I am a current high school senior with a passion for learning, dance, and friendships. Those who know me would describe me as someone with a lot of personality, loyal, and someone who likes to have fun. I am a motivated learner who loves to take on new adventures. From the age of 11, my world was opened up to the thought of college. I have always been a student that cared deeply about her work and felt proud when I made good grades. Even then, I knew I always wanted to succeed, but I didn't have clear guidance on a goal for the future. In elementary school I was a member of a majorette competition team, and I would spend hours watching dancers from all over compete. Doing this, I stumbled upon a majorette group from an HBCU, and my life felt like it changed forever. I knew one day I wanted to be in those same videos I watched on a college campus. Over the years, my goal to combine my 2 loves (education and dance) has done nothing but grow larger and brighter. Unfortunately, as much as I have grown to know what my dreams are, I have also grown to realize that my dreams are not cheap, especially coming from a low-income family. I am the oldest of four siblings, one of whom has special needs. My mom has been nothing short of supportive of me achieving my dreams, but the reality is I know without financial support my dreams are just that: dreams. I have worked hard throughout my journey through school to maintain the grades, but I understand sometimes that's not enough because as much as I want to succeed, there are others that want the same outcome as me, and unfortunately, there's not enough money for everyone. There is nothing in life I have wanted more than making my family proud by becoming a first-generation college graduate. I want to make the 11-year-old girl that used to watch dance videos on YouTube proud while showing my younger siblings that anything is possible. This award would really mean the world to me and not only change my life, but my family's life as well. I plan to succeed in a way where, upon completion, I'm able to help the lives of those around me at all, so saying it would be life-changing is an understatement.

The major I have selected is Business Administration. I've always enjoyed being the "overseer" in different situations, whether it was helping plan a personal event, organizing school fundraisers, or doing group projects. Being part of programs like Delta Gems and FBLA has helped me develop my leadership skills. Through these participating in these groups, I've learned how to communicate effectively, facilitate tasks, and keep everyone motivated. These moments have also shown me how much I enjoy leading others and bringing out their strengths to achieve something great together. In high school, I have been able to take classes like Business Management and Entrepreneurship, which only solidified my decision to pursue this major. I loved learning about how businesses operate, what makes them successful, and how entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality. I enjoyed being able to learn about all of the moving parts, like marketing and finance work together to build something impactful. Those classes gave me a glimpse of what I could accomplish with the right knowledge and skills, and they made me even more excited about the broad range of possibly in this field. Studying Business Administration in college will be the next step toward turning my passion into a career. I plan to use the knowledge I gain to become a leader within an organization or even start my own business someday. One of my biggest goals is to show other young people what is possible. Whether I'm mentoring future leaders, running a successful business, or creating opportunities for others, I want to make an impact that lasts. Business Administration is more than just a major for me, it's a way to turn my natural leadership abilities into something meaningful. This path will allow me to grow, learn, and ultimately achieve my dreams while helping others realize theirs.

Taking both AP Psychology and a dual enrollment English 101 course has been an overwhelming experience, but one that I wouldn’t trade for anything. These advanced courses have pushed me in ways I didn’t think possible, building both my work ethic and character along the way. At first, AP Psychology felt overwhelming. It’s a rigorous course compared to my previous classes, and the workload initially felt like a mountain I couldn’t climb. However, I quickly realized that staying motivated and focused is key. Knowing how much my success in this course can influence my future has kept me going. It’s taught me to push past the intimidation and give 100% effort, even when things get tough. English 101, on the other hand, has been a sneak peek into what life will be like when I start college in the fall. It’s not just about improving my writing skills; it’s about understanding the expectations of higher education and learning how to manage my time and responsibilities independently. Both courses are preparing me to handle challenges, stay committed, and, most importantly, be kind to myself and others as I navigate through it all. The Giles family motto, “the two most important things are to be nice and hard working,” resonates with me deeply. These advanced courses have shown me the importance of being kind, whether it’s collaborating with classmates, building strong relationships with teachers, or just offering encouragement to myself on tough days. Hard work, of course, is at the center of everything I do. These courses demand it, and I’ve learned to embrace the effort it takes to excel. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. As rewarding as these experiences are, my financial circumstances cast a shadow over my journey to higher education. My parents work really hard to support me, and I know they want to see me achieve my dreams just as much as I do. But the reality is that without significant financial assistance, those dreams feel unachievable. The drive to excel is there and I’m ready to put in the work, but the financial barrier is scary. It’s frustrating to think that something as important as education can feel out of reach simply because of money. Despite the challenges, I hold onto the excitement and pride of being this close to achieving a goal I’ve had since elementary school. College has always been part of my plan, and I’m determined to make it happen. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my family and these advanced courses, it’s that hard work and kindness can take you far. I’m hopeful that with a little help, I can cross the finish line and turn my dreams into reality.

