"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." – Mary McLeod Bethune This quote speaks to the very heart of why I want to become a teacher. I know what it feels like to be that “diamond in the rough”—unsure of yourself, struggling quietly, and waiting for someone to truly see you. I also know what it feels like when someone does. That kind of belief has the power to change a life, because it changed mine. When I was in seventh grade, I was facing a lot at home that no one at school really knew about. I came to class with a heavy heart, low energy, and a growing belief that I just wasn’t good enough. My grades started to slip, I stopped speaking up, and I felt more and more invisible as the days went on. I figured no one noticed. But one person did—Mrs. Martinez, my history teacher. She pulled me aside one day after class, looked me in the eye, and gently asked, “Are you okay?” I didn’t know what to say at the time, but that moment stayed with me. She had noticed me—not just as a student, but as a person. Over time, she continued to check in on me, and little by little, she helped me start to see myself differently. She didn’t lecture me or single me out. She just made me feel like I mattered. She encouraged me to keep trying, to speak up, and to believe that I had something valuable to offer. That single relationship made school feel different. I began to engage more, not just because I felt like I had to, but because I wanted to. Mrs. Martinez helped me realize that I had a voice—and that it was worth hearing. She showed me that teaching is so much more than delivering information. It’s about creating a space where students feel safe, supported, and understood. That’s the kind of teacher I want to be. I want to walk into a classroom every day knowing that I’m not just teaching lessons—I’m helping shape human beings. I want my students to feel seen, even if they’re quiet. I want them to know they’re capable, even if they’re struggling. I want to be a consistent, caring adult in their lives—someone who believes in them when they’re not quite ready to believe in themselves. Teaching is a career, yes—but for me, it’s also a calling. I’m choosing this path because I want to make the kind of impact that stays with a student long after they leave my classroom. Just like Mrs. Martinez’s words and kindness stayed with me. Mary McLeod Bethune believed in the value of nurturing people’s inner potential. She understood that with care, encouragement, and investment, even the most overlooked person could shine. I carry that same belief. And through teaching, I hope to invest in every soul that walks through my classroom—because I know, deep down, they’re all diamonds in the making.

I remember the day I realized education was going to be my way out — not just of my circumstances, but out of the cycle of silence, stigma, and struggle that had defined too much of my early life. I was sitting in a classroom, watching a special education teacher interact with a student others had written off. She knelt to his level, smiled, and waited patiently for his answer. No pressure. No judgment. Just presence. In that moment, I understood the power of a teacher who truly sees a student. That’s when I knew: this is what I was meant to do. My goal is to graduate with a degree in education and become a certified special education teacher. But for me, a college degree isn’t just about personal success — it’s about creating change, starting with the students who are most often overlooked. I hope to use my education to build inclusive, compassionate classrooms where every child, no matter their background or ability, can learn, grow, and feel valued. And receiving this scholarship will bring me closer to that dream — not just financially, but emotionally and symbolically. It would be an affirmation that my story, my work, and my aspirations matter. My journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced loss, instability, and uncertainty. When my adopted grandmother passed away, I not only lost someone I loved — I lost my sense of security. With no will left behind and decisions made without my voice, I was left navigating grief while also facing housing instability and emotional distress. Yet even in that darkness, I found strength. I continued to attend school, lead on campus, serve in student government, and volunteer over 115 hours with community service organizations like the Red Cross and the NAACP. That loss taught me something profound: even when everything feels like it’s falling apart, purpose can hold you together. Mary McLeod Bethune, one of my greatest inspirations, once said: “Believe in yourself, learn, and never stop wanting to build a better world.” This quote reminds me every day why I continue pushing forward. Bethune herself came from very little, yet built a college, shaped public policy, and changed lives — all because she believed in the power of education. I want to carry that legacy forward by becoming the kind of educator who doesn’t just teach lessons, but transforms lives. Once I graduate with my degree, I plan to return to underserved communities — including those like the one I grew up in — and offer students the kind of support I often had to find on my own. My ultimate goal is to become a special education coordinator or advocate, helping to develop more equitable policies and inclusive practices within school districts. I want to ensure that no student slips through the cracks because of a disability, language barrier, or lack of resources. I also hope to mentor other young people, especially those who have faced adversity and are unsure if they “belong” in higher education. Through workshops, after-school programs, and eventually a nonprofit focused on empowering first-generation and differently-abled students, I want to pass on the tools, knowledge, and encouragement I’ve gained along the way. This scholarship would make a major difference in helping me accomplish these goals. Financial aid gaps are a constant stressor for students like me, and often force difficult choices between working more hours or staying on track academically. With this scholarship, I would be able to focus more fully on my studies, field work, and leadership responsibilities. It would also allow me to pursue internships, attend professional development events, and connect with mentors in my field — experiences that are critical to becoming an effective, innovative educator. My future plans are rooted in service. I’m not earning this degree for the sake of prestige or income — I’m earning it so I can be of use. I want to teach, but more than that, I want to uplift. I want to help students understand their strengths, develop their voice, and realize that success can look different for everyone — and that’s okay. I want parents to feel heard in Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings. I want schools to prioritize accessibility. I want students with learning disabilities, trauma histories, or behavioral challenges to feel empowered instead of labeled. Long-term, I also plan to advocate for better mental health supports in schools, particularly for students with disabilities and students of color. Too often, these populations are either criminalized or neglected. I want to be part of a generation of educators who say, “We see you. We hear you. We’re fighting for you.” To achieve all of this, I need support — not just moral support, but financial support that allows me to fully focus on my training, academic performance, leadership growth, and service work. For students like me, every dollar makes a difference — it means fewer hours spent worrying about tuition balances or choosing between textbooks and groceries. It means peace of mind. It means stability. But more than that, this scholarship represents belief — belief in my purpose, my potential, and the value of my lived experiences. It’s more than financial assistance; it’s a vote of confidence, a validation of my story, and a key that unlocks more doors than I can count. I’m not asking just for help — I’m asking for the chance to finish what I’ve started. To walk across that graduation stage not only as a first-generation college graduate, but as a future teacher, advocate, and changemaker who is ready to step into classrooms and communities that are waiting for someone to believe in them the way someone once believed in me. When I graduate, it won’t just be a personal achievement — it will be a victory for every young person who’s ever wondered if they were enough, if they were seen, or if their story mattered. In closing, I return to the timeless legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune, a woman who inspires me daily. She famously declared, “I leave you love. I leave you hope. I leave you the challenge of developing confidence in one another. I leave you a thirst for education. I leave you a respect for the use of power. I leave you faith. I leave you racial dignity.” These are not just words to me — they are a blueprint. They are the inheritance of every student who dreams of doing more, giving more, and being more. They are the very spirit of why I am pursuing this degree and this career. With the support of this scholarship, I will carry Bethune’s words and work forward. I will teach with love. I will lead with hope. I will nurture confidence in every child, especially those with special needs who are so often overlooked. I will champion education as a tool for transformation, equity, and justice. I will use whatever power I gain not for personal gain, but to empower others. I will honor my heritage and elevate the voices of my community. I will be the educator I once needed — and the one today’s generation so deeply deserves. This scholarship would not only support my journey — it would become part of my legacy, woven into the lives I will touch and the future I will help shape.

“Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible.” – Mary McLeod Bethune Russia’s war in Ukraine may feel far away to some, but its effects have deeply impacted me, my family, and my ability to thrive as a student. When war breaks out anywhere in the world, its ripple effects don’t stop at borders. In my own life, the economic strain brought on by this global conflict has added weight to an already heavy personal journey. The price of food, fuel, and housing has surged, and tuition has become harder to afford—making higher education an even steeper climb. But the war has also brought something less visible: an added sense of uncertainty and emotional strain that only strengthens my determination to rise above. For my family and me, life has not been easy, even before the war. I was raised in a household marked by instability and pain. My adopted grandmother, who meant everything to me, struggled with alcoholism. Though she loved me and my sister dearly, her addiction brought hardship and emotional trauma. I watched someone I loved deteriorate, and I felt helpless to stop it. When she passed away in May, I felt like a part of me went with her. Her death was complicated and painful—there was no will, no plan, and I wasn’t consulted when decisions were made about her care in the hospital. I carry grief and anger with me every day. And yet, I also carry the love she gave us and the lessons I learned through adversity. The global impact of the war—rising costs, deepening inequality, and emotional stress—has only magnified the pressure I already felt. Still, I find strength in the legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune. Her words remind me that even in the face of tremendous hardship, faith can carry us forward. My faith is what allows me to keep showing up: to my classes, to student leadership meetings, to my volunteer work, and to my future. At Bethune-Cookman University, I’m not just a student—I’m a leader. I’m active in the Student Government Association and serve as the historian for the Red Cross chapter. I’ve completed over 115 hours of community service, and I strive to live a life of purpose. My goal is to use my education in history to advocate for social justice and serve communities affected by systemic barriers, trauma, and conflict—whether that conflict is personal, domestic, or global. Achieving my educational goals will not only uplift my life, it will empower me to help others who are struggling in silence, just like I once was. I want to be a source of support for students navigating grief, poverty, and uncertainty. I want to be the kind of educator, leader, and advocate who embodies Bethune’s vision—a person who transforms pain into power, and hardship into hope.

"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." – Mary McLeod Bethune This quote speaks directly to why I chose to become an educator. I didn’t come from perfect circumstances. I was raised in a nontraditional family setting and lost my adopted grandmother—one of the most influential people in my life—not long ago. Her struggles with alcoholism affected our home deeply, and her passing, compounded by the absence of a will and difficult family decisions, was both heartbreaking and complicated. But even in the midst of all that pain, she loved my sister and me deeply. That love, along with the resilience I’ve built through loss and instability, fuels my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of young people. Education gave me structure, purpose, and identity when life was unpredictable. School was where I found safety, inspiration, and mentors who believed in me. I want to be that source of stability and encouragement for students who feel unseen or unsupported. My goal is to create a classroom where every student—regardless of background—feels heard, valued, and capable of achieving greatness. At Bethune-Cookman University, I’ve taken on leadership roles in Student Government, served as historian for our Red Cross chapter, and dedicated over 115 hours to community service. I’ve marched proudly with the Marching Wildcats and participated in events that connect students to civic engagement, like voter registration drives and career fairs. These experiences have helped me realize that education is not confined to the classroom—it lives in our communities, our service, and the way we uplift one another. As a future history teacher, I’m especially passionate about telling the stories that often go untold—stories like that of Jackie Robinson’s impact in Daytona Beach or local civil rights heroes like Joe Harris. I believe in teaching students not just facts, but context, identity, and pride in where they come from. I want them to understand that they are part of a much larger narrative—and that they have the power to shape the future. Mary McLeod Bethune built a legacy on the belief that education could uplift generations. I carry that legacy with me. I’ve learned through personal hardship, leadership, and service that true change begins when you reach one soul at a time. I plan to make my mark not just by teaching history, but by helping young people write their own.

My family’s story is deeply rooted in strength, love, and sacrifice—and no one represents that more than my grandmother and my sister. I come from a Haitian family where community is everything and education is seen as the key to a better future. My grandmother, who helped raise me, and my sister, who has always been my source of strength, are two of the most important people who shaped how I see the world and inspired me to pursue a career in education. My grandmother came to the United States from Haiti with a heart full of hope. She worked hard, loved harder, and always believed in the power of learning, even though she didn't get the chance to finish school herself. She believed that no matter what you went through, education could open doors that nothing else could. She used to tell me, “They can take everything from you—but they can’t take what’s in your mind.” Even when life was difficult, she was soft-spoken, kind, and generous. She loved children deeply, especially me and my sister. Her belief in us never wavered. Sadly, she struggled with alcoholism, and it affected our family in painful ways. But even through her illness, she loved us with everything she had. Her passing in May 2024 was one of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced—especially because I didn’t get to say goodbye the way I wanted. There were complications in the hospital, decisions made without us, and no will left behind. It left my sister and me with emotional weight we’re still carrying. But through that grief, I realized even more clearly how much she shaped me. Her life taught me that love, even in its most imperfect forms, can leave a lasting impact. And that’s the kind of teacher I want to be—one who loves students through their struggles and helps them feel seen. My sister has also been a powerful force in my life. We've been through a lot together—more than most people know. She’s my best friend, my motivator, and my protector. We’ve supported each other through housing instability, stress, and grief. She reminds me that we’re not just surviving—we’re growing, learning, and turning our struggles into strength. Her courage inspires me to keep going and to lift others as I climb. Despite having an IEP for reading, I’ve stayed committed to my education. I'm a senior now, and I plan to become a teacher who doesn’t just deliver lessons, but truly understands what it’s like to struggle and still rise. I want my classroom to be a safe, welcoming space—especially for kids who feel invisible or unheard. I want to make sure my students receive what my grandmother always wanted for me: love, support, and the opportunity to learn without fear. My family’s story—filled with both hardship and love—has taught me compassion, patience, and perseverance. My grandmother’s wisdom, my sister’s strength, and our shared journey have inspired me to be the kind of teacher who changes lives. I carry them with me into every dream I have for my future students.

"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." – Mary McLeod Bethune Charity is important to me because it reflects the kindness and support that I have received throughout my life, especially from my adopted grandmother who raised me. She taught me that giving back is not just about money or resources—it’s about time, love, and uplifting others who may be struggling. Charity creates a ripple effect of hope and change in communities, and I believe it is essential for building stronger, more compassionate societies. In the future, I intend to give back by becoming an educator who not only teaches academics but also serves as a mentor and role model. I want to empower young people, especially Black youth, to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams despite challenges. I will also be involved in community service initiatives that focus on education access, mental health awareness, and voter engagement. Giving back is my way of honoring those who have invested in me and making sure I pass that gift on to others. Through education and service, I plan to plant seeds of opportunity that will grow for generations to come — just as Mary McLeod Bethune encouraged us to invest in the human soul. Charity is more than an action; it’s a lifelong commitment to building a better world.

"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." – Mary McLeod Bethune I have faced significant adversity in my life that has shaped who I am and fueled my determination to succeed. As the firstborn of thirteen siblings, I was born into a challenging family situation. My mother struggled with her ability to care for us, and as a result, I was raised by my adopted grandmother. She battled alcoholism for many years, but despite her struggles, she poured love, faith, and strength into me. Watching her fight her own battles taught me resilience and the power of hope, even in the darkest times. Growing up in this environment, I learned firsthand how important education is—not just for personal growth but as a way to break cycles of hardship. My grandmother’s unwavering belief in me inspired me to pursue higher education as the first person in my family to do so. I am now a proud student at Bethune-Cookman University, an HBCU that continues the legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune, who famously said, “Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough.” That quote reminds me daily that my education is an investment in a future not only for myself but for my community. My future goals are clear: I want to become an educator and community leader who helps empower Black youth, especially young men, to overcome the obstacles I have faced. I want to fight for fair laws and policies that do not harm people who look like me, and I want to plant seeds of change that may grow long after I am gone — just as Bethune and other pioneers have done before me. I plan to create safe, nurturing educational spaces where students feel valued and supported so they can reach their full potential. This scholarship would significantly impact my ability to achieve these goals. Financially, it would relieve the constant stress of worrying about student loans and tuition, allowing me to focus more on my studies and community work. Emotionally, it would give me peace of mind and the confidence that others believe in my vision and potential. With this support, I can continue my path without the weight of financial burden holding me back, so I can better serve my family, my community, and future generations. Overcoming adversity has made me stronger, more compassionate, and determined to create change. With this scholarship, I will be one step closer to turning my dreams into reality — a reality where education uplifts and transforms lives just as it did mine.

"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." – Mary McLeod Bethune My name is Javares Mikell, and I am a first-generation college student currently pursuing my degree at Bethune-Cookman University, a proud Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Growing up as the firstborn of thirteen siblings, life was often challenging. My biological mother struggled to raise us all, and because of her inability to provide the care we needed, I was raised by my adopted grandmother, a woman of strength and faith who instilled in me the values of perseverance, love, and the importance of education. My journey to college has not been easy, but my passion for learning and my determination to succeed have carried me through. Attending Bethune-Cookman University has been transformative. This institution, founded by the legendary Mary McLeod Bethune, embodies the spirit of empowerment and upliftment for African American students like me. The quote from Mrs. Bethune, “Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough,” resonates deeply with me, reminding me every day that my education is not just for personal success but to shine a light in my community. Through my studies, I am preparing to become an educator and advocate who will empower future generations. I want to be the teacher I once needed — someone who understands the struggles children face outside the classroom and provides them with the tools to thrive both academically and emotionally. My goal is to create inclusive, nurturing environments where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. Education saved me, and I believe it can save many others if given the right care and attention. Beyond academics, I am deeply involved in my community through leadership roles and service. I serve as historian for Bethune-Cookman’s first Red Cross chapter and am active in voter registration campaigns and health initiatives with the NAACP. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to social justice and community empowerment. I believe education is the foundation to dismantling systemic barriers that impact African American communities, especially in education and economic opportunity. Winning this scholarship would ease the heavy financial burden I face as a first-generation student. It would relieve some of the stress that comes with balancing school, family responsibilities, and financial hardship. Most importantly, it would allow me to focus more fully on my studies and community work, helping me grow into the educator and leader I aspire to be. I am inspired by the legacy of Willie Mae Rawls — a woman of faith who spread positivity and strength in her family. Like her, I want to be a source of hope and inspiration, not only for my family but for my community. Through my education and future career, I am committed to making a lasting, positive impact by empowering young people to overcome their challenges and succeed. Thank you for considering my application. With your support, I will continue to build a future filled with hope, education, and opportunity — carrying forward the powerful legacy of faith, resilience, and service.

"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." – Mary McLeod Bethune Growing up, the person who shaped my love for learning and inspired my passion for education was my adopted grandmother. I was born the first of thirteen children to a mother who struggled with the responsibility of raising so many kids, and unfortunately, she was not always able to provide the stability and support we needed. Because of this, my grandmother stepped in and raised me with a fierce love and dedication despite her own challenges. She battled alcoholism for many years, and while it was a difficult journey for our family, her unwavering belief in me never faltered. She showed me that even in the midst of hardship, education is a powerful tool — not just to improve your life but to transform your soul. Mary McLeod Bethune’s words, “Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough,” have been a guiding light for me throughout my journey. Like her, my grandmother invested deeply in me. She taught me the value of resilience, self-respect, and the importance of education as a way to break cycles of poverty and pain. Her sacrifices and struggles have inspired me to pursue a career in education so that I can be that “diamond polisher” for children who may be struggling like I once was. My passion for becoming an educator comes from my lived experience. I understand the power of having someone in your corner—someone who sees your worth when the world tries to overlook you. When I was young, I struggled with feelings of invisibility and hopelessness, but my grandmother’s encouragement, combined with the support of dedicated teachers, helped me find my path. It was not just about reading or math; it was about feeling loved and valued in the classroom. I want to provide that same environment for children who might be facing challenges at home, those who might feel lost or misunderstood. In my community involvement, I have taken every chance to support and uplift others. I am a proud member of the Student Government Association and the historian for the first-ever Red Cross chapter at Bethune-Cookman University, my HBCU. I have participated in over 115 hours of community service, helping with voter registration drives and health awareness campaigns through the NAACP and other local organizations. These experiences have strengthened my understanding of how education and community engagement can change lives. I have also had the opportunity to mentor younger students, sharing with them not just academic knowledge but life lessons about perseverance, self-worth, and the importance of dreaming big. If I could change one thing about education, it would be to make schools safer and more supportive spaces for students facing trauma, poverty, or neglect. Many children come to school carrying invisible burdens—like I did—and too often, their emotional needs are overlooked. I believe education should be trauma-informed, with counselors and teachers trained to recognize and respond to these struggles with empathy and care. This change is vital because when a child feels emotionally supported, they are far more likely to succeed academically and develop into confident adults. Sierra Argumedo’s dedication to making sure every child felt seen and loved deeply resonates with me. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact educators can have beyond the classroom, and it motivates me to pursue this career path with passion and purpose. Her legacy inspires me to create classrooms where every student, regardless of their background, can feel safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Winning this scholarship would be life-changing for me. As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, I face enormous financial pressure. Paying down student loans feels like a mountain that keeps growing higher. This financial burden adds a constant layer of stress that sometimes makes it hard to focus fully on my studies and community work. Receiving this scholarship would ease that stress and allow me to concentrate more on my educational and leadership goals without the constant worry about finances. The relief from debt would give me the freedom to take on unpaid internships and leadership roles that will better prepare me for a career in education. Most importantly, this scholarship would allow me to honor my grandmother’s legacy and Mary McLeod Bethune’s vision by continuing to invest in my own growth so I can, in turn, invest in others. It would be a step closer to my goal of becoming a teacher who not only educates but also nurtures and uplifts children who face adversity. I want to be a beacon of hope and a source of strength for students who feel overlooked or forgotten. Education saved me, and I am committed to using my degree to save others—to be the kind of teacher who changes lives, plants seeds of possibility, and inspires the next generation of leaders. I know this journey will not always be easy, but I carry the lessons of my grandmother and Mary McLeod Bethune in my heart. They teach me that every challenge is an opportunity to grow and that investing in human potential is the most important work there is. With this scholarship, I will be one step closer to making a lasting difference—not only for myself but for all the children and families who need someone to believe in them as much as my grandmother believed in me.

"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." – Mary McLeod Bethune My name is Javares Mikell, and I am the first child born out of thirteen siblings. I never had the luxury of a traditional childhood. My mother was unfit to raise us, and at a young age, I was taken in by my adopted grandmother—a woman who had her own struggles but gave me the closest thing to love, stability, and care I had ever known. She raised me with discipline, faith, and heart. Even as she battled addiction, she never stopped believing in me. When she passed away, a part of me felt lost. But I also knew I had to honor her by continuing to rise. I am a first-generation college student currently attending Bethune-Cookman University—an HBCU founded by one of my greatest inspirations, Mary McLeod Bethune. Her words guide me every day: "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." I am that diamond. Polished by struggle, shaped by love, and driven by purpose. I chose to invest in myself through education not only to change my own life, but to break the cycle for my siblings and my community. My educational pursuit is rooted in social justice, leadership, and service. I’m actively involved in the Student Government Association, serve as the historian for the Red Cross chapter at my university, and play in the Marching Wildcats band. I’ve participated in voter registration drives with the NAACP, attended leadership summits, and completed over 115 hours of community service. Every step I take is for something bigger than me. I don’t have the luxury of quitting. I’m doing this for the ones who come after me—the younger siblings who are watching and the community members who need someone to show them it’s possible. But behind every accolade is a constant weight: student loans. I didn’t grow up with a savings account or financial safety net. Every dollar I earn is stretched, and every semester I complete is paid for with prayer, persistence, and borrowed money. Winning this scholarship would lift a tremendous burden. It would ease the stress that eats away at my focus, my rest, and my peace of mind. It would give me room to breathe—and to dream bigger without being crushed by debt. With the money I save by paying down my student loans, I’d be able to pour more energy into my studies, take on unpaid internships that matter, and continue serving without the fear of falling behind financially. It would help me keep showing up—for my siblings, my community, and for the future I’m building, one step at a time. This isn’t just a scholarship to me. It’s a lifeline. A chance to keep going. A way to honor the sacrifices of my grandmother and to continue the legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune—investing in the soul of someone who refuses to give up.

