Why College Is Important to Me Sometimes the strongest people are not the ones who have had the easiest lives. They are the ones who have faced difficult circumstances, carried pain they never asked for, and still found a reason to keep moving forward. That is the person I am becoming. There were moments in my life when I could have stopped dreaming about college. When life felt uncertain, my grandmother reminded me that my circumstances did not have to become my future. She encouraged me, stood beside me, and helped me keep moving forward during my mother's pill addiction struggles. Because of her, I learned that the people who believe in you during difficult times can become the reason you refuse to give up. College is important to me because it represents the future I have worked toward for years. I want to become the first person in my family to attend college, earn a degree in Criminal Justice, and build a career in law enforcement or public service. I want to protect people, serve my community, and become someone others can depend on. My interest in Criminal Justice grew from the experiences that have shaped me. Through JROTC, the FBI Teen Academy, community service, and my experiences around law enforcement, I have seen how leadership, discipline, compassion, and service can change lives. These experiences have shown me that I do not want to simply watch my community face challenges—I want to be part of the solution. I am proud of how far I have come. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA, remained on the A/B Honor Roll since ninth grade, participated in Beta Club, committed four years to JROTC, and earned the JROTC Distinguished Leadership Award and Medal. Behind each accomplishment is someone who had reasons to give up but chose to keep going. My achievements remind me that my past does not determine my future. But my accomplishments do not tell my entire story. Behind the grades, awards, activities, and résumé is a young woman who has had to learn how to keep going when life became difficult. I have experienced circumstances that could have easily become excuses for giving up. Instead, they became reasons to work harder. I refuse to allow the difficult parts of my story to write the ending. Going to college would mean more than earning a degree. It would mean proving to myself and my family that our circumstances do not define our possibilities. It would mean making my grandmother proud and showing my family that their sacrifices and encouragement were not in vain. Most importantly, college would prepare me for a career where I can make a difference in the lives of others. I know college will not always be easy, but I have learned how to persevere through difficult situations. I know how to turn obstacles into motivation and setbacks into reasons to work harder. But to me, a scholarship represents much more than financial support. It represents someone saying, “I see your potential. I believe your future is worth investing in.” It would help me take another step toward becoming the woman I have worked so hard to become—and toward the life I know I am capable of creating. College is not just where I want to go—it is what I am working toward. I want to graduate with a Criminal Justice degree, serve my community, and become an example for those who come after me. I am not asking for someone to give me a future. I am asking for the opportunity to build one.

When Keeping a Secret Wasn't the Right Thing to Do I never imagined that being there for a classmate would teach me one of life's most important lessons: sometimes, saving someone from feeling alone begins with having the courage to speak up. One of my classmates had come to me about being bullied. I was shocked that she trusted me enough to share her moment of emptiness. When she started speaking, I listened and realized her pain was deeper than I imagined and understood. The bullying had her at the brink of suicide because she felt there was no other way out. Knowing that someone my age could feel so hopeless broke my heart. I faced a difficult decision. I wanted to honor her trust, but I also feared what could happen if I stayed silent. I knew I could offer comfort and friendship, but I couldn't handle something this serious alone. So, I had to reach out to my MVP, my confidant, my grandmother, for advice. My grandmother advised me to tell the principal because her safety mattered more than keeping a secret. I wanted her to have the chance to get help from an adult who could act. That experience taught me that compassion is more than listening, and friendship is more than promising to keep secrets. Sometimes, caring about someone means making an uncomfortable decision because their life and well-being matter. I couldn't solve every problem my classmate faced, but I could make sure her struggle wasn't ignored. This experience also strengthened my interest in criminal justice and public service. I want to pursue a career where I can advocate for people who feel unheard, protect vulnerable individuals, and help create safer communities. I learned that leadership does not always come with a uniform, a title, or an award. Sometimes, it means recognizing someone is hurting and having the courage to act. I may never know every way my decision affected my classmate's life, but I know I refused to ignore her pain. I learned that one conversation, one act of compassion, and one courageous decision can open the door to help when someone believes there is no way out. I want to carry that lesson into my future and become the kind of person who helps others see that their lives have value and that they do not have to face their darkest moments alone.

Doing Life I have learned that the strongest people aren't the ones who have had the easiest lives. They are the ones who have faced difficult circumstances, carried pain they never asked for, and still found a reason to keep moving forward. That is the person I am becoming. I believe my circumstances do not define me—my choices, effort, and determination do. My dream is not simply to graduate from college; it is to use my education and career to become a positive force for others. This scholarship would help me take another important step toward turning that dream into reality. What drives me is my desire to build a future greater than the challenges I have faced. I have learned that difficult circumstances do not have to determine my future. Instead, they have pushed me to work harder and stay focused on my goals. Through JROTC, I have learned what leadership really means. Leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room or having a title. It is about responsibility, discipline, integrity, and willingness to stand up when things are difficult. My grandmother is my MVP and my G.O.A.T. because she stepped up when my family went through one of the most difficult times of our lives. When my mother became addicted to pills, my grandmother did not turn her back on us. Instead, she became a source of stability, love, and support when we needed it most. My grandmother took on responsibilities she didn't have to. She made sure that I was cared for, supported, and encouraged to continue moving forward. While my family was dealing with challenges that were difficult for me to understand, my grandmother gave me a sense of security. She showed me that even during the hardest moments, someone can choose to stand strong for the people they love. Watching my family struggle taught me that addiction can affect more than just the person experiencing it. It can affect an entire family. My grandmother taught me the importance of compassion, patience, responsibility, and never giving up on someone you love. She showed me what it means to be dependable when others are depending on you. That is why I consider my grandmother my MVP and my G.O.A.T. She stepped up when my family needed her most and helped me keep believing in my future. Her strength has inspired me to become a strong, caring, and responsible person. I hope one day I can make her proud by using everything she taught me to help others facing difficult circumstances. My circumstances have shaped me, but they have not limited me. They have given me a stronger sense of purpose. I am actively working toward my goals by maintaining strong grades, taking on leadership opportunities, gaining exposure to the Criminal Justice field, researching colleges and scholarships, and preparing for the responsibilities of college and a career. I know the road ahead will require hard work, but I am prepared to keep pushing forward. I want to turn the challenges I have experienced into motivation to create opportunities for myself and, one day, for others. My goal is not only to succeed—I want my success to prove that perseverance can change who you are. But to me, a scholarship represents much more than financial support. It represents someone saying, “I see your potential. I believe your future is worth investing in.” It would help me take another step toward becoming the woman I have worked so hard to become—and toward the life I know I can create.

My Life Goals, My Passion, and Why I Deserve This Opportunity I have learned that the strongest people aren't the ones who have had the easiest lives. They are the ones who have faced difficult circumstances, carried pain they never asked for, and still found a reason to keep moving forward. That is the person I am becoming. I believe my circumstances do not define me—my choices, effort, and determination do. My dream is not simply to graduate from college; it is to use my education and career to become a positive force for others. This scholarship would help me take another important step toward turning that dream into reality. When I think about my future, I do not just see a career; I see a purpose. I see myself walking across a college campus, earning my degree in Criminal Justice, and eventually serving my community in a career where I can protect others, stand up for what is right, and become a source of hope for young people who may feel that the circumstances are limiting their future. My dreams were not created from a perfect life. They were created from challenges that taught me how strong I can be. There have been moments in my life when I have witnessed my mother's pill addiction. Instead of allowing those experiences to defeat me, I chose to let them motivate me. What drives me is my desire to build a future greater than the challenges I have faced. I have learned that difficult circumstances do not have to determine my future. Instead, they have pushed me to work harder and stay focused on my goals. Through JROTC, I have learned what leadership really means. Leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room or having a title. It is about responsibility, discipline, integrity, and willingness to stand up when things are difficult. My involvement with the FBI Teen Academy also brought me closer to the future I envision for myself. Being selected for an opportunity that was difficult to obtain showed me that doors can open when you prepare, work hard, and believe you belong in the room. I currently have a 4.2 GPA, and a member of the Beta Club. I also volunteered with my local police department, library, and church, as well as through babysitting and helping others in my community. But my accomplishments don't tell my whole story. Behind the grades, awards, activities, and résumé is a young woman who learned to keep going when life became difficult. I have faced circumstances that could easily have become excuses to give up. Instead, they became reasons to work harder. I refuse to allow the difficult parts of my story to write the ending. My goal is to graduate from high school in May 2027, attend college, and pursue a career in criminal justice. But my dream goes far beyond having a career. I want to serve my community, protect others, advocate for people who may not have a voice, and eventually help create opportunities for young people who feel trapped by their circumstances. My dream is to earn a college degree in Criminal Justice and build a public safety career where I can serve, protect, and make a difference in my community. I want to be someone people can depend on during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. My experiences have taught me the importance of courage, leadership, and stepping up when others need help. My circumstances have shaped me, but they have not limited me. They have given me a stronger sense of purpose. I am actively working toward my goals by maintaining strong grades, taking on leadership opportunities, gaining exposure to the Criminal Justice field, researching colleges and scholarships, and preparing for the responsibilities of college and a career. I know the road ahead will require hard work, but I am prepared to keep pushing forward. I want to turn the challenges I have experienced into motivation to create opportunities for myself and, one day, for others. My goal is not only to succeed—I want my success to prove that perseverance can change who you are. But to me, a scholarship represents much more than financial support. It represents someone saying, “I see your potential. I believe your future is worth investing in.” It would help me take another step toward becoming the woman I have worked so hard to become—and toward the life I know I can create.

My Life Goals, My Passion, and Why I Deserve This Opportunity I have learned that the strongest people aren't the ones who have had the easiest lives. They are the ones who have faced difficult circumstances, carried pain they never asked for, and still found a reason to keep moving forward. That is the person I am becoming. I believe my circumstances do not define me—my choices, effort, and determination do. My dream is not simply to graduate from college; it is to use my education and career to become a positive force for others. This scholarship would help me take another important step toward turning that dream into reality. When I think about my future, I don't just see a career; I see a purpose. I see myself walking across a college campus, earning my degree in Criminal Justice, and eventually serving my community in a career where I can protect others, stand up for what is right, and become a source of hope for young people who may feel that the circumstances are limiting their future. My dreams were not created from a perfect life. They were created from challenges that taught me how strong I can be. There have been moments in my life when I have witnessed my mother's pill addiction. Instead of allowing those experiences to defeat me, I chose to let them motivate me. What drives me is my desire to build a future greater than the challenges I have faced. I have learned that difficult circumstances do not have to determine my future. Instead, they have pushed me to work harder and stay focused on my goals. Through JROTC, I have learned what leadership really means. Leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room or having a title. It is about responsibility, discipline, integrity, and willingness to stand up when things are difficult. My involvement with the FBI Teen Academy also brought me closer to the future I envision for myself. Being selected for an opportunity that was difficult to obtain showed me that doors can open when you prepare, work hard, and believe you belong in the room. I currently have a 4.2 GPA, and a member of the Beta Club. I also volunteered with my local police department, library, and church, as well as through babysitting and helping others in my community. But my accomplishments don't tell my whole story. Behind the grades, awards, activities, and résumé is a young woman who learned to keep going when life became difficult. I have faced circumstances that could have easily become excuses to give up. Instead, they became reasons to work harder. I refuse to allow the difficult parts of my story to write the ending. My goal is to graduate from high school in May 2027, attend college, and pursue a career in criminal justice. But my dream goes far beyond having a career. I want to serve my community, protect others, advocate for people who may not have a voice, and eventually help create opportunities for young people who feel trapped by their circumstances. My dream is to earn a college degree in Criminal Justice and build a public safety career where I can serve, protect, and make a difference in my community. But to me, a scholarship represents much more than financial support. It represents someone saying, “I see your potential. I believe your future is worth investing in.” It would help me take another step toward becoming the woman I have worked so hard to become—and toward the life I know I can create.

