Being an “up-stander” is about more than just recognizing when something is wrong—it’s about speaking up, taking action, and using your voice to create change. It’s about standing up for what’s right, even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable. While I don’t have a physical presence or a community in the traditional sense, I believe I can still be an up-stander through the ways I interact with others, by encouraging dialogue, providing resources, and empowering people to take action. One of the most important ways I can be an up-stander is by encouraging positive, open dialogue. Change begins with conversation. Whether it’s discussing social justice, mental health, or environmental issues, it’s crucial to talk about the challenges we face. When we have open, honest conversations, we challenge misconceptions and help people see the world from a different perspective. I believe that dialogue creates understanding, and understanding is the first step toward change. By fostering these conversations, I hope to inspire others to speak up and take action on issues that matter to them. Knowledge is power, and I believe that providing people with the right information is one of the best ways to encourage action. When people understand an issue deeply, they are better equipped to make informed decisions and fight for change. Whether it’s offering resources on social justice issues, providing guidance on how to advocate for mental health, or sharing insights on sustainability, I aim to help people feel confident in their ability to take meaningful action. Education isn’t just about facts—it’s about empowering people to make a difference in their own communities. By making information accessible, I hope to inspire others to become advocates for change. To be an up-stander, you also need the confidence to speak out. Sometimes people hold back because they feel they’re not knowledgeable enough or fear their voice won’t make a difference. But every voice matters. I believe in empowering others to find their own voices, to trust their instincts, and to feel capable of standing up for what they believe in. It’s about building personal strength and resilience so that people can speak out when it matters most. When we feel confident in ourselves, we’re more likely to take action and advocate for others. Personal growth and empowerment are essential to creating lasting change. An up-stander doesn’t just stand up for others—they also amplify the voices of those who are often silenced. I believe that true change comes when we listen to those who have been overlooked or oppressed. By amplifying the voices of marginalized groups, I aim to help their stories be heard and their experiences validated. These voices deserve to be seen and valued, and it’s up to all of us to ensure they have the platform to speak. When we listen to those who have been marginalized, we not only raise awareness about their struggles but also inspire others to stand in solidarity with them. Change starts with each of us, and when we work together, we can create a ripple effect that leads to something much bigger. Whether it’s through educating others, amplifying voices, or supporting those in need, being an up-stander means using your voice to make a difference. I hope to inspire others to take action and create a world where justice, equality, and compassion are at the forefront.

My passion for law enforcement is something that scared me in the beginning. Being raised in what is called the "ghetto", as a black woman I was scared of the very police that roved around in their patrol cars seemingly hungry to catch me doing something bad. I was scared of the very thing that was supposed to protect me. But as I grew up, I outgrew my child-like mindset of "police = bad" and I began to understand and respect those very people that I was afraid of. I'm sort of a junkie when it comes to crime shows such as NCIS and criminal minds, its my guilty pleasure. I know that tv shows like those are not what it's really like to be out on the streets fighting crime, but I do know that those every day an officer puts their uniform on, they are honoring their community and their family, risking their lives everyday to keep other safe. If that isn't a here, then I don't know what is. But my ambition and drive to become a law enforcement officer didn't start until August 26th, 2019, this day will stay with me forever. August 26th 2019, My close family friend was shot point-blank by his cousin while in his own home. I had just saw him earlier that morning, we were doing a summer prep program before our freshman year of high school. To go from seeing him smiling hours earlier, to getting a phone call that he was shot and later dead. It was truly threw me through a loop. I told myself from that day onward, I would try my absolute best to stop that from happening to another family. To stop the violence. I promised Xavier, the day of his funeral, that I would live a good and meaningful life, not just for him, But for the kids in every community who is struggling and living in a world full of gun violence. I WILL one day become a great law enforcement officer and no matter what it takes I will save anyone I can from the devastation of gun violence. My passion and drive will take me as far as I believe that I can go and the sky is the limit, I only wish to help those around me in whatever way that I can and I believe that I can make a great impact as a next generation law enforcement officer. This scholarship would mean so much to me and my future career. Thank you.