Mental health has played a profound role in shaping my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Growing up in a challenging environment, I witnessed firsthand how mental health struggles could impact an individual and those around them. My parents’ instability led to my older sister, Jameka, stepping into a parental role for me. Watching her persevere through her own struggles while earning her master’s degree was both inspiring and instructive. Her resilience taught me the importance of addressing mental health openly, advocating for support, and striving to create a better future for oneself and others. These experiences have deeply influenced my beliefs about mental health. I believe mental health should not be stigmatized but rather seen as a fundamental component of overall well-being. Too often, individuals—particularly those in underserved communities—face barriers to accessing mental health resources. These inequities have fueled my passion for advocacy and my commitment to fostering awareness and support for those in need. My personal journey with mental health has also shaped my relationships. Growing up with limited parental guidance, I struggled to trust others and express vulnerability. However, as I’ve worked to address my own mental health, I’ve learned to build stronger, more authentic connections. Whether mentoring younger students or supporting friends through tough times, I strive to create spaces where people feel safe and understood. These relationships remind me of the transformative power of empathy and communication. Professionally, my experiences have profoundly shaped my many aspirations. As a double major in Chemical Engineering and Child Development, I am determined to become a pediatric engineer, a role that combines my love for science and my desire to support children’s well-being and safety. My ultimate goal is to design innovative medical devices and systems that improve the physical and mental health of children, especially those in marginalized communities. I am particularly passionate about integrating mental health considerations into pediatric care, as I firmly believe that addressing emotional and psychological needs is just as critical as treating physical conditions. To further my commitment to mental health awareness, I have volunteered with organizations that support children and families in navigating emotional challenges. Teaching and working with children has allowed me to witness the impact that understanding and compassionate care can have on young lives. These experiences have reaffirmed my belief in the importance of early intervention and inspired me to contribute to systemic solutions. Mental health is not just a personal challenge; it is a societal one. By sharing my story and working to address these challenges, I hope to inspire others to seek help, advocate for change, and reimagine how we approach mental health in our communities. This scholarship will not only help me achieve my educational and career goals but also empower me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Thank you for considering my application. I am committed to using my experiences and education to champion mental health awareness, foster supportive relationships, and contribute to innovative solutions that enhance the well-being of children and families.

Throughout my educational journey, my biggest support has come from my older sister, Jameka, who has been my anchor through life’s challenges. Losing my father in 2019 was a defining moment for me, as it left a void I struggled to fill. He passed away under tragic circumstances due to domestic violence, a situation that still weighs heavily on me. My parents had co-parented me throughout my life, so his absence was deeply felt. My mother, despite facing her own struggles, tried to keep us safe and protected, often moving us from place to place. This meant I didn’t have the typical middle or high school experience, as I was frequently adjusting to new schools. Although these moves were tough, I understand that my mother’s intentions were rooted in love and a desire to give me a better life. While my mother was focused on our immediate survival, Jameka became my steadying force. She took on a lot of responsibilities and became a second parent to me, especially when times were hard. Watching her pursue her education, even as she navigated our shared hardships, was incredibly inspiring. She went on to earn a master’s degree, showing me that perseverance and dedication can lead to success no matter the odds. Jameka taught me about resilience not just through her words, but through her actions. She made sure I understood the importance of education and instilled in me the belief that I could overcome any obstacle. Through Jameka, I learned what it means to be strong and compassionate. She provided practical support by helping me with my studies and guiding me through the complexities of college life. Her achievements have inspired me to strive for more, not just for myself, but in honor of our father’s memory and our mother’s sacrifices. Jameka’s support has given me the courage to dream big and the drive to keep going, even when things seem impossible. My mother and sister have both shaped my journey in unique ways. My mother taught me to adapt, while Jameka has been my guiding light, encouraging me to push beyond the limitations set by our circumstances. I carry their lessons with me as I continue to pursue my education, and I am motivated to achieve my goals not just for myself, but as a way to honor their influence. Their support has fueled my ambition, and I am determined to build a future that reflects the strength and resilience they’ve instilled in me.

