Growing up, I always understood that education would be my path to opportunity. My parents, who only had a GED, worked tirelessly to provide for me, but they weren’t able to guide me through the complexities of higher education. As a first-generation college student, I have had to navigate this journey on my own, but doing so has shaped me into a resilient and determined individual. I am currently a Mass Communications student at Atlanta Metropolitan State College, set to graduate in May 2025. My passion lies in marketing and storytelling—helping businesses of all sizes craft their narratives and connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. In the fall of 2025, I plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree to deepen my expertise and expand my career opportunities in marketing, public relations, and strategic communications. Throughout my academic journey, I have gained hands-on experience in my field. At Bloomy Creatives, I managed social media accounts for small businesses in Atlanta, helping them establish their brand identity and grow their online presence. As a Communications Assistant Intern at Strategic Education, I contributed to content creation and worked on diversity initiatives aimed at supporting HBCUs and PBIs. Additionally, my work with Care International as a Direct Marketing Intern and Fulfilling Hope International as a Social Media Intern allowed me to combine my passion for marketing with my dedication to community service. Beyond academics and internships, giving back to my community has always been a priority. I have volunteered with various organizations, using my skills to support causes that uplift underserved communities. These experiences have reinforced my belief that storytelling and strategic communication can be powerful tools for change. Balancing a full-time job while being a full-time student has been one of my biggest challenges. Every day, I manage classes, work, and personal responsibilities, all while striving to build a brighter future for myself. Receiving the Charles Cheesman Student Debt Reduction Scholarship would be a tremendous relief. It would allow me to focus more on my education and career aspirations without the constant stress of financial hardship. With the money I save, I plan to further my education—not only by completing my bachelor’s degree but also by pursuing specialized certifications in Public Relations or Integrated Global Communications to enhance my expertise. This scholarship is more than just financial support—it is an opportunity to grow, learn, and create lasting impact. It would not only ease my immediate burden but also help me build a career that empowers businesses and communities through strategic communication. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and for the Cheesman Family’s dedication to supporting first-generation students like me. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Ella’s Fighting Spirit Scholarship Application Essay Growing up in a challenging environment, I was raised by a 17-year-old mother who came from a broken home and experienced child abuse. Because of this, I sometimes feel like my struggles were inevitable. In my family, the term “abuse” was just part of life, and what many would call functioning depression was viewed as a sign of strength. This upbringing shaped my understanding of emotions and how I interacted with the world around me. My first hospitalization for mental health issues happened when I was only 8 years old. Even at that young age, I knew something was wrong. My home was full of chaos, and I often felt lost. I was told I was too sensitive or that I was bipolar because my mood changed frequently. The truth was that home never felt safe. I learned early on that happiness was just a temporary state, a brief moment before the next storm hit. For years, I sought help from the mental health system, but I felt let down time and time again. I went through various therapists and programs, but nothing seemed to stick. It wasn’t until my most recent hospitalization at the age of 22 that I finally received an accurate diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). This diagnosis was a turning point for me, finally providing an explanation for the emotional struggles I had been experiencing for so long. Borderline Personality Disorder is a mental health condition that causes intense emotions, unstable relationships, and a shaky sense of self. People with BPD often deal with extreme mood swings that can be very overwhelming. I would go from feeling incredibly happy to deeply sad in just a few hours, living on an emotional rollercoaster. This disorder often stems from a history of trauma or instability in childhood. The emotional pain I felt wasn’t just a phase; it was a reflection of my internal struggles, a cry for help I didn’t know how to express. As I grew older, I began to understand why I felt this way. I had a constant fear of abandonment and a strong need for connection. This led to forming intense relationships that often ended badly. I would cling to friends and family, terrified they would leave me, just as I felt my mother had. This fear created a cycle of pushing people away while desperately wanting them to stay. I often felt trapped in a loop of love and loss, which only made my feelings of worthlessness and despair worse. It was frustrating