportunity to challenge stereotypes, disrupt norms, and redefine what it means to pursue this field. Mental challenges will persist, but with them comes an unwavering determination to transform rejection into resilience, adversity into advocacy, and my dreams into reality. As I step forward, I carry with me the hope of creating a more equitable society and role-modeling a path for future generations.

Who am I? A immigrant's daughter? Or a immigrant? My parent were part of a group of several thousand ethnic minorities from Somalia to get migrated to the United States when yet another civil war broke out in the country. The violence was tiring, they were tired, my parents. But now, they could relax without worrying that a bullet would hit their head. They could live without fear that their us, their children, wouldn't be brutally murdered. Here, they could give me a better life. They tried their best to provide and take care of me. They did very well. We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled at a college to get an bachelors in Criminal Justice. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education.

One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled to get a bachelors in Criminal Justice. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education to go to law school/ This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal. Currently, I am in the process of finding opportunities while in college to get a job experience at women’s shelters and victim advocacy organizations. I am passionate about talking to the people whose lives were ruined by cruel individuals, and as much as I can, helping them heal. When I start my bachelor's I will make sure to intern in the field to ensure I am competent enough to achieve my goals. The many issues with our crime-ridden communities, and at times inadequate criminal justice system is a social issue that I want to fight against for the rest of my life. The most important way I can make a difference is to educate myself at a higher education institution that will equip me with the skills needed to make a change within. And I will achieve my goals without barriers, my dreams are boundless.

What could go wrong when a sea turtle is left by it's mother to venture out into the vast sea? What could go wrong when a butterfly lays it's eggs and flutters away? What could go wrong when a baby bird lifts up and flies off into the beautiful sky? What could go wrong when a recently graduated dreamer girl goes off to college? We are raised by our parents unlike butterflies or sea turtles besides laying their eggs. My parents raised me well. After immigrating here from a war town country, they found a place to raise me. They encouraged me to do well in school, and even above and beyond. My mother was a nurturer making sure I was well fed and comforted in my future dreams. My father was a inspiration for me, he worked long hours to provide for us, and even between his long hours at work he spent time encouraging me to do well in school and telling me stories. Many heartbreaking stories of what he and my mother went through. To being physically separated for a long period during the civil war, to seeing people lying bloodied in the streets. And the government collapsing in front of them. These were sad and horrifying stories because I couldn't imagine living in a place so corrupted and destroyed by violence. Thankfully, my parents brought me to America safely for a better life. But what could go wrong? It was safe here they thought. It was true, it is safer, but there are issues like every place on earth. We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled at a community college to get an bachelors in Criminal Justice. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education. This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal. Currently, I am in the process of finding opportunities before college to get a job experience at women’s shelters and victim advocacy organizations. I am passionate about talking to the people whose lives were ruined by cruel individuals, and as much as I can, helping them heal. When I start my bachelor's I will make sure to intern in the field to ensure I am competent enough to achieve my goals. I live for Criminal Justice reform. There needs to be a change. There is no reason why numerous black women and girls are killed in senseless gun violence incidents. Or when a precious child is taken too soon. There is no reason why cases like Denisha Montgomery Smith, an army official die in suspicious circumstances and are not treated as worthy of an in-depth investigation. The many issues with our crime-ridden communities, and at times inadequate criminal justice system is a social issue that I want to fight against for the rest of my life. The most important way I can make a difference is to educate myself at a higher education institution that will equip me with the skills needed to make a change within. And I will achieve my goals without barriers, my dreams are boundless.

We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled at a community college to get an bachelors in Criminal Justice. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education. This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal. Currently, I am in the process of finding opportunities before college to get a job experience at women’s shelters and victim advocacy organizations. I am passionate about talking to the people whose lives were ruined by cruel individuals, and as much as I can, helping them heal. When I start my bachelor's I will make sure to intern in the field to ensure I am competent enough to achieve my goals. I live for Criminal Justice reform. There needs to be a change. There is no reason why numerous black women and girls are killed in senseless gun violence incidents. Or when a precious child is taken too soon. There is no reason why cases like Denisha Montgomery Smith, an army official die in suspicious circumstances and are not treated as worthy of an in-depth investigation. The many issues with our crime-ridden communities, and at times inadequate criminal justice system is a social issue that I want to fight against for the rest of my life. The most important way I can make a difference is to educate myself at a higher education institution that will equip me with the skills needed to make a change within. And I will achieve my goals without barriers, my dreams are boundless. It is my life's mission to achieve the goal of receiving a bachelor's in Criminal Justice or a related field which will allow me to directly be a part of the initiative against crime. Since my sophomore year in high school, I have taken dual enrollment courses in Criminal Justice to get a head start and be able to jump straight into the Criminal Justice system to make a change. Whether I'll be a detective or prosecutor. Whether I'll be a police officer or crime scene investigator, I know I will make a change in the Criminal Justice system. In recent years, my destiny has lead me to focus on becoming a prosecutor. So, after I get my bachelor's, work as a Victim advocate or police officer for a few years, I'll go to law school. I am driven passionately for my family, for my friends, for strangers, for everyone.

Who am I? A immigrant's daughter? Or a immigrant? My parent were part of a group of several thousand ethnic minorities from Somalia to get migrated to the United States when yet another civil war broke out in the country. The violence was tiring, they were tired, my parents. But now, they could relax without worrying that a bullet would hit their head. They could live without fear that their us, their children, wouldn't be brutally murdered. Here, they could give me a better life. They tried their best to provide and take care of me. They did very well. We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled at a community college to get an bachelors in Criminal Justice. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education. This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal.

I was always a dreamer. As a kid, I would have fantasies of myself as a detective solving a crime after watching several episodes of Criminal Minds as my mom cooked our cultural food. My favorite thing would be the task of figuring out who the suspect, or unsub as they would say. One day, I told my mom, "Hey ma, I want to become a detective." She would answer with what many African parents want for their children, "Why don't you go to college to become a doctor?" I would tell her all my dreams and my true passion. She thought it was a faze, but as I grew up my passion to remain in the Criminal Justice field of study and career field grew. In my senior year of high school, I enrolled in a University and chose my major which was Criminal Justice with a minor in Victim Services. I am currently, a undergraduate Sophmore. Everyday, I go to one of my specialized Criminal Justice courses, the passion grows, and I know I made the right choice. But the obstacles for a African student, female, and young student studying this field of study grew. I am not the traditional police officer, or even detective. My mother knew that, my community knew that, and I eventually came to realize the negative side of being in this line of work in the future. The countless classes that would discuss crime and community would delve into topics such as poverty, gangs, and gun violence. Topics that I didn't only learn in school, but experienced outside of it. Growing up, my hardworking African immigrant parents did the best they could, but only could afford to live in the rougher areas of town. But they would make sure I was steadfast on what they came to America for, my education. It was hard, going to school with kids that didn't care as much. Seeing those kids wandering my neighborhood engaging in fights and joining gangs. But I ignored the pressure and focused on my education. By the end of my senior year, a new dream or rather a extension of my dream occurred. It was to become a detective to help my community. I am on the journey now. Educating myself, and working directly in the community to gain that connection. To bridge the gap between the Criminal Justice system and the Black community.