Starting off, I have something to say. I’ve been told I’m too outspoken, or even “ghetto.” People describe what I do as loud, wrong, and dangerous. You might have guessed that I don’t fit the typical mold, especially in spaces where I’m not always welcomed. My journey began at a predominantly white institution, Cal Poly Humboldt—not my first choice, but a place I ended up. Despite their claims that “all voices matter,” it didn’t feel that way for someone like me. I endured hostility from a roommate who used her “white-passing” privilege to dismiss and undermine me. When I reported her abusive behavior, my words were twisted, and I was labeled the aggressor, while the institution protected her. This experience reinforced a painful truth: for Black students at PWIs, freedom is a privilege, not a guarantee. Rather than let this experience silence me, I used it as motivation. I brought back the Black Student Union (BSU) on campus, creating a space where students like me could freely express themselves without fear of judgment. Through the BSU, I organized events such as trivia nights, pop-up gatherings, and even an annual cookout. These events offered a sense of community and allowed us to educate others about Black culture and our experiences. By being unapologetically myself, I hoped to show my peers that we don’t have to fit into a narrow mold to succeed or to be heard. While leading the BSU, I became aware that my actions had an impact beyond just me. Incoming students, as well as those in the wider community, were watching and learning from my efforts. I was showing them how to be resilient and how to use their voices. I realized that by leveraging my uniqueness, I could inspire others to embrace their own identities and speak up for what they believe in. I believe that when we’re true to ourselves, we create ripples that extend far beyond our immediate surroundings. Transferring to Prairie View A&M University, an HBCU, has been transformative. Here, I’m surrounded by people who understand my experiences and who encourage me to be my authentic self. In this supportive environment, I can fully explore my identity and my aspirations. I’m building a legacy rooted in resilience, self-expression, and community impact, and I’m doing so without compromising who I am. The Gladys Ruth Scholarship would help me continue this journey. With financial support, I could focus on my studies, cover living expenses, and invest in resources that support my growth. The scholarship would also allow me to finish my degree on time, as my financial aid is running low. This opportunity means more than just financial relief; it would be a recognition of my efforts and an affirmation that I’m on the right path. I am grateful for the chance to apply for this scholarship. I hope to use it to further my education and to make a lasting impact on my community and beyond. By staying true to myself, I’m not just achieving my potential; I’m inspiring others to do the same.

I am pursuing a career in pediatric engineering because I am passionate about using technology to improve the lives of children. Growing up, I faced challenges related to instability and limited support, which taught me the importance of resilience and empathy. My upbringing inspired me to choose a field where I could make a real difference, particularly for those who, like me, may not have consistent guidance or support. I believe pediatric engineering allows me to combine my love for technology with my desire to help children. I want to develop tools and solutions that will have a direct impact on their health and well-being. Whether it’s creating devices that aid in rehabilitation, improving accessibility for children with disabilities, or developing technology to support mental health, I am committed to leveraging my skills to benefit young patients. I understand the profound influence that positive support can have on a child’s life, and I want to be part of creating that support through innovative engineering solutions. One of my core beliefs is that our experiences shape us but do not define us. Despite the challenges I faced, I have remained driven and committed to my goals. I am motivated to create a future where children have the resources and support they need to thrive. I know that technology has the power to change lives, and I am excited about the potential of engineering to address pressing issues in pediatric healthcare. By combining my technical skills with my personal experiences, I hope to develop solutions that offer both practical support and emotional encouragement to young patients and their families. My ambition is to build a career that allows me to make a lasting impact on pediatric healthcare. I want to be at the forefront of innovations that address the unique needs of children and contribute to a more compassionate and supportive healthcare system. I am motivated by the idea of building a legacy that goes beyond my personal achievements—one that helps shape a brighter future for others. With the support of the Cochener Family Scholarship, I believe I can take the next steps in my journey to become a leader in pediatric engineering. This scholarship would not only help me financially but also serve as a reminder of the importance of giving back. I am committed to making a difference in my chosen field, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue this passion with the support of this scholarship.