to feel like the mental health system had failed me for so long. I wanted answers and help, but instead, I felt lost in a system that didn’t seem to understand my needs. When I finally received my diagnosis, it was a relief, but it also brought up a lot of anger about the years I spent without proper support. I realized that I needed to take control of my recovery. Finding the right support took time, but it was essential for my growth. I sought therapy that focused on BPD and learned about emotional regulation, mindfulness, and how to build healthy relationships. Therapy taught me how to recognize my triggers and develop coping strategies, allowing me to manage my emotions better. I discovered that I could express my feelings without fear of judgment, which helped me open up about my experiences with others who understood what I was going through. Education became my safe space. I worked hard to keep up with my studies, driven by my desire to create a better future for myself. I maintained my grades and looked for opportunities to learn more about psychology and mental health. However, I realized that I wanted to do more than just study mental health; I wanted to change the narrative around it, especially in the media. This is why I have chosen to major in communications. I believe that the media plays a powerful role in shaping public perceptions of mental health and substance use issues. Too often, people with these struggles are portrayed in negative and stereotypical ways that do not reflect the reality of their experiences. I want to use my voice and my education to break these stereotypes and tell the real stories of people who face mental health challenges. By sharing these stories, I hope to foster understanding and compassion, encouraging others to see beyond the labels. I am excited to continue my journey of healing and growth. I plan to pursue a degree in communications with the goal of becoming a storyteller for those whose voices are often unheard. I want to create content that humanizes mental health struggles and highlights the strength and resilience of those who face them.

Growing up in the projects of Harlem, New York, my life has been filled with challenges. My parents were teenagers when they had me, and they never got the chance to go to college. Because of this, I often felt like I was just another statistic, someone who wouldn’t make it out of my environment. But I refuse to let that define me. My journey has been tough, but it has also made me determined to pursue higher education and change my life for the better. From a young age, I faced some hard realities. I experienced verbal and physical abuse from the age of five until I turned eighteen. Those years were filled with pain and confusion, and I often felt trapped. It wasn’t until I decided to take control of my life that I began to seek a way out. I started staying with friends, moving from couch to couch, trying to find a stable place to focus on myself and my education. During this time, I realized how important it was for me to go to college—not just for myself, but for my future. After graduating high school in 2019, I knew I had to make a change. I believe that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and the stereotypes that often surround people from my background. I want to go to college not only to improve my life but also to show others in my community that it’s possible to rise above difficult circumstances. To prepare for this journey, I’ve taken several steps. I started attending career fairs in my community to learn about different paths I could take. I found out what education I would need for various jobs, which motivated me to keep going. I also took on a full-time job to support myself. It hasn’t been easy balancing work and school, but my job helps me pay my bills and save for my education. I also completed two internships—one as a communications intern and another in social media marketing. These experiences taught me valuable skills and helped me understand what it’s like to work in a professional environment. I plan to seek out more internships to gain even more experience. I’ve participated in workshops that focus on college readiness, covering things like financial aid and study habits. I connected with mentors who guided me through the college application process, helping me understand what to expect. Building a support network is important to me, and I’m committed to surrounding myself with people who will encourage me. Education has always been my escape and my goal. I want to learn as much as I can and use that knowledge to help others. I’ve researched schools that align with my interests, and I’m excited about the opportunity to grow and be involved in campus organizations that focus on personal and professional development. Receiving the First-Gen Futures Scholarship would mean so much to me. It would provide financial support and show me that my hard work to overcome obstacles is recognized. I want to turn my struggles into motivation and inspire others who are facing similar challenges. I believe that by pursuing higher education, I can change my situation and make a positive impact in my community. Thank you for considering my application for the First-Gen Futures Scholarship. I am ready to take this next step in my life and create a future that reflects my dreams and aspirations.