From the moment my parents escaped the bullets raining down on them during the Somali civil war, and to the day they were saved by the United States, my life began. The gruesome scenes etched in their memory were relayed to me when I came of age to understand how cruel the world can be. My mother told me about running across the dry land over decayed bodies, and assaults on women. Even though I fortunately did not see these horrors, my life in America saw other forms of violence. We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled at a community college to get an bachelors in Criminal Justice. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education. This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal.

From the moment my parents escaped the bullets raining down on them during the Somali civil war, and to the day they were saved by the United States, my life began. The gruesome scenes etched in their memory were relayed to me when I came of age to understand how cruel the world can be. My mother told me about running across the dry land over decayed bodies, and assaults on women. Even though I fortunately did not see these horrors, my life in America saw other forms of violence. We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled at a college to get a degree in Criminal Justice and Victimology. I am currently taking classes discussing litigation and laws. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education. This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal.

From the moment my parents escaped the bullets raining down on them during the Somali civil war, and to the day they were saved by the United States, my life began. The gruesome scenes etched in their memory were relayed to me when I came of age to understand how cruel the world can be. My mother told me about running across the dry land over decayed bodies, and assaults on women. Even though I fortunately did not see these horrors, my life in America saw other forms of violence. We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled in a University to get a bachelor's in Criminal Justice. After I get my degree, I'm going to enter the Criminal Justice field as a Victim advocate. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education. This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal.

From the moment my parents escaped the bullets raining down on them during the Somali civil war, and to the day they were saved by the United States, my life began. The gruesome scenes etched in their memory were relayed to me when I came of age to understand how cruel the world can be. My mother told me about running across the dry land over decayed bodies, and assaults on women. Even though I fortunately did not see these horrors, my life in America saw other forms of violence. We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled at a community college to get an associate's degree in paralegal studies. After I get my certification, I'm getting a bachelor's in Forensics. I am currently about to begin taking classes discussing litigation and laws. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education. This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal.

The hardest obstacles can be the ones brewing inside of yourself. I realized this for years up until my eighteenth birthday. The struggles I faced came to a boil two weeks after my birthday. The inevitable challenge of self-doubt. I want to make a place for myself in the world. A world seemingly built against me. The doubts swirled in my mind constantly, the big one being "Can I really achieve my ultimate dreams?" Ever since I was a little girl, I was a dreamer. Whether it was telling my mom I was going to be a famous scientist to eventually dreaming about working in the criminal justice field. I began my journey in high school by dual enrolling in college and simultaneously completing accelerated high school credits. I was on a mission. But I had setbacks. The world made known to me that I was just a first-generation American, an African. I came from immigrant parents who came from nothing. The world told me that I was a Black American, and in the United States, people like me are discriminated against by the very foundations of every institution. The world also told me that I was just a girl and I would never be equal to a man. These societal barriers were outside obstacles that eventually manifested inside my mind. The thoughts whispered in my mind, but they were only that, whispers. From the moment I graduated, I made a place for myself, even in places I didn't see represented by people like me. I choose my dreams over the constraints of negative people and society. Currently, I am at a predominantly white institution, and the feelings of knowing I am different tear through my back, but still I persevere. Additionally, I am a rising Criminal Justice student who will eventually enter a male-dominated career field. However, sexism in the workplace does not scare me. I know myself and my goals. People like me need to be in these spaces for there to be a change in the world. The truth is being black, and the female gives needed perspectives on the Criminal Justice field and every career field. I achieved all of this by knowing my self-worth. I am worthy. Yes, I am an African, African-American, and I am proud. I come from a powerful history, and this makes me strong. My immigrant parents taught me to be a hard worker which got me through rigorous school work. Yes, I am a woman and I am glad I am. I take power in being unconventional in my future career field, a Black, female detective. Healing, confidence, and self-love are the only swords you need to fight through the obstacles.

Remembering the memories of a lost family member are always vivid. As if even the smallest and seemingly insignificant events are purposely etched in your mind because somehow, deep down, you know they're going to be gone soon. The most vivid memory I have of my beloved uncle was in my last year of middle school. The conversation we had became my fuel and fire for the rest of my educational career. It was a warm summer day, and my Uncle came to visit us from several states away. As we were sitting, he began to talk to me about school. He told me that my dad, his brother told him about my absences from school, and said "If you keep up with your attendance, and get good grades, I'll send you as much money and support you need." At the time, I was a naïve middle school who was motivated for the money. But I improved significantly. A few months later, my beloved Uncle died from a terminal illness. After his death, all the memories of him came back to me. I remembered his success in his short thirty years of life. I also remembered in our fateful conversation how he asked what I wanted to become, I told him about my dreams in the Criminal Justice field and he told me his work in the security field. Even with his severe illness and ailments, he worked countless hours to keep our society safe. My uncle was also an immigrant who came to the United States with my parents in the Somali Civil War, he came from nothing, but made a place for himself. With his words being the only echo of his presence left behind for me, once I got to the freshmen year of high school, I developed a better attitude. My mindset shifted to excelling and to do so, I rarely missed a day of school. Not even in sickness, if my Uncle could do it, so can I. Now, I am in college and as the years past and the weeds grow on his gravestone, so do I. For me, it only took this one adult figure in my life to motivate me, and lift me up to my potential. My uncle sitting down, and asking me about the life I only dreamed of pushed me to chase after it. It is difficult at times, but I know soon he is going to be proud of me after I complete my bachelors in Criminal Justice. I can do it.

My mother is the person who instilled in me the seed of compassion. She taught me how to express my feelings, and to be a virtuous woman. She was born on the edges of the coastal country of Somalia. It was a country of dry, arid land. Many resources were scarce there, water, food, and most importantly education. After many of her childhood years filled with hardships including her mother having passed away, and a violent civil war my mom was taken in by her aunt. She was a fighter from the beginning who had to escape to the United States for us, her children. From a young age, she told me things such as "family stays together" and "have empathy for everyone. My mother was the person who taught me community begins at home. Those virtues followed me as I turned into a woman. It led me to have a big heart for all the people of the world. And to have a fate towards careers in the Criminal Justice System, and most especially Victim Advocacy. Growing up I've seen many horrible events. And eventually that softness of a young child meshed with the harsh feelings of adulthood. I became strong because I had to be. From seeing domestic violence in my neighborhood to experiencing what far too many women, and girls face simply for being a girl. The harsh reality set into our family’s mind that violence was everywhere even in America. Perhaps it wasn’t nameless bullets showering the air, but it was a different form of violence in our hometown, gang violence. It was angering that everywhere our family went there was saddening violence, that every land was afflicted with its troubles. It was maddening that it seemed enough wasn’t being done to end it as much as possible. And just like I had become hardened by the experiences I had, from soft to rough. My anger turned into a relentless passion to make a change in the world how I saw fit. After my parents escaped the Somali civil war in the 1990s, they settled in the United States. But violence was here too a different violence, but one similar to the pains of war. Here, it manifested as gang violence in our neighborhood, as well as the destructive drugs on our streets. But my parents endured to save up and move away from the danger for the second time in their lives. I, as the first child born on American soil, often felt sadness for my parents for experiencing the monsters that they ran away from. But as a trailblazer, cycle breaker, and a female in an African family there were hardships I had to endure. There were limitations I had to overcome. Mainly due to my position as a girl. Girls aren't supposed to be independent, they are not supposed to want to be strong-willed. It was these beliefs in my cultural community that I challenged. I was never a timid little girl, and I was not going to be that type of person as a woman either. So I followed my dreams of higher education no matter the negative feedback. This led me to want to make a change. And make my parents proud by helping people. This is why I aspire to be a Victim Advocate. My sympathy for my own experiences that made me into the woman I am now, will allow me to help victims of crimes, and heal my hurt by mending the broken pieces.