Growing up, I experienced a lot of instability, which forced me to adapt quickly and become independent at a young age. My parents were frequently absent, and this lack of a stable presence meant that I had to rely on my older sister, Jameka, for support and guidance. She essentially became my role model, and watching her overcome the same challenges I faced gave me hope. Despite everything, Jameka pursued her education relentlessly and eventually earned her master’s degree. Seeing her achieve that milestone, despite all the obstacles we had to overcome, inspired me to believe that I, too, could build a successful future for myself. These experiences of instability taught me invaluable lessons in resilience and perseverance. Each time we moved or I changed schools, I had to start over, often without a support system in place. This was not easy, and it made me keenly aware of the importance of having a consistent presence and a stable environment—something I lacked but deeply craved. I came to understand how vital it is for children to have someone who believes in them and provides them with the encouragement they need to thrive. I want to be that support for others, particularly children, as I recognize how crucial it is during formative years. I’ve always been passionate about helping others, and as I pursue a career as a pediatric engineer, I am driven by my desire to create a better future for children. I want to contribute to solutions that improve the lives of young people, especially those who may be going through their own challenges. My journey has given me a unique perspective on what it means to overcome adversity, and I am committed to using this knowledge to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. In my role as a pediatric engineer, I will be able to combine my technical skills with my personal insights to develop tools and technologies that can provide children with the care and support they deserve. In building this legacy, I aim to demonstrate that our past does not define us but can be a powerful motivator for creating positive change. I want to show others—especially those who might feel limited by their circumstances—that it is possible to rise above and transform challenges into strengths. My story is one of resilience and determination, and I am committed to using my experiences as a foundation to inspire others. By embracing my past and using it as fuel, I am on a mission to create a legacy of empathy, resilience, and impact that will extend far beyond my own life.

From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by how things work and how they can be improved, especially when it comes to helping children. This passion led me to pursue a double major in Chemical Engineering and Child Development, with the ultimate goal of becoming a pediatric engineer. I am determined to design medical devices and technologies that will enhance the lives of children by tailoring healthcare solutions specifically for their needs. While science and mathematics are known for their rigor, I have always been up for the challenge. Balancing two demanding fields has tested my determination, but the reward is knowing that I’m working toward something that can make a real impact. I envision using my engineering background to create devices that are designed for pediatric patients—medical tools that are safer, more effective, and tailored to the unique physiological needs of children. My experience at Outlier AI has expanded my understanding of how technology, specifically artificial intelligence, can drive innovation. Although my current work involves using machine learning for business applications, it has inspired me to think about how AI can be applied to healthcare. AI has the potential to revolutionize pediatric care by improving diagnostic tools, personalizing treatment plans, and creating more precise medical devices. This exposure to AI technology has shown me the endless possibilities for improving healthcare outcomes, especially for children. Post-graduation, I plan to work in research and development, focusing on creating medical devices that cater specifically to children. Whether it’s designing more comfortable prosthetics for young patients or improving diagnostic technologies for early detection of developmental issues, I want to contribute to the advancement of pediatric healthcare through engineering. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me achieve these goals. Coming from a modest background, I face financial challenges that limit my ability to focus entirely on my studies. The scholarship would ease this burden, allowing me to dedicate more time and energy to my education and career development. It would also enable me to pursue internships and research opportunities that would further prepare me for a career in pediatric engineering. In summary, my academic journey in Chemical Engineering and Child Development is driven by my commitment to helping children through innovation. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can continue my education and work toward making a lasting impact in pediatric healthcare. I am also very grateful for the opportunity to apply.