"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." – Mary McLeod Bethune One of the most difficult challenges I’ve ever faced was losing my adopted grandmother, a woman who helped raise me and loved me unconditionally despite her personal struggles. She battled alcoholism for most of her life, and as a child, I didn’t always understand the complexity of her addiction. I only knew that she loved me, even if her illness sometimes created chaos. When she passed away, I found myself suddenly at the center of a situation no teenager should have to manage—making decisions about her care without clear guidance, dealing with relatives who made choices on her behalf without consulting me, and facing the reality that there was no will, no preparation, no stability. It felt like the floor had fallen from under me. At first, the weight of it all nearly broke me. I felt powerless, unheard, and deeply alone. But over time, something changed. I realized that I could either be defined by my pain or rise because of it. That moment became a turning point in my life—not just emotionally, but in how I saw my future. I started to understand how many families like mine face similar struggles in silence. I saw how broken systems—whether in healthcare, housing, or legal support—fail to protect people who look like me. I decided I would be part of the change. I poured myself into service, leadership, and education. I joined the Student Government Association, became a member of the Marching Wildcats, participated in NAACP voter registration drives, and helped launch the first Red Cross chapter at Bethune-Cookman University. I completed over 115 hours of community service—not because I had to, but because I wanted to be the person I once needed. That loss taught me how to be empathetic, how to listen, and how to lead from a place of love and lived experience. Most importantly, I learned that healing can become purpose. That challenges don’t mean you’re weak—they mean you’re growing. Today, as a first-generation college student, I carry my grandmother’s memory with me in everything I do. Her life, her struggles, and her love shaped me, and now I use that legacy to uplift others. I know now that even in the darkest moments, there is a lesson that can guide you to your light. Mary McLeod Bethune’s words remind me that every soul—including mine—is worth investing in, even when it’s still rough around the edges. Because sometimes, the most powerful leaders are shaped by struggle. I’ve been through the fire, but I’m coming out stronger—with purpose, passion, and a heart ready to serve.

“Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough.” – Mary McLeod Bethune My name is Javares Mikell, and I am a proud first-generation African American college student at Bethune-Cookman University, a place where I found my voice, my purpose, and my fight. I come from a story that doesn’t start in privilege. I was raised in a household shaped by struggle—especially watching my grandmother battle alcoholism and the way that pain trickled down into our family. Her love was real and unconditional, but so was the trauma we faced. After her passing, I was forced into adult responsibilities too early, navigating legal confusion and family instability, all while trying to hold on to my dreams. But even in those hardest moments, I knew I was meant for more—not just for me, but for others who look like me, live like me, and carry invisible burdens like I did. What makes me different is that I don’t just want to succeed—I want to serve. I want to fight for the next generation of Black boys who are told they’ll never make it. I want to change laws and challenge systems that continue to criminalize us, trap us, and shut the door before we even reach it. I want to plant seeds that I may never see grow, the same way Mary McLeod Bethune planted hers when she founded my university with just $1.50, faith, and vision. I want to be like Harry T. Moore, who died fighting for Black justice and voting rights in Florida—someone who knew that change comes with risk, but that the reward is a better future for people who have been historically denied one. At B-CU, I’ve found ways to turn my pain into purpose. I serve with pride in the Student Government Association, the Marching Wildcats, and the first Red Cross chapter at my school. I’ve completed over 115 hours of community service and have led and participated in voter registration drives through the NAACP. But I’m just getting started. Through my degree in justice and social issues, I plan to become a leader who doesn’t just reform policy—but rewrites the narrative for young Black men. I want to help end the racial wealth and education gaps by fighting for more funding and support for Black students, especially those growing up in environments that don’t have the tools to nurture them. I want to see more Black male educators, counselors, and mentors, because representation matters—and I am determined to be part of that change. The truth is, I may not get to see every result of my work. Some of the policies I’ll help shape, the boys I’ll mentor, the communities I’ll advocate for—those victories may bloom long after I’m gone. But I still want to plant the seeds. I want to live like my founder, Mary McLeod Bethune, and like Harry T. Moore—fearless, faithful, and focused on the generations to come. I’m applying for this scholarship because I know who I am and who I fight for. I am not perfect, but I am powerful. I am a student, a servant, and a seed-planter. And with your support, I will continue to grow, lead, and leave behind a legacy rooted in justice, love, and hope.

“If we have the courage and tenacity of our forebears, who stood firmly like a rock against the lash of slavery, we shall find a way to do for our day what they did for theirs.” — Mary McLeod Bethune What makes me different is not just what I’ve been through—it's how I’ve chosen to rise because of it. My name is Javares Mikell, and I am a proud first-generation African American college student at Bethune-Cookman University, an institution founded on service, courage, and unapologetic Black excellence. I come from a family where hardship often spoke louder than hope, but I’ve learned to let my differences speak louder than my fears. I’m not afraid to be exactly who I am: a young Black man shaped by pain, driven by purpose, and committed to uplifting those who feel unseen. I grew up watching my grandmother battle alcoholism. It wasn’t easy, and it left scars, but her love for me and my sister never wavered. Even in her struggles, she taught me something that sticks with me to this day—how important it is to be yourself and to love others deeply. Losing her was devastating, especially when decisions were made on her behalf in the hospital without my consent, but I carry her lessons with me. I carry her strength. That’s why I lead with heart in everything I do, from mentoring my younger sister to giving back through over 115 hours of community service. What makes me different is how I turn pain into purpose. I use my story to reach others—especially young people—who might be going through similar struggles but don’t yet see a way out. Whether I’m registering voters with the NAACP, marching in the B-CU Homecoming Parade with the Marching Wildcats, helping lead our Student Government Association, or serving as the future historian for our first campus Red Cross chapter, I know someone is always watching. Someone is always learning from the way I lead with authenticity. I’ve learned that being bold isn’t about being loud—it’s about being real, consistent, and willing to serve even when no one is clapping. I may not know who’s watching me today, but I know someone is. Maybe it’s a student on campus who doesn’t believe in themselves yet. Maybe it’s my little sister. Maybe it’s a stranger who sees that I show up every day, no matter what. I use my voice, my background, and my truth as a platform—not to impress, but to impact. That is what makes me different. Mary McLeod Bethune once said we must do for our day what our ancestors did for theirs. For me, that means being unapologetically myself, serving others with compassion, and building a legacy that says, "You can come from brokenness and still build something beautiful." This scholarship would not only help me continue my education, but also fuel the mission I’ve already started—to serve, to lead, and to show others that who you are is more than enough.

As a devout believer in the power of selflessness, I strive to embody this trait in everything I do. I believe that true happiness comes from helping others and making a positive impact in their lives. Throughout my time at Bethune-Cookman University, I have actively sought out opportunities to lend a helping hand to those in need. One of the most memorable volunteer projects I participated in was the Annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival in Eatonville, Florida in 2023. Zora Neale Hurston was a renowned African American author and anthropologist, and the festival celebrates her life and works. I had the privilege of volunteering at the festival, assisting with various tasks such as setting up booths, guiding visitors, and taking care of logistical arrangements. During the festival, I had the opportunity to meet a young boy named Malik who was struggling to find his way around the event. He looked lost and confused, so I approached him and offered to help. I took him by the hand and led him to the different attractions, explaining the significance of each one along the way. Malik's face lit up with joy as he learned more about Zora Neale Hurston and her contributions to African American literature. Another instance of me embodying selflessness was when I volunteered at a local homeless shelter during the holiday season. I spent the day serving meals to those in need and listening to their stories. One man, in particular, named John, shared with me his struggles with addiction and homelessness. I sat with him and offered him a listening ear, providing him with comfort and support during a difficult time in his life. In addition to these larger volunteer projects, I also strive to embody selflessness in my everyday interactions with others. Whether it's holding the door open for someone, offering a listening ear to a friend in need, or simply smiling and saying hello to a stranger, I believe that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. In conclusion, embodying selflessness is a core value that I hold dear. Through volunteering at events like the Zora Neale Hurston Festival and the homeless shelter, as well as through everyday acts of kindness, I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. I believe that by putting others before ourselves, we can create a more compassionate and empathetic world.

In order to make mental health care more affordable and accessible to those in need, I would focus on investing in the human soul. I believe that each individual has the potential to shine brightly like a diamond in the rough, but they may need support and guidance to uncover their true worth. Drawing inspiration from the words of Mary McLeod Bethune, I would strive to provide a nurturing and empowering environment for those seeking mental health care. By offering a holistic approach that addresses the emotional, spiritual, and psychological needs of individuals, I believe we can make a lasting impact on their overall well-being. My personal experience with my adopted grandmother, who struggled with kidney disease and faced a difficult family history, has taught me the importance of compassion and support in times of hardship. She selflessly took in my sister and me, providing us with love and stability when we needed it most. By sharing my story and advocating for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to mental health care, I hope to inspire others to invest in the human soul and make a positive difference in the lives of those in need. Together, we can create a world where mental health care is truly accessible to all.

I am a firm believer in the power of science to change the world. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the way in which the natural world operates and the role that scientific research plays in advancing our understanding of it. This curiosity and passion for the sciences have been a driving force in my academic and professional endeavors, inspiring me to pursue a career in scientific research. My interest in the sciences can be traced back to my childhood, where I spent hours conducting experiments in my backyard and reading books on the wonders of the natural world. I was always in awe of the complexity and beauty of the world around me, and I knew from an early age that I wanted to dedicate my life to uncovering its mysteries. As I grew older, my passion for science only intensified. I excelled in my science classes in high school and went on to study biology in college. It was there that I truly found my calling, as I delved into the world of genetics and molecular biology. I was captivated by the intricate processes that govern life at the cellular level and knew that I wanted to make a contribution to the field through research. Throughout my academic career, I have been fortunate to work on various research projects that have allowed me to explore my interests and hone my skills as a scientist. From studying the genetic basis of disease to investigating the role of environmental factors in shaping biodiversity, I have had the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and push the boundaries of human knowledge. Despite my passion for science, pursuing a career in research has not been without its challenges. As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, I have had to navigate a number of obstacles to achieve my academic and professional goals. From securing scholarships to funding my research projects, I have had to be resourceful and determined in order to succeed. It is for this reason that I am applying for the Willie Louis Pegues Science Scholarship. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden of pursuing a career in the sciences but also provide me with the support and resources necessary to advance my education and research. With the help of this scholarship, I will be able to focus on my studies and contribute meaningfully to the field of scientific research. In conclusion, my journey towards becoming a scientist has been shaped by my passion for the natural world, my perseverance in the face of adversity, and my commitment to making a difference through research. I am confident that with the support of the Willie Louis Pegues Science Scholarship, I will be able to achieve my career goals and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge. Thank you for considering my application.

Kidney disease has had a profound impact on my life, particularly through the experience of my adopted grandmother. She took me and my sister in when we were young, shielding us from a tumultuous family history and providing us with love and stability. However, her own health struggles with kidney disease eventually took a toll on her and our family. My adopted grandmother, whom I lovingly called Grandma Rose, always put our needs before her own. She worked hard to provide for us, ensuring that we had a roof over our head and food on the table. She never complained about her health issues, preferring to keep a brave face for our sake. However, as the years went by, her kidney disease began to worsen, taking a toll on her body and spirit. In 2023, during my third year of college, Grandma Rose suffered a stroke that left her weakened and vulnerable. It was a scary and uncertain time for our family, as we grappled with the reality of her declining health. Despite her best efforts to fight back, Grandma Rose's kidneys were failing, and she needed dialysis to survive. The physical and emotional toll of this disease on her was evident, as she struggled to maintain her independence and dignity. As her condition worsened, I found myself taking on more responsibilities to care for Grandma Rose and my younger sister. I juggled my college courses with doctor's appointments, medication schedules, and household chores, all while trying to be a source of strength and support for my family. It was a challenging and exhausting time, but I knew that Grandma Rose needed me now more than ever. Tragically, on May 9th, Grandma Rose passed away, just three days after returning home for summer break. Her death left a void in our lives that could never be filled, and the grief and loss were overwhelming. I struggled to come to terms with the fact that kidney disease had taken her from us, robbing us of her love and presence. In the aftermath of Grandma Rose's passing, I turned to organizations like Caring 4 Carrie (C4C) Kidney Advocacy for support and guidance. Their scholarship program provided me with financial assistance and resources to continue my education, despite the challenges and uncertainties I faced. Through their advocacy work, I found a sense of community and understanding, knowing that I was not alone in my experiences with kidney disease. While kidney disease has brought immense pain and sorrow into my life, it has also taught me the value of resilience, compassion, and strength. I carry Grandma Rose's memory in my heart, honoring her legacy by advocating for better healthcare and support for those affected by kidney disease. In investing in the human soul, as Mary McLeod Bethune said, we may find diamonds in the rough – shining examples of courage and love in the face of adversity.

Growing up in a single parent household has shaped my educational journey in more ways than I could have ever imagined. My mother, a strong and resilient woman, raised my sister and me on her own after our biological mother made the difficult decision to sign away her rights to us. My grandmother, who adopted us, swooped in to save us from the uncertainty of foster care and gave us a stable home to grow up in. My grandmother, whom I affectionately call Nana, had a tough upbringing herself. She never wanted us to go through the struggles she faced, so she did everything in her power to shield us from the harsh realities of life. Despite her efforts, I knew deep down that things weren't easy for her. However, she never let her past define her and always encouraged us to pursue our dreams and never settle for anything less than we deserved. As I navigated through my educational journey, I encountered numerous challenges along the way. Balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs was no easy feat, especially with the added responsibility of taking care of my younger sister. Yet, I persevered, fueled by the unwavering support and love of my Nana. Sadly, tragedy struck during my third year of college. Nana suffered a stroke, and despite our hopes for her recovery, she passed away just a few months later. The loss was devastating, and I was left to pick up the pieces and take on the role of a parent to my sister. While the journey was tough, I never once let it deter me from my educational goals. In fact, it only fueled my determination to succeed. I knew that Nana had sacrificed so much to give us a better life, and I was not about to let her down. In the midst of my grief, I stumbled upon the Larry Darnell Green Scholarship, a prestigious award that honored students who had overcome adversity in pursuit of their education. The scholarship seemed like a beacon of hope in my darkest hour, and I poured my heart and soul into the application process. To my astonishment, I was chosen as the recipient of the scholarship. The validation and recognition of my hard work filled me with a renewed sense of purpose and drive. I knew that I had the potential to make a difference not only in my own life but also in the lives of others. Looking towards the future, I am determined to give back to my community in any way I can. Inspired by Nana's selflessness and resilience, I plan to establish a mentorship program for children growing up in single-parent households. I want to be a source of support and guidance for those who may be facing their own struggles, just as Nana was for me. Through my education and experience, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential, regardless of the obstacles they may face. Nana's legacy lives on in me, and I intend to honor her memory by paying it forward to those in need. As I continue on my educational journey and pursue my dreams, I carry Nana's love and strength with me every step of the way. She may no longer be physically present, but her spirit and wisdom guide me towards a brighter future, one filled with hope, resilience, and endless possibilities.

The day my grandmother passed away was the day my world turned upside down. She was the rock of our family, the glue that held us all together. But now, she was gone, and I was left to pick up the pieces and carry on her legacy. My grandmother had always been a fighter. She came to the United States from Nigeria with nothing but the clothes on her back and a fierce determination to build a better life for herself and her children. She worked multiple jobs, saved every penny she could, and eventually was able to bring her family over to join her. But just as things were starting to look up, tragedy struck. My grandmother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed on one side of her body. She was no longer able to work, to care for us, or even to be the strong, independent woman we all knew and loved. And yet, she never gave up. Even as she struggled to speak, to move, to live, she never lost her spirit, her will to keep fighting. I remember sitting by her bedside, holding her hand, listening to her stories of the past, of her childhood in Nigeria, of her dreams for the future. And as the days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, I watched in awe as she faced each new challenge with grace, with courage, with a stubborn refusal to be beaten. When she finally passed away, I was devastated. I felt lost, adrift, without my anchor, my guiding light. But in the midst of my grief, I also felt a sense of determination, of purpose. I knew that I had to carry on her legacy, to honor her memory, to be the strong, resilient woman she had raised me to be. And so, I did. I took on the responsibility of caring for my younger sister, of making sure she had everything she needed to succeed in life. I worked multiple jobs, saved every penny I could, just like my grandmother had done. And as I watched my sister grow and thrive, I knew that I was doing what my grandmother would have wanted, what she had sacrificed so much for. Today, I am a successful professional, a loving sister, a proud daughter. I am someone who has faced great challenges and overcome them, someone who has been shaped by the strength and resilience of my family. And as I look back on all that we have been through, all that we have overcome, I know that my grandmother's spirit lives on in me, in the way I face each new challenge with grace, with courage, with a stubborn refusal to be beaten.

I have always had a passion for early childhood education, stemming from my own personal experiences and the influence of my adopted grandmother. Growing up, my adopted grandmother took me and my younger sister in after our mother signed her rights away. She shielded us from the harsh realities of our family history, and did everything in her power to provide us with a loving and stable home. My adopted grandmother had a difficult upbringing herself, with a traumatic family history that she tried to protect us from. Despite the challenges she faced, she was determined to give us a better life and ensure that we had a bright future ahead of us. She instilled in me the importance of education and the impact it can have on a person's life. Throughout my childhood, my adopted grandmother emphasized the importance of early childhood education and the role it plays in shaping a child's future. She believed that a strong foundation in education could set the stage for success later in life, and she was dedicated to providing us with the best possible start. Tragically, in my third year of college, my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke and passed away shortly after. Her sudden death left me devastated and unsure of how to move forward. I now found myself responsible for caring for my younger sister, who was only a few months old at the time. In the midst of my grief, I knew that I needed to honor my grandmother's legacy and continue her mission of advocating for early childhood education. I realized that my passion for early childhood education was deeply rooted in my own personal experiences and the impact that my adopted grandmother had on my life. As I navigated through my college years, I found solace in pursuing a degree in early childhood education. I was inspired by my grandmother's unwavering dedication to providing us with a better future, and I was determined to carry on her legacy in my own way. When I learned about the Sandy Jenkins Excellence in Early Childhood Education Scholarship, I knew that it was the perfect opportunity to further my education and make a difference in the lives of young children. This scholarship would not only help me achieve my academic goals, but it would also allow me to continue my grandmother's legacy of advocating for early childhood education. I am passionate about early childhood education because I have seen firsthand the impact that it can have on a child's life. I am inspired by the creativity and enthusiasm that children bring to the learning process, and I am dedicated to providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. In honor of my adopted grandmother, I am committed to making a difference in the lives of young children and ensuring that they have access to quality education. I am grateful for the opportunities that the Sandy Jenkins Excellence in Early Childhood Education Scholarship will provide, and I am excited to continue pursuing my passion for early childhood education. Thank you for considering my story.

Growing up, I was always told that education was the key to a better life. Being the first in my family to go to college was a huge milestone, not just for me, but for my entire family. My grandmother had always been my biggest supporter, encouraging me to pursue my dreams and make something of myself. Little did I know, she was hiding years of family hardship from me. Years of me and my little sister staying with my grandmother, we saw the struggle she faced on a daily basis. The tears she cried, the bottles of alcohol and packs of cigarettes she consumed to numb the pain. I begged her to stop, to get help, but addiction is a powerful force that can consume even the strongest of individuals. May 9th, just 3 days after I came back from school for summer break, my grandmother passed away. The weight of her struggles suddenly became my own, as I now had to take care of my 15-year-old sister who was left behind. The loss was devastating, but it also ignited a fire within me to make a difference in the world. As I navigated through my grief and newfound responsibilities, I realized that my unique talents and skills could be used to build a more empathetic and understanding global community. I had always been drawn to teaching, a profession that allowed me to connect with others on a deeper level and inspire positive change. My grandmother's passing had a profound impact on me, pushing me to advocate for mental health awareness and support. I wanted to be a better teacher, not just for my own future, but for the future of others who may be silently struggling like my grandmother did. I began to incorporate mindfulness and emotional intelligence practices into my teaching, creating a safe space for students to express themselves and work through their own challenges. I noticed a shift in the classroom dynamic, as students became more open and supportive of one another, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Outside of the classroom, I volunteered at local mental health organizations, providing resources and support to those in need. I organized workshops and events to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and the stigma surrounding it. Through these initiatives, I was able to connect with a diverse range of individuals and build a network of support within my community. As I continued on my journey to make a difference, I found myself drawn to international initiatives that focused on empathy and understanding across cultures. I participated in exchange programs and volunteer opportunities abroad, immersing myself in different communities and learning from their perspectives. I brought back these experiences to my own classroom, encouraging my students to embrace diversity and practice empathy towards others. I wanted to instill in them the importance of investing in the human soul, as you never know when you might come across a diamond in the rough. My grandmother's legacy lived on through my work, as I strived to honor her. I knew that by using my unique talents and skills, I could make a lasting impact on the world around me and create a more compassionate global community. As I reflected on my journey, I realized that the key to building a more empathetic and understanding world lies in the simple act of investing in the human soul. By connecting with others on a deeper level, we can unlock the potential for positive change and create a brighter future for generations to come.

My name is Javares and I am a 21-year-old student who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. Growing up, I faced many challenges within my family, including my adopted grandmother's struggle with addiction. Despite her attempts to hide it from me, I witnessed the pain and hardships that addiction brought upon our family. Tragically, my grandmother passed away on May 9th, just three days after I returned home from school for summer break. Her passing left a void in my heart, but it also ignited a fire within me to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I have a 15-year-old sister who is now looking up to me as a role model, and I am determined to show her that there is a way out of the cycle of addiction and hardship that has plagued our family for so long. One of my greatest aspirations is to become a teacher, with a focus on mental health and support for at-risk youth. I believe that through education and compassion, we can help break the cycle of addiction and provide a brighter future for those who are struggling. The Kumar Family Scholarship would be instrumental in helping me to achieve these goals, by providing the financial support I need to continue my education and pursue my dreams. With this scholarship, I will be able to enroll in courses that will further my understanding of mental health and education, and ultimately help me to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I am dedicated to using my own experiences and struggles to connect with students who are going through similar challenges, and to provide them with the support and guidance they need to thrive. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity that the Kumar Family Scholarship represents, and I am committed to honoring their generosity by working hard and making a difference in the world. This scholarship will not only help me to achieve my educational goals, but it will also empower me to create a better future for myself and for those around me. In conclusion, I am a determined and compassionate individual who is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. The Kumar Family Scholarship will help me to continue my education and pursue my dreams of becoming a teacher, with a focus on mental health and support for at-risk youth. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship opportunity.

Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough.Mary McLeod Bethune My experience with mental health has deeply shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world in ways I never could have imagined. Growing up in a household where mental illness was a hidden struggle, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact it can have on a person and their loved ones. My adopted grandmother, who I had always looked up to as a strong and vibrant woman, battled with alcoholism and depression for as long as I can remember. Despite my efforts to help her overcome her demons, she ultimately succumbed to her illness on a fateful day in May. The loss of my grandmother left a void in my heart and a deep sense of frustration at the stigma surrounding mental health issues. In the aftermath of her passing, I found myself grappling with a mix of emotions - grief, anger, and a renewed sense of purpose. I knew that I couldn't change the past, but I could use my experience to shape my future. I made a decision to pursue a career in education, with the hope of not only making a difference in the lives of my students but also advocating for mental health awareness and support. My family has been incredibly supportive of my decision, recognizing the importance of breaking the silence and stigma surrounding mental health. They have encouraged me to pursue my goals with passion and dedication, knowing that my journey is not just about personal growth, but also about creating a legacy of hope and resilience. As I navigate through my academic journey, I am constantly reminded of the impact of mental health on individuals and communities. I strive to cultivate empathy and understanding in my relationships, knowing that everyone has their own battles and struggles. I have learned to listen without judgment, to offer support without reservation, and to stand up for those who are unable to speak for themselves. My understanding of the world has been shaped by my experience with mental health, opening my eyes to the complexities of human nature and the importance of compassion and acceptance. I have come to realize that mental illness does not define a person, but rather adds layers of depth and resilience to their character. In memory of my grandmother, I have dedicated myself to the cause of destigmatizing mental health, one conversation at a time. I have established connections with local organizations and support groups, volunteering my time and energy to raise awareness and promote mental well-being. As I reflect on my journey so far, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the lessons learned and the growth experienced. My goals are clear, my relationships are strengthened, and my understanding of the world is enriched by the power of resilience and hope. And through it all, I carry the memory of my grandmother in my heart, a constant reminder of the impact of mental health and the importance of speaking out.

Recovery, to me, means breaking free from the chains of addiction and finding peace within oneself. My adopted grandmother struggled for years with alcoholism and smoking, trying to hide her pain from me and my little sister. Despite our pleas for her to stop, she couldn't break the cycle of addiction. When she passed away on May 9th, 2024, just three days after I returned home from school for the summer, I was left to pick up the pieces. Now I have to be strong for my 15-year-old sister, who looks up to me for guidance and support. As I navigate the challenges of raising my sister and keeping our family together, I realize that recovery is a journey of healing and growth. It's not just about quitting a harmful habit; it's about facing your demons, confronting your past, and finding the strength to move forward. Thanks to the Lost Dreams Awaken Scholarship, I have the opportunity to pursue my dreams and create a better future for myself and my sister. Through education and support, I am learning to let go of the pain and trauma of the past and embrace a future filled with hope and possibility. Recovery is a process, a journey of self-discovery and transformation. It's about finding the courage to face your darkest moments and emerge stronger on the other side. And for me, it's about building a future where my sister and I can thrive, free from the shackles of addiction and pain.

Growing up, my family faced many challenges that inspired me to pursue a career in business and finance. I was raised by a single mother who worked multiple jobs to make ends meet. We struggled to afford basic necessities, and I often had to take on responsibilities beyond my years to help support my family. Despite our hardships, my mother always emphasized the importance of education and hard work. She encouraged me to excel in school and to never give up on my dreams. Because of her unwavering support, I was able to graduate high school with honors and pursue a college education. When I started college at Bethune Cookman University, I never imagined the immense impact that my family responsibilities would have on my academic journey. During my third year of school, my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke and passed away, leaving me to care for my younger sister. It was a difficult and emotional time, but I refused to let my circumstances deter me from achieving my goals. Instead of giving up, I channeled my struggles into motivation and determination. I pushed myself to work harder and achieve academic success, even while balancing the responsibilities of caring for my sister. I was able to maintain a high GPA and was recognized on the President's list for my academic achievements. My experiences growing up taught me the importance of financial literacy and stability. I realized that by pursuing a career in business or finance, I could not only secure a stable future for myself and my family but also make a positive impact on my community. I saw firsthand how financial hardships can affect families and communities, and I was determined to use my knowledge and skills to help others overcome similar challenges. Post-graduation, I plan to pursue a career in finance where I can use my expertise to assist individuals and families in managing their finances and achieving their financial goals. I also hope to become actively involved in community outreach programs that provide financial education and resources to underserved communities. I believe that by investing in the human soul and empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions, we can create a stronger and more resilient community. I am committed to making a positive impact through my career and community involvement, and I am excited to see where this journey will take me. Thank you for considering me for the Advancement of Minorities in Finance Scholarship.

Growing up, my faith in God has always been a guiding light in my life. It has provided me with strength, comfort, and hope during the most difficult times. When my adopted grandmother had a stroke and passed away, leaving me to take care of my little sister, I turned to my faith to help me through the pain and uncertainty. Despite the overwhelming responsibilities that now rested on my shoulders, I did not give up on my education. In fact, I became even more determined to succeed. With God's grace and my unwavering faith, I was able to juggle the demands of school and taking care of my sister. And when I received the news that I had made the President's list at Bethune Cookman University, I knew that my faith had played a crucial role in my achievements. Looking forward, I see my faith continuing to assist me in my career aspirations. As a student studying to become a nurse, I know that the healthcare field can be challenging and demanding. But with God by my side, I have the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacles that come my way. I believe that my faith will help me to remain grounded and focused on my goals. It will remind me of the importance of compassion, empathy, and serving others with love and kindness. As I embark on my professional journey, I know that my faith will guide me to make a positive impact on the lives of others. In the words of Mary McLeod Bethune, "Faith is the first factor in a life devoted to service. Without it, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." My faith has taught me the power of perseverance, resilience, and hope. It has given me the courage to face challenges head-on and the strength to keep moving forward. I am grateful for the support and guidance that my faith has provided me throughout my life. It has been a source of comfort and inspiration, helping me to overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. I am confident that with my faith as my foundation, I will continue to grow and thrive in my career, making a difference in the lives of those I serve. As I reflect on my journey thus far, I am reminded of the importance of never losing faith, even in the darkest of times. My faith has truly been a gift, enriching my life and shaping me into the person I am today. And I have no doubt that it will continue to be a guiding force in all my future endeavors.

Let me tell you a little bit about myself. My name is Javares Mikell and I am currently a student at Bethune Cookman University pursuing a degree in social science with a focus on the human soul. I have been attending this prestigious institution for three years now, and it has truly become my home away from home. However, my journey through college has not been without its challenges. In my third year of school, my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke and a few months later, she tragically passed away. This devastating loss left me to take on the responsibility of caring for my little sister, all while juggling my academic responsibilities. Despite the immense emotional and financial strain, I was determined not to let this setback derail my educational goals. In fact, if anything, this difficult experience only fueled my determination to succeed. I pushed myself even harder, and I am proud to say that I ended the semester by making the president's list. This accomplishment is not just a testament to my academic abilities, but also to my resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity. The Hilliard L. "Tack" Gibbs Jr. Memorial Scholarship would be a tremendous help to me as I continue my education. This scholarship would provide much-needed financial support, allowing me to focus on my studies and alleviate some of the burden of taking care of my sister. It would also serve as a validation of all the hard work and sacrifices I have made to pursue my dreams. I chose to pursue a degree in social science with a focus on the human soul because I have always been fascinated by the complexities of human nature and behavior. I believe that by studying the human soul, I can gain a deeper understanding of the world around me and make a positive impact on society. My ultimate goal is to help others navigate the complexities of life and find fulfillment and happiness. After graduation, I hope to continue my education by pursuing a master's degree in counseling psychology. Ultimately, my dream is to become a licensed therapist and work with individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. I want to be a source of support and guidance for those in need, helping them find healing and hope in their darkest moments. In conclusion, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and express my gratitude for the Hilliard L. "Tack" Gibbs Jr. Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship would not only provide financial assistance but also serve as a recognition of my perseverance and dedication to my education. I am excited about the future and all the possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship.

Growing up in a low-income neighborhood, I witnessed firsthand the struggles that many families face on a daily basis. From lack of access to quality education to limited opportunities for career advancement, social issues were commonplace in my community. Determined to make a difference, I knew that education was the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a better future for myself and my family. When my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke during my third year of college, I was faced with the difficult decision of balancing school and taking care of my little sister. Despite the challenges, I knew that giving up on my education was not an option. With the support of scholarships, like the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship, I was able to continue my studies and even made the president's list this semester. As I navigated through my academic journey, I realized that education was not only a pathway to personal success but also a powerful tool for addressing important social issues in my community. Inspired by the words of Mary McLeod Bethune, I understood the value of empowering individuals through education and believed that every person had the potential to shine like a diamond in the rough. With a renewed sense of purpose, I set out to make a difference in my community. I volunteered at local schools, tutoring students who were struggling academically and providing them with the support they needed to succeed. I also organized workshops on college readiness and career planning, helping young people envision a bright future for themselves. In addition to my work with youth, I collaborated with community organizations to address systemic issues, such as poverty and lack of access to resources. By advocating for policy changes and raising awareness about the needs of underserved communities, I strove to create a more equitable society where everyone had the opportunity to thrive. Through my efforts, I hoped to inspire others to take action and make a positive impact in their own communities. By harnessing the power of education and collective action, I believed that we could address important social issues and create a more just and inclusive society for all. As I reflected on my journey, I realized that my adopted grandmother's passing had taught me an important lesson - that in the face of adversity, resilience and determination could lead to remarkable growth and transformation. With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of service, I continued to work towards addressing social issues and making a difference in the lives of others.

My journey at Bethune Cookman University has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. As a third-year student, I have faced many obstacles and hardships along the way. However, through perseverance and determination, I have overcome these challenges and continued to excel in my academics. One of the most difficult moments in my life occurred during my third year at school when my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke and passed away. This sudden loss not only left me devastated but also thrust me into a new role as the primary caregiver for my younger sister. Despite the immense responsibility that now rested on my shoulders, I refused to let this tragedy derail my education. In fact, if anything, the passing of my grandmother only served to strengthen my resolve and motivation to succeed. I knew that I had to continue working hard and pushing myself to achieve my goals, not only for myself but also for my little sister who was now depending on me. And so, I dedicated myself to my studies, pouring my heart and soul into my coursework and extracurricular activities. Despite the added pressures and responsibilities in my personal life, I managed to maintain excellent grades and even made the President's list at the end of the semester. This achievement not only proved to me that I was capable of overcoming any obstacle that came my way but also reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance and hard work. Now, as I look towards the future, I am more determined than ever to continue pursuing my educational goals and making a difference in the world. I am passionate about empowering others and showing them that no matter what challenges they may face, they can still succeed and achieve their dreams. This is where the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship comes in. This scholarship would provide me with the financial assistance I need to continue my education and support my family. It would also serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience that I have shown in the face of adversity. With this scholarship, I would be able to focus more on my studies and extracurricular activities, knowing that I have the support and encouragement of others behind me. It would not only help me financially but also emotionally, as it would show me that there are people out there who believe in me and my potential. In conclusion, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and express how this scholarship would help me in my journey towards achieving my educational goals. I am proud of how far I have come and excited for what the future holds. With hard work, determination, and the support of scholarships like this one, I know that I can continue to make a positive impact on the world and inspire others to do the same. Thank you for considering my application.

Growing up in a family where no one had ever attended college, I always knew that I wanted to break that cycle and pursue higher education. It hasn't been easy, with obstacles and challenges along the way. In my third year of college, my adopted grandmother – who had always been my pillar of strength and support – suffered a stroke and passed away a few months later. It was a devastating blow, and I struggled to cope with the loss while trying to continue my studies. During this difficult time, my mentor Sylvia Bodden stepped in to support me in ways I never thought possible. She listened to me, offered guidance and comfort, and showed me that I was not alone in my grief. Her kindness and wisdom helped me navigate through the darkest moments, and I will forever be grateful for her presence in my life. As I navigate my own personal and academic journey, I have discovered the power of mentorship and the profound impact it can have on someone's life. I have realized that investing in the human soul – just like my mentor did for me – can truly make a difference. In the words of Mary McLeod Bethune, "Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough. "In addition to the support I received from my mentor, my passion for playing chess has also taught me valuable lessons that will help me achieve my career goals. Chess has taught me the importance of strategic thinking, patience, and perseverance. It has taught me to anticipate my opponents' moves and adapt to changing situations. These skills are not only essential in the game of chess but also in real life and in pursuing my career goals. My career goals are to become a teacher and mentor, just like Sylvia Bodden. I want to pay it forward by helping and guiding young adults who, like myself, are striving to create a better future for themselves and their families. I want to be a source of support, inspiration, and encouragement for those who may be facing their own obstacles and challenges. I believe that by investing in the human soul, by nurturing and empowering others, we can create a ripple effect of positive change in the world. Just as my mentor did for me, I want to be that guiding light for others – to help them discover their own potential and achieve their dreams. In conclusion, my journey has been filled with obstacles and challenges, but with the support of my mentor and the lessons learned from playing chess, I am confident in my ability to achieve my career goals. I am committed to investing in the human soul, to being a mentor and teacher who inspires and empowers others to reach their full potential. And with these guiding principles, I am excited to embark on a new chapter in my life, where I can make a difference and leave a lasting impact on those around me.

I always knew that I wanted to make a difference in the world, but it wasn't until I started working with children that I realized teaching was the path for me. Growing up, I faced many obstacles, including being the first person in my family to pursue a college education. This journey was not easy, but I was determined to overcome any challenges in order to achieve my dreams. During my third year of college, my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke that left her incapacitated. It was a trying time for me, as I struggled to balance my studies with taking care of her. That's when Sylvia Bodden, my mentor, stepped in to offer her support. She not only helped me with my grandmother's care but also provided me with emotional guidance and encouragement to keep pushing forward. Sadly, my grandmother passed away last month, but Sylvia continued to stand by me during this difficult time. Her unwavering support inspired me to become a teacher who can make a positive impact on the lives of others, just as she did for me. I want to pay it forward by being there for my students, not only academically but also emotionally and mentally. As I pursue a career in teaching, my goal is to invest in the human soul, just as Mary McLeod Bethune once said. I believe that every child has the potential to shine brightly, even if they may be considered a "diamond in the rough." Through my mentorship and teaching experiences, I hope to help students overcome their obstacles and realize their full potential. I want to create a safe and nurturing environment in my classroom where students feel supported and valued. I aim to be a positive role model for them, guiding them towards success and helping them build a strong foundation for their future. Just like Sylvia did for me, I want to be a source of strength and encouragement for my students, empowering them to reach for their dreams and achieve greatness. Teaching is not just a career for me, but a calling to uplift and inspire others. I believe that through education, we can create a brighter future for the next generation. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and wisdom with my students, I hope to instill in them a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference in the world. In the end, I am grateful for the mentorship and guidance I received from Sylvia, as it has shaped me into the educator I aspire to be. I am committed to paying it forward by being a supportive and compassionate teacher who uplifts and empowers students to become the best versions of themselves. Education is the key to unlocking endless possibilities, and I am excited to embark on this journey of making a difference, one student at a time.

I always knew that I wanted to make a difference in the world, but it wasn't until I started working with children that I realized teaching was the path for me. Growing up, I faced many obstacles, including being the first person in my family to pursue a college education. This journey was not easy, but I was determined to overcome any challenges in order to achieve my dreams. During my third year of college, my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke that left her incapacitated. It was a trying time for me, as I struggled to balance my studies with taking care of her. That's when Sylvia Bodden, my mentor, stepped in to offer her support. She not only helped me with my grandmother's care but also provided me with emotional guidance and encouragement to keep pushing forward. Sadly, my grandmother passed away last month, but Sylvia continued to stand by me during this difficult time. Her unwavering support inspired me to become a teacher who can make a positive impact on the lives of others, just as she did for me. I want to pay it forward by being there for my students, not only academically but also emotionally and mentally. As I pursue a career in teaching, my goal is to invest in the human soul, just as Mary McLeod Bethune once said. I believe that every child has the potential to shine brightly, even if they may be considered a "diamond in the rough." Through my mentorship and teaching experiences, I hope to help students overcome their obstacles and realize their full potential. I want to create a safe and nurturing environment in my classroom where students feel supported and valued. I aim to be a positive role model for them, guiding them towards success and helping them build a strong foundation for their future. Just like Sylvia did for me, I want to be a source of strength and encouragement for my students, empowering them to reach for their dreams and achieve greatness. Teaching is not just a career for me, but a calling to uplift and inspire others. I believe that through education, we can create a brighter future for the next generation. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and wisdom with my students, I hope to instill in them a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference in the world. In the end, I am grateful for the mentorship and guidance I received from Sylvia, as it has shaped me into the educator I aspire to be. I am committed to paying it forward by being a supportive and compassionate teacher who uplifts and empowers students to become the best versions of themselves. Education is the key to unlocking endless possibilities, and I am excited to embark on this journey of making a difference, one student at a time.

Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to make a difference in the world. I wanted to help others, to inspire and uplift those around me. That's why I have always been interested in pursuing a career in teaching. I believe that education is the key to unlocking a better future, and I want to be a part of that journey for my students. One of the biggest obstacles I had to overcome on this path was being the first one in my family to go to college. It was a daunting challenge, but I knew that it was important for me to break the cycle of limited opportunities and aim for something more. My parents supported me as best they could, but they had never navigated the college application process themselves. It was a steep learning curve, but I was determined to succeed. During my third year of college, another unexpected obstacle appeared. My beloved adopted grandmother suffered a stroke and required round-the-clock care. It was a difficult time for my family, and I had to balance my studies with caregiving responsibilities. But I persevered, knowing that education was the key to a brighter future for both myself and my family. Through it all, one person stood by me and gave me the support and guidance I needed to keep going. That person is my mentor, Sylvia Bodden. Sylvia was there for me during some of the darkest moments of my life, offering a listening ear, words of wisdom, and practical help when I needed it most. She showed me the true meaning of compassion, empathy, and resilience. Sadly, my grandmother passed away last month, leaving a void in my life. But Sylvia has been there every step of the way, helping me grieve and heal. Her kindness and generosity have inspired me to pay it forward through my own teaching and mentoring experiences. As I look ahead to my future as a teacher, I am filled with a sense of purpose and determination. I want to be there for my students in the same way that Sylvia was there for me - to be a source of strength, hope, and encouragement. I want to invest in the human soul, knowing that each individual has the potential to shine brightly, like a diamond in the rough. I believe that through education, we can empower others to overcome obstacles, achieve their dreams, and make a positive impact on the world. And I am committed to being a guiding light for those who need it most, just as my mentor was for me. In conclusion, my journey towards a career in teaching has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but through it all, I have never lost sight of my goal to make a difference. I am grateful for the support of my mentor, Sylvia Bodden, and I am determined to honor her legacy by paying it forward to the next generation of learners. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.

As I reflect on my journey of giving back to my community, I am reminded of the quote by Mary McLeod Bethune, "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." This sentiment encapsulates my belief that everyone has the potential to shine bright if given the opportunity and support they need. One of the ways I give back to my community is by volunteering my time and being there to help out whenever I can. Whether it's lending a hand at a local shelter, participating in community clean-up events, or mentoring young individuals, I strive to make a positive impact in any way I can. I believe in the power of kindness and compassion, and I am committed to spreading love and support to those around me. Growing up, I faced many obstacles, one of which was being the first person in my family to go to college. The road to higher education was not easy, but I persevered and overcame the challenges that came my way. However, in my third year of school, my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke and passed away just a few months later. This was a difficult time for me, but it also strengthened my resolve to make a difference in the lives of others. During this trying period, my mentor, Sylvia Bodden, was there for me every step of the way. She provided me with guidance, support, and a listening ear when I needed it most. Sylvia's unwavering belief in me and her willingness to offer her time and expertise inspired me to pay it forward in my own teaching and mentoring experiences. I have a deep desire to impart my love of learning and my passion for helping others to the next generation. I believe that education is a powerful tool that can transform lives and open doors to endless possibilities. Through my own teaching and mentoring experiences, I hope to instill in others the same sense of determination, resilience, and compassion that was instilled in me. In a world that can often feel chaotic and overwhelming, I aim to be a beacon of light and hope for those in need. I want to uplift, inspire, and empower others to believe in themselves and their abilities. By investing in the human soul and nurturing the diamonds in the rough, I hope to create a ripple effect of positivity and change that will touch countless lives for years to come.

Growing up, I always had a strong sense of community and a desire to give back to others. I have always believed in the power of education and how it can transform lives. As the first person in my family to go to college, I have seen firsthand how education can open doors and create opportunities. One of the biggest obstacles I had to overcome on my journey was when my adopted grandmother had a stroke during my third year of school. It was a challenging time for me as I was torn between taking care of her and focusing on my studies. However, with the support of my mentor, Sylvia Bodden, I was able to navigate through this difficult time and continue my education. Sylvia has been a guiding light for me during some of the darkest moments in my life. She has shown me the true meaning of compassion, strength, and resilience. She has taught me the importance of giving back to others, even when facing adversities of our own. As I look towards the future, I am determined to pay it forward and impart my own love of learning to the next generation. I plan to do this through teaching and mentoring experiences, just like Sylvia did for me. I believe that education is the key to unlocking one's full potential. By sharing my knowledge and experiences with others, I hope to inspire and empower young minds to reach for their dreams and never give up on themselves. I plan to create a safe and nurturing environment for my students, where they feel supported and encouraged to explore their passions and interests. I will strive to instill in them a love of learning and a thirst for knowledge that will stay with them for a lifetime. In addition to teaching, I also plan to mentor and guide young individuals who may be facing challenges similar to the ones I have overcome. I want to be a source of strength and inspiration for them, just like Sylvia was for me. I believe that by investing in the human soul, we can help shape a brighter future for generations to come. By giving back to our communities and supporting others in need, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Through my teaching and mentoring experiences, I hope to leave a positive impact on the lives of those around me and inspire them to pay it forward as well.

My name is Javares and I am a determined individual on a mission to pursue higher education and achieve my career goals. I come from a background where I am the first one in my family to attend college, a fact that both inspires and motivates me every day. Despite facing numerous obstacles along the way, I have persisted and strived for success. One of the biggest challenges I have had to overcome was the sudden passing of my adopted Grandmother during my third year of school. She had a stroke and, unfortunately, did not recover. This devastating loss left me responsible for taking care of my little sister, all while trying to balance my studies and personal life. However, instead of allowing this tragedy to deter me from my educational pursuits, I used it as fuel to work even harder. The strength and resilience I exhibited during this difficult time enabled me to not only continue with my schooling but also excel academically. I am proud to say that at the end of this semester, I made the President's list, a testament to my dedication and hard work. This accomplishment has instilled in me a sense of pride and determination to continue striving for greatness. My ultimate goal is to show the world that no matter the obstacles or hardships one may face, it is possible to rise above them and achieve success. One of my career goals is to become a social worker, as I have always had a strong desire to help those in need and make a positive impact on society. I believe that investing in the human soul, as Mary McLeod Bethune once said, is crucial in shaping a better future for all. By pursuing a degree in social work, I hope to be able to reach out to marginalized communities, provide assistance to those facing adversity, and empower individuals to overcome their challenges. In order to reach my career goals and fulfill my aspirations, attending college is essential. I see college as a stepping stone towards a brighter future, where I can acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to make a difference in the world. Receiving the Rivera-Gulley First-Gen Scholarship Award will be a tremendous help in easing the financial burden of pursuing higher education, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity it will provided me. In conclusion, my journey to college has been filled with challenges and obstacles, but through perseverance and determination, I have managed to overcome them. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am determined to make the most of them. With a strong sense of purpose and a drive to succeed, I am confident that I will achieve my career and life goals, and make a positive impact on those around me.