How can people be so evil? This question haunted me for years. My introduction to the cruelty of the world began when I moved to a big city in the Midwest. Before then, I had lived in a quiet, safe, small town. There, the only crime was petty theft and DUI's. But when I moved, I saw the big city problems. It changed me and implanted motivation in me to make a change. Growing up, I was raised in a loving home where my mother taught me to have compassion for everyone, and not to ever judge. I grew up with immigrant parents who escaped violence in a war-torn country, and parents who vowed to never let their children experience the same fate. But my mother and father couldn't protect me from every danger that lurked in our neighborhood. The first sign that moving to the new area was a mistake was when my father was accosted by a burglar who held a gun to his head outside our apartment complex. But even with all the hard work, this home was the only one we could afford. It was cheap and naturally, it meant it was on the rougher side of town. Here, kids like me would have to go inside before dark. And only bad people wandered. Throughout my years living there, I saw middle school children indulging in drugs, fights, and criminal activities. And there seemed to be no hope for them. I saw lifeless men lying on the cement sidewalk after being gunned down. I experienced a classmate of mine lost to gun violence. For years, I observed and no change seemed to occur. I always wondered, why was the city not doing enough to help our community. Then, I decided if they weren't going to help reduce the crime, I was going to take an initiative against it. As soon as I graduated I enrolled in University to study Criminal Justice. This path has led me to partake in organizations that are reducing the crime rate in the city. I am taking charge because I'm tired of losing friends. I am sick of innocent lives being lost. This career path is not only mending the hurt from my own experiences but also helping victims of crime heal. I feel it is my ultimate mission to protect the innocent people of the world and pursue rightful justice for them.

My mother is the person who instilled in me the seed of compassion. She taught me not to judge and help others. From a young age, she told me "have empathy for everyone." My mother was the person who taught me community begins at home. Those virtues followed me as I turned into a woman. It led me to have a big heart for all people. And to have a fate towards careers in the Criminal Justice System, and most especially Victim Advocacy. Growing up, I've seen many horrible events. And eventually, that softness of a young child meshed with the harsh feelings of adulthood. I became even stronger because I had to be to survive. I knew I couldn't end up like the girl fighting with her abusive boyfriend outside our apartment complex. I had to ignore the strange older men outside who would call at me unless I wanted to end up like the girls on the news. But unfortunately, still, I experienced what far too many women and girls face simply for being one. Other people in my family also experienced violence and the harsh reality set into our minds that violence was everywhere, even in America. Perhaps it wasn’t nameless bullets showering the air, but it was a different form of violence in our hometown, gang violence. With the spark of compassion, care, and motivation in my heart, I began my journey in the summer before my 9th grade year of high school. I began studying various true crime documentaries and listening to the stories in my community. I also decided to go in person to participate in collective initiatives to hear the stories of domestic violence firsthand. Various women's shelters in the city gave me volunteering activities to help victims of domestic abuse. Along my journey of discovery of how cruel the world can be, a female role model of mine told me her own story. As I listened, I was both saddened and educated that abuse can happen to anyone, even strong-minded women. It can happen to young girls like me, but I vow to prevent other girls from being affected by this which is why I am receiving a bachelor's in Criminal Justice and Victim Services. If I can educate myself, I can educate others. As a trailblazer, cycle-breaker, and a female in an African family there were hardships I had to endure. There were limitations I had to overcome. Mainly due to my position as a girl. Girls aren't supposed to be independent. They are not supposed to want to be strong-willed. It was these beliefs in my cultural community that I challenged. I was never a timid little girl, and I was not going to be that type of person as a woman either. So I followed my dreams of higher education no matter the negative feedback. This led me to want to make a change. And make my parents proud by helping people. This is why I aspire to be a Victim Advocate. My sympathy for my own experiences that made me into the woman I am now will allow me to help victims of crimes, and by mending the broken pieces.

From the moment my parents escaped the bullets raining down on them during the Somali civil war, and to the day they were saved by the United States, my life began. The gruesome scenes etched in their memory were relayed to me when I came of age to understand how cruel the world can be. My mother told me about running across the dry land over decayed bodies, and assaults on women. Even though I fortunately did not see these horrors, my life in America saw other forms of violence. We settled in a large city in the Midwest. But what my parents did not know is that violence is everywhere, even in America. In our neighborhood specifically, drugs, alcohol, and gun violence were daily battles. And I lost loved ones to these tragedies, but instead of being hopelessly dispirited, the violence planted anger within me. With that anger, I turned it into a passion to take action. One of the prime inspirations behind my pursuit of this field was seeing firsthand the detriment of crime in my community. In our city's downtown, dazed drug addicts littered the streets and city buses. It was evident to me from a young age our city had a drug problem. Especially seeing my friends gradually change into drug abusers during my middle school years. They would begin with the popular vape devices and eventually towards weed and alcohol. I would observe that their activities made them fail classes and get in trouble. It saddened me to see the effect of these drugs on people I cared about, but I felt hopeless as if I couldn't help. Another incident that influenced my path was when a soon-to-be fellow 2024 graduate at my high school was shot seventeen times in cold blood. I had gone to middle school with him, and he sat behind me in class in ninth grade. I remember him so vividly, and when we heard about his murder, something broke in me. He was only fifteen years old. It was yet another student with potential taken away from the African-American community. To this day, his case sits frozen, unsolved. From a young age, I knew the Law and Criminal Justice field was my destiny. It was my guiding light into the effect of crime. But all those incidents of violence, drug use, and crime were not the only motivations behind my passion. It was due to my parents. Hearing their heart-breaking stories made my heart ache. I wished I could take the pain away from them that is still to this day visible in their wrinkles. Unfortunately, I can’t. Although, I can help the awful events happening around me today. These experiences led me to seek careers related to Criminal Justice. After I graduated high school early, I enrolled at a community college to get an associate's degree in paralegal studies. After I get my certification, I'm getting a bachelor's in Forensics. I am currently about to begin taking classes discussing litigation and laws. I am excited to become more informed about these subjects as they will be as I further my education. This is how I am on my path to becoming a fighter for the innocent, the forgotten, and all the victims. The passion I have for justice is indescribable. The many motivations throughout my life continuously drive me in my pursuit of the law profession. As a servant of the public my career will ensure I help the communities riddled with violence recover and heal.