Working at Outlier AI has given me valuable, hands-on experience in artificial intelligence and machine learning, where I’ve been able to apply these technologies in ways that connect with my academic interests. As a double major in chemical engineering and child development, I approach AI from a multidisciplinary perspective, seeking ways to integrate it into both technical and human-centered applications. At Outlier AI, I’ve contributed to projects that utilize machine learning models for predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and process optimization. My primary work involves refining algorithms to help businesses detect trends and outliers in their data, enhancing decision-making and improving operational efficiency. This role has allowed me to dive deep into data analysis, coding, and model training, all of which have expanded my technical understanding of how AI systems function in real-world scenarios. While I have not yet created my own AI app from scratch, my work involves hands-on coding, primarily in Python, where I’ve helped customize AI dashboards to deliver insights to clients. One project involved automating anomaly detection in large datasets, which helped reduce manual work and increase accuracy across various business processes. These experiences have provided me with a strong foundation in the practical applications of AI and machine learning, giving me the tools to think critically about how these technologies can be applied across different fields. Looking ahead, I see significant opportunities to make an impact by combining AI with my dual areas of study. In chemical engineering, AI can drive advancements in process simulation, predictive maintenance, and sustainable resource management. For example, by using machine learning models to optimize chemical processes, we can reduce waste and energy consumption, contributing to a more sustainable future. In child development, I believe AI holds incredible potential for personalized learning tools, early identification of developmental delays, and improving support systems for children. Adaptive learning systems, for instance, could help educators tailor content to meet the unique needs of each child, enhancing educational outcomes. Beyond these immediate applications, I’m also interested in exploring how AI can be used ethically and responsibly, particularly when applied to sensitive areas like child development. I see a future where AI not only automates and optimizes but also helps create environments where every child can thrive, and every process can operate more sustainably. This scholarship would enable me to further my education and deepen my expertise in AI, machine learning, and their applications across diverse fields. With my combined background in chemical engineering and child development, I am excited to be at the forefront of AI innovation, using my knowledge and experience to solve real-world problems and contribute to meaningful change.

Life is about evolving, constantly passing the baton to a better version of yourself with each passing year. I’ve learned through challenges that growth comes not only from experiences but from how you commit to improving yourself for the future. I want to make three promises to my future self to ensure a fulfilling life. First, I promise to always advocate for myself and others, just as I did when I re-established the Black Student Union (BSU) at my university. Through my experience with racism and being dismissed when I reported an incident of violence, I realized how important it is to speak up, especially as a Black woman. Advocacy has become a key part of who I am, and I commit to continuing this work in my future, ensuring that no voice, including my own, is ever silenced. Second, I promise to prioritize my mental health. When I felt unheard and dismissed on campus, I fell into depression, but I didn’t let that defeat me. Instead, I channeled that energy into creating events, safe spaces, and legacies like the Annual BSU Cookout that brought my community together. I recognize now that taking care of my mental health is essential to staying resilient and capable of leading change. I will continue to seek balance and practice self-care, so that I can approach every challenge with clarity and strength. Lastly, I promise to build meaningful relationships that empower me and those around me. During my time organizing events for the BSU, I partnered with local Black-owned businesses, hired a local DJ to celebrate our culture, and created a community where students could find support and connection. These experiences showed me the power of collaboration and the importance of lifting others up as I rise. In my future, I will commit to nurturing relationships that foster mutual growth and empowerment. This scholarship fits into the vision I have for my future self because education is the key to fulfilling my aspirations. Higher education is not just about earning a degree; for me, it’s about learning how to create lasting change and leave a legacy wherever I go, just as I did at my university. I want to continue advocating for underrepresented communities and developing projects that make a real impact. However, my financial circumstances present significant challenges. I come from a modest background and have limited resources to cover the cost of tuition, books, and other living expenses. While I’m deeply committed to my education, the financial burden makes it difficult to fully focus on my studies. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate much of this strain and allow me to dedicate my time and energy to academic success and community-building efforts, just as I did on my campus. With the support of this scholarship, I will be able to take the next steps in my education and work toward becoming a leader in my field. More importantly, it will enable me to continue passing the baton to a stronger, more empowered version of myself each year—one who is committed to advocacy, mental well-being, and creating meaningful connections that uplift the communities around me.

