I have faced adversity all of my life. It is a common thread that is woven through everyone's life and it shapes who we aspire to become. My battle with depression and self doubt has been the hardest challenge that I have ever faced. This is an internal struggle that had deeply affected my academic performance, relationships, and social life. However, through determination, therapy, and self-love, I have managed to overcome these hardships. I have came back stronger and more confident. Self doubt made it's way into my life at an early age. It manifested in different parts of my life. I questioned my abilities, intelligence, and self worth. The self doubt eventually led to depression, creating a vicious cycle that was very hard to break. My mental health began to deteriorate, impacting my ability to focus on my studies and do things that I enjoy. The weight of those feelings often left me feeling hopeless and alone. Recognizing that I needed help was the my first step to bettering myself. I sought therapy, which provided me a safe space to express my suppressed thoughts and feelings. My therapist helped me understand the root causes of depression and self doubt. She offered me strategies to manage and cope with these complex emotions. I overcame my challenges through cognitive-behavioral techniques. I learned to challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with more positive and realistic perspectives. Working on myself outside of therapy was very important. I began writing in a journal, practicing self care and reading books. These practices not only improved my mental health but also helped me build a stronger, better version of myself. I have better self confidence and self love. Gradually, I started to see progress. My academic performance improved, and I began to re-engage with my passion and interests. This journey has profoundly shaped who I am today. I have learned the importance of self compassion and resilience. Facing and overcoming self doubt and depression has made me more empathic and understanding towards others who face the same problems and me. It also showed me the importance of taking care of your mental health. To anyone anyone facing similar circumstances, my advice is to acknowledge that it's okay to struggle and seek help. Therapy can be an amazing tool, providing insights and strategies that are essential for healing. Progress may be slow but every small step forward is significant. Seeking help and speaking to someone you trust is a great thing and do not be embarrassed to reach out for help. Surround yourself with supportive people and engage in activities that nurture your well being. In conclusion, my battle with depression and self doubt has been a very hard journey, but it has ultimately made me a stronger and better person. Through therapy and self love, I have learned to manage these challenges and emerge with a new sense of purpose and confidence. My experiences have shaped me into a person who is more self aware and more compassionate toward others.

Growing up in a single-parent household with a courageous, caring black mother, has shaped my personal and educational development. My mother’s relentless dedication and unwavering support has been a source of inspiration, driving me to overcome and overtake various challenges. She has taught me to never settle and always strive for excellence. Being an African American daughter to a single mother in America means facing unique difficulties. My mother had to juggle working and taking care of four children. She had to ensure that our needs and wants were met. Her tireless efforts instilled in me the importance of perseverance and the value of community and family. Despite the long hours she worked, she always emphasized the importance of education, often sacrificing her own opportunities to provide for mine. The lack of a consistent support system often led me to feeling discouraged. While my peers had both parents to support them, I relied heavily on my mother. Her ability to provide support in all areas of my life, despite her own battles, was remarkable. I cannot express in words, how much being in a single parent household molded me into who I am today. My mother is my tutor, my confidante, and my cheerleader! She created an environment where I felt safe and valued. Our relationship taught me the importance of family, empathy, and the power of unwavering love. Navigating the challenges of growing up in a single parent household has made me more determined, knowledgeable, and respectful. I have developed a very deep appreciation for the value of education and the sacrifices that come with it. My mother did not want me to work throughout high school, she wanted me to focus on my education. She picked up more hours at work just to support my siblings and I throughout school. These experiences have not only shaped my academic journey but have also helped give me a sense of responsibility to give back to my community. I am committed to use my education to empower other African American women who face similar struggles. My future goal is to become a wildlife photographer and filmmaker. This scholarship will help me pay for college, allowing me to pursue my passion. It would also help my develop the necessary skills and knowledge for my career. Additionally, receiving this scholarship will make my mom proud and demonstrate that all her hard work and dedication has been worth all of her efforts. In conclusion, growing up with a single African American mother in America has been a journey. The lessons learned and the challenges overcame have equipped me with the tools the succeed academically and professionally. My mother’s unwavering support and determination have been my main source of inspiration, and I am dedicated to honoring her sacrifices by excelling in my educational pursuits and doing my part in society. Special Thanks To My Mom: Charlotte