In Chicago, Kansas City, and Omaha, Nebraska the issue of crime and gun violence has torn communities. Homicide rates have skyrocketed, and innocent lives are taken daily. The issue is occurring nationwide and alarmingly in the African American and Black communities. Why? I have always asked that question for years, especially growing up in one of these bad areas of the city. I have witnessed gang violence, drug use, and murders throughout my life, and I decided I wanted to help in the future to make our communities safer and better for future generations. My mother was the person who instilled in me the seed of compassion. Those virtues followed me as I turned into a woman. It led me to have a big heart for all the people of the world. And to have a fate towards careers in the Criminal Justice System, and most especially Victim Advocacy. It is my life's mission to achieve the goal of receiving a bachelor's in Criminal Justice or a related field which will allow me to directly be a part of the initiative against crime. Since my sophomore year in high school, I have taken dual enrollment courses in Criminal Justice to get a headstart and be able to jump straight into the Criminal Justice system to make a change. Whether I'll be a 911 dispatcher or a victim advocate. Whether I'll be a police officer or crime scene investigator, I know I will make a change. Currently, I am in the process of finding opportunities before college to get a job experience at women’s shelters and victim advocacy organizations. I am passionate about talking to the people whose lives were ruined by cruel individuals, and as much as I can, helping them heal. When I start my bachelor's I will make sure to intern in the field to ensure I am competent enough to achieve my goals. I live for Criminal Justice reform. There needs to be a change. There is no reason why numerous black women and girls are killed in senseless gun violence incidents. Or when a precious child is taken too soon. There is no reason why cases like Denisha Montgomery Smith, an army official die in suspicious circumstances and are not treated as worthy of an in-depth investigation. The many issues with our crime-ridden communities, and at times inadequate criminal justice system is a social issue that I want to fight against for the rest of my life. The most important way I can make a difference is to educate myself at a higher education institution that will equip me with the skills needed to make a change within. And I will achieve my goals without barriers, my dreams are boundless.

In Chicago, Kansas City, and Omaha, Nebraska the issue of crime and gun violence has torn communities. Homicide rates have skyrocketed, and innocent lives are taken daily. The issue is occurring nationwide and alarmingly in the African American and Black communities. Why? I have always asked that question for years, especially growing up in one of these bad areas of the city. I have witnessed gang violence, drug use, and murders throughout my life, and I decided I wanted to help in the future to make our communities safer and better for future generations. My mother was the person who instilled in me the seed of compassion. Those virtues followed me as I turned into a woman. It led me to have a big heart for all the people of the world. And to have a fate towards careers in the Criminal Justice System, and most especially Victim Advocacy. It is my life's mission to achieve the goal of receiving a bachelor's in Criminal Justice or a related field which will allow me to directly be a part of the initiative against crime. Since my sophomore year in high school, I have taken dual enrollment courses in Criminal Justice to get a headstart and be able to jump straight into the Criminal Justice system to make a change. Whether I'll be a 911 dispatcher or a victim advocate. Whether I'll be a police officer or crime scene investigator, I know I will make a change. Currently, I am in the process of finding opportunities before college to get a job experience at women’s shelters and victim advocacy organizations. I am passionate about talking to the people whose lives were ruined by cruel individuals, and as much as I can, helping them heal. When I start my bachelor's I will make sure to intern in the field to ensure I am competent enough to achieve my goals. I live for Criminal Justice reform. There needs to be a change. There is no reason why numerous black women and girls are killed in senseless gun violence incidents. Or when a precious child is taken too soon. There is no reason why cases like Denisha Montgomery Smith, an army official die in suspicious circumstances and are not treated as worthy of an in-depth investigation. The many issues with our crime-ridden communities, and at times inadequate criminal justice system is a social issue that I want to fight against for the rest of my life. The most important way I can make a difference is to educate myself at a higher education institution that will equip me with the skills needed to make a change within. And I will achieve my goals without barriers, my dreams are boundless.

People around me called me unrealistic and sometimes would tell me that my visions were irrational. But as a little girl, I was always a wild child, and as a woman, I became entirely free-minded. I made myself who I am today. Of course, my parents had a part to do with my values, but I was a generational curse breaker. My story began in the coastal country of Somalia, a dry, arid land. It had scarce resources of water, food, and, most importantly, a future. So, my parents embarked on the journey to escape the violent war in the 1990's. They ran through the dust, swerving bullets falling upon them like rain. They were finally saved and became refugees of the United States, and then they had me; the first child born on American soil. The responsibility of being a child of both lands fell upon me throughout all my life. On paper, I was an American, but inside me, there boiled a turmoil of identity. I was also an African and a girl. My parents worked hard for us to have a comfortable life. We were always fed, and clothed, but the sweat my parent endured to make this possible only became apparent to me after observing my father coming home after a long day of work. His shoulders sagged, and after a microwaved meal, he gulped down a pain reliever or two. He did this for over fifteen years until it took a final toll on him. My father taught me to always work hard. He taught me to always take care of my family. These values have followed me throughout my entire life. Even growing up in the low-income project complex apartments, I endured the troubles. I ignored the gunshots taking yet another life at the brink of night. I ignored the scent of cigarettes, marijuana, and tobacco walking home from the school bus. I ignored the pressure to just let it all go. This was the reality my parents hadn't imagined when they came to America. But here, $750 got you a cheap home in the bad areas of town. It was the best they could do. Throughout my childhood, I resented the feeling of knowing my parents could not pay for my higher education. I hated driving past the rich areas of town and seeing kids with designer clothes living blissfully. Deep in my mind, I would think, "I bet their parents will pay for them to get into college." For years, I lived in the depths of despair, but as I matured, I found that my parents had given me an undying treasure, endurance. Those treasured virtues from my family followed me as I matured into a woman. It led me to have a big heart for everyone. For the poor and the rich. For the women and the men. For all mankind. I finally found my mission and destiny from the moment my parents came to America. It is to protect people from the harsh realities of violence. And to have a fate towards careers in the Criminal Justice System, and most especially Victim Advocacy.

We are only human. People have their own hurts, troubles, and personalities. For me it was to be a revolutionary, someone who changed the world better than they found it. I was never the one to give up on my wildest dreams. People around me called me unrealistic and sometimes would tell me that my visions were irrational. But as a little girl, I was always a wild child, and as a woman, I became entirely free-minded. I made myself who I am today. Of course, my parents had a part to do with my values, but I was a generational curse breaker. My story began in the coastal country of Somalia, a dry, arid land. It had scarce resources of water, food, and, most importantly, a future. So, my parents embarked on the journey to escape the violent war in the 1990's. They ran through the dust, swerving bullets falling upon them like rain. They were finally saved and became refugees of the United States, and then they had me; the first child born on American soil. The responsibility of being a child of both lands fell upon me throughout all my life. On paper, I was an American, but inside me, there boiled a turmoil of identity. I was also an African and a girl. My parents worked hard for us to have a comfortable life. We were always fed, and clothed, but the sweat my parent endured to make this possible only became apparent to me after observing my father coming home after a long day of work. His shoulders sagged, and after a microwaved meal, he gulped down a pain reliever or two. He did this for over fifteen years until it took a final toll on him. My father taught me to always work hard. He taught me to always take care of my family. These values have followed me throughout my entire life. Even growing up in the low-income project complex apartments, I endured the troubles. I ignored the gunshots taking yet another life at the brink of night. I ignored the scent of cigarettes, marijuana, and tobacco walking home from the school bus. I ignored the pressure to just let it all go. This was the reality my parents hadn't imagined when they came to America. But here, $750 got you a cheap home in the bad areas of town. It was the best they could do. Throughout my childhood, I resented the feeling of knowing my parents could not pay for my higher education. I hated driving past the rich areas of town and seeing kids with designer clothes living blissfully. Deep in my mind, I would think, "I bet their parents will pay for them to get into college." For years, I lived in the depths of despair, but as I matured, I found that my parents had given me an undying treasure, endurance. Those treasured virtues from my family followed me as I matured into a woman. It led me to have a big heart for everyone. For the poor and the rich. For the women and the men. For all mankind. I finally found my mission and destiny from the moment my parents came to America. It is to protect people from the harsh realities of violence. And to have a fate towards careers in the Criminal Justice System, and most especially Victim Advocacy.