Everything I do is loud, wrong, and dangerous. I dealt with a horrible mixed-race roommate who leveraged her “white-passing” privilege at every opportunity. She even pushed me into a hot stove over a lie someone had spread. When I reported the incident, my words were twisted, and I was told, “You are the aggressor, she is the victim.” Freedom of speech in America, you see, is just an amendment written on paper as a symbolic gesture. But as a Black student, and a woman at that, “freedom” feels like a distant concept. Being heard on campus is a monumental task, and that’s why I decided to bring back our campus Black Student Union (BSU). The BSU serves as a safe space for my fellow peers to speak freely and be heard—a place where they can express themselves without fear of judgment or suppression. I organized pop-up events, trivia nights, Kahoot games, movie nights, listening parties, Melanin Mondays, and even helped establish a funding initiative called the Jackpot. The Jackpot is an institutional fund where students can raise donations or use existing resources to host events they believe will benefit the campus. It empowers the student body to foster a sense of community through events of their choosing. I also founded the Annual BSU Cookout, something deeply rooted in our Black community, leaving behind a legacy that everyone can look forward to and enjoy. I secured sponsorships, enlisted local Black-owned businesses to cater and promote themselves, and hired a local Black DJ to celebrate our culture and joy through our music. The power to speak freely is a privilege I don’t take lightly. It is crucial for voices on campus to be heard because, in doing so, we share knowledge, resources, history, and ideas that can shape futures we may not have imagined possible. Though I’ve been stereotyped as a threat, I am simply a human trying to overcome obstacles my mother, father, siblings, and many others couldn’t. I fell into depression, feeling unheard, but I found solace in knowing that others can connect with me in ways I never expected. Freedom of speech, to me, is not only about educating the ignorant but also about providing a stepping stone for those who are willing to learn. Rather than letting adversity defeat me, I’ve created a lasting legacy at CAL POLY HUMBOLDT—and for that, I am forever grateful. I’m greatly grateful for the people I’ve met, the connections, the diverse culture, and most of all the hardships it bring me because without them I would not have had to drive to do what I did.

Everything I do is loud, wrong and dangerous.I attended what is now called Cal Poly Humboldt, and on that campus “all voices matter”until somebody like me has something to say. On that campus we didn't have a safe space I dealt with a horrible mixed race roommate who used her “white passing” privilege every chance she got. She even pushed me into a hot stove because of a lie someone said when I went to report it my words were switched around and I was told “you are the aggressor, she is the victim”. Everything I said was documented but later deleted by faculty to prove that she was in the right and needing help was wrong. Freedom of speech in America is just an amendment written on paper,but being a black student,living in America, freedom is not such a thing. It's a statement we yearn for to be true in hopes someone hears our voice. Being heard on a predominantly white campus is a huge deal and that's why I decided to bring back our Black Student Union. The Black Student Union, a safe space for my fellow peers to speak as they please and be heard! A place where they can say what they want and not feel bad about themselves or someone bringing them down because of the people were taught to believe in. The BSU gives our voices a sense of power.While we have their attention with our free food, activities,etc. We take the opportunity to let them know why this event is being hosted and what we stand for. For the community as well as incoming students who don't really know what's going on inside these institutional walls a sense of what we actually are there to do. I also created random days where I would host random pop up events to host Black trivia nights,movie nights, listening parties,even took it as far as creating a Jackpot. A jackpot is an institutional fundingthat is used for the student body to promote events that they want to host for the community to get a sense of togetherness. I started this thing called the Annual BSU Cookout, it's something that i wanted for us as people to have a legacy to have and enjoy. I got sponsors to fund us, as well as let the local black owned businesses cater the food as well as table to promote themselves. I hired a Dj with funding and he plays all of our classics that just celebrate black people and our joy. To be able to speak at my own discretion is such a power trip in many ways one can imagine.It is dear to know that on campuses your voice heard so your spreading knowledge, resources,history,and a thought to a future you may have not thought you could of created.Not being able to speak freely is defamation of character.They stereotype me as a threat when really I'm just a human trying to make it out the ways my mother and many others couldn't.I fell into depression because I felt I wasn't heard. I feel like this scholarship if i were to receive it would help me more be intune with my mental health. I would use the funds to help me with financial relief when it comes to attending classes regularly.It's really hard and struggling trying to do both while still being successful. I would also use it towards my textbooks, and affordable living essentials that are needed. My long term use would be that I could use these funds to help me continue on with my degree.

I chose to attend an HBCU because I want to be taught by my people and not only that i want to learn from them. My favorite memory is the one I’m going to have with me forever. I say this because I’m currently experiencing it. I transferred to an hbcu for a better education instead I’m almost forced to drop out because I cant pay for it. I can’t afford my HBCU and they aren’t trying to help me to even afford it. I’m an out of state student who knows nothing about where I am but that was my choice no one else’s so I’m going to lay in the bed I made. For now I’m going to try to make memories before I’m put in this same position where I’m forced to unenroll because I cannot afford attendance, But i am grateful for any and every opportunity that comes my way. The photo I’m going to upload is that only photo I have of my HBCU.