Growing up as the child of a teen parent, I always felt the weight of responsibility on my shoulders. My mother had me when she was just sixteen years old, and as a result, we both had to navigate life's challenges together. Seeing her struggle to provide for us and make ends meet while also trying to finish her education was a constant reminder of the sacrifices she had made for me. As I grew older, I realized that I wanted a different path for myself. I didn't want to be another statistic, another teen parent struggling to make ends meet. I wanted to break the cycle of poverty and create a better future for myself and my family. The obstacles my mother faced fueled my determination to succeed and make something of myself. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was when my adopted Grandmother, who had supported us throughout the years, had a stroke during my third year of college. Suddenly, I found myself juggling school, taking care of my little sister, and being there for my grandmother in her time of need. It was a challenging time, but I didn't let it derail my education or my dreams. Instead, I used that hardship as fuel to propel me forward. I worked even harder in school, determined to make my adopted Grandmother proud and show everyone that I was capable of overcoming any obstacle that came my way. Despite the challenges, I managed to excel in my studies and even made the president's list at the end of the semester. My experiences as the child of a teen parent have shaped my goals and aspirations in profound ways. I want to show the world that with hard work, determination, and perseverance, anything is possible. I want to be a role model for my little sister and for other young people who may be facing similar challenges. I want to use my education and experiences to make a positive impact on the world and inspire others to do the same. In the words of Mary McLeod Bethune, "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." I may have faced obstacles and challenges along the way, but I refuse to let them define me. I am determined to shine bright like a diamond and make a difference in the world, no matter what challenges come my way.

Growing up in a single-parent household was never easy for me. My mother worked long hours to provide for my younger sister and me, and I often felt the weight of her struggles on my shoulders. Despite the challenges, my mother always emphasized the importance of education, encouraging me to strive for excellence in school. As the first one in my family to go to college, I felt the pressure to succeed and make my mother proud. However, during my third year of school, my world was turned upside down when my adopted grandmother had a stroke and passed away a few months later. Suddenly, I found myself responsible for taking care of my little sister while still trying to focus on my studies. It was a difficult time, but I refused to let circumstances derail my educational journey. If anything, the loss of my grandmother only fueled my determination to succeed. I poured myself into my schoolwork, using it as a distraction from the pain and grief I was feeling. And when I received my grades at the end of the semester, I was shocked to find that I had made the president's list. That moment was a turning point for me. It showed me that I was capable of overcoming obstacles and excelling in the face of adversity. It also solidified my belief in the power of education to transform lives. With each passing day, I grew more determined to pursue my dreams and create a better future for myself and my family. My future goals are ambitious but achievable. I plan to graduate from college with honors and pursue a career in the field of social work, where I can help others who are facing similar challenges to the ones I have overcome. I also hope to continue my education and eventually earn a master's degree in counseling, so that I can provide even more support to those in need. This scholarship, the Dimon A. Williams Memorial Scholarship, is a crucial step in helping me achieve my goals. With the financial support it provides, I will be able to focus more on my studies and worry less about the burden of student loans. It will also give me the freedom to explore new opportunities and gain valuable experience in my chosen field. In the words of Mary McLeod Bethune, "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." I believe that with the help of this scholarship, I can shine bright and make a positive impact on the world around me. Thank you for considering me for this opportunity.

Education has always been a powerful tool for change and growth. It not only opens doors to opportunities but also shapes the way we see the world around us. For me, education has been a beacon of hope in a sea of uncertainty and challenges. Being the first person in my family to pursue a college education was a daunting task. My parents, who had never had the chance to attend college, were supportive but unsure of how to guide me through the process. Despite their doubts, I persevered, fueled by a deep desire to create a better future for myself and my family. In my third year of school, tragedy struck when my beloved adopted grandmother suffered a stroke and passed away. Suddenly, I found myself responsible for taking care of my little sister while also juggling a full course load. The weight of my responsibilities threatened to overwhelm me, but I refused to give up on my education. Instead, I used the challenges I faced as fuel to propel me forward. It was not easy, but I pushed through the grief and the exhaustion, determined to succeed. And succeed I did - at the end of that semester, I was thrilled to find out that I had made the president's list. The recognition was not just a testament to my academic abilities, but a validation of my resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As I look towards the future, I am filled with a sense of purpose and gratitude for the opportunities that education has provided me. I am determined to use my knowledge and skills to give back to society in meaningful ways. I want to be a beacon of inspiration for others who may be facing similar challenges, showing them that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. I am grateful for the support I have received along the way, including the Kirk I. Woods Memorial Scholarship, which has helped to alleviate some of the financial burdens of pursuing higher education. My goal is to honor the generosity of those who have invested in my future by paying it forward and making a positive impact on the world around me. Education has changed my path forward in life, helping me to see beyond the obstacles and challenges that once seemed insurmountable. It has given me the tools to shape my own destiny and make a difference in the world. And for that, I will be forever grateful.

As the first person in my family to pursue higher education, I was already facing obstacles that many of my peers did not have to contend with. My parents, while supportive, did not have the knowledge or experience to guide me through the complex process of college applications and financial aid. But I was determined to succeed, fueled by the belief that education was the key to a better future for myself and my family. However, just as I was beginning to find my footing in college, tragedy struck. My beloved adopted grandmother, who had raised me alongside my younger sister after our parents passed away, suffered a debilitating stroke. Suddenly, I found myself thrust into the role of caregiver, juggling classes and assignments with doctor's appointments and round-the-clock care for my grandmother. It was a difficult and emotionally draining time, and there were moments when I doubted whether I would be able to continue my education. But just as I was on the brink of giving up, a lifeline appeared in the form of the William A. Lewis Scholarship. Awarded to students facing significant obstacles in their pursuit of higher education, the scholarship provided financial assistance that allowed me to continue my studies without having to worry about how I would pay for tuition and books. More importantly, it gave me the support and encouragement I needed to keep going, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. With the help of the scholarship, I was able to focus on my studies and excel in my classes. I poured myself into my schoolwork, determined to make the most of the opportunity that had been given to me. And all my hard work paid off - at the end of that semester, I found myself on the President's List, with a GPA that exceeded even my own expectations. Looking back on that difficult time, I realize that the obstacles I faced only served to make me stronger and more resilient. I learned the true value of perseverance and determination, and I discovered the importance of reaching out for help when I needed it. The William A. Lewis Scholarship was more than just a financial aid package - it was a symbol of the belief that others had in me, and a reminder that I was not alone in my journey towards a brighter future. As I continue on my educational path, I am grateful for the support and guidance that helped me overcome the obstacles in my way. And I know that, no matter what challenges lie ahead, I will face them head-on, secure in the knowledge that I have the strength and determination to succeed.

As the first person in my family to pursue higher education, I was already facing obstacles that many of my peers did not have to contend with. My parents, while supportive, did not have the knowledge or experience to guide me through the complex process of college applications and financial aid. But I was determined to succeed, fueled by the belief that education was the key to a better future for myself and my family. However, just as I was beginning to find my footing in college, tragedy struck. My beloved adopted grandmother, who had raised me alongside my younger sister after our parents passed away, suffered a debilitating stroke. Suddenly, I found myself thrust into the role of caregiver, juggling classes and assignments with doctor's appointments and round-the-clock care for my grandmother. It was a difficult and emotionally draining time, and there were moments when I doubted whether I would be able to continue my education. But just as I was on the brink of giving up, a lifeline appeared in the form of the William A. Lewis Scholarship. Awarded to students facing significant obstacles in their pursuit of higher education, the scholarship provided financial assistance that allowed me to continue my studies without having to worry about how I would pay for tuition and books. More importantly, it gave me the support and encouragement I needed to keep going, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. With the help of the scholarship, I was able to focus on my studies and excel in my classes. I poured myself into my schoolwork, determined to make the most of the opportunity that had been given to me. And all my hard work paid off - at the end of that semester, I found myself on the President's List, with a GPA that exceeded even my own expectations. Looking back on that difficult time, I realize that the obstacles I faced only served to make me stronger and more resilient. I learned the true value of perseverance and determination, and I discovered the importance of reaching out for help when I needed it. The William A. Lewis Scholarship was more than just a financial aid package - it was a symbol of the belief that others had in me, and a reminder that I was not alone in my journey towards a brighter future. As I continue on my educational path, I am grateful for the support and guidance that helped me overcome the obstacles in my way. And I know that, no matter what challenges lie ahead, I will face them head-on, secure in the knowledge that I have the strength and determination to succeed.

Growing up, I never imagined myself as the one breaking barriers in my family. Both of my parents never had the opportunity to pursue higher education, so the idea of attending college was never really discussed in our household. However, I always had a hunger for knowledge and a drive to succeed. Despite the lack of support and guidance, I knew that I wanted to be the first in my family to go to college. After years of hard work and perseverance, I finally got accepted into a university on a scholarship. The feeling of accomplishment was overwhelming, but little did I know that the biggest challenge was yet to come. In my third year of school, my adopted Grandmother suffered a stroke and passed away a few months later. Suddenly, I found myself responsible for taking care of my little sister, juggling schoolwork, and dealing with the grief of losing someone so dear to me. The weight of the world seemed to be on my shoulders, but I refused to let adversity hold me back. Instead of giving up, I let the hardship fuel my determination. I threw myself into my studies, determined to make my grandmother proud and set an example for my sister. Despite the countless sleepless nights and overwhelming responsibilities, I managed to excel in my classes and even made the president's list by the end of the semester. As I reflect on the obstacles I have overcome, I am reminded of a quote by Mary McLeod Bethune: "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." I realize now that the challenges I faced were just opportunities for growth and resilience. I have emerged stronger, more compassionate, and more driven than ever before. Looking towards the future, I am filled with a sense of purpose. I want to use my experiences to inspire others facing similar struggles. I want to be a beacon of hope for those who feel lost or defeated. I want to show the world that no matter how tough life gets, there is always a way to rise above it. One of my biggest goals is to give back to my community in any way I can. I dream of starting a scholarship fund for students in need, just like the Henry Bynum, Jr. Memorial Scholarship that helped me pursue my dreams. I want to provide support, guidance, and resources to those who, like me, are determined to break the cycle of poverty and adversity. In conclusion, my journey has been a testament to the power of resilience and determination. I have faced adversity head-on, and I have come out stronger on the other side. I am committed to using my experiences to make a positive impact on the world and help those in need. As I continue to pursue my educational goals and strive for success, I will always remember where I came from and the obstacles I have overcome. And I will never stop believing that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of hope, anything is possible.

Hello, my name is Javares and I am a passionate advocate for social change and community engagement. I believe in the power of education, art, and environmental preservation to make a positive impact on the world. One of the ways in which I am actively working to address important social issues is through my involvement in the Annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival-Eatonville. The annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival in Eatonville is a celebration of the life and legacy of the renowned author and anthropologist. Zora Neale Hurston was a trailblazing African American woman who made significant contributions to literature and cultural studies. At the festival, I have had the opportunity to engage with children in a meaningful way by helping them color code images of Zora Neale Hurston and sharing stories about her life and work. By introducing children to the work of this groundbreaking figure, I hope to inspire them to embrace their own cultural heritage and pursue their passions fearlessly. In addition to my involvement in the Zora Neale Hurston Festival, I am also committed to environmental stewardship and community service. I participate in college clean-up initiatives and volunteer with organizing committees for various community events. On Sundays, I join forces with Tau Beta Sigma to help clean up roads and beaches. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the environment and underscored the importance of taking action to protect our planet. Inspired by my environmental efforts, I have taken it upon myself to promote waste reduction and recycling in my community. I have set up trash cans in public spaces to encourage proper waste disposal and organized community clean-up events to raise awareness about the impact of littering on our environment. By making small changes at the local level, I am hopeful that I can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future for all. In all of my endeavors, I strive to embody the spirit of creativity and innovation. I believe that art, education, and community engagement are powerful tools for social change. Through my work with the Zora Neale Hurston Festival, college clean-up initiatives, and environmental advocacy, I hope to inspire others to join me in making a positive impact on the world. As I continue to work towards creating a brighter future for our planet and our communities, I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to connect with like-minded individuals and contribute to meaningful causes. Together, we can make a difference and create a more just and sustainable world for generations to come.

Growing up, I always had a deep sense of empathy for those who were different from the norm. I was drawn to individuals with special needs and found so much joy in their unique perspectives on the world. This innate connection I felt with individuals with disabilities inspired me to pursue a career in special education. As a first-generation student in my community, I faced many obstacles on my journey to achieving my educational goals. My family struggled financially, and there were times when we weren't sure how we would make ends meet. Despite the challenges, I was determined to break the cycle of limited opportunities and push myself to achieve more. During my third year of college, tragedy struck when my adopted Grandmother had a stroke and passed away shortly after. I suddenly found myself responsible for taking care of my younger sister, all while trying to navigate the demands of my coursework. It was a difficult time, but it only fueled my determination to succeed. I refused to let the obstacles in my path define me. Instead, I channeled my grief and struggles into my studies, pushing myself to excel in my classes. I poured my heart and soul into my work, determined to make a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs. As a first-generation student in my community, I am acutely aware of the barriers that exist for individuals like myself. I am committed to breaking down these barriers and paving a path for future generations to succeed. I want to show others that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a belief in oneself. Receiving the J.E. Anderson Family College Scholarship would be a crucial step in helping me achieve my goals in special education. This scholarship would provide me with the financial support I need to continue my education and pursue my dreams of making a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs. With this scholarship, I would be able to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. I would have the opportunity to take on internships, participate in extracurricular activities, and gain valuable experience in the field of special education. This scholarship would not only benefit me but also the individuals I hope to serve in the future. In the words of Mary McLeod Bethune, "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." I am determined to be that diamond, shining bright and making a difference in the world of special education. The J.E. Anderson Family College Scholarship would be the key to unlocking my full potential and helping me achieve my goals.

I am proud to say that I am of Haitian descent and that has shaped so much of who I am today. Growing up in a Haitian household, I was taught the values of hard work, resilience, and community. These values have guided me in my personal and academic journey, and have fueled my desire to actively contribute to my family and community. Being the first one in my family to go to college was a significant milestone for me. It was a dream that my parents had for me, and I was determined to make them proud. However, during my third year of school, my adopted grandmother suffered a stroke and passed away shortly after, leaving me to take care of my little sister. This was a challenging time for me, as I had to balance my academic responsibilities with being the primary caregiver for my sister. Despite these obstacles, I did not give up on my education. In fact, it made me even more motivated to succeed. I am proud to say that I ended this semester making the president's list, a testament to my perseverance and determination. My educational goals extend beyond just achieving academic success. I want to show everyone that even in the face of hardship, it is possible to overcome obstacles and succeed. I am grateful for the support I have received, including the Marie Jean Baptiste Memorial Scholarship, which has helped me finance my education and pursue my dreams. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am actively involved in my family and community. I have always believed in giving back and helping those in need. Whether it is volunteering at local shelters, organizing community events, or serving as a mentor to young students, I am committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others. As I look towards the future, I plan to continue my community involvement post-college. I want to use my education and experiences to inspire and uplift others, particularly those in underserved communities. I believe in the power of investing in the human soul, as Mary McLeod Bethune once said, and I want to be a beacon of hope and encouragement for those facing adversity. In conclusion, my Haitian heritage has instilled in me a strong sense of purpose and resilience. I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and the support that I have received. I am determined to make a difference in the world and to continue giving back to my family and community. No matter what challenges may come my way, I will always strive to be a shining example of perseverance and determination.

Growing up, I had always been told that education was the key to success. With this belief ingrained in me from a young age, I was determined to be the first in my family to attend college and achieve my dreams. However, I never anticipated the challenges and obstacles that would come my way on this journey. During my third year of college, my adopted Grandmother, who had raised me alongside my little sister, suffered a stroke. It was a devastating blow to our family, and a few months later, she passed away. Suddenly, I found myself responsible not just for my own education and future, but also for the care and upbringing of my little sister. It felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders, and there were moments when I felt like giving up. Despite the immense challenges I faced, I refused to let go of my dreams. I knew that education was not just a means to personal success, but also a path to creating a better future for my sister and our community. With determination and perseverance, I continued my studies, balancing my academic responsibilities with the new role of caregiver that life had thrust upon me. And now, as I reflect on my journey, I am proud to say that I have not only persevered, but excelled. I recently made the President's List for my outstanding academic achievements, a testament to my hard work and dedication. But more than that, I have come to realize the importance of investing in the human soul, as Mary McLeod Bethune once said. Through my involvement with the greater community, I have started volunteering at local organizations that support underprivileged families, providing mentorship and guidance to young people who, like me, are facing difficult circumstances. I have seen firsthand the impact that education can have on individuals and communities, and I am driven to be a catalyst for positive change in my own community. As I look towards the future, my educational goals are not just about personal success, but about creating a brighter future for those around me. I believe that through my education, I can empower others to overcome their own challenges and obstacles, and inspire them to reach for their dreams. I am committed to investing in the human soul, to bringing out the diamond in the rough, and to driving change in my community for the better. In memory of my beloved Grandmother, I dedicate my achievements and my future goals to her legacy, and to the Williams-Brown-Artis families who have supported me every step of the way. Thank you for believing in me, for pushing me to be the best version of myself, and for showing me that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.

In the future, I envision myself as an educator making a positive impact on the lives of others. I am inspired by the words of my HBCU founder, Mary McLeod Bethune, who said, "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." These words resonate with me and drive my passion for teaching and leading others towards success. Being black to me means embracing my heritage, culture, and identity with pride. I love being in my skin and celebrating the rich history of African-Americans. I have faced racism and discrimination firsthand, which has only strengthened my resolve to excel and succeed in life. When it came time to choose a college, I knew that attending an HBCU was the right choice for me. I wanted to be in an environment where I felt safe, supported, and understood. I have heard success stories of HBCU graduates who have gone on to achieve great things, and I knew that I wanted to be one of them. After careful consideration and guidance from mentors, I chose Bethune-Cookman University as my alma mater. I am proud to be a part of a community that is dedicated to empowering African-American students and providing them with the tools they need to thrive in the world. My HBCU experience has been transformative, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in such a supportive and inclusive environment.

In the fast-paced world we live in today, it is becoming increasingly important to focus on creating a positive environmental impact on both our local and global communities. As a high school student with a passion for technology and marketing, I have a vision of using these tools to make a difference in my community and beyond in the next five years. One of the ways I plan to create a positive environmental impact is by implementing green initiatives in my school. By utilizing technology such as smart thermostats, energy-efficient lighting, and water-saving appliances, we can reduce our school's carbon footprint and promote sustainability. To get these initiatives off the ground, I plan to leverage my skills in marketing and graphic design to create awareness campaigns and educational materials for students and staff. By highlighting the benefits of going green and showcasing the positive impact it can have on our environment, I hope to inspire others to join me in making a difference. Additionally, I believe that forming groups on campus dedicated to environmental sustainability will be crucial in achieving our goals. These groups can work together to brainstorm ideas, implement initiatives, and track progress towards our sustainability goals. By fostering a sense of community and collaboration, we can create a more positive and impactful environmental movement within our school. In addition to making changes in my local community, I also plan to use technology and marketing to create a positive environmental impact on a global scale. With the rise of social media and digital marketing, organizations have a unique opportunity to reach a large audience and promote sustainability. One idea I have is to create a social media campaign focused on promoting eco-friendly practices and products. By partnering with eco-conscious brands and influencers, we can raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and inspire others to make positive changes in their own lives. Through engaging content and creative marketing strategies, we can make a significant impact on a global scale. Furthermore, I want to use technology to create innovative solutions for environmental challenges. Whether it's developing an app to track carbon footprints, creating a platform for sharing sustainable living tips, or using AI to optimize energy usage, technology has the power to revolutionize the way we approach sustainability. By combining my passion for technology with my drive to make a positive impact, I am confident that I can create meaningful change in my local and global communities in the next five years. In conclusion, by harnessing the power of technology, marketing, and teamwork, I believe that I can create a positive environmental impact on my local and global communities in the next five years. Through green initiatives in my school, social media campaigns, and innovative technological solutions, I am committed to making a difference and inspiring others to join me in creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "Education is the great American adventure, the world’s challenge to know itself and its possibilities." Throughout my academic journey, I have encountered numerous teachers who have shaped my education and personal development. However, one teacher stands out among the rest, Mrs. Caesar, my math teacher from 9th to 12th grade. Her impact on my life has been profound, inspiring, challenging, and guiding me to become the person I am today. When I first entered Mrs. Caesar's classroom, I was an average student, often earning C grades. However, Mrs. Caesar saw my potential and believed in me when I did not. She challenged me to push myself academically and strive for greatness. I vividly remember her assigning math problems that pushed the limits of my understanding. These challenges forced me to step out of my comfort zone, dig deeper, and truly understand mathematical concepts. Through her guidance and support, I transformed from a C student to an A student in math. Beyond academic success, Mrs. Caesar also instilled in me a sense of community and the importance of helping others. She consistently encouraged us to support and collaborate with our peers, fostering a classroom environment where students felt safe asking for help and sharing their knowledge. This inspired me not only to excel academically but also to reach out to my classmates and assist them in their learning journey. Mrs. Caesar's impact on my education extended beyond the confines of her classroom. She helped me build a strong foundation in mathematics, a subject that would prove vital to my college major in science. Prior to learning from Mrs. Caesar, I viewed math as complex and uninteresting. However, her unique teaching style, enthusiasm, and dedication made math come alive for me. She effortlessly translated abstract concepts into relatable examples, ensuring that every student understood and appreciated the subject. Thanks to her, math became one of my favorite subjects, and I now approach it with confidence, curiosity, and a desire for continuous learning. Mrs. Caesar taught me the value of creating a sense of community and teamwork in the classroom. She urged us to collaborate, help one another, and celebrate one other's accomplishments. I witnessed firsthand how a healthy and welcoming classroom culture can improve learning and foster a sense of belonging among every student. I intend to prioritize fostering a strong sense of community in my own classroom by providing chances for students to cooperate, communicate, and learn from one another. In conclusion, Mrs. Caesar has had a profound impact on my academic journey and personal development. Her ability to inspire, challenge, and guide me has transformed my perspective on education, mathematics, and community engagement. I am forever grateful for her influence and will carry the lessons and values she instilled in me throughout my life. Thank you, Mrs. Caesar, for being the exceptional teacher that you are, and thank you, Mary McLeod Bethune, for reminding us of the power of education in shaping our lives and futures.