I was never the one to give up on my wildest dreams. People around me called me unrealistic and sometimes would tell me that my visions were irrational. But as a little girl, I was always a wild child, and as a woman, I became entirely free-minded. I made myself who I am today. Of course, my parents had a part to do with my values, but I was a generational curse breaker. My story began in the coastal country of Somalia, a dry, arid land. It had scarce resources of water, food, and, most importantly, a future. So, my parents embarked on the journey to escape the violent war in the 1990's. They ran through the dust, swerving bullets falling upon them like rain. They were finally saved and became refugees of the United States, and then they had me; the first child born on American soil. The responsibility of being a child of both lands fell upon me throughout all my life. On paper, I was an American, but inside me, there boiled a turmoil of identity. I was also an African and a girl. My parents worked hard for us to have a comfortable life. We were always fed, and clothed, but the sweat my parent endured to make this possible only became apparent to me after observing my father coming home after a long day of work. His shoulders sagged, and after a microwaved meal, he gulped down a pain reliever or two. He did this for over fifteen years until it took a final toll on him. My father taught me to always work hard. He taught me to always take care of my family. These values have followed me throughout my entire life. Even growing up in the low-income project complex apartments, I endured the troubles. I ignored the gunshots taking yet another life at the brink of night. I ignored the scent of cigarettes, marijuana, and tobacco walking home from the school bus. I ignored the pressure to just let it all go. This was the reality my parents hadn't imagined when they came to America. But here, $750 got you a cheap home in the bad areas of town. It was the best they could do. Throughout my childhood, I resented the feeling of knowing my parents could not pay for my higher education. I hated driving past the rich areas of town and seeing kids with designer clothes living blissfully. Deep in my mind, I would think, "I bet their parents will pay for them to get into college." For years, I lived in the depths of despair, but as I matured, I found that my parents had given me an undying treasure, endurance. Those treasured virtues from my family followed me as I matured into a woman. It led me to have a big heart for everyone. For the poor and the rich. For the women and the men. For all mankind. I finally found my mission and destiny from the moment my parents came to America. It is to protect people from the harsh realities of violence. And to have a fate towards careers in the Criminal Justice System, and most especially Victim Advocacy.

When I grow up.......When I was younger I would always say, "When I grow up I'll be a volleyball player, when I grow up I'll be a psychologist, and finally "When I grow up I'm going to be a detective. I believe that was my last childhood dream. Not because I gave up on it, but because that is my ultimate goal and mission in life. I always had that passion to become a changer in this world, to help others. And from a young age, I always watched true crime shows that impacted my view of life as I got older. And now I am older. I'm an adult, and I have to be in the real world. I have to be realistic. But I am still a child at heart because I still have, wild dreams that no one can stop me from achieving. I can do anything. I say this sentiment of confidence now, not from a pure belief in myself, but because that is what I rather believe unlike what others think of me as a person who isn't by harsh societal standards, capable. I come from the dry lands; from immigrant parents who birthed me in America. I am the first child born on American soil. My parents ran from violence in our wartorn country of Somalia. Bullets rained on like rain, and for a long time, no help came for them. But through the grace of god, they escaped, and I was created. A second-generation immigrant is what I am. Along with being an African, an African-American, a girl, and now a woman. All of those factors are things I am proud of being. But things that are hard to be at the same time. Being an African means being ridiculed in school, it means that people naturally stereotype you as helpless and not as intelligent as other people. Being a woman means that people don't view you as worthy or as strong. And to be truthful those biases that other people have towards people like me are like scars. For years those thoughts plagued me as if those cruel beliefs made me wither like dust. But I believed in myself, and I believe in myself now. My dreams are still thriving, but reality almost dims them at times. The reality that perhaps I might not be able to accomplish them due to my status in the world. I came from the ground, from dust, from dry land. But this scholarship would be my water. It will help me grow and sprout into the world and make a change with my degree in Criminal Justice. It was always my passion to help people, especially victims of crime due to my own history and experiences. I am going to make a change. I am capable.

My mother is the person who instilled in me the seed of compassion. She taught me how to express my feelings, and to be a virtuous woman. She was born in the edges of the coastal country of Somalia, her own mother having past away, and now being taken in by her aunt. My mom was a fighter from the beginning who had to escape to the United States for us, her children. From a young age, she told me saying such as "family stays together" and "have empathy for everyone. My mother was the person who taught me community begins at home. Those virtues followed me as a turned into a woman. It lead me to have a big heart for all the people of the world. And to have a fate towards careers in the Criminal Justice System, and most especially Victim Advocacy. Growing up I've seen many horrible events. From seeing domestic violence in my neighborhood, to experiencing what far too many women, and girls face simply for being a girl. It was angering that simply for existing I was targeted as were many women and girls. The countless incidents of abuse and the statistics worldwide are alarming. So I decided to channel my anger into passion. With the spark of compassion, care, and motivation convicted in my heart, I began my journey in the summer before my 9th grade year of high school. I began studying various true crime documentaries and listening to the stories in my community. Stories of hurt, loss, and most of all the story of violence. After my parents escaped the Somali civil war in the 1990s, they settled in the United States. But violence was here too, a difference violence, but one similar to the pains of war. Here, it manifested as gang violence in our neighborhood, as well as the destructive drugs on our streets. But my parents endured to save up and move away from the danger for the second time in their lives. I, as the first child born on American soil, often felt sadness for my parents for experiencing the monsters that they ran away from. This lead me to want to make a change. And make my parents proud by helping people. This is why I aspire to be a Victim Advocate. My sympathy for my own experiences that made me into the woman I am now, will allow me to help victims of crimes, and heal my own hurt by mending the broken pieces.

Addiction is one of the most heart breaking things to observe someone going through. It could be a stranger walking on a run down street, walking dazed, or shouting random things at seemingly no one. If you have ever lived in a major city, this scene is a daily occurrence. And you know that wandering lost soul is a person under the influence of drugs. But imagine if that person was your friend, your teacher, or your sister. This was the reality for me. Living in a major city, rent was never cheap, and unfortunately my parents lived near a shady part of town. The part of the city that was stricken with poverty, and along with that drugs, alcohol, and violence. I've seen drunken arguments outside my apartment complex. Abusive men hitting their girlfriends arguing for all to hear. I saw teenagers that would go to school with me, gathering around one porch with smoke surrounding them. I would smell the constant stench of cigarettes, tobacco, and weed suffocating our neighborhood. It almost seemed inescapable. Fortunately, I was never peer pressured into falling prey to any substances, but some of my friends did. One of my friends was a sweet, shy girl in middle school who never got in trouble. She cared about her grades, friends, and her future. But slowly, she started hanging around negative people. They decreased her value and made her one of them. We drifted apart naturally, but she was never the same anymore. All she knew was drugs, and fighting. Another person I knew affected by drugs was a woman in my community. She was a beautiful, and good-natured individual who would always say hello to me on my walk back from school. After I had moved away from our neighborhood and came back later to visit, I seen her next to a corner store I used to always walk past. I past her at the moment, not recognizing her. Then she asked me the time, and I looked directly at her face. Unrecognizable, her eyes were sunken, and her skin devoid of color, her voice raspier than I was ever greeted with. It broke me a little. These are the stories of drug abuse. The detriment it has on my community eventually pushed me to want to take action against it somehow. And I have decided I want to become a Victim Advocate when I attend college. This career will allow me to reach out to victims of violence or otherwise emotional trauma. It will also allow me to go into communities like the ones I grew up in to help the ones who need help, or a shoulder to stand on to make it out.