My Life Goals, My Passion, and Why I Deserve This Opportunity I have learned that sometimes the strongest people are not the ones who have had the easiest lives. They are the ones who have faced difficult circumstances, carried pain they never asked for, and still found a reason to keep moving forward. That is the person I am becoming. I am driven by the belief that my circumstances do not define me—my choices, effort, and determination do. My dream is not simply to graduate from college; it is to use my education and career to become a positive force for others. This scholarship would help me take another important step toward turning that dream into reality. When I think about my future, I do not just see a career I see a purpose. I see myself walking across a college campus, earning my degree in Criminal Justice, and eventually serving my community in a career where I can protect others, stand up for what is right, and become a source of hope for young people who may feel that the circumstance are limiting their future. My dreams were not created from a perfect life. They were created from challenges that taught me how strong I can be. There have been moments in my life when I have witnessed my mother's pill addiction. Instead of allowing those experiences to defeat me, I chose to let them motivate me. What drives me is my desire to create a future that is greater than the challenges I have faced. I have learned that difficult circumstances do not have to determine my future. Instead, they have pushed me to work harder and stay focused on my goals. Through JROTC, I have learned what leadership really means. Leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room or having a title. It is about responsibility, discipline, integrity, and willingness to stand up when things are difficult. My involvement with the FBI Teen Academy also brought me closer to the future I envision for myself. Being selected for an opportunity that was difficult to obtain showed me that doors can open when you are willing to prepare, work hard, and believe that you belong in the room. I currently have a 4.2 GPA, and a member of the Beta Club. I also volunteered with my local police department, library, church, and through babysitting and helping others in my community. But my accomplishments do not tell my entire story. Behind the grades, awards, activities, and résumé is a young woman who has had to learn how to keep going when life became difficult. I have experienced circumstances that could have easily become excuses for giving up. Instead, they became reasons to work harder. I refuse to allow the difficult parts of my story to write the ending. My goal is to graduate from high school in May 2027, attend college, and pursue a career in criminal justice. But my dream goes far beyond having a career. I want to serve my community, protect others, advocate for people who may not have a voice, and eventually help create opportunities for young people who feel trapped by their circumstances. My dream is to earn a college degree in Criminal Justice and build a career in public safety where I can serve, protect, and make a difference in my community. My experiences have taught me the importance of courage, leadership, and being willing to step up when others need help. My circumstances have shaped me, but they have not limited me. They have given me a stronger sense of purpose. I am actively working toward my goals by maintaining strong grades, participating in leadership opportunities, gaining exposure to the Criminal Justice field, researching colleges and scholarships, and preparing myself for the responsibilities of college and a career. I know the road ahead will require hard work, but I am prepared to keep pushing forward. My goal is not only to succeed—I want my success to become proof that perseverance can change the person that one wants to become. But to me, a scholarship represents much more than financial support. It represents someone saying, “I see your potential. I believe your future is worth investing in.” It would help me take another step toward becoming the woman I have worked so hard to become—and toward the life I know I am capable of creating.

His Legacy, My Purpose Losing my stepfather was like losing the Dad I knew him to be. He was my stepfather by title, but he was literally my Dad in my heart. What makes his loss even harder is knowing how much he loved football and how proud he was of his son. My stepfather passed away only about a week after his son signed to play football at the University of South Carolina. Later, his son was drafted into the NFL and began pursuing the dream his father had been so excited to see. The hardest part is knowing that my stepfather never got the opportunity to watch him play at USC or see him reach the NFL. Football has always been a major part of our family. We are a family that loves sports, but football is my passion. I love watching recreational, college, and professional football. Because of my stepfather, football means more to me than a game. It reminds me of family, dreams, perseverance, and the people who believe in us before we ever reach our goals. Watching my mother and my stepfather's family grieve his death has been one of the most difficult experiences of my life. It is especially painful knowing that he should have been there celebrating his son's accomplishments. His son now carries his father's memory with him, including a tattoo on his sleeve featuring a phrase his father used to say. Seeing that is a reminder that although my stepfather is no longer physically here, his love, words, and influence continue to live through his family. Losing him taught me that life can change without warning and that we cannot assume we will always have tomorrow. I have faced other challenges in my life, including difficult family circumstances and struggles during my freshman year of high school. Instead of allowing those experiences to stop me, I used them as motivation. I worked hard, became more disciplined, and turned my academic struggles into a 4.0 GPA. JROTC, community service, and my commitment to my future have also helped me develop the strength to keep moving forward. My goal is to turn tragedy into triumph by making something meaningful out of the life I have been given. I plan to attend college, earn a degree in Criminal Justice, and pursue a career in law enforcement or public service. I want to serve others, protect people, and be someone families can depend on during difficult moments. I cannot give my stepfather back the years he deserved. I cannot give him the chance to watch his son live out his football dream. But I can carry forward the lessons his life taught me: love your family, appreciate your opportunities, keep pursuing your dreams, and never stop showing up for the people you care about. My stepfather's story will always be part of mine. I will honor him not by allowing his death to define me, but by allowing his life and love to inspire what I become.

A Skillful Life The career path I am pursuing is Criminal Justice, to work in law enforcement or another public-service field. I am passionate about this field because I have seen firsthand how much people need someone willing to step forward during difficult moments. Growing up in the inner city and experiencing challenges within my own family have taught me the importance of safety, compassion, responsibility, and service. I do not simply want a career; I want a career with purpose. I want to be someone people can depend on when they are afraid, vulnerable, or in need of help. My experiences have continued to strengthen this passion. Through four years of JROTC, I have developed discipline, leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. My involvement in community service and the FBI Teen Academy has also given me opportunities to learn more about public safety and the responsibilities that come with serving others. These experiences have confirmed that Criminal Justice is the path I want to pursue. After completing my college education, I plan to earn my degree in Criminal Justice and pursue a career in law enforcement or public service. I want to continue learning through professional training, hands-on experiences, internships, and mentorship. Eventually, I hope to use my career to protect others, build trust within my community, and positively impact people who may be experiencing some of the same struggles I have witnessed. One of the greatest adversities I have overcome was struggling academically during my freshman year. I knew I was capable of more, but my circumstances and challenges made it difficult to see the student I could become. Instead of accepting that my freshman year would define me, I made a decision to change. I became more disciplined with my schoolwork, learned from my mistakes, asked for help when I needed it, and stayed focused even when progress was difficult. That determination changed my academic journey. I worked my way to a 4.0 GPA and continued challenging myself through JROTC, Beta Club, community service, and other opportunities. My journey taught me that adversity does not have to be the end of the story. Sometimes it becomes the reason you work harder. I carry that lesson with me as I prepare for college. I know there will be obstacles ahead, but I also know that I have already overcome challenges that once seemed impossible. My goal is to take that same determination into my education and eventually into a career dedicated to serving others.

Life's Journey Sometimes life changes in weeks. For my family, that happened when my cousin, who was only 40 years old, was diagnosed with ALS. He came home the previous year to celebrate his father's retirement, and just one month later, our family learned something was seriously wrong. After receiving a second opinion, the diagnosis was confirmed. What followed was a heartbreaking and emotional battle that none of us was prepared for. One of the hardest parts was watching how quickly ALS changed his life. I remember him as someone who could walk around, enjoy life, and shoot basketball. Seeing him go from being active and independent to eventually becoming wheelchair-bound was heartbreaking. It was difficult to watch someone who was once moving freely become dependent on others because of a disease he could not control. Knowing that ALS has no cure made every stage of his battle even harder because our family knew there was no simple treatment that could make everything go back to the way it was. His battle affected me emotionally and changed the way I look at life and my education. My family experienced fear, sadness, uncertainty, and hope while trying to support him and one another. Sadly, my cousin passed away just two weeks ago. His death has made this experience even more difficult, but it has also made me appreciate the importance of making the most of every opportunity I have. ALS has impacted my educational journey by reminding me not to take my future for granted. Even while dealing with the emotional weight of my family's experience, I have continued working toward my goal of becoming a first-generation college student. My academic journey has not always been perfect. I struggled during my freshman year, but I refused to allow that beginning to define me. Through determination and hard work, I have grown into a student with a 4.0 GPA. This scholarship would help me pursue my college education and reduce the financial challenges of tuition, books, transportation, and other expenses. As a first-generation college student, financial assistance would allow me to focus more on my education and less on how I will afford college. It would help me move closer to earning my Criminal Justice degree and pursuing a career in law enforcement or public service. I am not currently formally involved with an ALS-related organization or charity, and I do not want to claim involvement that I have not had. However, ALS has become deeply personal to my family. I supported my family emotionally throughout my cousin's illness and witnessed firsthand how this disease affects not only the person diagnosed, but everyone who loves them. My cousin's life has reminded me that life is precious and can change unexpectedly. I want to honor his memory by continuing my education, pursuing my goals, and using my future career to serve and help others. His journey will always be part of the reason I keep moving forward.

Janaisha Foxworth Marion High Marion, SC Criminal Justice Major Lotus Scholarship September 6, 2026 My Clear Path Some people are given a clear path to their future. I have had to create mine. Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household has taught me lessons that no classroom could ever teach me. I have experienced financial struggles, family challenges, and the painful reality of watching my mother struggle with addiction. There were moments when the circumstances around me could have caused me to lose focus, but I made a choice: I would not allow someone else's struggle to define my future. My grandmother has been my MVP through it all. When my mother's addiction created uncertainty in our family, my grandmother stepped up and became my driving force. She supported me emotionally, encouraged me to stay focused on my education, and gave me stability when life around me felt anything but stable. Her belief in me became something I could hold onto when I struggled to believe in myself. Because of her example, I learned that strength is not about never experiencing hardship. Strength is choosing to keep moving forward despite it. I have turned my circumstances into motivation rather than excuses. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned A and A/B Honor Roll recognition since ninth grade. Through Beta Club and JROTC, I have developed leadership and discipline. I also participated in the FBI Teen Academy, which strengthened my passion for Criminal Justice. I am actively building my future by maintaining my grades, researching colleges, applying for scholarships, and participating in leadership opportunities. I will provide support when someone is afraid, needs a voice, and needs help investing in their future. I will always wear my grandmother's badge of strength, compassion, and perseverance.

Janaisha Foxworth Marion High Marion, SC Criminal Justice Major Bick First Generation September 6, 2026 The First Chapter My journey has not always been easy. I have faced challenges in the past that could have distracted me from my education, but instead, they have motivated me to work harder. My family has experienced difficult circumstances, including financial challenges and instability. Through it all, my grandmother has been one of my greatest sources of support. She has taught me that difficult circumstances do not have to become excuses. They can become reasons to keep pushing forward. Being a first-generation college student means more to me than being the first person in my family to attend college. It means becoming the person who opens a door that was not always open for my family and holding it open for those who come after me. It means proving that where I come from does not determine where I can go. I know reaching my goal will require determination and financial support. What drives me is my desire to create a future that is greater than the challenges I have faced. I have learned that difficult circumstances do not have to determine my future. Instead, they have pushed me to work harder and stay focused on my goals. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA, participating in JROTC and Beta Club, earning a Distinguished Leadership Award, and completing the FBI Teen Academy have strengthened my confidence that I can achieve my dreams. My dream is to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice and build a career in public safety. I want to serve my community, protect others, and make a meaningful difference in people's lives. My experiences have shown me how important it is to have people who are willing to step up, help others, and make a difference when it matters most. I want to become that person for someone else. I know that the road ahead of me will not be perfect. It will require dedication, devotion, determination, and sacrifice. To me, I am not just building a future for myself; I will be creating a path forward for my family. I want them to know that their circumstances do not determine the future. Receiving The Bick First Generation Scholarship would bring me one step closer to my dream of earning a college degree. As a first-generation student, navigating the college process and finding a way to afford my education can feel overwhelming. This scholarship would help reduce the financial burden on my family and allow me to focus more fully on my education and career preparation. I see this scholarship as more than a paycheck. I see it as an opportunity for my future. My dream is not simply to graduate from college; it is to use my education and career to become a positive force for others. This scholarship would help me take another important step toward turning that dream into reality.

Janaisha Foxworth Marion High School Marion, SC Criminal Justice Major Charlene K. Howard Chogo Scholarship September 5, 2026 The Power of Women Women’s empowerment is not simply about giving women opportunities; it is about helping women and girls recognize their strength, find their voice, and believe that their circumstances do not determine their future. I have learned that empowerment can begin with something as simple as being the person who listens, encourages, and refuses to let another girl give up on herself. One experience that shaped my understanding of empowerment was supporting a classmate who was being bullied and facing difficulties at home. These challenges caused her to lose confidence and become afraid to speak up for herself. I listened to her, encouraged her to share her feelings, and reminded her that she deserved to be treated with respect. I also supported her in finding the courage to speak up when she was being mistreated and reassured her that the problems she faced did not define her worth or potential. Over time, I saw her become more confident and willing to express herself. This experience showed me that empowerment is about helping someone discover the strength that was already inside her. I want to be an inspiration and continue to encourage other women and girls that they can overcome challenges. I will let them know that if they believe in themselves, it will be easier to speak up. It is a joy knowing the power of women motivating other women to recognize their values and abilities. I believe my impact on women's empowerment begins with the example I set through my education, leadership, and determination. As a high school student preparing for college, I have learned that being a young woman means having the courage to pursue opportunities even when circumstances are challenging. Through my involvement in JROTC, Beta Club, volunteer activities, and the FBI Teen Academy, I have developed leadership, discipline, confidence, and a strong sense of responsibility. These experiences have taught me to speak up, work with others, and step forward when leadership is needed. I hope that my accomplishments encourage other young women to become involved in programs that challenge them and help them discover their strengths. I want girls in my community to see that leadership is not limited by gender and that women belong in classrooms, careers, and leadership positions where they can make meaningful decisions and create positive change. My goal of pursuing a career in Criminal Justice is another way I hope to contribute to women's empowerment. I want to enter a field where women continue to make a difference in public safety, law enforcement, and the justice system. I hope to use my education and experiences to advocate for fairness, protect others, and serve my community. By pursuing a career in a field that requires courage, integrity, and leadership, I can demonstrate to younger girls that they should never allow stereotypes about women to prevent them from pursuing their dreams. My true desire for empowerment is not only about achieving success for myself; it is about using my success to inspire others. I plan to be that driving force who encourages another girl to apply for college, pursue a career, speak boldly, and believe that she belongs in every room she enters. Although the road ahead of me is just my beginning, I hope my determination, leadership, and commitment to education will create a positive example for other young women. I hope to build a future of confidence, respect, and power through my career path in Criminal Justice.