Starting off, I have something to say.I've been told I'm too outspoken or “ghetto” Everything I do is loud, wrong and dangerous. As you may have guessed it, Yes, I attended a Pwi,not because I chose to but because I had to. That's a story for a different day. I attended what is now called Cal Poly Humboldt, and on that campus “all voices matter”until somebody like me has something to say. On that campus we didn't have a safe space or so I thought so I dealt with a horrible mixed race roommate who used her “white passing” privilege every chance she got. She even pushed me into a hot stove because of a lie someone said and when I went to report it my words were switched around and I was literally told “you are the aggressor, she is the victim”. Everything I said was documented but later was deleted by faculty and staff to prove that she was in the right and me needing help was wrong. Freedom of speech you see in America is just an amendment written on paper to show proof that it's there,but being a black student, not just attending a PWI but living in America, freedom is not such a thing. I decided to bring back the BSU, The Black Student Union, a safe space for my fellow peers to speak as they please and be heard! The BSU gives our voices a sense of power, and since they want to be like us and be a part of our culture until it's time. While we have their attention with our free food, activities,etc.I also created random days where I would host random pop up events as well as host little Black trivia nights, kahoot nights, movie nights, listening parties, I even took it as far as creating a Jackpot. A jackpot is an institutional funding pot that students can either is used for the student body to promote events that they want to host for the community to get a sense of togetherness. I started this thing called the Annual BSU Cookout, although it's something that we do in our black community i wanted something for us as people to have a legacy to have and enjoy. I got sponsors to fund us, as well as let the local black owned businesses cater the food as well as table to promote themselves. They stereotype me as a threat when really I'm just a human trying to make it out the ways my mother and many others couldn't.I fell into depression because I felt I wasn't heard. I feel like this scholarship if i were to receive it would help me more be intune with my mental health. I would use the funds to help me with financial relief when it comes to paying my rent and utilities on time as well as attending classes regularly. It's really hard and struggling trying to do both while still being successful and not lose myself within. I would also use it towards my textbooks, and affordable living essentials that are needed. My long term use would be that I could use these funds to help me continue on with my degree and graduating on time being that my fafsa is running out. I am extremely grateful to have been able to receive the opportunity to apply for this scholarship due to my hardships that I have overcome and will continue to strive for. I just want to make an impact on myself the way I do for my community.

Losing a parent at a young age is a profound experience that reshapes every aspect of one's life. I know this all too well, as I lost my father.The impact of his absence was immediate and profound, sending shockwaves through my family and leaving us grappling with emotions we were ill-prepared to face. In the aftermath of his passing, our family dynamic shifted dramatically. My siblings burdened with the weight of grief and responsibility, struggled to provide the stability and support we so desperately needed being that my mother struggled and i was left to my siblings to take care of me. Financial insecurity loomed over us like a dark cloud, casting a shadow of uncertainty over our future. Suddenly, the world seemed like a much harsher and more unforgiving place, and I felt utterly adrift in its vastness. Amidst the chaos and turmoil, one thing remained constant – the transformative power of education. Even in my darkest moments, school became a refuge, a sanctuary where I could temporarily escape the pain and turmoil of my home life. It was there that I found solace in the comforting embrace of my teachers, who became beacons of light in an otherwise dimly lit world. Their unwavering belief in me, their dedication to my growth and well-being, gave me hope when all seemed lost. They saw potential in me that I couldn't see in myself, and their encouragement pushed me to strive for excellence even in the face of adversity. In their classrooms, I found not only knowledge but also healing – a safe space where I could process my emotions, express myself freely, and begin to rebuild my shattered confidence. It was through the guidance and support of these remarkable educators that I discovered my passion for teaching. Their empathy, compassion, and commitment to making a difference inspired me to follow in their footsteps and become a source of light and hope for others. I realized that I wanted to be the kind of teacher who could make a difference in the lives of students facing similar struggles, who could provide the same sense of comfort and encouragement that had been given to me. Choosing to pursue a career as a teacher is not just a career choice for me; it's a deeply personal calling. It's about honoring the legacy of those who helped me through my darkest days, about paying their kindness forward to the next generation of students who need it most. It's about creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. In becoming a teacher, I hope to be a beacon of light for others, guiding them through the storms of life with empathy, compassion, and unwavering belief in their abilities.