I have chosen to pursue a career as a teacher because I am passionate about making a difference in my community and changing the lives of students, just like mine was changed through education. As Mary Mcleod Bethune once said, "We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends." Growing up, I faced many challenges inside and outside the classroom. I had an Individualized Education Program (IEP) due to my difficulty with speech, which made it hard for me to participate in hands-on activities and keep up with the rest of the students. I struggled with reading and often felt like I was falling behind. It was a constant struggle to voice my concerns and ask for help, only to be met with a lack of support and understanding. The difficulties I faced in school were just a reflection of the challenges I faced at home. By the time I was nine years old, I was separated from my parents. My mother was struggling with drug addiction and eventually signed away her rights to me and my two siblings. She went on to have two more children and pretended that we didn't exist. It was hurtful to hear her tell people that she only had two kids as if we were unimportant to her. During my elementary and middle school years, I experienced both good and bad times. I was overweight and subjected to name-calling and bullying. Even at my grandma's house, where I sought refuge, I was called slow and fat because my academic performance was not up to part, I consistently received grades of Cs, Ds, and even Fs. It seemed as though I was constantly failing and not meeting the expectations of those around me. Everything changed when I entered high school and joined the school band. One day, my band director, Wadena Presley, told me that they were having food in the band room, and I decided to go. That decision changed my life for the better. Through the band, I had the opportunity to do things my family was not able to. I found a passion for music and discovered my talents and abilities. The band became my refuge and safe space. It was where I felt a sense of belonging and acceptance. I started to excel academically and eventually graduated with a GPA of 3.0. Despite my challenging past, I knew that my future held great potential. Now that I am in college, pursuing a career as a teacher is my way of giving back and making a difference for students like the younger version of myself. I want to be there for those students who are crying out for help, just as I once did. I want to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where every student feels valued and empowered. In conclusion, I have chosen to pursue a career as a teacher because I want to make a difference in my community and change the lives of students who are facing similar challenges to what I experienced. I want to create a safe and inclusive classroom environment where every student feels valued and supported. Education has transformed my life, and I am committed to using it as a tool to empower and uplift others. As Mary Mcleod Bethune said, we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices, and I am ready to embrace this challenge as a future educator.

Mary McLeod Bethune is a Black leader who has inspired me greatly. Born in 1875 in Maysville, South Carolina, Mary McLeod was the fifteenth child in a family of 17 children. Her parents were former slaves who were freed during the Civil War. Despite their poverty, the McLeod family was a symbol of unity and stability in their community. They owned their land, built a cabin, and grew their crops. Mary always had a desire to learn and read. She believed that the world opened up for her once she learned how to read. This drive for education led her to find the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls, with just $1.50. Her first students were five little girls and her son. Within two years, the school grew to have 250 students. Mary McLeod Bethune recognized the lack of medical treatment available to African Americans in Daytona Beach and founded the Mary McLeod Hospital and Training School for Nurses. This hospital was the only one of its kind that served African American women on the East Coast. In 1911, she established the hospital after her students were denied service in the whites-only hospital in Daytona Beach. Over time, the hospital grew from two to 20 beds until it was taken over by the city in 1927. Bethune championed the need for greater educational, social, and political opportunities for Black people. She defied the Ku Klux Klan by leading a successful black voter registration drive in 1920, particularly among women who had just gained the right to vote through constitutional amendment. Her guiding motto was "Be calm, be steadfast, be courageous." In 1936, she was appointed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt to the National Youth Administration (NYA). By 1939, she became the Director of Negro Affairs, overseeing the training of tens of thousands of black youths. She was the only female member of President Roosevelt's influential "Black Cabinet." Bethune also utilized her friendship with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to advocate for civil rights. She successfully lobbied for the integration of the Civilian Pilot Training Program and brought the program to historically Black colleges and universities, leading to the graduation of some of the first black pilots in the country. She used her power and influence to advance civil rights reforms and marched and picketed in Washington, D.C. to protest businesses that refused to hire black people. She also spoke and demonstrated for the rights of black sharecroppers and supported efforts to free the Scottsboro Boys, nine young black men who were wrongly convicted of rape. Mary McLeod Bethune's leadership skills and dynamic oratory brought attention to the problems faced by African Americans. Despite facing obstacles and discrimination, she persistently sought educational and economic opportunities for all blacks, especially women. Through her work with national women's clubs and in the federal government, she tirelessly advocated for the advancement of African Americans. After she died in 1955, Bethune was buried on the Bethune-Cookman campus. A statue commemorating her leadership was dedicated in Lincoln Park, Washington, D.C., making her the first woman or black person to be recognized in a public park in the nation's capital. Mary McLeod Bethune's legacy lives on as an inspiration for future generations. She believed in love for others, hope for the future, the importance of education, the responsible use of power, faith in God, racial dignity, harmony among all races, and the development of confidence in black people and institutions. Her life and work serve as a reminder of the resilience and determination of Black leaders in the fight for equal rights and opportunities.

“The whole world opened to me when I learned to read.” These powerful words by Mary McLeod Bethune have resonated with me throughout my educational journey. My educational goals are rooted in making a difference within my community and changing the way I perceive myself and my abilities both inside and outside of the classroom. One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is having an Individualized Education Program (IEP) while studying in a classroom where the student population reached 30. This made it challenging for teachers to provide me with the hands-on work that I needed to improve my speech and catch up with my peers. Being labeled as a student with special needs and struggling to keep up with others took a toll on my self-esteem. I felt like I was crying out for help, but no one seemed to be there to understand my struggles. Furthermore, my home life wasn't any better. By the time I was 9 years old, my parents separated, and my mother, who was struggling with drug addiction, signed away her rights to me and my siblings. She went on to have two more children and tried to cover up the fact that she couldn't raise her first three children by telling people she only had two kids. This abandonment and neglect impacted me deeply, leaving me feeling invisible and unwanted. During my elementary to middle school years, dealing with these personal challenges affected my academic performance. I was constantly bullied for my appearance, being called all sorts of hurtful names. The situation worsened when I had to go live with my grandmother, who referred to me as "slow fat" due to my lack of academic success. The grades I brought home - primarily Cs, Ds, and Fs - only reinforced the negative image I had of myself. However, my life took a positive turn when I entered high school. It was in Wadena Presley's music class that everything changed for the better. I remember one day she mentioned that there was free food in the band room, and curiosity got the best of me. Little did I know that this small act of curiosity would lead to a life-changing experience. I discovered my passion for music and picked up an instrument. Through music, I found an outlet to express myself and build self-confidence. Since that moment, music has played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. It provided me with opportunities and experiences that my family was not able to provide. Now, I find myself in college with a GPA of 3.0, defying the odds and surpassing the limitations that were once placed on me. Although my past experiences have been challenging, I firmly believe that they have prepared me for a bright future. Having overcome these obstacles has instilled in me a determination to make a difference within my community. I aspire to become a teacher for children who, like my younger self, are crying out for help and need someone to advocate for them. I want to create a classroom environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. In conclusion, Mary McLeod Bethune's quote perfectly encapsulates the transformative power of education. Despite the obstacles I have faced and the challenges I have overcome, I know that my educational goals and aspirations will pave the way for a brighter future. Through perseverance, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference, I am confident that I will leave a lasting impact on my community and inspire generations to come.

Investing in the human soul, on the other hand, is an act of recognizing and appreciating the potential that each individual possesses. It is believing in the inherent worth and potential for greatness that each individual possesses. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of nurturing and supporting the development of all individuals, as one never knows what hidden brilliance may lie within. Investing in the human soul and the potential for greatness that can be unlocked through such an investment. We will also investigate the impact of empowering and uplifting individuals, as well as the transformative power that each human soul possesses. Several experiences have changed me into the person I am today, as I reflect on the important milestones in my life. One of the most defining occasions in my life was when my step-grandparents kicked me out of their home. I was saddened and felt abandoned at the time but looking back, it taught me the value of tenacity and the ability to stand on my own two feet. Another watershed milestone for me was realizing my ambition of becoming one of the youngest presidents of a historically black college or university. This goal was inspired by my love of education and desire to make a difference in the lives of students. Despite obstacles and skepticism, I am determined to pursue and realize this dream. One of the major obstacles I have had to overcome is my impairment and the requirement for an individualized education program. I have been discouraged and questioned my talents at times, but I have refused to let my impairment define or limit me. Instead, I have concentrated on my skills and taken advantage of the resources available to me to flourish academically and achieve my goals. I understand that I am skilled at persevering in the face of adversity and devising innovative strategies to overcome problems. I have a strong work ethic, good communication skills, and the capacity to adapt to new conditions. These characteristics, together with my love for education and activism, have motivated my desire to become a great leader in the HBCU community. I would like to use this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to the scholarship committee for examining my application.

"Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." - Mary McLeod Bethune As a child with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), navigating the world of friendships and social connections was difficult. The additional challenges of coping with mental health struggles made it even more challenging. It influenced my beliefs, changed my relationships, and drove my career aspirations in ways that I could have never imagined. Growing up with an IEP, it was always difficult to integrate with my peers and form meaningful friendships. My mental health issues made it difficult to develop and keep friendships at times. I was continuously plagued by emotions of isolation and loneliness as if I were an outcast among my peers. I genuinely recognize the significance of mental health care and its impact on social connections. My experiences with mental health affected my beliefs profoundly. I realized the significance of mental health and its impact on all aspects of life. I believe in the power of empathy and compassion, as well as the need to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness. Regardless of their mental health issues, I believe that everyone deserves the assistance and tools needed to live a successful and happy life. In terms of relationships, my experience with mental health has taught me the value of authentic connections. I have learned to prioritize my mental well-being and surround myself with people who support and understand me. I have formed relationships with individuals who are empathetic and non-judgmental, allowing me to feel comfortable in my skin and accepted for who I am. Furthermore, my experience with mental health has had a significant impact on my job goals. Despite the difficulties I encountered, I have always wanted to be a teacher. I want to be a source of comfort and understanding for students who are dealing with mental health issues. In my future classroom, I hope to provide a safe and inclusive environment as well as the resources students need to develop academically and emotionally. My own experiences have motivated my desire to make a difference in the lives of young people, particularly those who are experiencing similar difficulties. In conclusion, my experience with mental health has shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations in profound ways. It has taught me the importance of empathy, understanding, and the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health. I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to prioritize their mental well-being and seek the support they need. I want to thank Amber Davis for taking the time to read my essay. Even if I do not win, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences and perspectives. Thank you.

Playing Nintendo games with my friends and family was one of my favorite pastimes as a kid. The thrill of fighting against one another or cooperating in co-op mode provided us with hours of fun and satisfaction. There are several memories of laughter, frustration, and triumph from these gaming sessions, but one game in particular sticks out as my favorite to play in co-op mode: Mario Kart DS. My family treasured the Nintendo DS, and my brothers and I couldn't wait to get home from school to immerse ourselves in the virtual worlds of our favorite games. Mario Kart DS was a fixture in our collection, and we spent many hours racing and fighting on the tracks. The game had several modes of play, but we always preferred the co-op mode. The tremendous competitiveness and endless fun that Mario Kart DS brought made it so special in co-op mode. The game never failed to bring excitement and enjoyment, whether we were working together to defeat computer-controlled opponents in Grand Prix mode or engaged in fierce bouts on the multiplayer circuits. Every race was a heart-pounding event as I outmaneuvered my opponents, avoided obstacles, and tactically used power-ups to gain an advantage. One memorable moment from a multiplayer session solidified Mario Kart DS as my top choice for co-op gaming. It was a lazy Saturday afternoon, and my brother, sister, and I were engaged in a fierce competition on the Rainbow Road track. As we navigated the treacherous curves and jumps, the tension in the room was palpable. With the finish line in sight, we were neck and neck, jockeying for position and using every trick in the book to gain the upper hand. In a dramatic finish, I managed to pull ahead of my siblings and crossed the finish line in first place, securing victory in the race. The sheer elation and sense of accomplishment that followed that intense race solidified Mario Kart DS as my favorite game to play in co-op mode. The exhilarating gameplay, the fierce competition, and the moments of triumph and camaraderie made it a timeless classic that brought my family together for countless hours of fun. Finally, the Nintendo DS and games like Mario Kart DS will always have a special place in my heart for the amazing experiences and infinite hours of fun they brought. Playing these games in co-op mode with my friends and family created precious moments that I will cherish forever. Because of its intense gameplay and unforgettable moments of success and friendship, Mario Kart DS stands out as my top option for co-op gaming.

"Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." - Mary McLeod Bethune This powerful quote by Mary McLeod Bethune has always resonated with me. It has been a driving force in my life, pushing me to pursue my dreams and strive for success. One of those dreams was to pursue a higher education, and it was the motivation behind this dream that led me to where I am today. I am the first person in my family to attend college, and the road to get here has been fraught with difficulties and setbacks. I observed my parents work tirelessly to provide for our family as I grew up, and I knew I wanted to have a better future for myself and for them. I desired to break the pattern of restricted opportunities and reach greatness. This drive for a better future, together with the support of my instructors and mentors, spurred my desire to further my studies. Social science is one of the scientific subjects in which I am interested and eager to pursue a career. The study of human behavior, society, and the interactions between individuals and communities fascinates me. I'm fascinated by how social science sheds light on the complexity of human nature and how it shapes our environment. I am excited to delve into this topic, learn from renowned scholars, and contribute to the body of information that aids us in understanding and addressing societal concerns. What interests me the most about studying social science is the possibility of bringing about positive change. I wish to develop a better grasp of the elements that drive human behavior and interpersonal relationships through my study. I hope to use this knowledge to advocate for social justice, equality, and the development of a more inclusive and empathetic society. The prospect of using my education to make a difference in people's lives gives me a sense of purpose and resolve. As I begin this new chapter in my life, I am grateful for the opportunity to further my knowledge. I am grateful for my family, instructors, and mentors who have always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my aspirations. I am also grateful for the opportunity to be the first person in my family to attend college and to set an example for future generations. In conclusion, I am motivated to pursue a higher education by my desire for a better future and the opportunity to make a positive impact through social science. I am thrilled to immerse myself in the world of academia, to learn, grow, and contribute to the field that excites me. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for considering my journey towards higher education.

"Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." - Mary McLeod Bethune Adversity is a test that everyone of us must encounter at some point in our lives. Overcoming adversity has been a lifelong process for me, shaping my character and influencing my future ambitions. As a first-generation college student, I've had to overcome several difficulties and hardships in order to further my education. However, through endurance and commitment, I was able to overcome many of these difficulties and am now focused on reaching my future objectives. Financial difficulty has been one of the most difficult challenges I've faced. Growing up in a low-income family, my family struggled to make ends meet, and the prospect of attending college seemed unattainable. I realized that in order to overcome the cycle of poverty, I needed to go to college. Despite various financial challenges, I applied for scholarships, worked multiple jobs, and borrowed money to pay for my education. Balancing employment, education, and personal life was a continual struggle, but I refused to let the obstacles of financial difficulty dissuade me from my aspirations. In addition to financial difficulties, I have had difficulties in my academic and personal lives. As a minority student, I have frequently been excluded from specific academic environments and have suffered discrimination and prejudice. However, these experiences have fueled my drive to thrive in my studies and serve as a role model for other minority kids. Looking towards the future, my goals are to pursue a career in medicine as a pediatrician. I am passionate about working with children and providing them with the healthcare they deserve. I also aim to give back to my community and help other students from low-income backgrounds pursue their educational and career aspirations. Receiving this scholarship would greatly help me achieve my future goals. It would alleviate the burden of student loans and allow me to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities. Additionally, this scholarship would provide me with the financial support needed to pursue opportunities such as internships, research projects, and volunteer work that would enrich my education and help me achieve my career aspirations. In conclusion, adversity has shaped my journey and motivated me to pursue my future goals with determination and resilience. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden but also provide me with the resources and support needed to achieve my dreams of becoming a pediatrician and making a positive impact in my community. With faith and perseverance, I believe that nothing is impossible, and I am committed to overcoming any and all adversities that may come my way.

"Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." - Mary McLeod Bethune I've always been interested in carpentry. I've always been interested by the craft of constructing and creating with wood. I was always interested in learning how to utilize various tools and materials to build various constructions and pieces of furniture. My enthusiasm in carpentry only developed as I grew older, and I knew this was the career path I wanted to take. My natural sense of creativity is one of the abilities that will benefit me in the field of woodworking. I've always had an eye for design and the ability to see how diverse bits of wood might be used to produce a beautiful and functional building. I am continuously thinking of new ways to develop and innovate with wood, whether it is making a bookcase, a table, or even rebuilding a room. One of the skills that will help me in the world of woodworking is my innate sense of creativity. I've always had an eye for design and the ability to envision how various pieces of wood could be used to create a beautiful and functional structure. I'm always thinking of new methods to create and innovate with wood, whether it's a bookcase, a table, or even rebuilding a space. Furthermore, I possess strong problem-solving abilities. Carpentry often presents unexpected challenges and obstacles, and I am confident in my ability to adapt and find solutions to any issues that may arise. I am resourceful and can think on my feet, which I believe is an essential skill for a successful carpenter. The field of carpentry is of great interest to me for many reasons. Firstly, I am passionate about working with my hands and creating tangible, functional pieces. I find great satisfaction in seeing a project come to life from just a simple idea or sketch. Additionally, I am drawn to the idea of leaving a lasting mark on the world through my work. The structures and pieces I create as a carpenter will endure long after I am gone, and that is a legacy I am proud to leave behind. Moreover, the demand for skilled carpenters is consistently high, and I find this field to be a stable and secure career path. As the world continues to evolve, there will always be a need for buildings, furniture, and renovations, ensuring that there will always be a demand for carpenters. In conclusion, my skills in creativity, attention to detail, and problem-solving, coupled with my passion for creating and leaving a lasting impact, make me well-suited for the field of carpentry. I am excited to pursue this career path and look forward to honing my skills and contributing to the world of construction and design. With faith and determination, I believe that nothing is impossible, and I am eager to carve out my place in the world of carpentry.

"Invest in the human soul," Mary McLeod Bethune once stated. Who knows, maybe it's a diamond in the rough." These words have always struck a chord with me because I believe that given the appropriate circumstances, every individual has the potential to shine. My ultimate ambition as a dedicated and passionate individual is to become the youngest president of a historically black college or university (HBCU). I hope to use this position to encourage and support the education of young people, particularly those from underserved communities, and to show them that they can achieve their goals with hard work and devotion. I am convinced that education is the key to a brighter future, and I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. As the youngest HBCU president, I intend to serve as a role model for aspiring students, particularly those who believe higher education is out of their reach. I want to inspire them to pursue their aspirations and teach them that academic success is achievable regardless of their background or circumstances. I am completely aware that in order to attain my lofty aim, I will need to pursue my education and get valuable experience in the field of higher education administration. The scholarship comes into play here. I will be able to attend a recognized university for advanced studies in education and leadership thanks to the financial help provided by this scholarship. This will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and expertise I need to accomplish my career goals. Furthermore, this scholarship will also provide me with the means to network with influential leaders in the education sector, as well as access to resources that will further enhance my professional development. This will ultimately bolster my qualifications and make me a stronger candidate for the esteemed position of an HBCU president. On a personal level, the financial assistance from this scholarship will alleviate the burden of educational expenses, enabling me to focus more on my studies and less on the financial stress that often accompanies pursuing higher education. This will allow me to fully immerse myself in my academic pursuits and make the most of my educational opportunities. To summarize, receiving this grant is critical in moving me toward my ultimate goal of being the youngest HBCU president. With this financial assistance, I will be able to continue pursuing my passion for education, empowering students, and leaving a lasting impression on the community. I am determined to use this scholarship as a springboard to attaining my goals and making a significant contribution to the world of higher education. Every individual has the potential to be a diamond in the rough, as Mary McLeod Bethune famously said, and this scholarship will help me shine brightly as I attempt to make a difference in the world of academia.

“If we have the courage and tenacity of our forebears, who stood firmly like a rock against the lash of slavery, we shall find a way to do for our day what they did for theirs.” - Mary McLeod Bethune Difficulty and tenacity have shaped my life. My parents were not present when I was growing up, and I was forced to live with my grandmother since my mother was unable to raise me, and my father was involved in illicit activities and was deported back to the Bahamas. I also had to overcome the difficulty of having an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which made it harder for me to learn with the rest of the students. Despite these difficulties, I found solace in study and the caring community at my school. At school, I found a sense of belonging and support that I did not have at home. The people at school became like family to me, and I became involved in various activities, such as campus cleanups and volunteering on holidays to help feed others in need. This past Thanksgiving, I chose to stay at school rather than go home because the toxic and hateful environment at home was too much for me to bear. Instead, I spent the day ensuring that others had a good Thanksgiving, and it brought me immense joy to be able to make a positive impact in the lives of others. My educational pursuit and career/life aspirations have been driven by the desire to overcome adversity and make a positive impact on my community. Despite the challenges I faced, I am determined to pursue a career in which I can help others and contribute to the betterment of society. I aspire to be a role model for those who have also faced adversity and show them that they can overcome their circumstances and achieve their dreams. In addition to my community involvement and educational pursuits, I have also accomplished a great deal. I have worked hard to excel academically, and I have also overcome personal challenges to become the resilient and determined individual that I am today. However, the burden of student loans has been a source of financial stress for me, and I have struggled to keep up with the payments. If I were to receive the scholarship, it would significantly alleviate the financial burden of my student loans. With the money saved from paying down my student loans, I would be able to pursue further education and training, as well as invest in opportunities that would help me achieve my career aspirations. Additionally, I would also like to use the funds to give back to my community and support others who are facing similar challenges that I have overcome. In conclusion, the quote by Mary McLeod Bethune encapsulates the spirit of resilience and determination that has guided my life thus far. I have faced adversity, yet I have remained steadfast in my pursuit of education, personal growth, and community involvement. The scholarship would provide me with the financial support I need to continue my educational and career aspirations, while also enabling me to make a positive impact on my community. I am committed to honoring the legacy of those who came before me, and I am determined to do for my day what they did for theirs.

Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends." This quote resonates deeply with me as I reflect on the biggest challenge I have had to overcome in my life - being the first in my family to go to college. Growing up in a family where no one had ever gone to college, I was determined to change that. My decision, however, was met with hostility and disapproval from my family. They couldn't understand why I wanted to do something so out of the ordinary and foreign to our way of life. At every turn, I was told that I was wasting my time and should concentrate on finding work instead. It was difficult to have people I cared about and respected not understand or support my goals. Despite my family's lack of support, I knew that attending college was the correct decision for me. I had to learn to take risks and go against the grain, even if it meant defying the people closest to me. It was a frightening event, especially since no one in my family was present to guide me through it. I was on my own to traverse the foreign realm of college applications, financial aid, and adjusting to a new setting. It was overwhelming, and I felt like giving up at times. However, through effort and determination, I was able to overcome these obstacles. I obtained scholarships and financial help to make education a reality, and I worked many jobs to support myself while attending school. I embraced the unfamiliarity and newness of it all, and I was motivated to succeed. This experience taught me the value of self-belief and resilience. I learnt that sometimes the most difficult decisions lead to the greatest benefits. Going to college not only provided me with new options, but it also prepared the path for future generations in my family and community. Looking back on this experience, I am happy for the hardships I faced since they shaped me into the person I am today. I am glad to have broken the pattern and set an example for my family and others who come after me. I've also learned to be more self-sufficient and independent, as well as the importance of taking risks and pursuing my ideas, even when others may not understand or support them. To summarize, being the first person in my family to attend college was both tough and transformative. In pursuing my ambitions, I've learned the value of tenacity, self-belief, and a willingness to take risks. I am grateful for the difficulties I endured because they made me a stronger and more determined person. I'm delighted to continue paving the path for people in my family and community, as well as to use my knowledge to make a difference in the world.

"Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." - Mary McLeod Bethune Growing up as the kid of an ALS parent has been a difficult and life-changing experience for me. Seeing my parents gradually lose movement and freedom has had an impact on every part of my life, including my scholastic experience. As a result of this event, I've had unique hurdles and financial obligations, making it tough to pursue my academic aspirations. However, I have gained a strong sense of perseverance and determination, which has moved me forward in my scholastic journey. As the child of an ALS parent, I've had to take on more tasks at home. As my parents' health has deteriorated, I have taken over as their principal caretaker, aiding with daily duties that they can no longer handle on their own. This new obligation has frequently made it difficult for me to fully focus on my studies, as I have had to combine my academic commitments with the duties of caregiving. Despite these obstacles, I have maintained a great academic record, proving my persistence and ambition. The financial burden of my parent's illness has also had a significant impact on my educational journey. The cost of medical care, specialized equipment, and in-home support has placed a strain on my family's finances, making it challenging to afford the rising costs of higher education. As a result, I have had to work part-time jobs to help cover my educational expenses and contribute to the family's financial needs. This has often meant juggling multiple responsibilities and sacrificing time that could have been spent on my studies or extracurricular activities. Receiving this scholarship help would improve my life. It would relieve the financial strain I am carrying and allow me to fully devote myself to my education. With this assistance, I would be able to pursue my academic ambitions without having to worry about money, allowing me to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities. Furthermore, this scholarship would allow me to continue assisting my ALS-afflicted parent without jeopardizing my schooling or jeopardizing my well-being. Despite the challenges I have faced as a child of a parent with ALS, I remain determined to achieve my goals. My experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy, resilience, and strength. I have learned to navigate adversity with unwavering determination and to approach every obstacle with a positive mindset. I am committed to using my education and experiences to make a positive impact in the world and to contribute to finding a cure for ALS. Finally, I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to apply for this award. Its assistance would not only make a major impact in my educational career but also in my ability to support my ALS-affected mom. I am grateful for the thought and the potential influence this scholarship could have on my future. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity.

Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "Invest in the human soul who will come into the world, but do not invest in the world and forget the human soul." This quote encapsulates the importance of investing in individuals and nurturing their potential. As I reflect on my educational journey, I am grateful for the unwavering support of my parents who have been my pillars of strength. They have played a pivotal role in helping me achieve my educational goals and have been my biggest supporters. My parents reinforced in me the importance of education and the avenues it may offer from the start. They encouraged me to pursue my hobbies and aspirations, and they always highlighted the value of hard work and perseverance. They provided me with all the resources I needed to achieve, whether it was financial assistance for textbooks and tuition fees or emotional support during difficult moments. My parents have always been there for me, cheering me on in my victories and soothing me in my defeats. They have inspired me to go over my limitations and strive for perfection. Their confidence in me has been a motivating force in my academic endeavors. In addition to their unfailing support, my parents have provided invaluable counsel and advice. They have served as my sounding board, offering me with insight and perspective on critical educational decisions. Their knowledge and experience have been beneficial in guiding me through the difficulties of academics. My parents have also served as role models, demonstrating the value of education through their actions. Their determination and hard work have inspired me to pursue my educational goals with tenacity and perseverance. As I continue on my educational journey, I am immensely grateful for the support and guidance that my parents have provided. Their unwavering belief in me has been a source of strength and motivation, and I am deeply indebted to them for their sacrifices and encouragement. I am proud to attribute my achievements to their unwavering love and support, and I am confident that their investment in my education will continue to pay dividends in the future. In conclusion, my parents have been the driving force behind my educational success. Their unwavering support, guidance, and belief in me have been instrumental in helping me reach my educational goals. I am immensely grateful for their sacrifices and unwavering love, and I look forward to making them proud as I continue to pursue my educational endeavors. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for being my greatest supporters.

"The whole world opened to me when I learned to read" - Mary McLeod Bethune When it comes to sports, many people often think of intense physical activities like basketball, soccer, and football, but not many consider the art of music as a sport. However, as a band member, I can confidently say that being a part of the band is not just a hobby, but a sport in itself. I am passionate about my sport because it has become an important part of my life, teaching me valuable lessons and shaping me into the person I am today. As a member of the band, I have dedicated countless hours to practicing, perfecting my craft, and working in synchrony with my fellow bandmates. This dedication and commitment have instilled in me a strong work ethic and resilience. I have learned the importance of perseverance, patience, and discipline, which has translated into other areas of my life. Whether it's facing academic challenges or personal obstacles, I have developed the mental fortitude to tackle them head-on, thanks to the lessons learned from being a part of the band. Moreover, being a band member has taught me the value of teamwork and collaboration. In order to create harmonious music, it requires everyone to play their part and contribute to the overall success of the band. This has taught me the importance of communication, cooperation, and compromise, all of which are crucial skills that can be applied to various aspects of life, such as in school, the workplace, and personal relationships. Furthermore, being a part of the band has provided me with a sense of belonging and community. I have formed strong bonds with my fellow bandmates, and we have supported each other through both triumphs and challenges. This sense of camaraderie has given me a network of friends and mentors who have encouraged and inspired me to grow as a musician and as an individual. Overall, being passionate about the band has played an important part in my life by shaping me into a resilient, dedicated, and collaborative individual. It has provided me with a sense of purpose and belonging and has equipped me with invaluable life skills that will continue to benefit me in the future. As Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "The whole world opened to me when I learned to read," I can confidently say that the world has opened to me through the art of music, and the lessons learned from being a band member have added immeasurable value to my life.

Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends." This quote has been a driving force in my life and has inspired me to develop my skills in order to help others be their best selves. From a young age, I have always been drawn to helping others. Whether it was tutoring my classmates in school or volunteering at local charities, I found joy in making a positive impact on those around me. As I grew older, I realized that my purpose in life was to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential. To achieve this goal, I have dedicated myself to developing the necessary skills and knowledge to be an effective leader and mentor. I have pursued higher education and attended workshops and seminars to further my understanding of personal development and leadership. I have also honed my communication and interpersonal skills, as well as learning how to effectively motivate and inspire others. One of the key ways I have developed my skills is through practical application. I have actively sought opportunities to mentor and coach individuals who are striving to better themselves. Whether it is through formal mentorship programs or informal coaching sessions, I have actively engaged in guiding others on their journey to personal growth and success. Additionally, I have made it a point to continuously educate myself on topics such as self-improvement, personal development, and motivational tactics. This has enabled me to stay informed on the latest trends and methodologies in these fields, and has allowed me to be a more effective guide and mentor to those seeking personal growth and improvement. Ultimately, my purpose and passion to help others be their best has become a central theme in my life. I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to empower others and to positively impact the lives of those around me. I firmly believe that we all have a responsibility to utilize our potential to help others, and I am dedicated to fulfilling that responsibility in the best way I can. In conclusion, I am eternally grateful for the wisdom and inspiration provided by Mary McLeod Bethune's quote. It has guided me in my journey to develop my skills and make it my purpose and passion to help others be their best. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay and for allowing me to share my story. I hope it serves as a reminder to all that we have the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Together, we can make the world a better place.

"Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." - Mary McLeod Bethune Being considered an underdog is never an easy position to be in. It often comes with a weight of doubt and skepticism from others, which can be difficult to overcome. But it is in these moments that one can find the strength and motivation to pursue their passion and achieve their goals. I have personally experienced being an underdog in my pursuit of a career in performing arts. Growing up, I was not confident in my abilities and often felt overlooked in auditions and performances. I was constantly compared to more experienced and talented individuals, and it seemed as though the odds were stacked against me. However, instead of letting this discourage me, I used it as fuel to push myself to work harder and prove my worth. I embraced the role of the underdog by seeking out opportunities to improve and refine my skills. I sought out extra workshops, classes, and private coaching to build my confidence and ability. I also surrounded myself with supportive mentors and friends who believed in my talent and encouraged me to keep pursuing my passion. Utilizing the underdog label as a driving force, I threw myself into auditions and performances with determination and a strong work ethic. I focused on honing my craft and delivering my best performances, despite the doubts and naysayers that I faced. I knew that each audition and performance was an opportunity to show my capabilities and prove that I was deserving of success in the performing arts industry. This mindset and dedication ultimately led to opportunities that I never imagined possible. I landed roles in local productions, earned scholarships for prestigious training programs, and even secured a spot in a competitive performing arts program at a well-respected university. Each success served as validation of my hard work and determination, and I was able to gradually shed the underdog label that had previously defined me. Coach Frank, who always rooted for the underdog, believed in the potential of individuals who were considered to be at a disadvantage. He saw their resilience and determination as strengths that could propel them towards their goals. In my own journey, I have come to understand the power of embracing the underdog role and using it as a driving force to pursue my passion. In conclusion, being an underdog is a challenging role to embrace, but it can also be a source of motivation and strength. By utilizing the underdog label to propel me forward, I was able to overcome obstacles and achieve success in my pursuit of a career in performing arts. I hope that my experience serves as inspiration for others who may find themselves in a similar position. Thank you for reading.

"Education is the great American engine of social change." - Mary McLeod Bethune I firmly believe in the power of education to transform lives. This belief has been ingrained in me since childhood, as I have witnessed firsthand the impact that education can have on an individual's life. Growing up in a low-income community, education was the beacon of hope that guided many of us towards a better future. It provided us with the opportunity to break free from the cycle of poverty and create a better life for ourselves. Mary McLeod Bethune's quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of the transformative power of education and the impact it can have on society. As a result of the endless possibilities that education has opened up for me, I find myself drawn towards a career in teaching. I am deeply passionate about imparting knowledge and instilling a love for learning in the next generation. I want to be able to provide students with the same opportunities that were afforded to me through education. I believe that every individual has the right to a quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. Teaching is my way of contributing to a greater cause and making a positive impact in my community. Through my career in teaching, I plan to advocate for equal access to education for all students. I want to create a safe and inclusive environment for my students, where they feel empowered to reach their full potential. By fostering a love for learning and instilling a growth mindset in my students, I hope to equip them with the tools they need to succeed in life. I also aspire to be a mentor and role model for my students, guiding them not only academically but also supporting their personal and emotional growth. Furthermore, I believe that education is the key to breaking down societal barriers and creating a more equitable and just society. By educating our youth, we are empowering them to become critical thinkers and change agents in their communities. I am committed to incorporating diverse perspectives and promoting cultural understanding in my teaching, as I believe that an inclusive education is vital in shaping well-rounded and empathetic individuals. In conclusion, I am deeply passionate about education and the positive impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole. Pursuing a career in teaching is not only a personal aspiration but also a way for me to give back to my community and contribute to a brighter future for the next generation. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for education and the transformative power it holds. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and aspirations.

"Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." - Mary McLeod Bethune As I reflect on these powerful words by Mary McLeod Bethune, I am reminded of the transformative power of education in my own life. It is through education that I have discovered my passion and potential, and I am eager to share this gift with others through a career in teaching. From a young age, I have always been drawn to the power of education. Growing up in a challenging environment, I saw firsthand how education could be a lifeline, a way out of difficult circumstances. It provided me with the tools to overcome adversity, to dream big, and to believe in myself. I am deeply grateful for the impact that education has had on my life, and it is this gratitude that fuels my desire to become a teacher. I believe that education has the power to transform lives. It has the ability to open doors, to foster critical thinking, and to empower individuals to become active, engaged members of society. I have seen how education has the capacity to break down barriers and create opportunities for those who may have otherwise been overlooked. It is this belief in the power of education that has inspired me to pursue a career in teaching. Teaching is not merely a job for me; it is a calling. I am passionate about creating a positive and nurturing environment for my students, where they can feel safe, inspired, and empowered to learn. I am committed to fostering a love of learning, to instilling confidence and self-belief, and to making a difference in the lives of the next generation. I am excited about the prospect of being able to share my own experiences, knowledge, and insights with my students. I want to be a source of encouragement and support for them, just as my own teachers were for me. I am dedicated to helping my students realize their full potential, to believe in themselves, and to pursue their dreams. I am fully aware of the challenges and demands of teaching, but I am steadfast in my determination to make a positive impact in the lives of my students. I am committed to being a lifelong learner myself, continuously seeking to improve and grow, so that I can be the best educator I can be for my students. In conclusion, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the readers. Thank you for taking the time to learn about my passion for teaching and the value I place on education. I am excited about the prospect of entering the teaching profession and making a positive difference in the lives of future generations. Thank you for considering my application.

As Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." This quote has been a source of inspiration for my personal and professional journey and has guided me in pursuing my dreams within the business and agricultural industry. My name is Javares Mikell, and I am a dedicated and motivated individual who is passionate about contributing to the growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector. I am currently a Junior at Bethune Cookman University, majoring in Social Science. I am writing to express my deep interest in obtaining the Milan Alexander Memorial scholarship. This scholarship is essential for me to continue my education and further my career goals within the business and agricultural field. Growing up in a rural community, I developed a deep appreciation for agriculture and its integral role in sustaining our society. I have witnessed firsthand the hard work and dedication that goes into farming and producing food for our communities. This upbringing has fueled my passion for pursuing a career within the agricultural industry, as I aim to contribute to its growth and innovation. The financial burden of pursuing higher education has been a challenge for me, as I come from a low-income background. My parents have always supported me in my education, but they are unable to fully cover the costs of tuition and living expenses. Thus, receiving the Milan Alexander Memorial scholarship would tremendously alleviate the financial strain and allow me to focus on my studies and future career aspirations. In the future, I aspire to utilize my education and skills to make a meaningful impact within the business and agricultural sectors. My goal is to become a successful entrepreneur and establish my own agricultural business, contributing to the sustainability and advancement of the industry. I am determined to implement innovative and environmentally friendly practices that support the well-being of our communities and the planet. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am also deeply committed to serving my community. I firmly believe in the importance of giving back and contributing to the well-being of others. Over the years, I have volunteered at local food drives, community gardens, and agricultural education programs for underprivileged youth. These experiences have enriched my understanding of the interconnectedness between agriculture and community, and have further fueled my passion for making a positive impact. In conclusion, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to apply for the Milan Alexander Memorial Scholarship. I am confident that with the support of this scholarship, I will be able to achieve my academic and professional goals and make a meaningful contribution to the business and agricultural sector. Mary McLeod Bethune's quote serves as a reminder of the power of faith and determination, and I am committed to pursuing my dreams with resilience and passion. Thank you for considering my application and taking the time to read my essay. Your support means the world to me, and I am dedicated to making the most of this opportunity. Together, we can work towards a future where sustainable agriculture and thriving communities go hand in hand.

The universe is a vast and complex place, filled with countless wonders and mysteries waiting to be unraveled. As human beings, we are naturally curious about the world around us, and this curiosity has driven us to explore and understand the nature of our universe. We must continue to work towards a better understanding of the universe, as it not only satisfies our innate desire for knowledge but also has practical implications for our everyday lives. In this essay, I will discuss the importance of understanding the nature of our universe and the ideas and concepts that I hope to employ to do so. One of the key reasons why it is important to work towards a better understanding of the universe is that it allows us to gain a deeper appreciation for the world around us. By uncovering the mysteries of the cosmos, we can develop a greater sense of wonder and awe at the sheer scale and complexity of the universe. This sense of wonder can inspire us to continue exploring and learning, fueling our curiosity and passion for discovery. Moreover, gaining a better understanding of the universe can help us develop a more holistic view of the world, recognizing our place within the larger cosmic context. In addition to fostering a sense of awe and wonder, understanding the universe is also crucial for practical reasons. Many of the technologies and advancements that we rely on in our daily lives are a direct result of our efforts to understand the universe. For example, the development of GPS technology, which we use for navigation and location-based services, relies on our understanding of the behavior of satellites in space. Similarly, the study of astronomy has led to advancements in imaging technologies, which have applications in fields such as medicine and environmental monitoring. By continuing to explore and understand the universe, we can uncover new knowledge and innovations that have real-world benefits for society. There are many ideas and concepts that I hope to employ to better understand the nature of our universe. One such concept is the idea of scientific inquiry, which involves asking questions, formulating hypotheses, and conducting experiments to test those hypotheses. This process of inquiry allows us to systematically explore the world around us and gain a deeper understanding of the natural laws that govern the universe. Through scientific inquiry, we can uncover new knowledge and make sense of the complex phenomena that we observe in the cosmos. Another important concept that I hope to employ in my exploration of the universe is the idea of interdisciplinary collaboration. The study of the universe is a vast and multifaceted endeavor, requiring insights from a wide range of disciplines, including physics, astronomy, chemistry, and mathematics. By working together across disciplines, researchers can bring together diverse perspectives and expertise, leading to a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the universe. Interdisciplinary collaboration allows us to tackle complex problems and make connections that may not be immediately apparent from a single disciplinary perspective. Furthermore, I believe that the concept of open-mindedness is essential when it comes to exploring the nature of the universe. The universe is full of surprises and unexpected phenomena, and it is important to approach our exploration with a willingness to challenge our preconceived notions and be open to new ideas. By remaining open-minded, we can embrace the complexities and uncertainties of the universe, fostering a spirit of curiosity and discovery. In conclusion, the exploration and understanding of the nature of our universe are of the utmost importance. Not only does it satisfy our innate curiosity and inspire wonder, but it also has practical implications for the advancement of technology and our daily lives. By employing concepts such as scientific inquiry, interdisciplinary collaboration, and open-mindedness, we can continue to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos and gain a deeper appreciation for the world around us. As Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends." Thank you for taking the time to read this essay, and I hope it has inspired you to continue exploring the nature of our universe.

Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." This quote resonates deeply with me as I reflect on my own experiences with socioeconomic adversity and how it has shaped my beliefs, relationships, and plans. Growing up in a low-income household, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and barriers that stem from socioeconomic adversity. The lack of access to quality education, healthcare, and necessities has perpetuated a cycle of poverty within my community. However, rather than being disheartened by these circumstances, I have been inspired to make a positive impact in my community and school by addressing these issues. One of the ways I plan to make a positive impact is by advocating for equal access to education. I believe that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. As such, I have been actively involved in mentorship programs, tutoring sessions, and community outreach initiatives to provide educational support to students from low-income backgrounds. By sharing my academic journey and bridging the gap between resources and students, I hope to inspire and empower others to pursue their educational aspirations. Additionally, I am committed to addressing socioeconomic adversity in my community by advocating for equitable access to healthcare and necessities. Through volunteering at local soup kitchens, organizing donation drives, and raising awareness about social disparities, I aim to cultivate a sense of compassion and solidarity within my community. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, I aspire to uplift and empower individuals who are facing socioeconomic adversity and provide them with the necessary resources to thrive. Furthermore, my experiences with socioeconomic adversity have profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and plans. I have developed a deep sense of empathy and understanding for individuals who are marginalized and underserved. This has strengthened my commitment to social justice and equity, and has driven me to pursue a career in the fields of advocacy and public policy. I firmly believe that systemic change is crucial in addressing socioeconomic adversity, and I am dedicated to advocating for policies that promote equality and opportunity for all. In conclusion, my experiences with socioeconomic adversity have not only shaped my beliefs, relationships, and plans but have also ignited a passion within me to make a positive impact in my community and school. I am committed to advocating for equal access to education, healthcare, and necessities, and to uplifting individuals who are facing systemic barriers. Through my unwavering dedication and advocacy efforts, I aspire to be a catalyst for change and to invest in the human soul, just as Mary McLeod Bethune had envisioned.

"Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." This powerful quote by Mary McLeod Bethune serves as a constant source of inspiration and motivation for individuals facing obstacles in their lives. As a young student, I found myself encountering a significant obstacle while pursuing higher education: a reading disorder. This obstacle made it incredibly challenging for me to keep up with the demands of college coursework and made me doubt my ability to succeed in academics. However, through resilience, the support of others, and the help of Bethune-Cookman University, I was able to overcome this obstacle and thrive in my academic pursuits. Throughout my schooling, I had always struggled with reading and comprehension, feeling frustrated with my inability to process information as quickly as my peers. This made it difficult for me to excel in my classes, and I often found myself falling behind. However, with the encouragement of my teachers and the support of my family, I refused to let this obstacle define me. I was determined to find a way to overcome my reading disorder and achieve success in my education. It wasn't until I began my studies at Bethune-Cookman University that I found the assistance I needed to overcome my reading disorder. The university's dedicated staff and resources were instrumental in helping me develop effective reading strategies and improve my comprehension skills. Through personalized tutoring, specialized coursework, and access to assistive technology, I was able to enhance my reading abilities and gain the confidence I needed to excel in my studies. The faculty at Bethune-Cookman University not only provided me with the necessary tools to overcome my reading disorder, but they also fostered a supportive and inclusive learning environment that made me feel valued and empowered. Their dedication to helping students succeed, regardless of their challenges, played a crucial role in my academic journey. I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support and guidance I received from the university's staff, and I credit them for helping me conquer my reading obstacles and achieve my educational goals. As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of Mary McLeod Bethune's words: "Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." I have come to understand the power of faith, resilience, and the unwavering support of others in overcoming obstacles. In this instance, my faith in myself, the resilience to press on, and the support of Bethune-Cookman University have allowed me to conquer my reading disorder and thrive in my academic pursuits. I am eternally grateful for the assistance I received and the impact it has had on my life. In conclusion, I extend my sincere gratitude to Bethune-Cookman University for its instrumental role in helping me overcome my reading disorder. Their commitment to providing inclusive education and support services has not only changed my life but has also empowered me to succeed in pursuing higher education. I am proud to be a part of the Bethune-Cookman University community and am honored to share the impact they have had on my journey to academic success. Thank you for reading my essay and allowing me to express my appreciation for the invaluable support I have received.

Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "The true worth of a race must be measured by the character of its womanhood." As a college-bound student of an immigrant family, this quote resonates deeply with me. My family's values and cultures have shaped my character and guided me through the challenges of pursuing higher education. I have seen the sacrifices and resilience of my parents, and I am determined to make a positive impact on the world through my experience and education. As the first in my family to attend college, the journey has not been easy. Balancing the responsibilities of a college-bound student with the expectations of my immigrant family has been challenging, but it has also been a source of strength and motivation. I have learned to appreciate the sacrifices my family has made for me, and I am committed to making the most of the opportunities that college has to offer. I believe that education is the key to creating positive change in the world, and I am determined to use my knowledge and skills to make a difference in my community and beyond. One of the most significant experiences I have had as a college-bound student was attending Bethune-Cookman University. The support and guidance I received from the faculty and staff at the university were invaluable. They took me under their wings and provided me with the resources and encouragement I needed to succeed. The sense of community at Bethune-Cookman has empowered me to pursue my goals and believe in my capabilities. I am grateful to the professors who challenged me to think critically and push the boundaries of my learning. I am thankful to the mentors who provided me with guidance and support, helping me navigate the challenges of being a college-bound student from an immigrant family. The friendships and connections I have made at Bethune-Cookman have enriched my college experience and shaped me into a more confident and determined individual. As I prepare to graduate and enter the world as a college-educated individual, I am committed to making a positive impact on the world. I plan to use my education to advocate for immigrants and underprivileged communities, working to create equal opportunities for all. I want to be a voice for those who are marginalized and overlooked, using my knowledge and skills to create positive change in society. I also hope to inspire other college-bound students from immigrant families to pursue their dreams and believe in their potential. I want to show them that education is a powerful tool for empowerment and change. I want to be an example of what is possible when one is determined and committed to making a difference. I am grateful for the support and encouragement I have received on my journey as a college-bound student, and I want to thank all those who have taken me under their wings at Bethune-Cookman University. Your belief in me and your investment in my education has made a significant impact on my life, and I will carry your influence with me as I continue to pursue my goals and make a positive impact on the world. Thank you for helping me become the person I am today.