As the arms on the clock creep closer and closer to the moment, my heart beats a little faster. It's my time to give a speech, the most impactful one the judges have ever heard. This is the essence of debate. I had decided to join my high school's debate team in my last year of high school. Senior year was one of the most difficult times of my high school career. The classes were more rigorous, and graduating meant I could not afford to fail a class. Graduation, -this feels surreal to me. Has time gone by this fast? Am I really graduating? Yes, this was reality, and I ensured that I did my best. I joined the debate team and I had to learn leadership and time management. In debate, every second matters. From the time you go to sleep, to the time you wake up. I had to sleep earlier to make sure my brain was efficient enough, I had to make sure I woke up earlier to get prepared for tournaments. This idea of time management was an obstacle for me. I had always wanted to be that student that make the best grades in class. Or the person who never turned in work late. But some days I slacked, some days I felt like a tortoise, but now I had to grow up. And I became productive, and fast like a rabbit. Although, it took a lot of work. When I was at the beginning of this journey, I was overwhelmed with homework. Layers of textbooks engulfed me. Some days I would decide to do an all-nighters to get my school work in on time. I had to juggle both debate and school, my two worlds. The toll it took on my sleep schedule and well-being was awful. Waking up with eye bags if I ever even slept at all was a daily occurrence. At times, I would get sick with recurrent colds, until I figured out the root problem, stress. But I learned to be more effective in my work and ensure that I took breaks. I learned not to procrastinate and just simply do it. I became stronger mentally, and I conquered. My hard work payed off, I became a great debater and loved the concept of debate. I learned to have better speaking skills, and understand complex issues that affect our community, and world as a whole. I became a voice for my debate team and won our school various metals. Most importantly, I won the fight against time.

From the moment my parents stepped into the safety of America as persecuted minorities in East Africa, my life started. I became the first child born on American soil. At that moment, I became a Somali-Bantu American, an African American. And my journey began. My parents always told me to do my best, to make something of myself. And my family on the motherland would give me blessings that I would become a doctor. Even though that wasn't my path for my future, I accepted it. And I told them I would go to college and make them proud. And now I have graduated high school and I'm applying to various colleges to study Criminal Justice, my true passion. Although my family wants me to become a doctor, they support my path in the Criminal Justice field. My true passion is to help victims of crime, and keep the streets safe from violent offenders. I don't truly know where my passion for this line of work comes from, but it might be my upbringing in the states. When my parents came to America and had me, they had to live in the cheapest place we could afford, and unfortunately it was the rough areas of town. But those places built me. They call it the gutters, the ghetto, the hood. But it's my community, and I want to help our communities become better places for the future children. Growing up I seen many things that changed the way I see the world. I seen my neighborhood streets littered with cigarettes, and empty beer bottles. I seen black men shot and laying lifeless. I have seen the world for what it can be sometimes, cruel. Truly sad. But I'm not one to stand by and simply watch. My parents did not come to America for this. They didn't come here for their daughter to be a mistake, worthless. So I have chosen when I get to college I will achieve a bachelors in Criminal Justice and pursue various careers from Victim Advocacy to Crime Scene Investigation. My end goal is to help victims of crime and leave the world better than I found it. Tears, fears, and hardships built me. But all the tears drop and I let go of the pains of life. The fears scare me until I get scared to the point that I can't be scared anymore, and I don't let them stop me. And the hardships are just that, I will make it through them. This is my story.

"The bullets fell upon us like rain", my mother had said to me. I had asked about her story of getting to the United States after our country was interrupted by the Somali Civil War. My mother and father had escaped and were taken in as refugees by the United States government, and I was the first child born on American soil. A true Somali-Bantu American. Stories like this my mother and father would tell me on occasions, when they are reminiscing about the hardships they endured, shaped me forever. They would always tell me to work hard; to make something of myself. To go to college and make them proud, and make me proud of my achievements. This is what motivates me to the core. Along with my passion for helping others, especially victims of violent crime. But it has never been easy for me. Yes, I did amazing in my academics, but sometimes I would be burdened with my outside life, or not understand certain concepts and would doubt my abilities. Which was one of my biggest challenges, doubt. Doubt that I would ever be my dream me. That my wild dreams would happen. That I would make my parents proud. But after introspection in my last year of high school, where I graduated early, I proved my capabilities, I proved that I am smart enough, that anything I do in life will be great. I learned to never, in the deepest corners of my heart let doubt stop me. I always wondered where this perseverance came from? Where did this spark, this fire originate? My answer was in front of me the entire time. The same people who escaped the war torn country of Somalia, the same people who birthed me, my parents, and more specifically my father. Since the day, he stepped onto America's soil, he continued the butcher man job he had back home. But here there were meat packing companies where he would work for others to get money for his family. He did this rigorous work that took a toll on his body. He would come home, eat, and gulp down a pain reliever or two, and he would do that cycle over and over again. My father is still doing this work, 15 years later. My father, my inspiration. Having graduated high school early, I will go on to study Criminal Justice as my undergraduate major. I will intern to ensure I will be well versed in any career within the Justice field whether I become a victim advocate, crime scene investigator, or police officer. The passion I have for this course of study is deep. I plan to help others especially those affected by violence.

In cities like Chicago, Illinois gunshots are a regular occurrence. Innocent people being shot senseless is the norm, and police seem to have their hands tied with the rampant crime. Unfortunately, this issue is a nationwide problem. Smaller cities in the Midwest like Omaha, Kansas City, and St. Louis also face high violent crime rates. I seen it firsthand growing up. I grew up in what many call the hood. The hood, a place filled with the smoke of a cigarette, or a tobacco stick. A place filled with empty beer bottles littering the sidewalks, along with the trash. A forgotten place by local police departments, except when a murder occurs. But I'm willing to make a change and achieve a degree in Criminal Justice. I'm currently enrolled in a community college to get a degree in paralegal studies before my Criminal Justice Undergraduate. I plan to become a Victim advocate and later a Crime Scene Investigator. Being a victim advocate is crucial in these trauma high areas where victims are not adequately given the attention they need. Those gunshots fall on someone, someones spouse, parent, someones child. Becoming a victim advocate means I would get to connect with victims of crime, to comfort them after traumatic experiences. It would mean letting others know that someone else is here for them truly. Additionally, I would aid in getting answers for police and speaking with witnesses to let them know their importance in testifying and the power of their voice. My next step in the Criminal Justice system is being a Crime Scene Investigator, this will ensure that investigators of crime have all the evidence needed to convict an individual. This area of criminal justice is sometimes forgotten for its connection to victims. Crime scene investigators at times speak with victims and in serious cases have to collect evidence on a victim's body. With my previous experience I will make sure victims feel safe enough to provide evidence to rightly prosecute an offender. Other actions I will partake in are continuing to get education about victim advocacy and volunteer with organizations about domestic violence, gun violence, and overall crime. Being an active participant in these organizations makes sure I am well versed in reaching out to the community and the victims. Both careers make sure our communities in our nation are safe from criminals and ensure victims are given the voice and justice they deserve. I'm exhausted from hearing about sad cases and not taking initiative to make a change. Pursuing Criminal Justice is my first step to do something about the high violence crime in America.