I have faced adversity all of my life. It is a common thread that is woven through everyone's life and it shapes who we aspire to become. My battle with depression and self doubt has been the hardest challenge that I have ever faced. This is an internal struggle that had deeply affected my academic performance, relationships, and social life. However, through determination, therapy, and self-love, I have managed to overcome these hardships. I have came back stronger and more confident. Self doubt made it's way into my life at an early age. It manifested in different parts of my life. I questioned my abilities, intelligence, and self worth. The self doubt eventually led to depression, creating a vicious cycle that was very hard to break. My mental health began to deteriorate, impacting my ability to focus on my studies and do things that I enjoy. The weight of those feelings often left me feeling hopeless and alone. Recognizing that I needed help was the my first step to bettering myself. I sought therapy, which provided me a safe space to express my suppressed thoughts and feelings. My therapist helped me understand the root causes of depression and self doubt. She offered me strategies to manage and cope with these complex emotions. I overcame my challenges through cognitive-behavioral techniques. I learned to challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with more positive and realistic perspectives. Working on myself outside of therapy was very important. I began writing in a journal, practicing self care and reading books. These practices not only improved my mental health but also helped me build a stronger, better version of myself. I have better self confidence and self love. Gradually, I started to see progress. My academic performance improved, and I began to re-engage with my passion and interests. This journey has profoundly shaped who I am today. I have learned the importance of self compassion and resilience. Facing and overcoming self doubt and depression has made me more empathic and understanding towards others who face the same problems and me. It also showed me the importance of taking care of your mental health. To anyone anyone facing similar circumstances, my advice is to acknowledge that it's okay to struggle and seek help. Therapy can be an amazing tool, providing insights and strategies that are essential for healing. Progress may be slow but every small step forward is significant. Seeking help and speaking to someone you trust is a great thing and do not be embarrassed to reach out for help. Surround yourself with supportive people and engage in activities that nurture your well being. In conclusion, my battle with depression and self doubt has been a very hard journey, but it has ultimately made me a stronger and better person. Through therapy and self love, I have learned to manage these challenges and emerge with a new sense of purpose and confidence. My experiences have shaped me into a person who is more self aware and more compassionate toward others.

K-Pop has become a significant part of my life, with New Jeans and Stray Kids being my favorite groups. I am aware that New Jeans is a newer group, but they have helped me significantly. Both groups music, performances, and personalities, have greatly impacted me. They provided solace during challenging times and reshaping my understanding of global culture. Growing up as an African American girl who loves K-Pop, I have often felt out of place. The enthusiasm for K-Pop in the African American community is often met with ridicule and criticism. Many people find it weird that I am drawn to a completely different music genre than most are accustomed to. However, this passion has taught me the importance of embracing what I love! New Jeans and Stray Kids have helped me find confidence in myself and my unique interests. They encouraged me to celebrate and embrace my individuality. New Jeans has a fresh and innovative approach to their music. I recall the first time I heard their song “OMG”, I was instantly hooked! They have inspired me in countless of ways. Their songs are upbeat and they urge listeners to be true to themselves and pursue their dreams. This resonated deeply with me, especially when I was battling with depression. Their music videos are not just visually appealing but they convey stories. New Jeans have opened my eyes and encouraged me to look at things from a different perspective. They have also inspired me to value creativity and perseverance. Stray Kids have always been a beacon of hope and motivation for me. Their journey from being trainees to becoming on of the most influential K-Pop groups is a testament to their dedication and passion. They lyrics, often written by the members themselves, address themes of struggle, strength, and triumph. Stray Kids music also pulled me out of a very dark place. They provided me with a sense of comfort and strength during my battle with depression. Their authenticity and vulnerability made me feel less alone! In conclusion, New Jeans and Strays Kids have a huge impact on my life and my perception of global culture. Their music has not only helped me me but also taught me the importance of being me. The global influence of K-Pop has shown how music can unite people from different backgrounds and promote cultural understanding. Despite the challenges of being an African American girl who loves K-Pop, this journey has made me more open-minded and appreciative of the power of music to transform lives.

Growing up in a single-parent household with a courageous, caring black mother, has shaped my personal and educational development. My mother’s relentless dedication and unwavering support has been a source of inspiration, driving me to overcome and overtake various challenges. She has taught me to never settle and always strive for excellence. Being an African American daughter to a single mother in America means facing unique difficulties. My mother had to juggle working and taking care of four children. She had to ensure that our needs and wants were met. Her tireless efforts instilled in me the importance of perseverance and the value of community and family. Despite the long hours she worked, she always emphasized the importance of education, often sacrificing her own opportunities to provide for mine. The lack of a consistent support system often led me to feeling discouraged. While my peers had both parents to support them, I relied heavily on my mother. Her ability to provide support in all areas of my life, despite her own battles, was remarkable. I cannot express in words, how much being in a single parent household molded me into who I am today. My mother is my tutor, my confidante, and my cheerleader! She created an environment where I felt safe and valued. Our relationship taught me the importance of family, empathy, and the power of unwavering love. Navigating the challenges of growing up in a single parent household has made me more determined, knowledgeable, and respectful. I have developed a very deep appreciation for the value of education and the sacrifices that come with it. My mother did not want me to work throughout high school, she wanted me to focus on my education. She picked up more hours at work just to support my siblings and I throughout school. These experiences have not only shaped my academic journey but have also helped give me a sense of responsibility to give back to my community. I am committed to use my education to empower other African American women who face similar struggles. My future goal is to become a wildlife photographer and filmmaker. This scholarship will help me pay for college, allowing me to pursue my passion. It would also help my develop the necessary skills and knowledge for my career. Additionally, receiving this scholarship will make my mom proud and demonstrate that all her hard work and dedication has been worth all of her efforts. In conclusion, growing up with a single African American mother in America has been a journey. The lessons learned and the challenges overcame have equipped me with the tools the succeed academically and professionally. My mother’s unwavering support and determination have been my main source of inspiration, and I am dedicated to honoring her sacrifices by excelling in my educational pursuits and doing my part in society. Special Thanks To My Mom: Charlotte