Growing up is a wild ride, filled with ups and downs that can leave us feeling all sorts of emotions, and Olivia Rodrigo captures that perfectly in her album "GUTS." Her songs speak to the heart of what it means to be a teenager today, and I can relate to so much of what she writes about. One of the biggest themes in "GUTS" is heartbreak. In songs like "Vampire," Olivia talks about the pain of losing someone you care about deeply. I’ve experienced this feeling when I lost close friends as we got older and grew apart. It was tough to watch our friendships fade to the point where we are no longer friends. Those moments left me feeling lonely and confused, as if a part of my support system was disappearing. Listening to Olivia’s words made me realize that it’s okay to feel sad about these changes and that these emotions are a natural part of growing up. Her music helps me understand that I’m not alone in my feelings, and it’s comforting to know that others share similar experiences. Another thing I love about "GUTS" is how it addresses jealousy and insecurity. In "Bad Idea Right?", Olivia describes the confusion of wanting someone who might not be good for you. I’ve felt similar emotions when I’ve worried about fitting in with my peers or when I’ve compared myself to others. There have been times when I’ve looked at my classmates and wondered why I didn’t have what they had, whether it was popularity, talent, or confidence. Her lyrics remind me that it’s normal to have these thoughts, and it’s important to embrace my true self, even when it gets tough. This realization has encouraged me to work on my self-esteem and to focus on my own journey rather than constantly comparing myself to others. The album also touches on self-discovery, which is a major part of being a teenager. In "Lacy," Olivia explores the journey of figuring out who you are. This resonates with me as I navigate my own interests and passions. Sometimes, I feel lost, especially when I think about my future and the path I want to take. But through Olivia’s music, I’ve learned that it’s okay to be uncertain and that discovering who I am is a process that takes time. Her songs inspire me to keep searching for what makes me happy and fulfilled, whether it’s through music, art, or other activities that bring me joy. Overall, Olivia Rodrigo's "GUTS" has had a huge impact on my life. It’s more than just music; it’s a reflection of my own experiences and emotions. Through her lyrics, I’ve learned that vulnerability is a strength and that it’s okay to feel deeply. This scholarship would allow me to continue expressing myself and exploring my passions in a supportive environment. I believe that sharing my story can inspire others to embrace their own feelings and experiences, just as Olivia’s music has inspired me.

In public relations, diverse perspectives have a significant influence on how we develop narratives that are seen by the general public. Visualize a group that connects individuals with different backgrounds, habits, and life experiences. This diversity of viewpoints guarantees that the messages we communicate are understood by a wide range of individuals while also representing the diversity of our society. When we talk about cultural competence, we mean that this diverse team understands the different ways people see the world. This understanding is crucial for crafting messages that are not just respectful but also connect with diverse communities. It's like speaking the language of your audience, making sure your message hits home. Now, think about authenticity and trust. People are more likely to believe and connect with messages that come from a diverse group of voices. When we see ourselves in the messages we receive, it builds a sense of trust. Trust is a big deal in communication – it's the foundation of strong relationships between organizations and the people they're talking to. But it's not just about trust; diversity also brings creativity to the table. Different perspectives mean different ways of thinking. This diversity of thought sparks creativity, helping us find innovative solutions to the challenges we face in getting our messages across. In the fast-paced world of public relations, being able to think creatively and adapt to new trends is a huge advantage. Adaptability is key in our field. Things change quickly, and we need to be responsive to what's happening around us. A diverse team is like having a toolkit filled with different skills and experiences. It makes us better at navigating the twists and turns of the ever-changing media landscape. And let's not forget about steering clear of stereotypes and biases. A diverse team is more likely to catch and avoid these pitfalls, making sure our messages are respectful and free from harmful stereotypes. It's about promoting ethical and responsible communication. Understanding our audience is another big plus. A diverse team brings insights into different market segments, making sure our messages are tailored to the specific needs and preferences of various groups. This understanding is crucial, especially in industries where reaching specific demographics is a top priority. In our globalized world, having a global perspective is a must. Companies and brands operate on an international scale, and a diverse team helps us navigate the complexities of talking to people from different cultures. It ensures our messages are culturally sensitive and connect with audiences around the world. In a nutshell, having diverse voices in public relations is a game-changer. From understanding cultures and building trust to being creative and adaptable, diverse teams make our approach to communication more effective. It's not just a smart move strategically; it's also a commitment to communication that's inclusive, ethical, and responsible. As more organizations recognize the value of diverse voices, public relations is evolving into a more dynamic and impactful force in shaping the stories we tell.