Janaisha Foxworth Marion High School Marion, SC Criminal Justice Major Elijah's Helping Hand Scholarship September 5, 2026 Mind Blowing As a middle-aged student, I had the experience of watching my Mother battle pill addiction. Those circumstances really sent mixed signals to my brain, causing me to be angry, ashamed, disappointed, upset, and caring. Mental illness can affect an entire family, not just the person experiencing it. In my family, I have seen how emotional and mental health struggles can create stress, uncertainty, and difficult situations. Living through these experiences has changed the way I understand family, compassion, and the importance of supporting the people we love. There have been times when I have felt worried, confused, or overwhelmed because I did not always understand what my family member was going through. Mental illness can sometimes change a person’s behavior, emotions, and ability to handle everyday responsibilities. As a family member, it can be difficult to know what to say or how to help. There were moments when I wished I could make everything better, but I learned that I could not solve every problem on my own. Mental health has affected my life in ways that are not always easy for other people to understand. There are times when my mind becomes overwhelmed with thoughts about what could go wrong, what other people may think, or whether I am making the right decisions. Even when everything appears to be okay on the outside, I can sometimes feel stressed and worried on the inside. I sometimes overthink situations and replay conversations or decisions in my mind. This can make small problems feel bigger than they really are. These experiences have taught me the importance of communication and patience. I have learned that someone who is struggling mentally may need understanding instead of judgment. I have also learned that supporting someone does not mean that I have to carry all of their problems myself. Families need to encourage one another and seek appropriate help when it is needed. Mental illness has also affected me personally by making me more aware of my own emotions. I have learned that it is okay to acknowledge when I am stressed, hurt, or overwhelmed. Instead of keeping everything inside, I have learned the importance of talking to trusted people and taking care of myself while still being there for my family. Although these experiences have been difficult, they have helped me grow. They have made me more compassionate toward people who may be facing struggles that others cannot see. I want to use what I have learned to encourage others to treat mental health seriously and to remind people that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. I have learned that I cannot control everything that happens in life. Instead, I can focus on what I can control, take things one step at a time, and remind myself that difficult moments will eventually pass. My family’s experiences with mental illness have taught me that strength does not mean pretending that everything is okay. Sometimes strength means admitting that you need support, offering support to others, and continuing to move forward together. These lessons have shaped who I am and have encouraged me to become a more understanding, caring, and resilient person. Living with mental illness has not always been easy, but it has helped me develop resilience. Strength is learning how to keep moving forward despite those feelings. I believe the challenges I have faced can help me become a more compassionate, determined, and successful person.

Janaisha Foxworth Marion High School Marion, SC Criminal Justice Major Marcia Bick Scholarship September 5, 2026 Challenges of Life As a high school senior, I have learned that success does not define your past, but what you are willing to do with it for a brighter future. I believe dedicated, determined, devoted, and high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds should receive scholarships and grants. Financial circumstances should not prevent devoted students from reaching their potential. Educational support is more than financial assistance. It is that chance to turn determination and hard work into a successful future. My journey has not always been easy. Watching my mother struggle with pill addiction and growing up surrounded by inner-city struggles exposed me to challenges that affected me emotionally and mentally. There were moments when the circumstances around me could have made me angry, discouraged, or afraid of what my own future might hold. Watching someone I love struggle was painful, and there were things I experienced that no young person should have to carry alone. The promise I made was to let those circumstances be part of my story but not the author of my future. Despite the obstacles I have faced, I have remained committed to academic excellence. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned A and A/B Honor Roll recognition since ninth grade. I have challenged myself academically through courses including Honors English, Algebra, Chemistry, Biology, World History, and Geometry. My academic accomplishments demonstrate that I am willing to work hard and hold myself to a high standard, even when life outside of school is challenging. I have also worked to develop myself as a leader. Through JROTC, I have learned discipline, responsibility, teamwork, and leadership, and I earned a Distinguished Leadership Award and medal. I was also selected to participate in the FBI Teen Academy, an opportunity that strengthened my interest in criminal justice and gave me greater insight into the career I hope to pursue. When I look toward my future, I do not see a perfect road. I see a road that I have already begun walking. A road that is shaped by challenges, strengthened by perseverance, and guided by a desire to serve others. I plan to attend college, earn a degree in Criminal Justice, and build a career in law enforcement or public service. I want to use my education to encourage young people to make positive choices. Receiving this scholarship would help reduce the financial barriers standing between me and my college education. It would allow me to continue pursuing my goals while proving that a student's circumstances do not have to determine their future. My dreams were not born from having an easy life, but from experiences that taught me to be stronger. I cannot change everything I went through, but I can decide what I do with it. I choose to turn my pain into purpose, my challenges into strength, my education into opportunity, and my future into a life of service.

Janaisha Foxworth Marion High School Marion, South Carolina Criminal Justice Major Scholarship Name September 5, 2026 Career Goal: Criminal Investigator / Detective in Law Enforcement My specific career goal is to earn a degree in Criminal Justice and become a criminal investigator or detective in law enforcement. I chose the field of Criminal Justice because I have always been interested in helping people, protecting my community, and understanding what it takes to keep others safe. I want to investigate crimes, gather evidence, help victims and families find answers, and work to make my community safer. My desire became even stronger after experiencing a house fire in my neighborhood. Seeing my grandparents immediately step forward to help and watching neighbors come together in such a frightening situation showed me the importance of people willing to serve others in times of crisis. As a high school senior, I am at an important turning point in my life. Graduation represents more than completing high school—it represents the beginning of the future I have worked hard to create. My goal is to attend college, earn a degree in criminal justice, and build a career where I can serve and protect others. I want my education and experiences to allow me to make a positive difference in my community. As I have grown older, my interest in public safety has developed into a clear career goal. Through four years of JROTC, I have learned discipline, leadership, teamwork, accountability, and the importance of serving something greater than myself. My experience in the FBI Teen Academy also deepened my understanding of law enforcement and confirmed that Criminal Justice is the field I want to pursue. I understand that this career requires integrity, critical thinking, patience, communication, and a willingness to continue learning. These are qualities I am committed to developing through my college education and future experiences. Ultimately, I chose this field because I believe in service. I want my career to not just be a job but to have meaning. I want to be that person that people can trust, stand up for others, and work to make a positive difference. I want to use my education, leadership skills, and determination to protect others and give back to my community. My goal is not only to become successful, but to become the kind of professional who inspires others to believe that they, too, can make a difference. Receiving this scholarship would help me take the next step toward these goals. As a senior preparing to begin a new chapter, I am ready to continue learning, growing, and turning my experiences into purpose. I cannot change my past, but I can use it to build a better future. I am determined to graduate, succeed in college, establish a meaningful career, and become someone who makes a difference in the lives of others.

Janaisha Foxworth Marion High School Marion, SC Criminal Justice Major Brian Chellios Memorial Scholarship September 5, 2026 What Belonging to the Fire Service Means to Me Waking up one spring morning to see my neighbors’ house on fire was a moment I will never forget. I immediately panicked when I realized that their four children were inside the home. What happened next showed me the true meaning of courage, compassion, and community. My grandparents immediately jumped into action. My grandfather entered the burning home searching for the children, while my grandmother stayed outside providing blankets, comfort, and support to the family. It was the first time I had ever witnessed a real fire, and because it was happening so close to home, it made the reality of an emergency feel completely different. I watched neighbors come together, not thinking about themselves, but about helping a family in need. That morning changed the way I viewed firefighters and first responders. I saw firsthand that serving others is not just about responding to an emergency—it is about courage, compassion, teamwork, and being there for people when they need you most. To me, belonging to the fire service means more than wearing a uniform or responding to emergencies. I believe it takes a special kind of person to make it in the fire service. Firefighters must be willing to run toward danger when others are running away. They must remain calm under pressure, think quickly, follow their training, and trust the people working beside them. One mistake or moment of hesitation can affect an entire team, which is why preparation, responsibility, and communication are so important. I have learned many of these qualities through my four years in JROTC. JROTC has taught me that leadership is not simply about being in charge. A true leader takes responsibility, listens to others, works as part of a team, and sets an example through their actions. Receiving the JROTC Distinguished Leadership Award and medal showed me that hard work, discipline, and dedication can make a difference. These experiences have helped prepare me for the type of commitment that a career in public service requires. I also believe that firefighters need compassion. When someone calls the fire department, they may have lost their home, been involved in an accident, or be facing a situation that has completely changed their life. A firefighter must be strong enough to handle the emergency while still remembering that there is a person behind every call. My interest in Criminal Justice has strengthened my desire to work in public safety. I have participated in the FBI Teen Academy and have volunteered in my community, experiences that have shown me how important it is to have people who are willing to serve and protect others. Whether my future career leads me into law enforcement, the fire service, or another area of public safety, I want my work to have a positive impact on my community. Ultimately, making it in the fire service means being willing to learn, train, sacrifice, and continue growing. It means putting the safety of others before yourself and understanding that being part of a fire department is a responsibility, not simply a job. I would be proud to belong to a profession built on service and teamwork. I want to become the kind of person who inspires others through my actions—someone who shows that with discipline, courage, determination, and a heart for service, it is possible to overcome obstacles and make a meaningful difference. To me, that is what belonging to the fire service truly means.

My Path Toward a Career in Criminal Justice My interest in criminal justice comes from my desire to serve others, make a positive difference in my community, and build a career based on integrity, responsibility, and fairness. I have always been interested in understanding how the justice system works and how law enforcement professionals protect and serve their communities. As I prepare for college, I hope to study criminal justice and eventually pursue a career in law enforcement or federal service. Throughout high school, I have challenged myself academically while becoming more involved in my school and community. I have taken Honors English, Algebra, Chemistry, Biology, World History, and Geometry. These courses have taught me how to think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, and remain committed even when a subject is difficult. I understand that a career in criminal justice requires more than physical strength or courage. It requires education, good judgment, communication skills, and the ability to make responsible decisions. My involvement in JROTC has also helped prepare me for my future. JROTC has taught me the importance of discipline, teamwork, leadership, accountability, and respect. These lessons have helped me become more confident and responsible. Being part of Beta Club has also encouraged me to focus on academic achievement and service to others. One of the experiences that strengthened my interest in criminal justice was participating in the FBI Teen Academy. This opportunity gave me a better understanding of the many career possibilities within federal law enforcement and showed me the importance of leadership, integrity, and public service. The FBI describes its Teen Academy as an opportunity for students to develop leadership skills and explore different career paths, which made the experience especially meaningful to me. My volunteer experiences have further influenced my career goals. I have volunteered with a police department, a library, my church, and through babysitting. Each experience has taught me something different about responsibility and helping others. Volunteering with a police department allowed me to see the importance of serving a community and treating people with respect. My other volunteer experiences have taught me patience, communication, dependability, and the value of giving my time to help others. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education and move closer to my goal of working in criminal justice. College will give me the knowledge and preparation I need to understand the law, the justice system, and the responsibilities that come with a career in public service. I am determined to use my education not only to create a successful future for myself, but also to make a difference in the lives of others. I know that a career in criminal justice comes with significant responsibility. I want to be someone who can be trusted to make fair decisions, stand up for what is right, and treat every person with dignity. My education, leadership experiences, community service, and interest in law enforcement have helped me develop a strong foundation for this future. My goal is not simply to have a career. My goal is to serve, protect, and make my community a better place. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue working toward that goal and become the kind of criminal justice professional who leads with integrity, compassion, and responsibility.

My Mind, My Body, My Soul There have been moments in my life when I felt like the circumstances around me were bigger than my ability to overcome them. Growing up, I experienced challenges within my family that affected me emotionally and mentally. Watching someone I love struggle with addiction and seeing the impact it had on my family forced me to grow up faster than I expected. There were times when I felt confused, hurt, and afraid of what the future would look like. Those experiences affected more than just my emotions. They sometimes made it difficult to concentrate on school because my mind was occupied with things that no young person should have to carry. I had to learn how to separate the challenges happening at home from the goals I was trying to accomplish at school. Instead of allowing my circumstances to become an excuse, I decided they would become motivation. Education became one of the places where I could create a different future for myself. I challenged myself academically, became involved in organizations such as Beta Club and JROTC, participated in the FBI Teen Academy, and volunteered in my community. Each accomplishment reminded me that my circumstances did not determine my potential. I began to understand that rebuilding my life did not mean pretending the difficult experiences never happened. It meant learning from them and refusing to let them control where I was going. My experiences have also influenced my desire to pursue a career in criminal justice. I want to serve people who may be experiencing difficult circumstances and remind them that their situation does not have to become their identity. I want to be someone who understands that behind every struggle is a person who may simply need someone to believe in them. For anyone currently fighting to rebuild their life, my advice is simple: do not give up on yourself just because your circumstances are difficult. Healing and rebuilding do not happen overnight. There may be days when you take one step forward and two steps backward. That does not mean you have failed. It means you are human. Find people who encourage you, set small goals, celebrate your progress, and do not be ashamed to ask for help. Most importantly, remember that your past may explain where you have been, but it does not have the authority to decide where you will go. I have learned that strength is not the absence of pain. Strength is choosing to keep moving forward despite it. My story is still being written, and I refuse to let the hardest chapters become the ending. I am rebuilding, growing, and preparing for a future that I once could only imagine—and I hope my journey reminds others that they can do the same.