Hello, my name is Jamyla Elliott and I am currently a high school senior. I have been attending Forest High School since January 2020. I like to read, complete puzzles, and listen to music. Some attributes that make me unique are; leadership, accountability, and compassion. I am a leader in and outside of school. If I make a mistake or make someone upset, I take accountability for my actions. I have compassion toward others. When someone is sad or upset, I try to make them feel better. Once I graduate in May, I plan to attend Mississippi State in the fall of 2023. I will be majoring in Agriculture Education, Leadership, and Communication. I chose this major to inspire younger generations. I have always been interested in Ag, but I never saw people that looked like me in the field. So, I plan to give back and make a positive impact in my community by inspiring young African Americans to pursue a career in agriculture. I would like them to understand that, it does not matter what you look like; you can do whatever you set your mind to. I am passionate about the green industry and helping others because it is very close to my heart. I was born and raised in this industry. It reminds me of the time my dad took me fishing for the first time or when I drove my first tractor. I grew up on a farm and a horse ranch. My dad and I tended to the land, the stalls, and the plants. I was taught from a very young age, the meaning of hard work. The workload helped me to appreciate everything that I have been blessed with. Over the years, I have become a very optimistic person and I strive to have a positive outlook on life. I have learned that working hard to meet your dream goal is one of the most rewarding things in life. The drive and passion build resilience, character, and responsibility. If I were to be awarded this scholarship, it would help me tremendously. I come from a single-parent household and funding for college has been a struggle. I have been saving for a while, but it is not enough. Your scholarship can help me make my life-long passion a reality. I can become a farmer and inspire others or I can become an agriculture teacher and teach others the wonders of the green industry. Thank You, Jamyla Elliott

Hello, my name is Jamyla Elliott and I am currently a high school senior. I have been attending Forest High School since January 2020. I have had an amazing time at the school and I have met some amazing people. The school has been great also; I love the teachers and the atmosphere. I used to attend Union High School up until December 2019. The school was fun and I was in FBLA and a part of the drama club. I was born in Westpoint, MS. I moved to Forest, MS later on in my life and I still live there. For as long as I can remember I´ve known that I wanted to help others. I have volunteered with my church and within my community. Giving back to the people where I live, has been very fulling. My favorite experience of helping someone in need was at school. In December of 2022, my class participated in a volunteering experience called Operation Christmas Child created by Samaritan´s Purse. It is when you get an OCC shoebox and pack it with supplies that children need. You can pick a boy or a girl from the ages of two through fourteen. You can put hygiene items, school supplies, clothes, and toys in the shoebox. I love doing this volunteer project because I can help more than one child. Packing the shoeboxes is rewarding because I know the person receiving the box will be very happy. After graduating in May, I plan to attend Mississippi State in the fall of 2023. I will be majoring in Agriculture Education, Leadership, and Communication. I chose this major to inspire younger generations. I have always been interested in Ag, but I never saw people that looked like me in the field. So, I plan to make a positive impact in the green industry by inspiring young African Americans to pursue a career in agriculture. I would like them to understand that, it does not matter what you look like; you can do whatever you set your mind to. If I were to be awarded this scholarship, it would help me tremendously. I come from a single-parent household and funding for college has been a struggle. I have been saving for a while, but it is not enough. Your scholarship can help me make my life-long passion a reality. I can become a farmer and help my community or I can create a non-profit and give back to others. Thank You, Jamyla Elliott