In Chicago, in Washington, and Kansas City, the issue of crime and gun violence has torn communities. Homicide rates have sky-rocketed and innocent lives are being lost daily. The issue is occurring nationwide and more particularly in the African American/Black community. Why? I have always asked that question, especially growing up in these communities. I have witnessed gang violence, drug use, and murders throughout my life, and I decided I wanted to help in the future to make our communities safer and better for future generations. It is my life's mission to achieve the goal of receiving a bachelor's in Criminal Justice or a related field which will allow me to directly be a part of the initiative against crime. Since my sophomore year in high school, I have taken dual enrollment courses in Criminal Justice to get a headstart and be able to jump straight into the Criminal Justice system to make a change. Whether I'll be a 911 dispatcher or a victim advocate. Whether I'll be a police officer or crime scene investigator, I know I will make a change. Currently, I am in the process of finding opportunities before college to get a job as a victim advocate, I am extremely passionate about talking to the people whose lives were ruined by cruel criminals, and as much as I can, helping them heal. When I start my bachelor's I will make sure to intern in the field to make sure I am competent enough to achieve my goals. I live for Criminal Justice reform. There needs to be a change. There is no reason why numerous black women and girls are killed in gun violence incidents. Especially senseless gun violence, where a person is struck who has nothing to do with the rival gangs. Or when a precious child is taken too soon. There is no reason why cases like Denisha Montgomery Smith, who was an army official who died in a suspicious circumstance are not treated as worthy of an in-depth investigation. The many issues with our crime-ridden communities, and at times inadequate criminal justice system is a social issue that I want to fight against for the rest of my life. The most important way I can make a difference is to educate myself at a higher education institution that will equip me with the skills needed to make a change within. And I will achieve my goals without barriers, my dreams are boundless.

"Do something", "Work hard", "Laziness gets you nowhere". These phrases were repeated to me by my parents as I grew up. Those words made me. My mother and father always taught me to do well in school and focus on being successful in life. Being the child of Somali immigrants, the weight was on my shoulders. As well as the goal to make my parents proud. Thank them for all they did for us, and help them back eventually. It was strongly instilled in me to help myself. Which meant doing well in school, and getting a meaningful career. This is why I was naturally guided toward a career with stability, respect, and significance. From a young age, I watched antenna television shows such as Criminal Minds, NCIS, and more truth based documentaries like Forensic Files. I started to also get into True Crime Documentaries, to the point they consumed my mind. The empathy, anger, and sadness I felt for victims assured me the Criminal Justice field was the ideal path for me. Although I'm not sure what exact career I want to start in, a few I have an interest in are being a 911 dispatcher, victim advocate, or women's violence advocate. These careers are in the cluster of victimology which I have a passion for. Other criminal Justice careers that I have an interest in include crime scene investigation and cold case detective. All of these careers have to do with giving justice to victims and their loved ones and putting away violent criminals. The multiple cases I have came across that are so heart-breaking have led me to want to help people like them. Such as Gabriel Fernadez's case, an innocent, 8-year-old boy who was abused and murdered by his guardians. The Gilgo Beach Murders, a long string of murdered victims found on a stretch of Long Island Ocean Parkway, and various other cases are part of the reason I dedicate my future to helping innocent people who are murdered or otherwise victimized. The passion I have for this line of work is due to the overwhelming amount of crimes in the United States and worldwide. It almost seems unsolvable or too big to eliminate. But I believe in myself and my drive for Criminal Justice. Many people who are in the true crime community complain that the officers, and officials who are currently in the Justice system seem to not have motivation or care for victims anymore. I feel I would be a great candidate who truly cares and has a fervent outlook for the Criminal Justice system.

What makes a good leader? Is it kindness, power, or character? Is it all of the above? Yes. Ever since I was little, I always saw my older self in leadership-oriented occupations. From judge, and prosecutor to simple volleyball captain. I felt I was always fit to lead. I craved responsibility. But as I grew, I doubted myself. I hid myself behind shadows. I believed I could no longer achieve my dreams for the world. At least not all of them. In middle school, I felt like a shell of my former self, that is what life does to you as you get older. But I didn't lose faith. I learned to build myself back up again. And learn that everything is possible. Maybe I can't fix the entire world, but I could restore some of it. I learned to have strength and persevere. Life is riddled with many trials. At times you are high with happiness and other times you are low. I always hated when I made mistakes or when inconveniences altered my plans. But I learned to ride with the waves. The trick is not to lose yourself when it gets hard. Or when you make mistakes. As I go through this journey, I have bettered myself. For the benefit of my success and to be a helping hand to others around me. One way I have done it was by being mentally strong, yet caring. For instance, when a friend needs someone to talk to, I always listen. I enjoy being there for people and comforting them. Or speaking up for people in general, is a strength of mine. The combination of my strengths of being mentally strong, caring, and persevering all helped me be a leader. I have a passion for life and everything in it. Being able to navigate the bumpy roads, and all the sad things around me are difficult at times. But it helped me assist others when they face problems in their lives. I feel like it is my duty to help them. This is why I'm going to focus on careers in the Criminal Justice system to help victims and protect them from evil people. Although I have always felt I was born to lead, I would say all the problems I faced, taught me strength, and with it leadership. I frequently practice leadership skills like public speaking, debate, and advocacy every single day. Because one way I'm a leader is by speaking up for others.

After several months of working on the case, I was content, for having given justice to the victim's loved ones.

Life is like a heart monitor. The jagged lines go up and down like the challenges in life that come and go. My life has been riddled with inconveniences and trials. Like many other people's lives. I learned to survive the obstacles by thinking about the people who have it worse. I have food, a house, and an education. But I do still face difficult situations. From seeing violence in my neighborhood to fighting through my own struggles. Unfortunately, I grew up in a tough place. With bad people around me creating a horrible environment. But thankfully, I am no longer in there. It was difficult trying not to be affected by all the negativity around me. And most importantly not falling into the pit of darkness that surrounded me. Making sure to stay away from peer-pressuring "friends", who smoked, and got into fights. When I lived in that neighborhood, I felt like I was encased in a bubble dome. The air was suffocating, I felt like I was never going to escape it. As if I couldn't breathe through all of the problems weighing down on my chest. At the time, It felt like an eternity. But I focused on school to make sure I climbed out of the gutters. When I graduate and go to college to major in Criminal Justice and go back to the place where I grew up. To make it better for kids like me. For ones who want to do something with their lives, and make the world a better place. This scholarship will help make that a reality for me. College is expensive, but with the aid of scholarships, dreams are made possible. I know for a fact I want to not only get my bachelor's, but later on I will pursue education in law or forensic science. This scholarship will help me achieve my first step of receiving my bachelors. Then to go on and get a job in the Criminal Justice field. Jobs like victim advocacy, 911 dispatchers, or even more hands-on careers like Crime Scene Investigation. I always imagine the day when I am sitting at my desk working to solve a case or giving a victim of a crime reassurance. My passion for this line of work is incredibly strong. The feeling of helping others and leaving the world better than I found it, makes me feel accomplished.