Investing in the human soul is an act of recognizing and appreciating the potential that each individual possesses. Another watershed milestone for me was realizing my ambition of becoming one of the youngest presidents of a historically black college or university (HBCU). My love of education and desire inspired this goal to make a difference in the lives of students. These characteristics, together with my love of education and activism, have motivated my desire to become a great leader in the HBCU community. Being the youngest president of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a lofty and challenging objective that causes devotion, enthusiasm, and hard work. As an aspiring leader, I am determined to take the steps to realize this aim and contribute to the preservation and regeneration of historically black colleges and universities across the country. As part of my academic journey, I will actively seek opportunities to learn from current HBCU presidents, faculty, and staff to get practical knowledge and insights into the HBCU system's unique challenges and potential. Aside from academic credentials, I appreciate the importance of practical experience in higher education administration. I plan to seek internships, fellowships, or entry-level positions at HBCUs or other higher education institutions to get hands-on experience in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and student success initiatives. I plan to actively seek out mentors within the HBCU community who can offer advice, support, and vital connections. Developing a strong network of allies and advocates within the HBCU community would not only provide avenues for career growth but will also provide me with a support system as I work toward my goal. As a potential HBCU president, my dedication goes beyond attaining a title. I am committed to making a positive difference in the HBCU community, especially considering the recent closures and financial difficulties faced by several HBCUs. As a leader, one of my key aims would be to advocate for and support struggling HBCUs, providing guidance and resources to assist these institutions in overcoming financial and operational issues. I am dedicated to finding and meeting the educational needs of underserved communities by leading projects to build new HBCUs in areas where they are most needed. This may entail collaborating with local leaders, community organizations, and educational institutions to seek funds, conduct research and curriculum development, and construct the infrastructure required to establish new HBCUs. In conclusion, being the youngest HBCU president is a challenging ambition that causes a mix of education, experience, mentorship, and a deep dedication to the HBCU community. I am committed to taking the steps to attain this goal and to use my position to help struggling HBCUs and establish new ones where they are required. I am passionate about the transformational power of education and am committed to leading the charge in ensuring the sustained success and growth of HBCUs for future generations. I'd like to use this occasion to offer my deepest appreciation to the scholarship committee for reviewing my application. I recognize the enormous time and attention that goes into the selection process, and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to every member of the committee. Your dedication to assisting students in achieving their educational goals is recognized, and I am honored to have been a part of the selection process. The process of applying for scholarships has allowed me to reflect on my academic and personal accomplishments, as well as to reaffirm my commitment to my education and future career objectives. Your belief in the potential of students like me is truly appreciated,thank you

Mary McLeod Bethune once said, "Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough." These powerful words speak to the transformative and enlightening nature of reading. Books have the ability to shape and enrich our souls, providing us with knowledge, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the world around us. My ideal bookshelf would be filled with a diverse range of titles inspired by #BookTok recommendations. #BookTok has become a popular platform on TikTok where users share their favorite books, provide reviews, and create engaging content to promote reading. The recommendations on #BookTok are often varied and cater to different tastes, making it an ideal place to discover new and exciting reads. Amongst the must-have titles on my ideal bookshelf are "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller, "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab, and "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas. These titles have become highly popular within the #BookTok community and have made a significant impact on readers. "The Song of Achilles" has captivated readers with its beautiful prose and reimagining of ancient Greek mythology, while "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" has enchanted audiences with its unique and thought-provoking storyline. "A Court of Thorns and Roses" has been celebrated for its compelling characters and vibrant fantasy world. Reading these books not only helps me escape into different worlds and experience diverse narratives, but also enriches my vocabulary and understanding of language. As someone with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), reading has been a crucial tool in expanding my knowledge and improving my literacy skills. Through reading, I have been able to learn new words, understand complex sentence structures, and develop a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling. I am grateful for the recommendations and discussions that take place within the #BookTok community, as they have introduced me to incredible books that have expanded my horizons and encouraged a love for reading. The diverse range of genres and perspectives represented within #BookTok has broadened my understanding of different cultures, experiences, and ideas, making me a more empathetic and informed individual. In conclusion, the impact of the #BookTok community and the books recommended within it has been invaluable to me. The power of reading has not only helped me to expand my vocabulary and understanding of language, but has also allowed me to explore new worlds, discover diverse narratives, and gain a deeper appreciation for the human experience. I am thankful for the transformative power of books and the community that has helped me to find new and enriching reads.

Investing in the human soul is an act of recognizing and appreciating the potential that each individual possesses. Another watershed milestone for me was realizing my ambition of becoming one of the youngest presidents of a historically black college or university (HBCU). My love of education and desire inspired this goal to make a difference in the lives of students. These characteristics, together with my love of education and activism, have motivated my desire to become a great leader in the HBCU community. Being the youngest president of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a lofty and challenging objective that causes devotion, enthusiasm, and hard work. As an aspiring leader, I am determined to take the steps to realize this aim and contribute to the preservation and regeneration of historically black colleges and universities across the country. As part of my academic journey, I will actively seek opportunities to learn from current HBCU presidents, faculty, and staff to get practical knowledge and insights into the HBCU system's unique challenges and potential. Aside from academic credentials, I appreciate the importance of practical experience in higher education administration. I plan to seek internships, fellowships, or entry-level positions at HBCUs or other higher education institutions to get hands-on experience in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and student success initiatives. Developing a strong network of allies and advocates within the HBCU community would not only provide avenues for career growth, but will also provide me with a support system as I work toward my goal. As a potential HBCU president, my dedication goes beyond attaining a title. I am committed to making a positive difference in the HBCU community, especially considering the recent closures and financial difficulties faced by several HBCUs. As a leader, one of my key aims would be to advocate for and support struggling HBCUs, providing guidance and resources to assist these institutions in overcoming financial and operational issues. I am dedicated to finding and meeting the educational needs of underserved communities by leading projects to build new HBCUs in areas where they are most needed. This may entail collaborating with local leaders, community organizations, and educational institutions to seek funds, conduct research and curriculum development, and construct the infrastructure required to establish new HBCUs. In conclusion, being the youngest HBCU president is a challenging ambition that causes a mix of education, experience, mentorship, and a deep dedication to the HBCU community. I am committed to taking the steps to attain this goal and to use my position to help struggling HBCUs and establish new ones where they are required. I am passionate about the transformational power of education and am committed to leading the charge in ensuring the sustained success and growth of HBCUs for future generations. I'd like to use this occasion to offer my deepest appreciation to the scholarship committee for reviewing my application. Your dedication to assisting students in achieving their educational goals is recognized, and I am honored to have been a part of the selection process. The process of applying for scholarships has allowed me to reflect on my academic and personal accomplishments, as well as to reaffirm my commitment to my education and future career objectives. Your belief in the potential of students like me is truly appreciated, and I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the selection process.

Reflecting on the events and moments that have molded my year, it becomes clear that Taylor Swift's re-recorded album, 1989 (Taylor's Version), reflects the highs and lows of my life in 2021. The songs on this album speak to the range of feelings and events that have characterized my journey, making it an appropriate soundtrack to capture the essence of my year. "Shake It Off" is one of the 1989 (Taylor's Version) songs that would unquestionably find a place on my year's soundtrack. The upbeat and empowering nature of this track perfectly captures my resilience and determination in the face of challenges and setbacks. The song's message of brushing off negativity and embracing positivity speaks to me deeply, serving as a reminder to remain unwavering in the face of adversity and to keep moving forward with a positive attitude. "Clean" is another song that would be on my year's soundtrack. As the year progressed, I found myself struggling with personal development and the process of letting go of past hurts and disappointments. The introspective and cathartic nature of "Clean" encapsulates this journey of self-discovery and healing, with its lyrics touching on the process of shedding old skin and emerging stronger and more resilient. This song has been a source of comfort and inspiration for me as I navigated the complexities of personal growth and self-acceptance. One song that would undoubtedly be on my year's soundtrack is "Wildest Dreams. This song encapsulates the bittersweet feeling of nostalgia and longing that I have experienced throughout the year. The haunting melody and introspective lyrics perfectly capture the mix of emotions that have colored my days. Additionally, "Blank Space (Taylor's Version)" would also be included, as it reflects the feeling of playful cynicism that has been ingrained in my year, with its clever lyrics and catchy beat. Victor Hugo once said, "Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent." This is one of my favorite quotes about music. This quote speaks to me deeply because it captures music's indescribable power to convey emotions and experiences that words alone cannot express. The 1989 (Taylor's Version) songs that made it onto my year's soundtrack were able to articulate my feelings and experiences in ways that I simply cannot put into words. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings about Taylor Swift's music in this scholarship essay. Music has undeniably shaped my identity and provided comfort throughout my life, and Taylor Swift's artistry has been a constant source of inspiration. Thank you for considering my viewpoint; regardless of the outcome, I am grateful for the opportunity to express my love for music and the impact it has had on my life.

Investing in the human soul is an act of recognizing and appreciating the potential that each individual possesses. Another watershed milestone for me was realizing my ambition of becoming one of the youngest presidents of a historically black college or university (HBCU). My love of education and desire inspired this goal to make a difference in the lives of students. These characteristics, together with my love of education and activism, have motivated my desire to become a great leader in the HBCU community. Being the youngest president of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a lofty and challenging objective that causes devotion, enthusiasm, and hard work. As an aspiring leader, I am determined to take the steps to realize this aim and contribute to the preservation and regeneration of historically black colleges and universities across the country. As part of my academic journey, I will actively seek opportunities to learn from current HBCU presidents, faculty, and staff to get practical knowledge and insights into the HBCU system's unique challenges and potential. Aside from academic credentials, I appreciate the importance of practical experience in higher education administration. I plan to seek internships, fellowships, or entry-level positions at HBCUs or other higher education institutions to get hands-on experience in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and student success initiatives. Developing a strong network of allies and advocates within the HBCU community would not only provide avenues for career growth but will also provide me with a support system as I work toward my goal. As a potential HBCU president, my dedication goes beyond attaining a title. I am committed to making a positive difference in the HBCU community, especially considering the recent closures and financial difficulties faced by several HBCUs. As a leader, one of my key aims would be to advocate for and support struggling HBCUs, providing guidance and resources to assist these institutions in overcoming financial and operational issues. I am dedicated to finding and meeting the educational needs of underserved communities by leading projects to build new HBCUs in areas where they are most needed. This may entail collaborating with local leaders, community organizations, and educational institutions to seek funds, conduct research and curriculum development, and construct the infrastructure required to establish new HBCUs. In conclusion, being the youngest HBCU president is a challenging ambition that causes a mix of education, experience, mentorship, and a deep dedication to the HBCU community. I am committed to taking the steps to attain this goal and to use my position to help struggling HBCUs and establish new ones where they are required. I am passionate about the transformational power of education and am committed to leading the charge in ensuring the sustained success and growth of HBCUs for future generations. I'd like to use this occasion to offer my deepest appreciation to the scholarship committee for reviewing my application. I recognize the enormous time and attention that goes into the selection process, and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to every member of the committee. Your dedication to assisting students in achieving their educational goals is recognized, and I am honored to have been a part of the selection process. The process of applying for scholarships has allowed me to reflect on my academic and personal accomplishments, as well as to reaffirm my commitment to my education and future career objectives. Your belief in the potential of students like me is truly appreciated, and I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the selection process.

Investing in the human soul is an act of recognizing and appreciating the potential that each individual possesses. Another watershed milestone for me was realizing my ambition of becoming one of the youngest presidents of a historically black college or university (HBCU). My love of education and desire inspired this goal to make a difference in the lives of students. These characteristics, together with my love of education and activism, have motivated my desire to become a great leader in the HBCU community. Being the youngest president of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a lofty and challenging objective that causes devotion, enthusiasm, and hard work. As an aspiring leader, I am determined to take the steps to realize this aim and contribute to the preservation and regeneration of historically black colleges and universities across the country. As part of my academic journey, I will actively seek opportunities to learn from current HBCU presidents, faculty, and staff to get practical knowledge and insights into the HBCU system's unique challenges and potential. Aside from academic credentials, I appreciate the importance of practical experience in higher education administration. I plan to seek internships, fellowships, or entry-level positions at HBCUs or other higher education institutions to get hands-on experience in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and student success initiatives. Developing a strong network of allies and advocates within the HBCU community would not only provide avenues for career growth but will also provide me with a support system as I work toward my goal. As a potential HBCU president, my dedication goes beyond attaining a title. I am committed to making a positive difference in the HBCU community, especially considering the recent closures and financial difficulties faced by several HBCUs. As a leader, one of my key aims would be to advocate for and support struggling HBCUs, providing guidance and resources to assist these institutions in overcoming financial and operational issues. I am dedicated to finding and meeting the educational needs of underserved communities by leading projects to build new HBCUs in areas where they are most needed. This may entail collaborating with local leaders, community organizations, and educational institutions to seek funds, conduct research and curriculum development, and construct the infrastructure required to establish new HBCUs. In conclusion, being the youngest HBCU president is a challenging ambition that causes a mix of education, experience, mentorship, and a deep dedication to the HBCU community. I am committed to taking the steps to attain this goal and to use my position to help struggling HBCUs and establish new ones where they are required. I am passionate about the transformational power of education and am committed to leading the charge in ensuring the sustained success and growth of HBCUs for future generations. I'd like to use this occasion to offer my deepest appreciation to the scholarship committee for reviewing my application. Your dedication to assisting students in achieving their educational goals is recognized, and I am honored to have been a part of the selection process. The process of applying for scholarships has allowed me to reflect on my academic and personal accomplishments, as well as to reaffirm my commitment to my education and future career objectives. Your belief in the potential of students like me is truly appreciated, and I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the selection process.

Investing in the human soul is an act of recognizing and appreciating the potential that each individual possesses. It is believing in the inherent worth and potential for greatness that each individual possesses. Investing in the human soul and the potential for greatness that can be unlocked through such an investment. We will also investigate the impact of empowering and uplifting individuals, as well as the transformative power that each human soul possesses. Several experiences have changed me into the person I am today, as I reflect on the important milestones in my life. Another watershed milestone for me was realizing my ambition of becoming one of the youngest presidents of a historically black college or university (HBCU). My love of education and desire inspired this goal to make a difference in the lives of students. I've been working hard to reach this goal by networking, getting appropriate experience, and always improving myself. One of the major obstacles I've had to overcome is my impairment and the requirement for an individualized education program (IEP). I have a strong work ethic, good communication skills, and the capacity to adapt to new conditions. These characteristics, together with my love of education and activism, have motivated my desire to become a great leader in the HBCU community. Growing up as the first person in my family to attend college was a challenging yet rewarding experience. Despite these challenges, I learned the value of perseverance and independence, which shaped me into the person I am today. Being the first person in my family to attend college is a huge accomplishment, and I am proud of my determination to seize this opportunity and build a brighter future for myself and my family. Being the youngest president of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a lofty and challenging objective that causes devotion, enthusiasm, and hard work. As an aspiring leader, I am determined to take the steps to realize this aim and contribute to the preservation and regeneration of historically black colleges and universities across the country. The road to becoming an HBCU president begins with a solid educational foundation. As part of my academic journey, I will actively seek opportunities to learn from current HBCU presidents, faculty, and staff to get practical knowledge and insights into the HBCU system's unique challenges and potential. Aside from academic credentials, I appreciate the importance of practical experience in higher education administration. I plan to seek internships, fellowships, or entry-level positions at HBCUs or other higher education institutions to get hands-on experience in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and student success initiatives. This practical experience will provide me with invaluable insights and skills necessary for effective leadership in an HBCU setting. Networking and mentorship will be critical in my pursuit of becoming the president of an HBCU. I plan to actively seek out mentors within the HBCU community who can offer advice, support, and vital connections. Developing a strong network of allies and advocates within the HBCU community would not only provide avenues for career growth but will also provide me with a support system as I work toward my goal. As a potential HBCU president, my dedication goes beyond attaining a title. I am committed to making a positive difference in the HBCU community, especially considering the recent closures and financial difficulties faced by several HBCUs. As a leader, one of my key aims would be to advocate for and support struggling HBCUs, providing guidance and resources to assist these institutions in overcoming financial and operational issues. I would collaborate with stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders to raise funds, form strategic collaborations, and develop new solutions to help HBCUs survive and thrive. I am acutely aware of the need for new historically black colleges and universities in locations where they are underrepresented or nonexistent. I am dedicated to finding and meeting the educational needs of underserved communities by leading projects to build new HBCUs in areas where they are most needed. This may entail collaborating with local leaders, community organizations, and educational institutions to seek funds, conduct research and curriculum development, and construct the infrastructure required to establish new HBCUs. In conclusion, being the youngest HBCU president is a challenging ambition that causes a mix of education, experience, mentorship, and a deep dedication to the HBCU community. I am committed to taking the steps to attain this goal and to use my position to help struggling HBCUs and establish new ones where they are required. I am passionate about the transformational power of education and am committed to leading the charge in ensuring the sustained success and growth of HBCUs for future generations. I'd like to use this occasion to offer my deepest appreciation to the scholarship committee for reviewing my application. I recognize the enormous time and attention that goes into the selection process, and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to every member of the committee. Your dedication to assisting students in achieving their educational goals is recognized, and I am honored to have been a part of the selection process. Even if I do not receive this scholarship, I would like to show my gratitude for the opportunity to apply. The process of applying for scholarships has allowed me to reflect on my academic and personal accomplishments, as well as to reaffirm my commitment to my education and future career objectives. I appreciate the opportunity to share my narrative and goals with the committee, as well as the consideration given to my application. Regardless of the outcome, I want to express my gratitude for the time and effort that you have dedicated to reading and evaluating my application. Your belief in the potential of students like me is truly appreciated, and I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the selection process. Once again, I want to extend my sincerest thanks to the scholarship committee for considering my application

Foster care as a child may have a profound effect on a person's attitude toward life and objectives for the future. I can personally confirm that this upbringing might inculcate a different set of ideals and objectives than someone who was raised in a regular family environment. This essay will tackle how my experience in foster care has changed my outlook on a variety of life issues and how it has influenced my professional aspirations. The first way my foster care experience influenced my view on life was by teaching me to appreciate the little things in life. As I grew older, I had to learn to be satisfied with what I had, which was not always much. Simple things like a roof over my head and food on the table were luxuries I could not afford. This has taught me to appreciate the worth of appreciation and to be satisfied with the small things in life since I know how it feels to be without anything. The second thing is that being in foster care has helped me become more resilient. I've grown in my ability to overcome obstacles and never give up on my goals. Life isn't always fair, but I've learned that it's crucial to keep moving forward despite this. I've had to overcome hardships both personally and professionally because of the difficulties I had to endure as a child. Being in foster care taught me the value of education as well. Early on, I recognized that education would be my key to a brighter future. This knowledge was ingrained in me by my case worker rather than my family. I was frequently transferred from one school to the next as a child, but I learned to respect my education and strive for perfection. This has motivated me to seek a degree in an area in which I am interested and to work hard to meet my academic goals. As a result of my foster care experience, I have a variety of new perspectives on life. I've learned to appreciate the little things, persevere through hardship, and cherish education as a result of it. My life's events have shaped my professional aspirations by igniting a passion for doing work that will have a good influence on kids who are going through similar things. In addition to trying to improve the lives of individuals who are in foster care, I also work to encourage people who have experienced adversity to never give up on themselves. .

Hello and thanks for wanting to learn more about me. Please allow me to introduce myself. I'm Javares Mikell, a hardworking and aspirational person who is passionate about earning a higher education. I have always been a voracious student, ready to pick up new information and abilities. I pursued my academic endeavors to earn a degree in social science because of my interest and zeal. I have continually pushed myself throughout my academic career, performing well in schoolwork and engaging in extracurricular activities to widen my horizons and get practical experience. Along with my dedication to my academic goals, I have also put a lot of effort into my neighborhood and community by helping out with various charitable endeavors with my time and money. To empower underrepresented populations and advance social justice, I have worked with organizations like Mia, an organization founded on the concept of family. As a result of my engagement, I have been able to give back to my community and have learned the importance of leadership, empathy, and compassion. Since my friends and some members of my family were also involved, I was happy to be a part of something so positive. Regarding my professional and personal goals, I've always had a burning desire to work in a field that will enable me to have a beneficial influence on the world. With the information I acquire from Wised and the university over the years, I specifically hope to become an educator like my founder, the late Mary Mcleod Bethune, utilizing my knowledge, abilities, and enthusiasm to address challenging issues and bring about significant change in my community and maybe around the world. But I've been struggling with student loan debt, just like many people who pursue higher education. The financial burden of this debt has significantly impeded my capacity to realize my objectives and dreams, forcing me to make challenging choices and concessions. I would be able to devote more time and resources to further my education, looking for employment possibilities, and giving back to the community I so dearly love if I were given the chance to be awarded this scholarship and the chance to pay off the student loans I already have. In conclusion, I am an ambitious and determined individual who is dedicated to my educational pursuits, professional and life goals, community engagement, and big accomplishments. With the financial assistance granted by this scholarship, I would be able to continue following my goals and dreams, enhancing my life and the lives of the people around me. Thank you for considering my application.

When it comes to making my friends and family feel loved, I try to make everyone I trust and love feel as if I've known them for years. With my friends, I always do my best to tell the truth and do everything I can for them. I can be friends with anyone. I had friends who attempted suicide, and there is no book or anything that can prepare you for that, and you can't stop anyone from their own thoughts, but I had to show my friends that they are loved on this earth, and I had to tell them that if they go, I will lose a part of myself. I always try to pray for the people I love and for people I don't know right now to just come into my life with positive vibes and for me to reciprocate because that's all I need in my life.

My grandmother was the most influential woman in my life because she took me in when I didn't have anywhere to go when my parents became parents at the wrong time, so my grandmother stepped up to be my parent. She taught me to always forgive people, including my parents, who had wronged me and to help others, which is why I try to always have a good heart when dealing with others. Also demonstrating that I should be content with what I have because everything I own can be taken away with the snap of a finger. With her taking the risk of taking in me and my sister at the age of 55, her entire life changed; she had already raised her children. People warned her not to do it, but she did it because she cared about me and my sister. So, with her being a teacher, I've always wanted to be one myself because I want to be able to make a difference in the lives of other children. That is the primary reason I am majoring in it. I can't wait to get back into the classroom and do what I love. And maybe one day I'll be able to own my own schools and colleges.

No one knows how low you can go except yourself. Around March of this year, I thought that if I wasn't on earth, it would help my grades, my problems, and the guilt of not having the best gpa, not passing, and so on. It took good friends and family to tell me that it wasn't everything, and that just being in college and doing my absolute best was all I could do. Me seeing my sister's face telling me she wants to be just like me and go to the same school I went to her saying she looks up to me because I'm not only the first person in my family to finish college, but I'm also the only one with a high school diploma and before I wasn't looking at things like that because if she loses me, who else can she look to? So now when I see myself getting stressed I go to my friends for help because we all in the same school struggling the same trying get the same thing I go out more with them to the beach, outting or just group studying so we can keep each other in check now i'm just as happy I can now make me and my family dreams come true

I believe I say true on speaking my mind because I always listen to others and what they have to say when I meet new people I try to just wait and see what kind of person they are before we even have a conversation I try not to judge anyone until I get to know them because I know how it feels to be judged. People all over the world appear to be afraid of me simply because of the color of my skin. And that has to do with the fact that we still have racist people, and Americans can try to sweep them away, but you'll never be able to sweep away me and my people, and that's something that has been ingrained here. I don't know everything, but I do know that change is on the way because of the way my generation is, and how we aren't just going to go to school for 12 years, college for 4 years, work until 65, and then die, as previous generations did. We want change and we fight for it. I also speak my mind by attending the college of my choice and finally being able to get into the major of my choice. Now, as an education major, I want my students to know that it's okay to speak your mind in the right way, and that sometimes you have to get out of your comfort zone to make a better future for yourself and those who come after you, and that you should always think of doing the right thing.