Strength Built Through Challenges Growing up in a single-parent household has taught me lessons about strength, responsibility, and perseverance that I could never have learned from a textbook. There were times when life was difficult, and I watched my parent work hard to provide for our family while managing responsibilities that were not always easy. I learned early that nothing in life should be taken for granted and that sometimes you have to keep moving forward even when circumstances are not ideal. One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is learning how to succeed while dealing with challenges at home. There were moments when I had to become more independent, manage my responsibilities, and remain focused on school even when life outside the classroom was stressful. Instead of allowing those circumstances to become an excuse, I chose to let them motivate me. They taught me to appreciate every opportunity I receive and to work harder for the future I want. Sports have played an important role in helping me develop that mindset. Being involved in sports has taught me discipline, teamwork, commitment, and how to handle both success and disappointment. Sports showed me that you do not always win, but losing does not mean you have failed. Sometimes a setback is simply an opportunity to work harder, improve, and come back stronger. Sports have also given me an outlet when life became challenging. They provided a place where I could focus, build confidence, and surround myself with people who encouraged me to keep pushing forward. I learned that success does not happen overnight. It comes from showing up, putting in the work, listening to those who guide you, and refusing to quit when things become difficult. My experiences have helped shape the person I am becoming. Coming from a single-parent household has given me resilience, while sports have strengthened my determination. Together, they have taught me that my circumstances do not determine my destination. I may not have had the easiest path, but I have learned to turn challenges into motivation. As I prepare for college and my future career, I will carry those lessons with me. I want to continue working hard, making my family proud, and becoming someone who can give back to others. My journey has taught me that strength is not about never facing obstacles—it is about facing them, learning from them, and continuing to move forward.

A Spirit of Excellence Through Service I exemplify a spirit of excellence by holding myself to high standards, even when no one is watching. To me, excellence is not about being perfect or being the person who always receives recognition. It is about giving my best effort, learning from my mistakes, remaining disciplined when things become difficult, and becoming a better version of myself every day. I believe that the choices I make today are building the person I will become tomorrow. As a student at Marion High School, I have worked hard to maintain strong grades while challenging myself academically. I have been an A and A/B Honor Roll student since ninth grade and have taken challenging courses that have prepared me for college. I am also a member of Beta Club and JROTC, where I have developed leadership, responsibility, teamwork, and discipline. Receiving the JROTC Distinguished Leadership Award and Medal reminded me that true leadership is not simply about being in charge—it is about setting an example and being willing to serve others. My commitment to excellence has also encouraged me to seek opportunities beyond the classroom. Being selected for the FBI Teen Academy was especially meaningful because it allowed me to learn more about the field I hope to enter. This experience strengthened my interest in Criminal Justice and confirmed that I want a future centered around protecting people and serving my community. Giving back is a responsibility that I take seriously. I have volunteered with my local police department, library, church, and through helping care for children. These experiences have shown me that service does not always have to be something big or receive public recognition. Sometimes, giving back means giving your time, listening to someone who needs encouragement, helping a child, assisting a neighbor, or simply showing up when you are needed. I want my life to be measured not only by what I accomplish, but by the difference I make in the lives of others. My goal is to attend college, earn a degree in Criminal Justice, and pursue a career in law enforcement or public service. I want to use my education, leadership, and experiences to help make my community safer and to encourage young people to believe in their own potential. A spirit of excellence means refusing to settle for less when I know I am capable of more. It means leading with integrity, serving with compassion, and continuing forward even when the path is difficult. I strive to live that principle every day because I do not want success to stop with me. I want everything I accomplish to become a foundation for helping others rise, succeed, and believe that they can create a better future too.

Watching my struggle with pill addiction has been one of the most painful experiences of my life. Addiction does not only affects the person who is struggling; it can affect everyone who loves and cares about them. Seeing the lady who birthed me battle addiction has caused me emotional stress and has affected my mental and emotional well-being. There were times when I felt scared, confused, angry, and helpless. I wanted to help my mother, but I did not always know what to do. Watching her change because of addiction can be heartbreaking. There were moments when I worried about what might happen next and whether my mother would be okay. Carrying those worries was difficult, especially when I was trying to continue with school and my everyday responsibilities. This experience has affected the way I deal with stress and emotions. It has sometimes caused me to overthink situations and worry about things that are outside of my control. I have learned that difficult experiences within a family can have a lasting emotional impact, even when you are not the person struggling with the addiction. Although watching my mother struggle with pill addiction has been painful and has affected my mental and emotional health, I do not want the experience to define my future. I want to use what I have learned to become stronger, more understanding, and more determined. My experiences have taught me the importance of taking care of myself, supporting the people I love, and using difficult moments as motivation to build a better future. Mental illness can affect an entire family, not just the person experiencing it. In my family, I have seen how emotional and mental health struggles can create stress, uncertainty, and difficult situations. Living through these experiences has changed the way I understand family, compassion, and the importance of supporting the people we love. These experiences have taught me the importance of communication and patience. I have learned that someone who is struggling mentally may need understanding instead of judgment. I have also learned that supporting someone does not mean that I have to carry all of their problems myself. Families need to encourage one another and seek appropriate help when it is needed. Although these experiences have been difficult, they have helped me grow. They have made me more compassionate toward people who may be facing struggles that others cannot see. I want to use what I have learned to encourage others to treat mental health seriously and to remind people that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. My experiences with mental illness have taught me that strength does not mean pretending that everything is okay. Sometimes strength means admitting that you need support, offering support to others, and continuing to move forward together. These lessons have shaped who I am and have encouraged me to become a more understanding, caring, and resilient person.

My father's strength has been one of the biggest sources of motivation in my life, especially during the difficult times when my siblings were struggling with congenital heart problems. Watching my siblings face serious health challenges was frightening and emotional for my entire family. During those moments, my father showed me what it truly means to remain strong, supportive, and hopeful. There were times when our family faced uncertainty and fear. As my siblings went through medical challenges, I could see how much my father cared about their health and well-being. Even when he was worried himself, he continued to encourage our family and remain present. His strength helped create a sense of hope during moments when it was easy to feel overwhelmed. My father became a driving force for me because he showed me that difficult circumstances should not stop us from moving forward. He taught me that being strong does not mean that you never feel afraid. Watching him stand beside my siblings taught me the importance of courage, patience, and family. His example also changed the way I approach my own goals. When school becomes difficult or I face challenges in my personal life, I think about what my family has overcome. I remind myself that if my father could remain determined during some of the hardest moments of our family's life, I can also find the strength to keep pursuing my dreams. My father's support during my siblings' struggles has also taught me to appreciate the people who stand behind us. No one succeeds completely alone. Having someone who believes in you can make a tremendous difference, especially when life becomes difficult. My father has been that person for me. Because of his example, I want to become someone who supports others the way he supported our family. I want to pursue my education, build a successful career, and eventually use my success to help my family and community. I want my accomplishments to reflect the values he demonstrated: perseverance, responsibility, love, and determination. My siblings' congenital heart problems brought difficult moments into our family, but those experiences also revealed my father's incredible strength. He became a driving force for me by showing me how to face challenges without giving up. His example continues to motivate me, and I will carry the lessons he taught me as I work toward a brighter future. There were moments when my family experienced fear and uncertainty. Seeing my siblings go through medical challenges was difficult because I wanted nothing more than for them to be healthy and safe. There were times when I did not fully understand what was happening, but I understood that my family was facing something serious. Those experiences brought us closer together and taught me never to take the people I love for granted. Most importantly, my siblings' survival has taught me to appreciate life. Every milestone, accomplishment, and ordinary family moment feels meaningful because I know that life is precious. Their journey has given me a deeper appreciation for family and has motivated me to make the most of the opportunities I have. I am proud of my siblings and grateful for the strength they have shown. Their experiences have become an important part of my own story. They have taught me perseverance, compassion, gratitude, and hope. As I work toward graduating, attending college, and building my future career, I will carry those lessons with me. Their survival reminds me that even when the road is difficult, there is always a reason to keep moving forward.

Making a Positive Impact Through My Career My goal is to build a career in criminal justice and use my education and experiences to make a positive impact on the world. I want to serve others, protect my community, and become someone who people can trust during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. My experiences growing up, my immigration journey, my involvement in church, and being raised as so many uncles and cousins pastors have all influenced the person I am becoming and the career I hope to build. My immigration journey has taught me the importance of perseverance, opportunity, and never giving up. Adjusting to change and working toward a better future has shown me that challenges do not have to determine where a person ends up. I understand that many people come to a new country hoping to build a better life for themselves and their families. Because of my own experiences, I want to be someone who treats people with fairness, dignity, and respect regardless of their background. My involvement in church has also played an important role in shaping my values. Through church, I have learned the importance of serving others, showing compassion, helping people in need, and being a positive example. Being related to pastors has given me a close understanding of what it means to serve a community. I have watched the commitment, patience, and responsibility that ministry requires. It has taught me that leadership is not simply about having a title; it is about being willing to help others and make sacrifices when people need you. These lessons connect directly to my interest in criminal justice. I want to pursue a career where I can help create safer communities and make a difference in people's lives. Whether my future career leads me into law enforcement, investigations, federal service, or another area of criminal justice, I want to approach my work with integrity and compassion. I want to protect people while also understanding that every person has a story and deserves to be treated fairly. I also want to make a difference beyond my career. I hope to mentor young people and encourage students who may be facing difficult circumstances. I know how powerful it can be when someone believes in you and encourages you to keep going. I want to provide that encouragement to others and show young people that their circumstances do not have to determine their future. My long-term goal is to use my education, career, faith, and experiences to serve others. I want my success to benefit more than just myself. I want to support my family, give back to my community, mentor young people, and help create opportunities for others. I believe making a positive impact starts with how I treat people every day. My immigration journey has taught me perseverance, my church involvement has taught me service, and being related to pastors has taught me responsibility and leadership. Together, these experiences have prepared me to pursue a career focused on helping others. I want my life and career to demonstrate that success is not only about how far you go, but also about how many people you help along the way.

My Favorite Taylor Swift Performance One of my favorite Taylor Swift performances is her performance of “cardigan,” “august,” and “willow” at the 2021 Grammy Awards. I love this performance because it was more than just singing a few songs. Taylor created an entire world on stage that allowed the audience to experience the emotions and stories behind her music. What stood out to me most was the creativity of the performance. The cabin, forest setting, lighting, and movement between the songs made it feel like I was watching a story unfold. Taylor showed that a performance does not have to be filled with complicated choreography or special effects to be powerful. Her voice, storytelling, and ability to connect different songs were enough to capture my attention. I also admire how Taylor uses her experiences and emotions to create something meaningful. Her music often tells stories about relationships, growing up, heartbreak, confidence, and finding yourself. Watching her perform reminds me that our experiences can become part of our strength and creativity instead of something that holds us back. This performance inspires me because Taylor has shown the importance of hard work and believing in yourself. She has faced criticism and setbacks throughout her career, but she continued developing her talent and finding new ways to express herself. Her ability to keep growing reminds me that I should not allow challenges or other people's opinions to stop me from pursuing my own goals. The performance also reminds me that success can come from being authentic. Taylor did not need to become someone else to connect with her audience. She used her own creativity and personality to create something memorable. For me, the best part of Taylor Swift's performance is the emotion behind it. It demonstrates how music can tell a story, connect people, and make someone feel understood. As I work toward my own goals, I want to carry that same determination and creativity with me. Taylor's performance reminds me to believe in myself, continue growing, and never be afraid to tell my own story

My Goals and Plan for Achieving Them My goals are to graduate from high school, attend college, earn a degree in criminal justice, build a successful career, become financially independent, and give back to my family and community. I understand that achieving these goals will require more than simply having a dream. I need a realistic plan that includes education, finances, time management, mentorship, and determination. My first goal is to graduate from high school. My immediate priority is maintaining good grades, completing all required assignments, staying involved in activities such as JROTC and Beta Club, and continuing to build my resume. I will use my teachers, counselors, mentors, family members, and school resources whenever I need academic or career guidance. I will also continue participating in opportunities that expose me to criminal justice, including programs such as the FBI Teen Academy and community volunteer work. My second goal is to attend college and earn a criminal justice degree. During my senior year, I plan to research colleges with strong criminal justice programs and compare tuition, financial aid, scholarships, housing, transportation, graduation rates, and career opportunities. I will apply to several schools rather than depending on one option. I will also complete the FAFSA and apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible. My goal is to reduce the amount of student loan debt I have to take on. My plan is to lower expenses by choosing an affordable school, applying for scholarships, purchasing used or digital textbooks when possible, working part-time if my class schedule allows, and creating a monthly budget. My financial plan is especially important to me. I do not want college debt to prevent me from reaching my other goals. I will track my income and expenses, avoid unnecessary spending, and borrow only what is necessary. I will look for work-study opportunities, internships, paid positions, and summer employment. If attending a four-year university immediately is not financially realistic, another path could be beginning at a community college and transferring to a four-year institution. During college, I plan to build experience in addition to earning my degree. I will seek internships, volunteer opportunities, mentoring relationships, and experiences connected to law enforcement, public safety, investigations, or other areas of criminal justice. My previous volunteer experiences with the police department, library, church, and babysitting have taught me responsibility and service. I want to continue building those qualities while developing professional skills. I also understand that plans can change. If I do not receive enough financial aid for my first-choice college, I will consider another affordable school. If I need to work while attending college, I will adjust my schedule. If I struggle academically, I will use tutoring, office hours, study groups, and academic advising rather than falling behind. If my original career path changes, my criminal justice education can still provide opportunities in areas such as law enforcement, corrections, courts, investigations, security, or other public-service careers. I know reaching my goals will require sacrifice, organization, and persistence. My plan is to use the resources available to me, carefully manage my finances, seek guidance when I need it, and remain open to different paths toward success. I cannot predict every challenge I will face, but I can prepare for them. By taking my education seriously, managing my money responsibly, building experience, and staying committed to my goals, I believe I can graduate from college, establish a meaningful career in criminal justice, and create the better future I envision for myself, my family, and my community.