Thousands of running feet, across the dry Somali soil. Running away anywhere. Some made it, like my mother and father. Others didn't like a few of my aunts, and uncles. The Somali civil war was brutal, no one was safe. Children were left dead, or for dead by selfish parents. But my parents were always fighters for their children. When the United States, evacuated thousands of Somali Bantu ethnic minorities, to States like Maine and South Dakota. My parents took the opportunity, and one year later in 2005, I was born. The first child on American soil. The new world was strange. Unfamiliar foods, clothes, and cities. The assimilation was not difficult. We could practice our culture and religion here. Maybe not without ignorant comments from other Americans. Words like terrorist, racist remarks, or "Go back to your country"s. But we were past that; words meant nothing. Nothing at all compared to the wars on this side of the world. The first cities my parents decided to move to were in the state of Iowa. It was safe and quiet. But then we moved to the city of Omaha, Nebraska. A big city with all the big city problems. My parents told me one of their greatest trials happened there. While getting us situated on the city's north side, my parents moved us into low-income housing. Because America was expensive, especially for the average African big family. We didn't know it, but we had moved into America's leftovers, the projects, and public housing. This was America's warzone for drugs, gangs, and violence. The trials started when we observed the violence in the neighborhood. The drugs, alcohol, and gangs. Nothing compared to wild militias and crazed bloodthirsty Somali rebels. But this wasn't the America my parents imagined for themselves or their children. They finally moved when they saw the toll it had on us children. This is not the America they imagined. As the middle child, I always felt like the middle pillar of a building. In the middle of everything. Feeling like the one responsible for everyone. This is why I am passionate about higher education to support myself and my family. To show my parents my gratitude for saving us. For making me into a hardworking person. For instilling good character in me. And for always telling me, "Work has respect". It is true, in the America we live in, work gives you money, and a good house, in a good neighborhood with good schools.

After I graduate high school, I will be attending the University of Omaha Nebraska for a degree in Criminal Justice. Inshallah. I am passionate about this major because growing up, I've been exposed to dangerous neighborhoods, filled with violence and evilness. Everywhere in the neighborhood was filled with fitna, drug abuse, rape, abuse, and shootings. I couldn't escape it even at school. My childhood carefreeness was forever taken away from me, seeing other kids abuse drugs, and constantly fight. Especially growing up in a relatively safe neighborhood, where kids only thought about playing kickball, barbies, and other child hobbies. Then we moved to a bigger city which has both good and bad sides. Unfortunately, we lived in a bad area. After finally moving away, I knew I wanted to somehow help people in these areas. This is why I am confident and determined to enter the Criminal Justice field of work. I will have an impact on the Criminal Justice system to protect the world from vile people who hurt others. My strengths of being mentally strong, observing, and caring about others will help me work in careers in this burdensome field of work. I feel I am qualified to receive this scholarship because of the motivation I have in life to be something. Not only for myself but for my family and the world. Every night, at the end of the day I contemplate my day's work. And if Allah is pleased with my path.Because at the end of the day, that is all that matters. What matters is if we did good with what we were given. And I will do the most with the gift of a scholarship. I will use it to help myself help others. A book that consumed my thoughts is "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D Salinger. It is about a teenage boy who has no direction in life. He roams the city after skipping classes at boarding school. All while thinking about life and coming across sad situations around the city. Such as trafficked girl prostitutes, and dangerous men. This book illustrates the pondering about the meaning of life while surrounded by the evils of the world. It connects with my own life seeing horrible events. As a Muslim, my greatest achievement is working for the pleasure of Allah. Every aspect of my life is for him only. My dream of working in the criminal justice field, my kindness toward others, and my passion to be a productive human being, are all for him.

The books I have read taught me that life could be a book. They have taught me the beauty of words, emotions, and memories. Even though my favorite genres of books are horror, thriller, and mystery. Which are rarely deep, literature works. There are occasional books that captivated my heart and will always stay with me. I remember my love of books starting in elementary school when I would read chapter books ahead of my age group and would steal my older sister's books and read them. I would even confuse my childhood memories of books I read, for movies I watched. I was so absorbed in reading that my imagination mixed up reality and the dreamy world of books. Books taught me to escape reality. For me, it was because of the drudgery of life that sometimes the worlds you read about are where you want to be. Other lessons I have learned from books are real-world issues, even from the school-required lesson books such as "The Outsiders" by S.E Hinton which taught me about youth gangs and the destruction they have on each kid's life. "Night" by Elie Wiesel exposed the true, horrifying reality that Jewish people faced during the Holocaust. Both of which I came to love, after thinking they were going to be boring. Additionally, books I have read on my own time have made me see other perspectives of people's lives. One book I have read that comes to mind is "Torn" by Jennifer Brown, a book I stole from my older sister. It was about a tornado-torn town and the aftermath the character had to deal with after everything in her life was torn away. Reading overall shaped my life by teaching me to plan out my journey because I want to carry the lessons I have read about with me. I also want to live life like I'm a book character. My reality sometimes mirrors the issues that book characters face in theirs and they help guide me in a way. This is why I live by life experimenting, experiencing, and living life fully: To fill every page with happy events and memories. I want to feel the euphoric feeling of having a meaningful, goal-achieving life. For example, in a book I read called "The Catcher in the Rye" Holden Caulfield, the main character, his goal was to deny adulthood's reality and always remain real and pure with childhood innocence. Although I am the opposite of the delinquent, pathless, teen character of Holden, a teacher of mine stated about me in an annual English class nomination that "this particular student is the antithesis of Holden; they know with more resoluteness than most at their age who they are. However, I do sometimes resonate with Holden about remaining pure and innocent throughout my life. In the sense that I don't want the evil of the world to negatively change me. Reading has shaped me into a person whose main goal is to help the world and make our reality as pleasant as possible.

Netflix has been a popular contributor to the true crime community by putting out various shows about real cases. Some have been considered disrespectful to the victim's families, but one that did an exceptional job at telling the sad, shocking stories of the crime stories in the United States was the Netflix show, "The Trials of Gabriel Fernadez". It came out in 2020, and I remember the day my true crime bestie recommended it to me during our discussions about cases. I went in blindly, and the first episode was absolutely shattering, to the point I still get chills remembering the accounts and snapshots of the scenes. The testimonies given by doctors detailing the abuse the innocent boy went threw were not only heartbreaking, but also angering as well. The show was not the ordinary sensational true crime story that people only watch for "enjoyment" which is a highly inconsiderate. But this show went into Gabriel's life from his happy moments with his uncle, and at school. To the slow progression to the noticeable abuse and sadness, he was clouded with. I must admit I did not click another episode after watching the first few parts for a while. The story was melancholic to think about and depressing. At the time I was only in my last year of middle school, in the middle of COVID and true crime was always an interest of mine. But as I got exposed to shows, and documentaries like this show that did not sugarcoat any part of the story, my reality was forever changed. Even today, as a senior in high school I think about Gabriel Fernandez, and although his story was horrifying, it was additionally impactful and memorable. The show discussed the evil nature of his mother and her boyfriend. And further the broken criminal justice system, which I hope to help fix in the future. It exposed the failure of many people to Gabriel. Not only his own biological mother, but also the Child Protective Services of Los Angeles who knew of the reported abuse towards him, but did not save him. I recommend people to watch this show, even as gruesome as it is to know the stories of abused children and make their stories heard. It will most definitely make you feel emotional and ponder about the darkness in the United States and worldwide. And will his story will stay with you forever, as it did for me.