No one knows how low you can go except yourself. Around March of this year, I thought that if I wasn't on earth, it would help my grades, my problems, and the guilt of not having the best gpa, not passing, and so on. It took good friends and family to tell me that it wasn't everything, and that just being in college and doing my absolute best was all I could do. Me seeing my sister's face telling me she wants to be just like me and go to the same school I went to her saying she looks up to me because I'm not only the first person in my family to finish college, but I'm also the only one with a high school diploma and before I wasn't looking at things like that because if she loses me, who else can she look to? So now when I see myself getting stressed I go to my friends for help because we all in the same school struggling the same trying get the same thing I go out more with them to the beach, outing or just group studying so we can keep each other in check now i'm just as happy I can now make me and my family dreams come true

“I Leave You A Thirst For Education Knowledge Is The Prime Need For The Hour’’ - Mary McLeod Bethune I couldn't leave her out since I'm not only going to Bethune Cookman, but she's also the first HBCU founded by a Black woman at a period when that was unheard of. She did it with only $1.50 and five girls in Daytona Beach, where she used to sell pies to collect money for the college at the time. I'm a social science major working toward a master's degree and possibly a doctorate in education like Ms. Bethune. I didn't realize how important education was until I went to college, and now I've discovered a new love for it. Ms. Bethune worked alongside President Franklin D. Roosevelt until her death, talking to him about what the black community desired and how young people needed more job possibilities. At the time, she was the only African-American woman who could go in and out of the White House. Her actions provided numerous chances to the black community, but her good efforts did not go unnoticed by the Ku Klux Klan, who despised her and her views on race segregation and gender equality, and as a result, they set fire to her buildings. which she never abandoned what she believed in. Even after her death in 1955, she is still remembered. In 2021, the United States Confederate Statuary Hall announced that Mary will be replacing one of the old Jim Crow statues, and she will be the first black woman to do so. Mary Bethune, a little woman from a small town in Daytona, now lives in Washington, D.C., demonstrating that with hope and faith, anything is possible.

Despite the fact that I grew up in the ghetto, where I had no control over my mother's drug use, which was so terrible that she would rather sign away her rights to her nine-year-old, five-year-old, and six-month-old daughters than change her life. And instead of my grandma on my father's side treating me with love and care, they were more interested in the government checks, and it took a long time for my grandmother on my mother's side to eventually treat me like the human I was. And my teacher didn't understand me and my disability of not being able to keep up with my classmates, and when I did, we were already on a new subject, so the school told me I needed an IEP, and I thought I'd be stuck with slower classes for the rest of my life, but it helped me on tests and other things until it didn't. The school system failed me and other kids to the point where since Covid came around, it didn't make any difference. Seeing things like George Floyd and numerous other individuals of my skin color get murdered made me believe there was still hope for humanity, but seeing the outpouring of support for projects and other causes makes me believe we still have a chance. The legacy I want to leave behind is that education is vital, and without it, we would perish. We also need to work on mental health, which seems to be a problem that is being ignored by gen z. We are the future, and we will make things so much better for future generations.

The bluest eye is my favorite book because it depicted the black community in the early 1960s, as well as how white people attempted to make life even more difficult for them at times. One of the things they did was use the news and publications to make it difficult for black people to obtain work and even feel good about themselves. In the 1940s, a husband and wife conducted a test on some children in which they displayed different colored baby dolls and had children of all races participate. They discovered that every child, including black children, felt that the white doll was more harmless and less bad than the black doll, as they all felt that the black doll was the one who would do something wrong before the white doll. The book discussed this and how a girl aspired to be like Shirley Temple because she felt like Americans loved her, which they did at the time because Shirley was America's first child prodigy. And the book progresses to the point where she feels unattractive, as if she isn't good enough, because there aren't many people who look like her on the screen, and she becomes obsessed with acquiring blue eyes. She wanted blue eyes and blond hair. She felt if she looked a little like Shirley, she would be loved by her and all her classmates at the time. Because she was going to a school where people who didn't look like her classmates didn't understand her big lips, nose, etc. they thought it was ugly and so did her parents they never told her she was pretty or not to listen to the people who were picking on her, she ended up killing herself I learnt that you always love yourself no matter what.

It took me a long time to figure out what college I wanted to attend due to funds and my family not having enough money, so in my last two years of high school I started working and with Covid around it made it easier for me to make money. And for me to be good when I go to college, but I have a speech and reading issue, which makes it difficult for me to make new friends and read examinations that some kids may or may not have a problem with. I had had a math teacher tell me that I wouldn't make it to high school and would have to leave out due to poor grades, and that was always something I carried with me even now. I'm now a freshman at the college of my dreams, and even though I had to take out thousands of dollars in loans, I know I'm going to be fine. I'm going to be a teacher one day, and even though I have reading and speech problems, I'm going to show the students that anything you put your mind to, you can do it.

It took me a long time to figure out what college I wanted to attend due to funds and my family not having enough money, so in my last two years of high school I started working and with Covid around it made it easier for me to make money. And for me to be good when I go to college, but I have a speech and reading issue, which makes it difficult for me to make new friends and read examinations that some kids may or may not have a problem with. I had had a math teacher tell me that I wouldn't make it to high school and would have to leave out due to poor grades, and that was always something I carried with me even now. I'm now a freshman at the college of my dreams, and even though I had to take out thousands of dollars in loans, I know I'm going to be fine. I'm going to be a teacher one day, and even though I have reading and speech problems, I'm going to show the students that anything you put your mind to, you can do it.

Music has always had an impact on me and has often rescued me from making the wrong choice, but my favorite song is "Hero" by Mariah Carey. There's a hero among us. If you look deep within your heart. You do not need to be afraid. You are what you are. There is a solution. If you look deep into your soul. I always go to this song to help me out when I'm not feeling well, she says, and the song if you reach in your soul it's always a hero the song teach me with every storm there's always going to be a rainbow at the end and with any goal you have don't let anyone even yourself put you down yourself take your goals away you should just hold on because tomorrow is always there. And if you dig deep within yourself, you'll realize that the hero you're looking for has always been within you.

It took me a long time to figure out what college I wanted to attend due to funds and my family not having enough money, so in my last two years of high school I started working and with Covid around it made it easier for me to make money. And for me to be good when I go to college, but I have a speech and reading issue, which makes it difficult for me to make new friends and read examinations that some kids may or may not have a problem with. I had had a math teacher tell me that I wouldn't make it to high school and would have to leave out due to poor grades, and that was always something I carried with me even now. I'm now a freshman at the college of my dreams, and even though I had to take out thousands of dollars in loans, I know I'm going to be fine. I'm going to be a teacher one day, and even though I have reading and speech problems, I'm going to show the students that anything you put your mind to, you can do it.

Giving is incredibly essential to me since I come from nothing and know how it feels to ask someone for something and know they have it and then tell you no, therefore anytime I have it, I try my hardest to give it away. One of my favorite things now that I'm doing community service around my school is making coding fun for students who look like me and giving out gift cards to kids who need it the most. Now I'm looking into the education profession because I want to one day open my own non-profit school and HBCU to help other students, which is why it's so essential to me to give back.

What I'm most passionate about is ensuring a brighter future for my family and the families of others. When I was younger, I was adopted from my grandmother, and because I was late and out of school, it was difficult for me to learn as rapidly as my other classmates who seemed to be light years ahead of me. But I later discovered that I had a condition that made it difficult for me to make friends and complete schoolwork. I had a math instructor inform me that I wouldn't make it to high school and would have to drop out owing to poor grades, and that was something I kept with me until this day. I'm now a freshman at the college of my dreams, and despite having to take out thousands of dollars in loans, I'm confident that I'll be alright. I'm going to be a teacher one day, and even though I have reading and speech problems, I'm going to show the students that anything you put your mind to, you can do it.

The best way to live life and be happy is to live life. You have to go through hardships to know what happiness feels like. You have to have moments where you're feeling down to know how to get over the bad times. Someone once told me that there will always be a rainbow at the end of every rain shower. Meaning that with every bad time, you should look for ways to get over it or know that it won't last long and finding new things and habits to do and working on things you are weak at and making them better and things you are strong at making them even stronger you can most likely find a possibility for something and not even know it because some people don't like taking risks on things that people don't normally do like me knowing how to play instruments that's something that's not common knowledge. These are the ways I work on having a happy life just always having a smile on my face about any bad moment i have.

It took me a long time to figure out what college I wanted to attend due to funds and my family not having enough money, so in my last two years of high school I started working and with Covid around it made it easier for me to make money. And for me to be good when I go to college, but I have a speech and reading issue, which makes it difficult for me to make new friends and read examinations that some kids may or may not have a problem with. I had had a math teacher tell me that I wouldn't make it to high school and would have to leave out due to poor grades, and that was always something I carried with me even now. I'm now a freshman at the college of my dreams, and even though I had to take out thousands of dollars in loans, I know I'm going to be fine. I'm going to be a teacher one day, and even though I have reading and speech problems, I'm going to show the students that anything you put your mind to, you can do it.

Friendship means everything to me because I didn't have many family members that I trusted or had by myself, so the friendships I have or had have always been thought of as family because they were. I applied for this scholarship to talk about a buddy I've known since middle school. We used to go everywhere together and even made it to high school, but she started to drift apart, and we broke our friendship. And when Covid made it such that we couldn't have a typical 12th grade year, such as prom, trips, and so on. So being alone at home with the virtual leader was unusual for me or anyone else. So, my friend got covid, and her mother called me, and I went to see her at the hospital, and we began to reconnect because her life was cut short due to covid, and 4/2/22 will mark the first anniversary since she passed, and now she's living with me, and my minor is one of her favorites, which is art. Her mother and I are now closest friends. She treats me as if I were her kid, which is why friendship means so much to me.

I keep my growth mindset by setting goals and writing down things I want to do in the future, as well as learning new things about myself and my friends to become a better person every day, and I'm always willing to learn from my mistakes because I know I'm only human. And one thing you have to be able to do is accept the good and bad of social media, etc. Because you're not always going to get, I love you messages, you're going to get comments that are sometimes hateful and some that are wanting and telling you what you can do better, and you should be able to accept the criticism from people that are online or people you know . You should always attempt to enhance things and learn how to overcome obstacles in order to grow. You should always demonstrate that you have a growth mindset.

I've been gay my entire life, and one of the ways I want to use education is to teach kids and people in my community who look like me. Another way I want to use education is to raise funds to build my own schools and colleges so that I can make a difference in my community and the world, and to show people that even if you're not in the best place, you can make it out. I picked social science as a degree because I have always enjoyed history, and as a black man, I will have a fantastic time with my classes, taking them to museums and pulling them out of their boring classrooms to show them things they can only dream of. In the education field, I'm seeing a lot of teachers question why they're even there. This could be due to a leak in the funding drive or because the teachers simply don't know how to communicate with the students. This is why, as a teacher, you have to go above and beyond to show students that you care, because if you don't, why should they? So I'm going to make learning about history and the education era in my classroom entertaining. I don't want the kids to feel like I'm just a soulless person teaching them from a book. I'm not saying every day in class will be enjoyable, but I do want them to learn something fresh that no teacher could replace. Having my manner and schools of teaching will be something the education in America hasn't seen since Mary Mcleod Bethune first opened her school. I want to make education and history more accessible to children and not something they should be afraid of.

Someone once told me that scared money doesn't make money, and I've always taken that to heart. I'm not saying you should spend your money on stocks or anything, but if I know I have extra money and I'm not going to spend it on the right thing, you have to take a chance on stock. And I was always told that if you want fast money, don't get into stocks because stocks aren't something you can just get into for a week or two and think you're going to make money off of. You have to take your time and know what will go up and down because stocks change every day and you have to wait and know what you're doing. And that's why I'm in school right now to work on getting a class about stocks and money at my HBCU because black people always have money due to a lack of knowledge about it, and I'm hoping to change that for my people.

I've always had an eye for computers and technology, which is why I've always been fond of computers. When I was younger, I used to go around and fix the older people's phones, and even around my campus, I have my own phone fixing business where people come to me to fix their screens and apps because the Apple store isn't close by, so I'm the cheapest option they have. One of my ambitions is to work with Apple and Microsoft while also running my own business and eventually becoming the first black CEO of one of the companies. I want to create a computer science program in which I can teach classes about it and in which all schools are required to make coding something that all students can do. If they are interested, you will be able to enroll them in courses while they are still young, similar to how we would enroll them in any other general class such as Math, English, and so on. Other countries, such as Russia, Japan, and China, prepare their children for coding and higher education at a young age, and that is the best time to get a child to learn something because their mind is like a sponge, and since American people have to look for ways to learn stuff because our broken system is lacking a lot of things that other countries will be better at, we will be in a world of trouble if we don't change the way it is. I believe I am the best candidate for this scholarship because I have always shared a love of learning about computers and keeping up with technology, no matter how difficult things got with it and the classes, and this is why I'm the best candidate for this award.

I want to use education is to teach kids and people in my community who look like me. Another way I want to use education is to raise funds to build my own schools and colleges so that I can make a difference in my community and the world, and to show people that even if you're not in the best place, you can make it out. I picked social science as a degree because I have always enjoyed history, and as a black man, I will have a fantastic time with my classes, taking them to museums and pulling them out of their boring classrooms to show them things they can only dream of. In the education field, I'm seeing a lot of teachers question why they're even there. This could be due to a leak in the funding drive or because the teachers simply don't know how to communicate with the students. This is why, as a teacher, you have to go above and beyond to show students that you care, because if you don't, why should they? So, I'm going to make learning about history and the education era in my classroom entertaining. I don't want the kids to feel like I'm just a soulless person teaching them from a book. I'm not saying every day in class will be enjoyable, but I do want them to learn something fresh that no teacher could replace. Having my manner and schools of teaching will be something the education in America hasn't seen since Mary Mcleod Bethune first opened her school. I want to make education and history more accessible to children and not something they should be afraid of.

I love that I never give up, even when no one expected me to make it to college. I had middle school teachers tell me that I wouldn't make it because I couldn't read but look at me today. I started playing trombone and am now in marching band and college that I wanted to attend.me Not having a mother or father, being raised by my grandmother, living in section 8, our lights not being turned on, me having to clean clothes at school when everyone was absent because there was no water at home, despite all of this, I have always seen the good in people, and I knew this wasn't going to be my life forever. most things I had to make it out by myself even in college my grandma never went so with a lot of things have to come out my pocket and work two jobs but even with these setbacks I will always have a smile on my face.

I've always had to be independent since I grew up with my grandmother because my mother and father weren't ready to raise me, and even now, at the age of 19, they still aren't, so I've always had to battle by myself with no one to assist me.So now when people try to help me, it feels strange because I just feel like I can't get it myself I'm just going to find a way to do it myself like going to college and having loans no one is going to help me pay with have to find ways to do it myself and even getting up here I had to pay people to move my stuff here and always being in marching band I had to teach myself how to play so being independent I will stay but if I need anything that would help me grown in to be more independent.

I stay true to myself by knowing what and why I want to do things like going to college for education because I want to change the way students see education in the black community in the first steps, I have to take is within myself I have to be honest with myself and find ways to grow before I can even think about teaching someone else's child. Staying true to myself and my ambitions demonstrates to others that I am not simply in school doing; they see that I want to be in the classroom, and they realize that one day I would like to own my school. I don't want the kids to feel like I'm just a soulless person teaching them from a book. I'm not saying every day in class will be enjoyable, but I do want them to learn something fresh that no teacher could replace. Having my manner and schools of teaching will be something the education in America hasn't seen since Mary Mcleod Bethune first opened her school. I want to make education and history more accessible to children and not something they should be afraid of.

one of the ways I want to use education is to teach kids and people in my community who look like me. Another way I want to use education is to raise funds to build my own schools and colleges so that I can make a difference in my community and the world, and to show people that even if you're not in the best place, you can make it out. I picked social science as a degree because I have always enjoyed history, and as a black man, I will have a fantastic time with my classes, taking them to museums and pulling them out of their boring classrooms to show them things they can only dream of. In the education field, I'm seeing a lot of teachers question why they're even there. This could be due to a leak in the funding drive or because the teachers simply don't know how to communicate with the students. This is why, as a teacher, you have to go above and beyond to show students that you care, because if you don't, why should they? So, I'm going to make learning about history and the education era in my classroom entertaining. I don't want the kids to feel like I'm just a soulless person teaching them from a book. I'm not saying every day in class will be enjoyable, but I do want them to learn something fresh that no teacher could replace. Having my manner and schools of teaching will be something the education in America hasn't seen since Mary Mcleod Bethune first opened her school. I want to make education and history more accessible to children and not something they should be afraid of. Globalization has brought these changes to practically every nation, exacerbating existing disparities and contributing to the transfer of poverty between generations. In many low-income and even middle-income countries, certified teachers (those who have received the formal education required by the country's regulations) lack knowledge in certain subjects such as mathematics, physics, and chemistry, textbooks are scarce, and connectivity (and sometimes even electricity) is scarce in school buildings. Even in these circumstances, however, there is a demand for higher-level thinking abilities in the labor market, creating a twofold challenge to an already overcrowded educational system. To promote the abilities required to become a global citizen, we must develop these talents in a disciplined manner in the teacher workforce. This includes in-service education on empathy, cultural appreciation, ethnic and gender identities, and general understanding of current world affairs and concerns through cooperation and group discussions. A teacher who thinks she is a part of mankind rather than simply an area or a country tends to instill that belief in her students. Students have several obligations both within and outside of the classroom. The most essential role they can play is to come to class prepared to learn. They must attend class on a regular basis, or they will fall behind and find it difficult to catch up. Arriving on time is critical since missing sections of the lesson might result in a failure to comprehend the assignments. Students must remain focused and on task in order to finish tests, classroom assignments, and homework assignments correctly and on time. Students must be prepared for class and bring all essential resources to complete classroom assignments and projects. They are expected to take part in classroom discussions and activities. I honestly believe that the primary objective of school is to assist educate children so that they can function in society. I believe that if you are a competent teacher.

Education. one of the ways I want to use education is to teach kids and people in my community who look like me. Another way I want to use education is to raise funds to build my own schools and colleges so that I can make a difference in my community and the world, and to show people that even if you're not in the best place, you can make it out. I picked social science as a degree because I have always enjoyed history, and as a black man, I will have a fantastic time with my classes, taking them to museums and pulling them out of their boring classrooms to show them things they can only dream of. In the education field, I'm seeing a lot of teachers question why they're even there. This could be due to a leak in the funding drive or because the teachers simply don't know how to communicate with the students. This is why, as a teacher, you have to go above and beyond to show students that you care, because if you don't, why should they? So I'm going to make learning about history and the education era in my classroom entertaining. I don't want the kids to feel like I'm just a soulless person teaching them from a book. I'm not saying every day in class will be enjoyable, but I do want them to learn something fresh that no teacher could replace.Having my manner and schools of teaching will be something the education in America hasn't seen since Mary Mcleod Bethune first opened her school. I want to make education and history more accessible to children and not something they should be afraid of.

I'm enthusiastic about being a teacher because I was a student, and I still am, but you never know when a teacher cares or not, and I've been hearing stories from my instructors since we sub at different low-income schools where there may be 40 children in just one class. I want to use education is to teach kids and people in my community who look like me. Another way I want to use education is to raise funds to build my own schools and colleges so that I can make a difference in my community and the world, and to show people that even if you're not in the best place, you can make it out. I picked social science as a degree because I have always enjoyed history, and as a black man, I will have a fantastic time with my classes, taking them to museums and pulling them out of their boring classrooms to show them things they can only dream of. In the education field, I'm seeing a lot of teachers question why they're even there. This could be due to a leak in the funding drive or because the teachers simply don't know how to communicate with the students. This is why, as a teacher, you have to go above and beyond to show students that you care, because if you don't, why should they? So, I'm going to make learning about history and the education era in my classroom entertaining. I don't want the kids to feel like I'm just a soulless person teaching them from a book. I'm not saying every day in class will be enjoyable, but I do want them to learn something fresh that no teacher could replace. Having my manner and schools of teaching will be something the education in America hasn't seen since Mary Mcleod Bethune first opened her school. I want to make education and history more accessible to children and not something they should be afraid of. Having a loving, supporting family and living a happy life is essential for me, and I am grateful for it. Showing others that you care about them and are there for them is what makes life worthwhile. Another element that makes a big impact in a person's life is striving to achieve their goals and aspirations. It motivates individuals to work harder, and when a dream or goal is realized, it's the finest feeling ever. Failure is not an option for me since I want to achieve in life. I must continue to strive to make my ideas a reality since I am only responsible for bringing them to fruition. For me, life is about being joyful, loving God, and people. I hope that by using these tactics, each student will be able to learn to the best of their capacity. My aim is that all of their fundamental subject abilities improve and that they leave the class knowing more than they came in with. I want my kids to develop the habit of enjoying reading in addition to studying. I want kids to develop critical thinking skills and to feel that they can accomplish anything if they believe, work hard enough, and put their minds to it. I want kids to see me as a great role model and someone they can talk to at any time. My purpose is to assist them in making decisions. I believe that if you are a competent teacher who genuinely cares about your pupils, everything else will fall into place, such as their maturing and taking ownership of their own lives.

I've been gay my entire life, and one of the ways I want to use education is to teach kids and people in my community who look like me. Another way I want to use education is to raise funds to build my own schools and colleges so that I can make a difference in my community and the world, and to show people that even if you're not in the best place, you can make it out. I picked social science as a degree because I have always enjoyed history, and as a black man, I will have a fantastic time with my classes, taking them to museums and pulling them out of their boring classrooms to show them things they can only dream of. In the education field, I'm seeing a lot of teachers question why they're even there. This could be due to a leak in the funding drive or because the teachers simply don't know how to communicate with the students. This is why, as a teacher, you have to go above and beyond to show students that you care, because if you don't, why should they? So, I'm going to make learning about history and the education era in my classroom entertaining. I don't want the kids to feel like I'm just a soulless person teaching them from a book. I'm not saying every day in class will be enjoyable, but I do want them to learn something fresh that no teacher could replace. Having my manner and schools of teaching will be something the education in America hasn't seen since Mary Mcleod Bethune first opened her school. I want to make education and history more accessible to children and not something they should be afraid of. because if schools and education continue to go the way they are, there will be fewer teachers like me and the drive that future teachers have, just as the education field may see its biggest jump in forever because teachers are lower in the classes, but schools are going higher and higher in the classes. Of course, when most people think of education, they think of traditional academics, but acquiring skills or learning a profession is also an important sort of education. For example, if a corporation requires specialized labor, they will frequently pay more for someone who doesn't need any training and already has the appropriate expertise, which they may have obtained at a trade or vocational school. Education, at any level, exposes people to fresh knowledge, views, and ideas. There is no limit to what you can learn – and the more you study, the better you will be able to use that information.