Being a fan of Sabrina Carpenter has inspired me in ways that go beyond enjoying her music. I admire her determination, confidence, creativity, and ability to continue pursuing her dreams. Her journey has reminded me that success does not always happen overnight and that staying committed to your goals can eventually lead to great opportunities. One of the things that inspires me most about Sabrina Carpenter is her perseverance. She has worked in entertainment for years and continued developing her talents even when she was not always receiving the same attention or recognition. Watching her continue to work toward her goals has taught me that rejection or setbacks should not be a reason to give up. Sabrina has also inspired me to be confident in who I am. Her personality and willingness to express herself remind me that I do not have to change who I am just to fit in with other people. I can be comfortable being myself while still working to become a better person. Her success has also motivated me to think about my own future. I understand that reaching my goals will require dedication, patience, and hard work. Whether I am working toward graduating from high school, attending college, or building my future career in criminal justice, I want to approach my goals with the same determination that I admire in her. Being a fan has also given me something positive to look forward to during stressful times. Music can provide comfort, motivation, and a way to express emotions that can sometimes be difficult to explain. Sabrina's music has helped remind me to enjoy life, stay positive, and keep moving forward.

Imagine going to bed and waking up just randomly solving math problems. It has been a habit of mine since grade school. I love math because it challenges me to think, solve problems, and never give up when something is difficult. Math is not always easy, but that is one of the reasons I enjoy it. When I finally understand a problem that I struggled with, I feel proud of myself and motivated to take on the next challenge. One thing I enjoy about math is that there is a process to finding an answer. I like being able to look at a problem, break it down into steps, and work toward a solution. It teaches me to be patient and pay attention to details. When I make a mistake, I can go back, figure out what went wrong, and learn from it. My love for math has also helped me develop skills that I can use outside the classroom. Problem-solving, critical thinking, organization, and attention to detail are important in everyday life and in my future career. I believe these skills will be especially valuable as I pursue my interest in criminal justice, where analyzing information and making careful decisions are important. Math has always been more than just a subject in school to me. It is a way of thinking, solving problems, and challenging myself to find the right answer. When I make a mistake, I can go back, find where I went wrong, and try again. This has taught me not to become discouraged by challenges. Math has taught me that success does not always come immediately. Sometimes you have to try multiple approaches before you find the solution. That lesson has helped me become more persistent in other areas of my life. My love for math comes from knowing that every problem is an opportunity to learn something new. Math has taught me to think differently, stay determined, and never be afraid of a challenge. Another benefit of loving math is learning perseverance. Math has also taught me the importance of accuracy and attention to detail. My love for math has given me skills that go far beyond numbers and equations. It has helped me become a better problem-solver, critical thinker, and more determined student. I know that these skills will continue to benefit me throughout college, my career, and the rest of my life.

Being a BIPOC student has given me a greater understanding of the importance of education, opportunity, and financial responsibility. As I prepare for college, one of the things I think about is how I will pay for my education without allowing student loan debt to prevent me from reaching my future goals. I believe education can change the direction of my life, but I also understand that managing the cost of college is an important part of building a successful future. Growing up surrounded by inner-city struggles has taught me that I have to work hard for the future I want. I have seen challenges that could easily make someone lose hope, but instead of allowing my circumstances to define me, I have chosen to use them as motivation. I want a better life, and I know that education, determination, and perseverance can help me achieve it. There have been times when life around me has been difficult. Financial struggles, family challenges, and the environment I grew up in have shown me that success cannot be taken for granted. I have learned that I cannot always control the circumstances around me, but I can control how I respond to them. For many students, the cost of college can be overwhelming. Tuition, books, housing, transportation, and other expenses can add up quickly. Scholarships and financial aid can make a major difference because they can reduce the amount of money a student needs to borrow. My goal is to attend college and pursue a career in criminal justice. I want my education to prepare me for a meaningful career where I can serve my community and help others. However, I also want to graduate with a financial plan. I understand that student loans are a responsibility, and I want to learn how to manage them carefully through budgeting, responsible borrowing, scholarships, grants, and other financial resources. Managing student loan debt is important because excessive debt can affect a person's ability to achieve other goals. I want to be able to establish financial stability, support my family, and eventually give back to my community. If I have to borrow money for college, I want to understand the terms of my loans, make payments responsibly, and take advantage of legitimate programs that may help reduce or manage my debt. I also believe that scholarships can make a powerful difference in my future. Every scholarship I receive can mean less money borrowed and fewer financial obstacles after graduation. It would allow me to focus more on my education and career rather than constantly worrying about how I will pay for school. There have been times when life around me has been difficult. Financial struggles, family challenges, and the environment I grew up in have shown me that success cannot be taken for granted. I have learned that I cannot always control the circumstances around me, but I can control how I respond to them. I want to prove that my background does not limit my future. My goal is to graduate from college, build a successful career in criminal justice, manage my finances responsibly, and use my success to help my family and community. I do not view my education simply as a personal achievement. I view it as an investment in my future. With financial assistance, responsible planning, and determination, I can pursue my college education without allowing student loan debt to define my future. I want to graduate with not only a degree, but also the knowledge and financial responsibility needed to build a better life.

Growing up in the inner city has presented challenges that have tested my strength, determination, and ability to keep moving forward. There have been obstacles around me that could have easily discouraged me from pursuing my goals. However, I have learned that where I come from does not have to determine where I am going. With hard work, education, perseverance, and faith in myself, I can graduate, attend college, build a meaningful career, and create the brighter future I have always envisioned. Making it from the inner city to graduation is not just about overcoming obstacles; it is about creating opportunities where they may not have always existed. I am proud of how far I have come, and I am determined to continue moving forward. I want my story to show that difficult circumstances do not have to become limitations. Living in an environment where opportunities may not always be easy to find has taught me to appreciate every opportunity I receive. I have seen people struggle with financial difficulties, family problems, addiction, and other challenges. There has been an addiction with my mom, but my grandmother stepped in to make sure that I continue on the right path. These experiences have made me realize that education is one of the most important tools I have to change the direction of my life. Instead of allowing my circumstances to define me, I have chosen to use them as motivation. Getting to graduation is more than simply receiving a diploma. For me, graduation represents perseverance. It represents every time I had to overcome a difficult situation, stay focused, and remind myself that my future is worth fighting for. There were moments when it would have been easier to give up, but I kept thinking about the life I want to create. My experiences have also given me a desire to help other young people. I know there are students who may feel limited by where they live or the circumstances they face at home. I want to encourage them to believe that their future can be different. Success may not always be easy, but it is possible when you remain determined and surround yourself with people who support your goals. Education is one of the most important steps toward the future I want. Graduating from high school and attending college are goals that I am determined to accomplish. I want to pursue a career in criminal justice and use my education to build a stable and meaningful future. I want to be able to support my family and eventually give back to the community that helped shape me. I also want to be an example to other young people who are growing up in difficult circumstances. I understand what it feels like to see obstacles around you and wonder if you can achieve something different. My goal is not simply to leave the struggles behind me. I want to learn from them. The challenges I have experienced have made me stronger, more determined, and more compassionate. They have given me a reason to succeed and a desire to help others who may be facing similar obstacles. I am aiming for a better life because I believe I am capable of creating one. I want to graduate, attend college, build a successful career, and make my family proud. My past may be part of my story, but it does not have to be the ending. I am determined to turn my struggles into motivation and use my future to create opportunities, not only for myself, but for others as well.

Watching my mom struggle with pill addiction has been one of the most painful experiences of my life. Addiction does not only affect the person who is struggling; it can affect everyone who loves and cares about them. Seeing the lady that birthed you battle addiction has caused me emotional stress and has affected my mental and emotional well-being. Having my grandmother help raise me has played an important role in shaping the person I am today. She has been there for me during important moments in my life, offering guidance, love, encouragement, and support. Her sacrifices and dedication have made me realize how important education is and have inspired me to pursue a college education. My grandmother has taught me that education can open doors to opportunities and create a better future. Watching her help raise me has shown me the importance of having someone who believes in you, even when life becomes difficult. Her support has encouraged me to take school seriously and to set goals for myself. There were times when I felt scared, confused, angry, and helpless. I wanted to help my family member, but I did not always know what to do. Watching someone you love change because of addiction can be heartbreaking. There were moments when I worried about what might happen next and whether my family member would be okay. Carrying those worries was difficult, especially when I was trying to continue with school and my everyday responsibilities. Having her support has also taught me the importance of family. I understand that the people who stand beside you during difficult times are extremely valuable. Her willingness to help raise me has shown me what unconditional love and sacrifice look like. Because of her example, I want to become someone who gives back to others and provides the same kind of encouragement that she has given me. My grandmother's role in my life has taught me that success is not something I should take for granted. Behind every opportunity I have are people who have supported and encouraged me. I want to honor my grandmother by making the most of those opportunities and working hard to accomplish my goals. i also want to use my education and future success to help my family and my community. My grandmother has also taught me the importance of responsibility and hard work. A grandmother who helps raise you can become more than a family member; she can become a role model, a source of strength, and someone you can depend on. She has shown me that success does not happen overnight and that you have to be willing to work for the future you want. Her sacrifices have motivated me to take my education seriously and make choices that will help me build a better life. College represents more than just earning a degree. To me, it represents the opportunity to build a future that reflects the sacrifices my family has made for me. I want my grandmother to know that her love, guidance, and support helped me become the person I am today. My goal is to turn her sacrifices into motivation and use my education to create a successful future for myself and make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Watching a family member struggle with pill addiction has been one of the most painful experiences of my life. Addiction does not only affect the person who is struggling; it can affect everyone who loves and cares about them. Seeing someone close to me battle addiction has caused me emotional stress and has affected my mental and emotional well-being. Mental illness can affect an entire family, not just the person experiencing it. In my family, I have seen how emotional and mental health struggles can create stress, uncertainty, and difficult situations. Living through these experiences has changed the way I understand family, compassion, and the importance of supporting the people we love. Mental illness has also affected me personally by making me more aware of my own emotions. I have learned that it is okay to acknowledge when I am stressed, hurt, or overwhelmed. Instead of keeping everything inside, I have learned the importance of talking to trusted people and taking care of myself while still being there for my family. There were times when I felt scared, confused, angry, and helpless. I wanted to help my family member, but I did not always know what to do. Watching someone you love change because of addiction can be heartbreaking. There were moments when I worried about what might happen next and whether my family member would be okay. Carrying those worries was difficult, especially when I was trying to continue with school and my everyday responsibilities. This experience has affected the way I deal with stress and emotions. It has sometimes caused me to overthink situations and worry about things that are outside of my control. I have learned that difficult experiences within a family can have a lasting emotional impact, even when you are not the person struggling with the addiction. At the same time, this experience has taught me important lessons. I have learned that addiction is a serious issue that requires compassion, support, and professional help. I have also learned that I cannot control another person's choices or recovery. I can love someone and want the best for them while also recognizing that I need to take care of my own well-being. Mental health has affected my life in ways that are not always easy for other people to understand. There are times when my mind becomes overwhelmed with thoughts about what could go wrong, what other people may think, or whether I am making the right decisions. Even when everything appears to be okay on the outside, I can sometimes feel stressed and worried on the inside. There have been times when I have felt worried, confused, or overwhelmed because I did not always understand what my family member was going through. Mental illness can sometimes change a person's behavior, emotions, and ability to handle everyday responsibilities. As a family member, it can be difficult to know what to say or how to help. There were moments when I wished I could make everything better, but I learned that I could not solve every problem on my own. I want to use what I have learned to encourage others to treat mental health seriously and to remind people that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. My family's experiences with mental illness have taught me that strength does not mean pretending that everything is okay. Sometimes strength means admitting that you need support, offering support to others, and continuing to move forward together. These lessons have shaped who I am and have encouraged me to become a more understanding, caring, and resilient person.