I am inspired daily to be involved in my community due to the lack of necessities and resources for low-income students and families. My family faced various hurdles growing up in the New York low-income housing community. These hurdles included having access to a grocery store instead of a convenience store, closing almost all parks, pools, and anything recreational for children, and school equipment in decent condition. Unlike low-income communities, these basic necessities are prioritized and executed promptly. Despite my adolescence, I quickly realized how problematic this was for not only my family but as well as my entire community. And soon enough, I acknowledged that my goals and aspirations would be to create change for kids like me and families that shared the same struggles as mine. As of today, our community faces another major hurdle, and that hurdle is gentrification. Low-income families that depend on affordable housing are paid to move out of their homes so that casinos, unaffordable grocery stores, luxury apartments, etc., can be built. Inflation has also heavily affected all communities. Consequently, no positive change is happening in many communities that experience these hurdles daily. As a High School student, I became passionate about advocacy and community development. My dedication to serving my community had become much more profound than community service hours to graduate. In my freshman year of High School, I began volunteering for summer camps and soup kitchens for the homeless. I also served food and toiletries to victims of domestic violence. Throughout my Junior and Senior years, I decided to carry out my own agenda in giving back to my community. Not only had I founded an LGBTQIA+ advocacy club at my local High School not only to ensure a safe learning environment for our LGBTQIA+ students but as well as educate the remaining student body on the LBGTQIA+ community. My senior class hosted a holiday drive of brand new toiletries for St.Joseph's House homeless shelter. I will acquire my communications degree to create a platform for Businesses and Non-profit organizations to make changes within their communities. In addition to obtaining the necessary skills, I will improve their brand awareness and impact on local or distant communities. This will benefit not only the Businesses but also the communities in search of change. , I will improve their brand awareness and impact on local or distant communities. This will benefit not only the Businesses but also the communities that are not only looking for resources but seeking permanent and positive change. Thank You, Selection Committee, for your consideration.

I am inspired daily to be involved in my community due to the lack of necessities and resources for low-income students and families. My family faced various hurdles growing up in the New York low-income housing community. These hurdles included having access to a grocery store instead of a convenience store, closing almost all parks, pools, and anything recreational for children, and school equipment in decent condition. Unlike low-income communities, these necessities of a community are prioritized and executed promptly. Despite my adolescence, I quickly realized how problematic this was for not only my family but as well as my entire community. And soon enough, I acknowledged my goals and aspirations would be focused on creating change for kids like me and families that shared the same struggles as mine. As of today, our community faces another major hurdle, and that hurdle is gentrification. Low-income families that depend on affordable housing are paid to move out of their homes so that casinos, unaffordable grocery stores, luxury apartments, etc., can be built; furthermore, inflation has also heavily affected all communities. Consequently, there is no positive change happening in many communities that experience these hurdles daily. As a High School student, I became passionate about advocacy and community development. My dedication to serving my community had become much more profound than community service hours to graduate. In my freshman year of High School, I began volunteering for summer camps and soup kitchens for the homeless. I also served food and toiletries to victims of domestic violence. Throughout my Junior and Senior years, I decided to carry out my agenda of giving back to my community. Not only had I founded an LGBTQIA+ advocacy club at my local High School not only to ensure a safe learning environment for our LGBTQIA+ students but as well as educate the remaining student body on the LBGTQIA+ community. My senior class hosted a holiday drive of brand new toiletries for St.Joseph's House homeless shelter. I will acquire my communications degree to create a platform for Businesses and Non-profit organizations that are making changes within their communities. In addition to obtaining the necessary skills, I will improve their brand awareness and impact on local or distant communities. This will benefit not only the Businesses but also the communities that are not only looking for resources but seeking permanent and positive change. Thank You, Selection Committee, for your consideration.