Losing a parent at a young age is a profound experience that reshapes every aspect of one's life. I know this all too well, as I lost my father when I was 16 years old. The impact of his absence was immediate and profound, sending shockwaves through my family and leaving us grappling with emotions we were ill-prepared to face. In the aftermath of his passing, our family dynamic shifted dramatically. My siblings burdened with the weight of grief and responsibility, struggled to provide the stability and support I so desperately needed being as my mother struggled as well so i was sent to live with my sister who herself was just a kid only 21 years old. Financial insecurity loomed over us like a dark cloud, casting a shadow of uncertainty over our future. Suddenly, the world seemed like a much harsher and more unforgiving place, and I felt utterly adrift in its vastness. Amidst the chaos and turmoil, one thing remained constant – the transformative power of education. Even in my darkest moments, school became a refuge, a sanctuary where I could temporarily escape the pain and turmoil of my home life. It was there that I found solace in the comforting embrace of my teachers, who became beacons of light in an otherwise dimly lit world. Their unwavering belief in me, their dedication to my growth and well-being, gave me hope when all seemed lost. They saw potential in me that I couldn't see in myself, and their encouragement pushed me to strive for excellence even in the face of adversity. In their classrooms, I found not only knowledge but also healing – a safe space where I could process my emotions, express myself freely, and begin to rebuild my shattered confidence. It was through the guidance and support of these remarkable educators that I discovered my passion for teaching. Their empathy, compassion, and commitment to making a difference inspired me to follow in their footsteps and become a source of light and hope for others. I realized that I wanted to be the kind of teacher who could make a difference in the lives of students facing similar struggles, who could provide the same sense of comfort and encouragement that had been given to me. Choosing to pursue a career as a teacher is not just a career choice for me; it's a deeply personal calling. It's about honoring the legacy of those who helped me through my darkest days, about paying their kindness forward to the next generation of students who need it most. It's about creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. In becoming a teacher, I hope to be a beacon of light for others, guiding them through the storms of life with empathy, compassion, and unwavering belief in their abilities.