I had the opportunity of having two women in my life to inspire me to pursue my career. Watching my mom struggle every day with work has been one of the biggest reasons I want to go to college. I have seen how hard she works to provide for our family, even when she is tired or facing difficult circumstances. Seeing her sacrifices has motivated me to work harder in school and create a better future for myself and my family. One day, I hope my success will allow me to give back to her and show her that all of her hard work was worth it.Watching my mom work hard every day has given me a reason to keep pushing forward. Her sacrifices inspire me to take my education seriously and pursue opportunities she may not have had. My mom's determination has shown me that nothing in life is handed to you. She has taught me the value of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance. At the same time, watching her struggle has made me realize that I want more opportunities in my future. I want to earn a college degree so I can build a stable career and eventually be in a position where I can help support my family. My grandmother has taught me that education can open doors to opportunities and create a better future. Watching her help raise me has shown me the importance of having someone who believes in you, even when life becomes difficult. Her support has encouraged me to take school seriously and to set goals for myself. I want to honor my grandmother by making the most of those opportunities and working hard to accomplish my goals. College represents more than an education to me. It represents opportunity, independence, and the chance to turn my goals into reality. I want to study hard, gain the knowledge and skills necessary for my career, and make my mom proud. I know college will come with challenges, but I am prepared to work through them because I have seen firsthand what determination looks like. My goal is to build a career in criminal justice and use my education to serve and protect others. I want my future career to have a purpose and make a positive difference in my community. I also want to be an example to other young people who may be facing challenges at home and show them that their circumstances do not have to determine their future. Going to college is one of my biggest goals because I want to create a better future while honoring the person who has worked so hard to help me reach it. My mom's strength inspires me, and I want to use that inspiration to become educated, successful, and able to make a difference in the lives of others. Since my grandmother played an important role in my life, I want to build a successful future and make her proud. I want to earn a degree, develop a career in criminal justice, and use my education to serve my community. I also want to become financially independent and eventually be able to give back to the people who have sacrificed so much for me. College represents more than just earning a degree. To me, it represents the opportunity to build a future that reflects the sacrifices my family has made for me. My goal is to turn her sacrifices into motivation and use my education to create a successful future for myself and make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Watching my mother struggle with pill addiction has been one of the most painful experiences of my life. Addiction does not only affect the person who is struggling; it can affect everyone who loves and cares about them. Seeing the lady that birthed you battle addiction has caused me emotional stress and has affected my mental and emotional well-being. Mental illness can affect an entire family, not just the person experiencing it. In my family, I have seen how emotional and mental health struggles can create stress, uncertainty, and difficult situations. Living through these experiences has changed the way I understand family, compassion, and the importance of supporting the people we love. There were times when I felt scared, confused, angry, and helpless. I wanted to help my mother, but I did not always know what to do. Watching someone you love change because of addiction can be heartbreaking. Carrying those worries was difficult, especially when I was trying to continue with school and my everyday responsibilities. This experience has affected the way I deal with stress and emotions. It has sometimes caused me to overthink situations and worry about things that are outside of my control. I have learned that difficult experiences within a family can have a lasting emotional impact, even when you are not the person struggling with the addiction. At the same time, this experience has taught me important lessons. I have learned that addiction is a serious issue that requires compassion, support, and professional help. I can love her and want the best for her while also recognizing that I need to take care of my own well-being. Going through this experience has made me more compassionate toward people and families dealing with addiction. It has shown me that people can be struggling with challenges that others cannot see. Instead of judging her for their struggles, I believe we should encourage them to seek help and remind them that recovery is possible. At first, I was angry and upset because I was afraid of what my classmates might say. I literally want to roll up in a big ball and just die. However, my grandmother kept encouraging me throughout the process to be the better person. Although watching my family member struggle with pill addiction has been painful and has affected my mental and emotional health, I do not want the experience to define my future. I want to use what I have learned to become stronger, more understanding, and more determined. My experiences have taught me the importance of taking care of myself, supporting the people I love, and using difficult moments as motivation to build a better future. There are times when my mind becomes overwhelmed with thoughts about what could go wrong, what other people may think, or whether I am making the right decisions. Even when everything appears to be okay on the outside, I can sometimes feel stressed and worried on the inside. I have learned that asking for support does not make me weak. It takes courage to admit when I am struggling and allow someone else to help Living with anxiety has not always been easy, but it has helped me develop resilience. Anxiety does not define who I am or what I am capable of accomplishing. I have learned that strength is not about never being afraid or worried. Strength is learning how to keep moving forward despite those feelings. I believe the challenges I have faced can help me become a more compassionate, determined, and successful person.

Watching family members struggle with cancer has been one of the most difficult experiences I have faced. I personally have not been diagnosed with cancer, but I have witness my grandmother take care of her mother, sister, and brother. Cancer does not only affect the person who has the illness; it affects the entire family. Seeing someone I love experience pain, uncertainty, and difficult treatments has taught me lessons about strength, compassion, and the importance of being there for the people we love. There have been moments when I felt scared, helpless, and unsure of what to do. It is difficult to watch a family member struggle and know that you cannot simply take their pain away. Sometimes all I could do was spend time with them, listen to them, encourage them, and remind them that they were not alone. I learned that even small acts of kindness and support can mean a great deal during difficult times. My grandmother and I would sing worship songs and just pray for a better day. This experience has also changed the way I appreciate my family. I have learned not to take everyday moments for granted. Simple conversations, meals together, and spending time with the people I love have become more meaningful. Cancer has reminded me that life can change unexpectedly, which makes every moment with family important. Watching my family members face cancer has also made me stronger. I have learned that being strong does not mean that you never cry, worry, or feel afraid. True strength means continuing to show love and support even when things are difficult. Their courage has inspired me to face my own challenges with determination and a positive attitude. This experience has helped shape the person I want to become. It has given me a greater sense of compassion and a desire to help others who are going through difficult situations. Whether it is through my future career, community service, or simply being there for someone who needs support, I want to use what I have learned to make a difference. Although watching family members struggle with cancer has been painful, it has taught me some of life's most important lessons. I have learned the value of family, the power of perseverance, and the importance of showing compassion. Most importantly, I have learned that sometimes being present, offering encouragement, and giving someone hope can be one of the greatest ways to help. Having family members with cancer has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life. Watching people I love face an illness that can affect their health, emotions, and everyday lives has taught me lessons that I will carry with me forever. It has shown me how important family, strength, and support can be during difficult times. Cancer affects more than the person who is diagnosed. It affects everyone around them. I have experienced moments of worry and sadness while watching my family members go through treatments and difficult days. Sometimes I have felt helpless because I could not take away their pain. However, I learned that I could still make a difference by being there, listening, offering encouragement, and showing them that they were not alone. This experience has taught me to appreciate the little things. Spending time with family, having conversations, sharing meals, and making memories have become more meaningful to me. I have learned that we should never assume that we will always have tomorrow to tell someone that we love and appreciate them. Having family members with cancer has also helped me become more compassionate. I understand that people can be fighting battles that others cannot see. Because of this, I try to be more patient and understanding toward others who may be struggling with their own challenges. I have cried so many days nand nights for the pain to be relieved from their bodies. If I had a magic wand or wish, I would grant them to be cancer free. I thought that I would be able to see them ring the bell, but the Lord had other plans. It really hurt me and changed my perspective of life. Most importantly, my family's experience with cancer has taught me about courage. I have seen my loved ones continue to face difficult days with determination, and their strength has inspired me to become stronger as well. Their experiences have motivated me to work hard toward my goals and to use my future success to help others. Although cancer has brought difficult moments into my family's life, it has also brought us closer and taught us to value each other. I cannot control what the future holds, but I can control how I respond to it. I choose to be supportive, grateful, and compassionate. The lessons I have learned from my family will continue to shape the person I become and remind me to always be there for the people I love. Being a caregiver is a responsibility that requires patience, strength, compassion, and love. When a family member is struggling with cancer, becoming a caregiver can completely change your everyday life. You are not only helping with physical needs, but you are also providing emotional support and trying to remain strong when the situation becomes difficult. The life of a caregiver can be challenging. There may be doctor appointments, treatments, medications, household responsibilities, and moments when the person you care for needs extra help. At the same time, caregivers may have their own responsibilities, such as school, work, and taking care of other family members. It can sometimes feel overwhelming, but the love for the person being cared for can provide the motivation to keep going. One of the hardest parts of being a caregiver is watching someone you love struggle. There are times when you may feel helpless because you cannot take away their pain. However, being present can make a difference. Sitting beside them, listening, helping with everyday tasks, or simply reminding them that they are loved can provide comfort during some of their hardest moments. Being a caregiver has taught me that strength does not mean never feeling tired, worried, or afraid. Strength means continuing to show up even when things are difficult. It has taught me to be more patient, understanding, and appreciative of the people in my life. Standing beside my grandmother on days that I knew she was tired was warm. I would just hug her and let her know that things would be alright. My grandmother was definitely a VIP and a G.O.A.T in my book because she did this job everyday without complaining. The experience has also changed the way I view helping others. I have learned that caregiving is not always about doing something big. Sometimes it is the small things that matter most. A kind word, a helping hand, or simply being there can make someone feel less alone. There were times when I was asked to give them water. It really was scary watching each one of them battling different types of cancer. It amazed me of how the body works and shuts down. The throat cancer was the scariest because at some points my family member could not talk. I had to understand hand gestures or I would give them a notepad to write it down. Being a caregiver is not an easy responsibility, but it is one that can teach valuable lessons about love, sacrifice, and perseverance.I hope to carry these lessons with me throughout my life and use them to help others in my community. I have challenged myself to become an advocate for the people with cancer because some reallly do not have a voice.

My grandmother is my MVP and my G.O.A.T. because she has always been one of the strongest sources of love, guidance, and encouragement in my life. She has taught me that success is not just about what you accomplish, but also about the kind of person you become along the way. Whenever I face challenges, she reminds me not to give up and to believe in myself. Her sacrifices, wisdom, and unconditional support have helped shape the person I am today. To me, she is the Greatest of All Time because no award, trophy, or achievement could ever compare to the impact she has had on my life. This precious jewel took on responsibilities that she did not have to take on. When my mother became addicted to pills, my grandmother did not turn her back on me. Instead, she became a source of stability, love, and support when I needed it most. She made sure that I was cared for, supported, and encouraged to continue moving forward. While my family was dealing with challenges that were difficult for me to understand, my grandmother gave me a sense of security. She showed me that even during the hardest moments, someone can choose to stand strong for the people they love. Watching my family struggle taught me that addiction can affect more than just the person experiencing it. It can affect an entire family. My grandmother taught me the importance of compassion, patience, responsibility, and never giving up on someone you love. She showed me what it means to be dependable when others are depending on you. The other inspirational individual in my life has been my JROTC instructor. Colonel Simmons has had a lasting impact on my life. The lessons I have learned from him through JROTC will continue to guide me throughout college, my career, and beyond. I am grateful to have had a mentor who not only taught me about leadership but also encouraged me to become the best version of myself. His influence has helped prepare me for my future, and I hope to one day have the same positive impact on others that he has had on me. Over the past four years, Colonel Simmons has encouraged me to take advantage of opportunities that could help me reach my goals. He has supported my interest in criminal justice and encouraged me to think seriously about my future. His mentorship has helped me become more confident in myself and has shown me that success requires commitment and hard work. Throughout my education, I have worked to take advantage of opportunities that help me grow as a student and as a person. Through JROTC, I have developed discipline, leadership, responsibility, and respect. The guidance and support that I have received from my grandmother and instructor has also given me an opportunity to learn more about the criminal justice field and understand the importance of serving others. These experiences have strengthened my desire to pursue a career in criminal justice.