My name is Imani Wyatt. I'm a twenty-one-year-old college student from Queens, New York, who is passionate about mental health and entrepreneurship; I will be pursuing my Bachelor's in Public Relations. As a young black woman, certain obstacles and adversities became familiar at a young age. They later traveled with me into my adult matriculation. But one above all is understanding the meaning of being a strong black woman in America. According to my mother, being a strong black woman means being independent in every aspect of your life, including your emotions. She heavily preached that the foundations you build must be held together no matter the circumstances and to take care of the people you love. As a child, I admired this ideology and even formed an image of my mother as a superhero. As I grew with age and wisdom, I realized how unhealthy this ideology was. Carrying this ideology with me into adulthood caused me to struggle with my mental health. At the early age of seven, I was diagnosed with depression and PTSD, and later at the age of twenty-one, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Depression. During my treatment, I later learned my mother suffered from the same mental health issues but instead chose to hide behind her preachings to groom me into the" firm" black woman she believed I had the potential to be. What I have learned is that mental health is real. In the black community, there is a massive stigma on mental health and how to cater to your mental health when it becomes poor. The most important lesson I've learned is that suppressing your emotions isn't what makes you a strong woman. A "strong" black woman consists of vulnerability and acknowledgment of her feelings and limitations. This doesn't make her weak or overly emotional, as it is perceived in modern-day society. But it's what makes her a superhero. I will acquire my Bachelor's degree in Public Relations to create a platform for Black Business owners fighting back against the various stigmas of mental health in the Black community. The most heavily campaigned brands on social media are fashion, fitness, travel, beauty, etc. In today's digital world, mental health advocacy consistently falls behind, with a few majorities prioritizing it on their social media. With my degree, I will create a platform for Black businesses whose mission is to battle mental health stigmas through advocacy and community. Thank you, the selection committee, for your consideration.

My name is Imani Wyatt. I'm a twenty-one-year-old college student from Queens, New York, who is passionate about mental health and entrepreneurship; I will be pursuing my Bachelor's in Public Relations. As a young black woman, certain obstacles and adversities became familiar at a young age. They later traveled with me into my adult matriculation. But one above all is understanding the meaning of being a strong black woman in America. According to my mother, being a strong black woman means being independent in every aspect of your life, including your emotions. She heavily preached that the foundations you build must be held together no matter the circumstances and to take care of the people you love. As a child, I admired this ideology and even formed an image of my mother as a superhero. As I grew with age and wisdom, I realized how unhealthy this ideology was. Carrying this ideology with me into adulthood caused me to struggle with my mental health. At the early age of seven, I was diagnosed with depression and PTSD, and later at the age of twenty-one, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Depression. During my treatment, I later learned my mother suffered from the same mental health issues but instead chose to hide behind her preachings to groom me into the" firm" black woman she believed I had the potential to be. What I have learned is that mental health is real. In the black community, there is a massive stigma on mental health and how to cater to your mental health when it becomes poor. The most important lesson I've learned is that suppressing your emotions isn't what makes you a strong woman. A "strong" black woman consists of vulnerability and acknowledgment of her feelings and limitations. This doesn't make her weak or overly emotional, as it is perceived in modern-day society. But it's what makes her a superhero. I will acquire my Bachelor's degree in Public Relations to create a platform for Black Business owners fighting back against the various stigmas of mental health in the Black community. The most heavily campaigned brands on social media are fashion, fitness, travel, beauty, etc. In today's digital world, mental health advocacy consistently falls behind, with a few majorities prioritizing it on their social media. With my degree, I will create a platform for Black businesses whose mission is to battle mental health stigmas through advocacy and community. Thank you, the selection committee, for your consideration.

Covid-19 has had various negative effects on many families, businesses, etc. Above all Covid-19 has had an extremely negative impact on the black community. The Black community has declined economically, socially etc. Living in Atlanta, Georgia, one of the most common cities that demonstrate the decline on black communities since the birth of Covid -19, inspires me every single day to give back to my community. One major everyday struggle that black families not only face in the city of Atlanta as well as all over the world is the lack of resources for families in need. Most assistance requires qualifications that are difficult for families in need to meet due to their unstable living situations and times of need. Not only have I observed these families in need, but I have also been apart of the families that are currently in need during the pandemic. This inspired me and my family to become apart of the solution. And that solution is called Fulfilling Hope int'l. Fulfilling Hope is a non profit organization that was started by myself and my family to be at service to the families in need of the Metro Atlanta area. So far this year we have held four events including a back to school drive, thanksgiving donation drive, and a free basketball summer program for elementary students who cannot afford summer programs. As the year continues Fulfilling Hope will continue to focus on a pending program where young mothers can have access to free child care, food assistance, work and educational opportunities.