"The Odyssey" by Homer: "As the sun set and the darkness swept down, he rose from the bench and led me to the dim recesses of the hall, where we sat side by side and reveled in the stories of heroes and gods. The flickering flames cast dancing shadows on the walls, and the air was filled with the enchanting scent of ancient scrolls. In that timeless moment, surrounded by the echoes of epic tales, I felt the weight of centuries lift, and my soul was transported to a world where the boundaries of reality and myth seamlessly intertwined." The excerpt from "The Odyssey" by Homer paints a vivid tableau of an intimate moment, enveloped in the mystical ambiance of an ancient hall. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the protagonist and his companion were led into the dim recesses, where the flickering flames cast dancing shadows on the walls. The air resonated with the enchanting scent of ancient scrolls, and in that timeless juncture, the boundaries of reality and myth seamlessly intertwined. The setting described seems to transcend the physicality of a mere space; it becomes a portal to a world where the echoes of epic tales hold sway. The act of sitting side by side, reveling in stories of heroes and gods, speaks to a communion with the past—a connection to narratives that have transcended centuries. The flickering flames, with their dancing shadows, become metaphors for the elusive nature of myth, where truths are obscured yet revealed in the interplay of light and dark. The mention of the enchanting scent of ancient scrolls adds a sensory layer to the experience, evoking the tangible history embedded within those rolled manuscripts. It is as if the very aroma carries the essence of ages past, infusing the air with the wisdom and sagas of bygone eras. In my interpretation, this paragraph captures the essence of the timeless allure of ancient narratives. It speaks to the transformative power of storytelling, where the boundaries between reality and myth blur, and the listener is transported into a realm where the weight of centuries lifts. It signifies a journey through time, not merely as a passive observer but as an active participant in the unfolding drama of human experience. From my perspective, this passage invites contemplation on the enduring significance of myth and storytelling. It prompts reflection on how these ancient tales, wrapped in the sensory experience of a dimly lit hall, resonate with our collective consciousness. It underscores the idea that, in the embrace of such narratives, we transcend the confines of our temporal existence and partake in a universal odyssey—a journey through the realms of imagination, wisdom, and the timeless echoes of the human saga. Diving deeper and bringing a more broader perspective ill delve into greater detail 1. Setting and Atmosphere - The mention of the sun setting and darkness descending sets the stage for an atmospheric shift, signaling a transition from day to night. - The dim recesses of the hall create an intimate and mysterious ambiance, contributing to the immersive experience. 2. Narrative Movement - The action of rising from the bench and being led to the dim recesses adds a sense of purpose and movement to the narrative, guiding the reader through the scene. 3. Shared Experience - Sitting side by side suggests a shared experience, emphasizing the communal aspect of storytelling and the connection between the characters. 4. Engagement with Stories - The characters reveling in the stories of heroes and gods underscores the significance of oral traditions and the power of storytelling in ancient cultures. 5. Visual Imagery - The flickering flames casting dancing shadows on the walls evoke visual imagery, creating a dynamic and visually captivating scene. 6. Sensory Experience - The mention of the enchanting scent of ancient scrolls adds a sensory dimension, emphasizing the tangible and historical nature of the setting. 7. Temporal Suspension - The phrase "In that timeless moment" suggests a suspension of time, highlighting the transformative power of storytelling to transport individuals beyond the constraints of their temporal reality. 8. Connection to Myth and Reality - The line "where the boundaries of reality and myth seamlessly intertwined" encapsulates the overarching theme, emphasizing the blurred lines between the tangible world and the realm of myth. 9. Personal Reflection - The narrator expressing the feeling of the weight of centuries lifting and the soul being transported signifies a personal and profound experience, suggesting a deep connection to the stories being shared. Each detail contributes to the richness of the narrative, creating a layered and immersive experience for the reader. If you have specific aspects you'd like for me to explore and further explain or if there's anything else you're curious about, feel free to let me know!

Starting, I have something to say. I've been told I'm too outspoken or “ghetto” and everything I do is unsafe and dangerous. As you may have guessed, Yes, I attend a Pwi, not because I chose to but because I had to show them that we are great in more ways than just sports. That's a story for a different day. I attend what is now called Cal Poly Humboldt, and on that campus “all voices matter” until somebody like me has something to say. On that campus we didn't have a safe space or so I thought so I dealt with a horrible mixed-race roommate who used her “white-passing” privilege every chance she got. She even pushed me into a hot stove because of a lie someone said and when I went to report it my words were switched around and I was told “You are the aggressor, she is the victim. Everything I said was documented but later deleted to prove that she was in the right and I needed help was wrong. Freedom of speech you see in America is just an amendment written on paper to show proof that it's there, but being a black student not just attending a PWI but living in America, freedom is not such a thing. It's a statement we yearn for to be true in hopes someone hears our voice. Being heard on a predominantly white campus is such a huge deal and that's why I decided to bring back our campus BSU. The Black Student Union is a safe space for my fellow peers to speak as they please and be heard. A place where they can say what they want and not feel bad about themselves or someone bringing them down because of the Aryan way these “christopher columbus” look-a-likes were taught to believe in. The BSU gives our voices a sense of power, and since they want to be like us and be a part of our culture until it's time. While we have their attention with our free food, activities, etc. We take the opportunity to let them know why this event is being hosted and what we stand for. To be able to speak at my discretion is such a power trip in many ways one can imagine. It is dear to know that on campuses your voice is heard so your spreading knowledge, resources, history, and thoughts to a future you may have not thought you could have created. Not being able to speak on campus freely is defamation of character in my eyes. They stereotype me as a threat when I'm just a human trying to make it out the ways my mother and many others couldn't. I fell into depression because I felt I wasn't heard. Knowing that someone not only can connect to me in more ways than once lets me know that freedom of speech is not only educating the ignorant but paving the way for the future.