Hello, my name is Jamyla Elliott and I am currently a high school senior. I have been attending Forest High School since January 2020. I have had an amazing time at the school and I have met some amazing people. The school has been great also; I love the teachers and the atmosphere. I used to attend Union High School up until December 2019. The school was fun and I was in FBLA and a part of the drama club. I was born in Westpoint, MS. I moved to Forest, MS later on in my life and I still live there. Once I graduate in May, I plan to attend Mississippi State in the fall of 2023. I will be majoring in Agriculture Education, Leadership, and Communication. I chose this major to inspire younger generations. I have always been interested in Ag, but I never saw people that looked like me in the field. So, I plan to make a positive impact in the green industry by inspiring young African Americans to pursue a career in agriculture. I would like them to understand that, it does not matter what you look like; you can do whatever you set your mind to. I am passionate about the green industry because it is very close to my heart. I was born and raised in this industry. It reminds me of the time my dad took me fishing for the first time or when I drove my first tractor. I grew up on a farm and a horse ranch. My dad and I tended to the land, the stalls, and the plants. I was taught from a very young age, the meaning of hard work. The workload helped me to appreciate everything that I have been blessed with. Over the years, I have become a very optimistic person and I strive to have a positive outlook on life. I have learned that working hard to meet your dream goal is one of the most rewarding things in life. The drive and passion build resilience, character, and responsibility. If I were to be awarded this scholarship, it would help me tremendously. I come from a single-parent household and funding for college has been a struggle. I have been saving for a while, but it is not enough. Your scholarship can help me make my life-long passion a reality. I can become a farmer and inspire others or I can become an agriculture teacher and teach others the wonders of the green industry. Thank You, Jamyla Elliott

Our environment is important, whether that be who we involve ourselves with or the nature that surrounds us; both are equally important. The environment that's the most important to me is where I live and how it has negatively impacted my life. I live in a small town in Mississippi, with a population of about 2,000 people. In my town, there are a handful of restaurants and shopping centers. So, we do the same things every day: wake up, eat, go to school or work, sleep, and repeat. It's a cycle that I don't agree with, but that's not what needs to change. Safety is the one thing that I would like to change in my environment. Everyone wants to feel safe where ever they go, but that's not the case. I want to feel safe at school and in the grocery store but I don't. School shootings are becoming more and more frequent. I wonder every day if I have to text my mom, my final "I love you" or if she will see that her daughter has passed on the news. Graduating and getting my high school diploma should be my main focus, but it's not. I have two younger siblings and I worry about them since kidnappings are on the rise. My mother teaches them the importance of "stranger danger", but the school doesn't. Why doesn't an elementry school teach students these things? I am in a program at school where I can student teach at the elementary school and I asked the assistant principal, "Why doesn't this school teach "stranger danger" safety? She couldn't answer my question. That conversation truly shocked me. Lastly, my school is predominately African American and Hispanic. In 2019, three huge ICE buses came and took parents from their places of work. The buses came on the first day of school and it was heartbreaking. The children had no one to go back home to. They had to stay in my school's gym because no one knew what to do. That is not right! I am fearful the even step outside in Mississippi. Drug dealers are on one corner and people with guns are on the other corner. I don't like going to the grocery store anymore because of racist people. Many people think that Mississippi is still rooted in deep racist hatred, but I don't believe this is true. I have met some wonderful people but there are some mean people as well. For example, I was in the grocery store with my sister and there was a man following us. When people on social media spoke about these incidents happening, I did not believe it until it happened to me. I wish Mississippi could change the way that they handle safety because I don't feel safe.

Hello, my name is Jamyla Elliott and I attend Forest high School. My dream in life is to own a ranch and a farm. I would love to give back to my community this way!

Hello, my name is Jamyla Elliott. I am a senior at Forest High School and I want to pursue a degree in Agriculture. I plan to attend a college outside of the state on Mississippi. Why am I pursing a college degree? That´s a good question! I am pursing a college degree to help others and myself. I´m planning to go to college for a degree in agriculture and business. Farmers and ranchers help so many people everyday! They provide the vegetables for the salad at your favorite restaurant or the steak that you buy every Friday after work. When I become a farmer, I would like to inspire young African American children to become farmers and ranchers, just like me! What motivated me to become a farmer/rancher? My family motivated me to give back. I was raised in a decent background. My mom worked and dad worked a nine-to-five. They always supported me physically and emotionally. I have four sisters and two brothers, three of my siblings live with my mom and I. My mom now works for Raytheon Technologies and my father is an entrepreneur.

The year 2020, was one of the hardest years that I went through. I was a freshman in high school when the viruses had gotten worse; and when I returned to school we were social distancing and wearing masks. I had to stay hopeful during those times because I wanted to quit. Those hardships had taught me to always stay hopeful in situations that look like hope should be lost.

What would I do with $1,000 right now? First, I would split it with my mom; because she deserves half. Secondly, I would put half in my savings account. Then, I would split that $250 and spend some on groceries; for me and my family. Lastly, I would put the rest towards a car.