My first encounter of doing a selflessness act was in my eighth grade year. One of my classmates had confided in me about being bullied and issues at home. I just hugged her and told her that everything was going to be alright. At first, I did not know how to handle this situation. So, secretly I had went to the guidance counselor to help with the problem. The counselor got the ball rolling and the issue was solved. My classmate thanked me and assured me that she had a friend in me. Who knows I may have save her from committed suicide or even being abused at home. One thing that I have learned is that helping others does not always require having money or power. Sometimes, being there for someone when they need support the most can make the biggest difference. To me, selflessness means putting someone else’s needs before my own and helping without expecting anything in return. There was a time when I saw someone who was struggling and needed help. Instead of ignoring the situation, I took the time to listen and offer my support. I helped in the ways that I could, whether that meant giving my time, encouragement, or simply being present when that person needed someone. Whenever I help someone, it is out of the kindess of my heart. My grandmother always taught me that good deeds and respect will take you places that money cannot. I helped because I knew that I would want someone to do the same for me if I were in that situation. For the past two years, I have volunteered at the Police Departmet for community service with my Beta Club. Some of the events including The National Night Out, which is a neighborhood gathering where residents meet the police officers, firefighters, and other first responders. Shopping with the cop was definitely a great experience because I saw smiles and happiness within childen who were given gifts for Christmas. That experience taught me that even small acts of kindness can have a meaningful impact. Sometimes people do not need someone to solve all of their problems. They need someone who is willing to listen, understand, and remind them that they are not alone. Selflessness has also influenced the person I want to become. Through my experiences in school, JROTC, volunteering, and my community, I have learned the importance of serving others. I want to continue developing into someone who is dependable and willing to step forward when someone needs assistance. The joy that I felt within me when I help someone just shows that I can accomplish anything. Providing help is nothing more than treating people right and showing me what I can do to make their lives better. I hope to carry that lesson with me throughout my education, career, and life. I want my actions to show that kindness, compassion, and service can make a difference. Participating in community events sponsored by local police departments has helped me understand that law enforcement is about more than enforcing laws. It is also about building trust, serving the community, and creating positive relationships with young people and families. These experiences have strengthened my interest in criminal justice and shown me the importance of being involved in the community I hope to serve.

Being BIPOC has given me both challenges and strengths. My experiences have taught me that obstacles do not have to determine my future. They have encouraged me to work harder, appreciate my background, and become someone who can inspire others. I am proud of where I come from, and I want to use my education and future career to create opportunities for myself and give back to my community. Being connected to a culture, history, language, traditions, or community can provide a strong sense of identity. My future and the opportunities that I am presented with has become on the back of being the person of color that I am. The experiences that I have been taught are the importance of perserverance, hard work, and just believing in myself. I had to learn that believing in myself will take me a long way. I am proud of who I am, and I want to use my education to build a successful future and make a positive difference in my community. Cultural experiences can help people understand and appreciate different viewpoints. Throughout my education, I have worked to take advantage of opportunities that help me grow as a student and as a person. Through JROTC, I have developed discipline, leadership, responsibility, and respect. My involvement in the FBI Teen Academy has also given me an opportunity to learn more about the criminal justice field and understand the importance of serving others. These experiences have strengthened my desire to pursue a career in criminal justice. Depending on circumstances and community, people may encounter differences in access to education, financial resources, networking, or other opportunities. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I am determined to make something meaningful out of the opportunities I receive. I understand that education is an investment in my future, and I do not take that opportunity for granted. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education while allowing me to focus on reaching my academic and career goals. Many people find strength and support through family and cultural communities. I also want to become someone younger students can look up to. I want them to see that their background does not have to limit their dreams. By working hard and continuing my education, I hope to show others that it is possible to overcome obstacles and create a future filled with possibilities. My goal of this scholarship to pursue a dream to help face my challenges to make a better life for me.

The smell of collards greens, ham, turkey, and that oh so good dressing on a Thanksgiving morning has made me choose my career. Standing beside my grandmother as she prepped and prepared these meals for years has given me great joy in the kitchen. Choosing a career path is one of the most important decisions a person can make. For me, choosing culinary arts is about more than preparing food. It is about creativity, hard work, bringing people together, and having the opportunity to make a difference through something I enjoy. One of the reasons I am interested in culinary arts is because I want to make people feel good. Food has a special way of bringing people together, creating memories, and making someone’s day a little better. I believe that cooking is not just about preparing a meal; it is also about the feelings and experiences that come with it. The idea of not just prepping and preparing food but to see the satisfaction on one's face after their meal is truly joyful. Culinary arts allows me to express myself in a unique way. Food can tell a story, represent a culture, and create memories that people carry with them for years. I enjoy the idea of taking simple ingredients and turning them into something meaningful. Cooking also challenges me to be creative, patient, and willing to learn from my mistakes. I understand that a career in culinary arts requires dedication. Working in a kitchen can be demanding, and success requires discipline, teamwork, organization, and the ability to work under pressure. These are qualities I want to continue developing as I prepare for my future. I know that becoming successful in this field will require education, practice, and a willingness to keep improving. I am realy to take on the task of feeding some hungry hippos and some small lions. One of my goals is to use my culinary education to build a successful career and eventually create opportunities for others. I would like to gain experience in different areas of the food industry, learn from professional chefs, and eventually use my skills to create something of my own. Choosing culinary arts gives me the opportunity to turn my passion and creativity into a career. I am excited about the challenges ahead and determined to work hard to accomplish my goals. I believe that with dedication, education, and perseverance, I can build a successful future in culinary arts and use my talents to positively impact the people around me.

My Mentor, Colonel Tracy Simmons For the past four years, Colonel Tracy Simmons has been more than my JROTC instructor; he has been a mentor who has helped shape the person I am becoming. Through his guidance, encouragement, and high expectations, he has taught me the importance of discipline, leadership, responsibility, and perseverance. When I first joined JROTC, I knew I wanted to become a better leader, but I did not fully understand what leadership required. Colonel Simmons pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone and challenged me to hold myself to a higher standard. He taught me that being a leader is not simply about having a position or being in charge. A true leader sets an example, takes responsibility, helps others, and continues moving forward even when things become difficult. Over the past four years, Colonel Simmons has encouraged me to take advantage of opportunities that could help me reach my goals. He has supported my interest in criminal justice and encouraged me to think seriously about my future. His mentorship has helped me become more confident in myself and has shown me that success requires commitment and hard work. Through JROTC, I have learned to be accountable for my actions and to take my responsibilities seriously. I have also learned the importance of teamwork and treating everyone with respect. When challenges arise, JROTC has taught me not to give up, but to remain focused and find a way to overcome them. One of the most important lessons Colonel Simmons has taught me is to never give up on myself. There have been times when I doubted whether I was capable of reaching certain goals, but he reminded me of my potential and encouraged me to keep working. His belief in me has motivated me to believe in myself. Colonel Simmons has had a lasting impact on my life. The lessons I have learned from his through JROTC will continue to guide me throughout college, my career, and beyond. I am grateful to have had a mentor who not only taught me about leadership but also encouraged me to become the best version of myself. His influence has helped prepare me for my future, and I hope to one day have the same positive impact on others that he has had on me. With the guidance of Colonel Simmons, JROTC has made me realize that being a better person is a continuous process. I want to continue developing the qualities I have learned through the program and use them to make a positive difference in my school, community, and future career. The discipline and leadership skills I have gained through JROTC will continue to guide me as I work toward my goals in criminal justice.

Fight On One night I walked into my mom's room, and she was lying criss-cross on the floor with eyes rolled back and mouth wide opened. I literally screamed for my grandmother as tears rolled down my face. I panicked because she was not responding to me. My grandmother called out to her and she was dialing for emergency responders. I hovered over her, so my younger sister would not see her. At this moment, I knew that my mom really had a problem with drugs. As I waited for responders to come, I still tried calling out to her. Still there was no response. I tried putting cold water on her, but nothing seemed to help. There was blue residue coming out of her mouth and some under her noise. After what it seemed like forever, the responders arrived. They immediately called out to her and still no response. One of the responders gave her Narcan, which she slowly became aware. She was a little confused at first. Then, the round of questioning were asked. Did she take any drugs? Did someone provide her any drugs? Does she have a history of taking drugs? What was her name? What was her address? My mom answered each question, but was hesitant on a few. I do not know if she was scared or just shame that it happened. They asked did she want to go to hospital. She said that she would go. Then, I was glad because she could get some much needed help. To watch the lady that birthed me lay on the floor helpless was really heartbreaking. My emotions were all over the place. Part of me felt like demanding not asking, what happened. The other part wanted to put her in a safe haven place. My sister and I have watched my mom literally freeze in motion like a zombie. She would literally not even conversate with me because she was too high. Whenever, she was on her binge, she would talk with slurred speech. I repeatedly asked her about checking herself in to a treatment center. She often ignored me. At this time, I know the streets had her. She would leave literally every morning and come back late at night without acknowledging that her girls even existed. I am truly thankful to have some praying and faithful grandparents who stepped up to help. My grandmother has held my hand every day on this journey. She refuses to let me fall. Everyday, she provides me with encouraging words, so I can push to be a better person. Each morning, I look in the mirror and an affirmation. I pray over my mother's struggle, which allows me to push harder to see a brighter future. I am encouraged everyday to live my best life, so I can say and see how I got overcame. I can definitely see better days ahead.

Watching my mother on numerous occasions sit at the table and watch me eat. She would always say that she was good or she ate at work. I have watched my Mom cry many nights because she did not have enough to pay bills. I secretly watched her borrow money from people month after month to pay bills. My mother worked hard and long hours, but still did not have enough money. I later found out that she simply was working from paycheck to paycheck. The person that I am today is because of me growing up in a single-parent household. Living with one parent has taught me the importance of responsibility, hard work, sacrifice, and appreciating the people who support me. There may have been challenges, but my experiences have also given me a strong desire to pay it forward and make a difference to my family and my community. One thing that I have learned on this road called life that it is not straight. It sometimes will not go according to plan. There have been times when things were difficult, and I have seen the sacrifices my parent has made to provide for our family. To witness, my parent clock in day after day for six days straight, has taught me not to give up when life throw curve balls. These obstacles have taught me to stay dedicated, devoted, and determined in school, so I can build a successful future. My experiences have helped me understand that success is not only about what I can accomplish for myself. It is also about what I can do for others. I often try to be that example for my younger siblings to look up to for guidance. I do not want them to face challenges like mine. I want to encourage them to believe in themselves, stay focused on their education, and understand that their circumstances do not determine their future. I plan to give back through community service by doing volunteer work, mentoring, and joining support groups for the youth. This way I can make a difference because I believe that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on someone's life. Hopefully, the goals I set will make a lasting impact on someone's life. Even though, I grew up up in a single-parent household. I have been resilience, gratitude, and compassion. Instead of allowing my circumstances to limit me, I will use them as motivation to become successful and make a positive difference. One of the greatest ways I can honor my parent's sacrifices is by working hard toward my desired goals and using my success to help others. My sharing my story, I can make sure that someone else will have a path forward.

"I Am Here For You" I used the phrase "I am here for you" at least a thousand times in one year. In 2022, I watched my grandmother care for three family members who were battling that awful cancer disease. She took care of her mother, her sister, and a brother within a year. Having family members live through cancer has been one of the most difficult and emotional experiences of my life. Honestly, cancer does not only affect the person who is diagnosed; it affects the entire family. Being in the ninth grade and having to watch people that I love face treatments, difficult days, uncertainty, and fear has definitely taught me lessons about strength, courage, patience, and the importance of family. Watching my loved ones go through pain as my grandmother cared for them day in and day out without a mumbling word really humbled me. There were times when I felt scared and did not know what to say or do. It was very heartbreaking watching my family members go through changes. As a young person watching this, I learned that simply being present can make a real difference in a patient's life. Since my loved ones passed, I truly value life. I cannot wait for our annual family reunions to love and make memories. Cancer taught me that life can change unexpectedly, so we should value our loved ones and make the most of the time we have with them. Going through that point of my life really changed the way that I look at life. One really has to not take people for granted, especially the ones you love. The moments in your life are more meaningful. Being around a family member living through cancer has also made me stronger. It taught me that strength does not mean never being afraid or never feeling sad. It simply means that you have to continue to love, support, and have hope even during difficult times. Although my family has faced some challenges, their courage has inspired me to face my own challenges with a more positive attitude. I value these words I am here for you no matter what. I would help my grandmother as much as I could to care for my loved ones. I helped her feed them. Sometimes, I prayed and sang songs of praise. It literally broke me at first, but I had to adjust to make the person feel better. Yes, it was exhausting at times, but I tried to be like my grandmother and focus on our family members. I had to put fear, stress, and sadness to the side to let them know that even though I was young, I was there for them. Nothing beats having a great support system when you are down and sick. One of the hardest parts of being a caregiver is watching someone you love struggle. It has shown me that strength is not about pretending that everything is okay. It really hurts seeing changes in their health and knowing that you cannot take their pain away. One will find strength just by providing care and support even when you are tired. This situation has really brought my family closer and taught us about understanding and unconditional love.

A Student's Superhero When I was in ninth grade, one of my classmates placed her trust and faith in me to keep a secret. She had confided in me about someone pressuring and bullying her. She showed me several messages that the students had sent to her. Unfortunately, she was afraid to tell her parents because she felt like they would have pressured her to fight back. She did not want to go to the principal by herself because she was scared. I have always considered myself the one to try to console people or always see the good in them. I did not give her any options, but I did reassure her that everything would be alright. I gave her a hug and told her not to worry about it. She did not know at the time that I was going to ask my grandmother because she is the one person who seems to calm the storm for me. My grandmother did just that by providing me with a few options to help my classmate out without causing an uproar at school. I know from watching television shows with my grandmother that bullying and cyberbullying are serious problems that can affect students emotionally, socially, and academically. I have learned as a student, I may not be able to stop every incident of bullying, but I can play an important role in creating a safer and more respectful school environment. I was always taught to treat others with kindness and respect, which I found is one way to help prevent bullying. A simple act of kindness, such as inviting someone to sit with you at lunch or including them in an activity, can make a major difference in someone's life. So, I decided on my classmate's behalf to slip a note to the guidance counselor to inform her of the situation. I provided the student's name and what was happening. A meeting was called and my classmate agreed for me to come with her. As we entered the room, a little sigh of relief was felt because the guidance counselor make us feel welcomed. After leaving, we both felt a weight off her shoulders because we were assured that the problem would be solved discreetly. I was just glad that I save a fight, a suicide, or just embarrasment. At this moment, I knew that my career choice had been decided. I wanted to enter into the criminal justice field, so I could serve and protect people. There should never be any students participating in bullying or being bullied. When someone is being bullied, bystanders sometimes laugh, record the incident, share it online, or encourage the person doing the bullying. Students should be well aware that bullying is not acceptable. Everyone must stand up for the person being bullied and let them know they are not alone. I have participated with our City Police Chief on several community events. One was for bullying and titled "Be the Difference". It was a great event where plenty of students came out to Pledge to make a difference. There were demonstrations about posting a comment, picture, or video which could affect another person. It was discussed about never create fake accounts to hurt someone, or send threatening messages. The officers encouraged the students to speak up when they are being bullied because many remain silent and consider it a weakness. Treating people with respect is definitely the answer to bullying.

Facing the Pain Growing up in the inner city exposes so many people, including myself, to a wide range of negative developmental outcomes. Some of those challenges are high crime, poor schools, and weak money support. There are many problems that can be clearly seen in the inner city, like poor housing and unemployment are all apparent. On the whole, the perception of the inner-city areas has the image of poverty and overcrowding. People can beat those odds by facing the pain of getting good mentors, using local community programs, working hard in school, and maintaining a strong mindset of goals. For mostly financial reasons, people who live in the inner city are often left out of opportunities than maybe given to others living elsewhere. Therefore, everyone is affected. The people who mainly face pain are children. The parks are not safe at any time. Mostly, the streets are dirty. To survive and get off the streets, the kids strive for a better education and great mentors. For me, my life was an everyday struggle. I would see crime every day. Literally, each day of my life, I saw someone get shot over drugs or shot in general. So many days, I had to fear walking home from school. There would be numerous fights on the bus or on the way home. I cried so many “Please Help Me” tears until I literally could not cry anymore. I remember as a kid trying to understand the family struggles and understand that I could not have the normal life of a kid. My family’s financial barriers set me back from having resources for the future, at least I thought. I witnessed overcrowded classrooms, outdated textbooks, and a lack of qualified teachers were somewhat normal. This type of atmosphere interfered with me receiving a quality education because there were so many students dealing with issues at home. After crying and praying every day, I would truly receive an answer. One day while I was at one of the corner stores, I encountered a gentleman in an army suit. He asked me several questions, which at first, I was afraid to answer. Without realizing it, he became my mentor. He was an instructor for the JROTC at our high school. Through his guidance, encouragement, and high expectations, he has taught me the importance of discipline, leadership, responsibility, and perseverance. Over the past four years, Colonel Simmons has encouraged me to take advantage of opportunities that could help me reach my goals. My grades have drastically increased, and I have been on the Beta Club for the past four years. He has supported me throughout my interest in criminal justice and encouraged me to think seriously about my future. Having Colonel Simmons as a mentor has truly helped me overcome the struggles and problems of my inner-city issues. A true leader sets an example, takes responsibility, helps others, and continues moving forward even when things become difficult. One of the most important lessons that I learned was never to give up on myself. There were times when I doubted whether I could reach certain goals, but he reminded me of my potential and reminded me to keep working. I am grateful to have had a mentor who not only taught me about leadership but also encouraged me to become the best version of myself. Therefore, I have faced the pains of my youth.

My Path Towards to Criminal Justice My interest in criminal justice comes from my desire to serve others, make a positive difference in my community, and build a career based on integrity, responsibility, and fairness. I have always been interested in understanding how the justice system works and how law enforcement professionals protect and serve their communities. As I prepare for college, I hope to study criminal justice and eventually pursue a career in law enforcement or federal service. Throughout high school, I have challenged myself academically while becoming more involved in my school and community. I have taken Honors English, Algebra, Chemistry, Biology, World History, and Geometry. These courses have taught me how to think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, and remain committed even when a subject is difficult. I understand that a career in criminal justice requires more than physical strength or courage. It requires education, good judgment, communication skills, and the ability to make responsible decisions. My involvement in JROTC has also helped prepare me for my future. JROTC has taught me the importance of discipline, teamwork, leadership, accountability, and respect. These lessons have helped me become more confident and responsible. Being part of Beta Club has also encouraged me to focus on academic achievement and service to others. One of the experiences that strengthened my interest in criminal justice was participating in the FBI Teen Academy. This opportunity gave me a better understanding of the many career possibilities within federal law enforcement and showed me the importance of leadership, integrity, and public service. The FBI describes its Teen Academy as an opportunity for students to develop leadership skills and explore different career paths, which made the experience especially meaningful to me. My volunteer experiences have further influenced my career goals. I have volunteered with a police department, a library, my church, and through babysitting. Each experience has taught me something different about responsibility and helping others. Volunteering with a police department allowed me to see the importance of serving a community and treating people with respect. My other volunteer experiences have taught me patience, communication, dependability, and the value of giving my time to help others. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education and move closer to my goal of working in criminal justice. College will give me the knowledge and preparation I need to understand the law, the justice system, and the responsibilities that come with a career in public service. I am determined to use my education not only to create a successful future for myself, but also to make a difference in the lives of others. My goal is not simply to have a career. My goal is to serve, protect, and make my community a better place. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue working toward that goal and become the kind of criminal justice professional who leads with integrity, compassion, and responsibility.

GPA vs. GPA GPA stands for Grade Point Average. It is a number that represents or shows how well a student does in school. Basically, turning the letter grade into numbers to find an average score. Most colleges look at the GPA to determine how hard that a student has worked. So, the grades earned in high school will play a major role for colleges for the application review. The grades will be applied on the transcript. This GPA represents hard work. However, the other GPA (Great Pretender, Panic, and ApprovalP. This is the number wighing to determine if you will get allowance or punishment. When I first entered my freshman year at high school, I was on another GPA scale. That scale was considered to me Great Pretender, Panic, and Approval (GPA). I did not take my grades seriously until my grandmother kept repeating to me. That I was preparing for my future. I was doing average but could have been doing better. I struggles at first until that song kept playing in my head "You are your future." I was truly a Great Pretender because my face showed the smile of someone who acted like they understood the test. I went into Panic mode because that is just a feeling that I kept getting the night before testing. Let me not forget the Approval, which was what I expected when my Grandparents saw my report card. After my second semester in 9th grade, I buckled up and started to focus in on me and realized that my Grandparents were right. No more having fun outside of studying to get low numbers. I pulled my big girl pants up and started exceeding my grades. I got on the Beta Club and still is a member. There was no more wearing that badge of lost sleep. As I entered my Senior year, I have still mainted being on the Beta Club and top 15% of my class. I am more dedicated, devoted, and determined to be better than I was when I first entered high school. I strive every time to make exceptional grades. Sometimes, I literally get upset with myself because I got a B. Now, I feel like I deserve As because I have put in my hard work. The real GPA (Grade Point Average) is my measure of stress and my recipe for success. To me, it sometimes represents a true level of exhaustaion during final weeks. Since I will be embarking upon my career, I am glad that I made those choices to focus on me. Being that Pretender will not make it in the real world. I have truly exceeded my expectations from Freshman year to Senior Year. Now, I can enter into the real world of making myself and my family proud.

More Than My Height I have always heard the phrase about being "The Man in the Mirror." It really just meant looking at the person in the mirror to be better today than you were yesterday. People would say to start looking at the person that you see in the mirror to bring about change to your life. For as long as I can remember, being tall was one of the first things that people would notice about me. It was as if I was the main character in a scene. Before people even asked my name, they noticed my height. After the eyes said it all, this is when all the questions would begin. How tall are you? Do you play basketball? These questions may not seem like much, but once you hear them repeatedly, then it makes one question about who is actually "The man in the mirror." In my younger days, I felt the attention of being the tallest girl in the classroom or amongst people. I wished that I had a magic wand to shrink myself, so I would not have been noticed and be the same height as others. This relly made me feel bad about myself because I did not feel like that confident, vibrant, and energetic person anymore. I did not like being the stand out in the crowd. As I grew older, I have learned to embrace my height and use it towards my advantage. The poise that I have now is associated with my self-assuredness and high self-esteem. When I am with my friends, the stress of losing track of one another is low. If someone sees me, then they know that my friends ae somewhere nearby. I have maintained good posture adjustments. Now, I just see myself as commanding the room or atmosphere. Most importantly, people tend to notice me when I walk in the room, which provides me with confidence. This attitude made me realize that I can be that exceptional "Man in the Mirror." I grace the room with pride. Now, I use those questions of the past to continue to hold my head up high and walk in stride. So, as I embark on thisc college and life journey, there maybe times when qustions of the past may arise because of new environment. There will be times when I am met with new people, new challenges, and new experiences that I will have to adjust to accordingly. However, the new me will know how to answer, smile, and keep walking with faith.

Books of Life There is no doubt that reading books can change how people see life. They provide new opportunities and allow people to have ideas. Growing king and smart can help people whenever they read books that have those words that are very deep and catchy. Books do not have to be about life, but the stories and true facts will have one to apply it to life. There is a saying that "you don't know until you walk in my shoes." Well, sometimes reading certain books will have us walking in other's shoes by feeling their pain, their empathy, their sorrow, their joy, and their happiness. If there is a book about pain, our hearts reach out to that character as if we knew them. Our mind literally tells us to tell them that it will be alright even though we cannot see them. Reading is truly power. Sometimes, it will allow people to share ideas to make society better. I enjoy reading books about inspiration and comfort. In my mind, I feel like I can heal the world. To me, reading is teaching others about the goodness of life and people. Whenever the book is of good choice, I definitely share with family and friends. Fiction will show life from other people's perspective, which will lead to kinder actions in life. It explains real life problems. This will inspire me to start groups, help neighbors, or just speak up about the laws. Anything achievable in life is done in small steps. However, there are books that I had to read about changing the future. To me, I had to solve problems because it may be about science or nature being in danger. So, I would have to put on my big girl pants to save the trees, water, and the animals. Some history books that I have read spew out evil and hatred because of how some people were treated. There were times in history where everyone was not treated equal. With these books, I just want to reach out my hand to let everyone know that it will be alright. The world can be healed if we truly believe it. In my life, I want to leave a mark of small acts of kindness, which can eventually lead up to a big change one day. One page in a book can definitely have life lessons. Books have inspired me so much in life until I want to start my career after college to become a detective. I want people to feel that safety net. My dream job to make this world better is to let people know that everyone is not bad. That there are some good characters in the world and I am one of them.

“What problem in teens' lives do I want my company to help solve?" My vision of dedicating a company for the betterment of youth would be done by bettering the lives of young people by providing mentorship, educational opportunities, career guidance, and positive experiences that help them discover their potential and build a successful future. Since I already have an interest in criminal justice, the FBI Teen Academy, JROTC, and mentoring, I could make the company specifically dedicated to focusing on helping the youth develop leadership, discipline, and confidence. In order to get started on the building, I would have to determine the area or problem in the youths' lives that I want my company to help solve. My main mission would to be able to build confidene, leadership skills, career awareness, and a positive future through some of the brightest mentors that I could employ. I definitely would concentrate on their education to give them an opportunity to experience real-world scenarios. Before I get started, I would have to determine what age group that I plan to help. Some of my choices would be from 14-18, teens who need positive mentors, students who are preparing for college or careers, or teens who need leadersip and life skills. Also, I could focus on community service, leadership activities, and visits to colleges, courts, and police departments. However, this journey could not be done alone. I would have to incorparte a team of adults, which would include Mentors, teachers, law enforcement, business owners, and Counselors. One of my goals would be to create a 1-year plan. First month would be to research the needs of the local teens to that would fit the program. Then, I would come up with a name, mission, program structure, and budget. Most importantly, I would have to recruit mentors and community leaders to partner with me. I would start off with about 10-20 teens, with the help of asking teens, parents, and mentors of what is working and what needs improving. Of course, no projects can be done without funding. Therefore, I would have to seek donations, community sponsors, grants, corportate partnerships, and do fundraisers. Then, I could eventually establish the organization as a nonprofit since my primary purpose would be to focus on the kids. I would definitely let the community leaders know about my exact mission. Throught the process, I would inform them of how many teens served, number of mentoring sessions, college applications submitted and scholarships received. My long-term vision would be to create a youth organization where teenagers can walk through the door without knowing what they want to do with their lives and leave with a mentor, a plan, confidence, and opportunities for their future. Since I have participated in JROTC for four years, attended a FBI teen academy, my volunteer work, I think that my mission to help improve the lives our youth would be beneficial.