I plan to create a legacy by building a business that combines my lifelong passion for dance with my desire to inspire and uplift others. Dance has always been a central part of my life, shaping who I am and teaching me invaluable lessons about discipline, leadership, and perseverance. Since joining competitive dance in elementary school, I’ve grown to appreciate how much it takes to excel, not just in dance but in life. The dedication required to master routines, the teamwork needed to perform as part of a group, and the resilience demanded when things didn’t go as planned have all helped me develop into a stronger and more confident person. My ultimate goal is to open a dance studio, a place where young girls can not only grow as dancers but also as leaders and individuals. I envision creating a space where students feel safe to express themselves, supported to chase their dreams, and encouraged to push beyond their limits. Dance has taught me that success isn’t just about talent but about showing up, putting in the work, and believing in yourself. I want to pass on those lessons to the next generation, helping them develop the confidence and discipline to succeed in whatever they choose to pursue. Being involved in competitive dance has shown me how much hard work and determination can pay off. From early mornings at the studio to late-night rehearsals, I’ve learned to prioritize, manage my time, and lead by example. These experiences have also taught me the importance of being a supportive teammate and celebrating not just individual accomplishments but the success of the group as a whole. These values are at the core of what I want to instill in my future students. The dance studio I hope to create will also be an opportunity to give back to my community. I want to offer programs for young dancers who may not otherwise have access to lessons or performance opportunities. Dance can be transformative; it’s more than just a physical activity. It builds character, resilience, and strength. I want to use my studio to ensure that every child, no matter their background, has a chance to experience the joy and growth that dance has brought me. Starting and running my own studio will require hard work, but I’m ready for the challenge. I plan to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Business and later earn a Master’s in Business Administration to gain the knowledge and skills I need to succeed as a business owner. My experiences in competitive dance have already taught me the importance of preparation, adaptability, and perseverance, and I know these lessons will serve me well in the future. I shine my light by connecting with others, sharing my passion for dance, and inspiring young girls to believe in themselves. Through my studio, I hope to leave a lasting impact not just in teaching dance, but in building confidence and fostering a sense of community. My dream is to create a legacy that empowers others to dream big, work hard, and achieve their goals, just as dance has inspired me to do throughout my life.

Since I was in elementary school, dance has been my passion. It didn’t matter what style—ballet, lyrical, majorette—you name it, I wanted to do it. Dance has been a huge part of shaping who I am today. It’s taught me discipline, creativity, teamwork, and even how to pick myself back up when things don’t go as planned. But what really made dance special for me wasn’t just the routines or performances—it was the incredible mentors I had along the way. My coaches weren’t just teaching us how to perfect a pirouette or hit every beat in an eight-count; they were teaching us life lessons. They taught me about resilience, leadership, and believing in myself even when things got tough. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without their guidance, and I’ve always dreamed of being able to give that back to the next generation. That’s why I want to open my own dance studio. I want to create a space where kids can express themselves, grow, and learn valuable life skills through dance, just like I did. I believe dance is so much more than movement—it’s a way to build confidence, connect with others, and find your voice. My goal is to make my studio not only a place to learn choreography but also a supportive community where kids feel safe to be themselves and dream big. To make that dream a reality, I’m planning to earn my BA in Business. I know that running a successful studio isn’t just about the art—it’s about knowing how to manage finances, market a brand, and build relationships with families and the community. Thankfully, I’ve already started preparing for this journey. In high school, I took both Business and Entrepreneurship courses, which gave me a foundation in how to start and manage a business. I’ve learned about creating business plans, budgeting, and the importance of understanding your target audience—all skills that will be crucial when it’s time to bring my vision to life. What excites me most about becoming an entrepreneur is the freedom to turn my passion into something real. It’s empowering to think about creating a space where kids can find the same love for dance that I did while also making a difference in my community. I know entrepreneurship isn’t always easy—it takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and sometimes a willingness to fail and try again. But I’m ready for the challenge because this dream means everything to me. I’m so grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to learn and grow through dance, and I want to make sure that other kids have those same chances, no matter their background or circumstances. I truly believe that with the right resources, mentorship, and support, dance can change lives—just like it changed mine.

I am a 17-year-old, high school senior, and one of my favorite things to do is read. Books are like doorways into other worlds, helping me understand life through someone else’s perspective. They’ve taught me so much about empathy, resilience, and how to navigate the complexities of life. Most importantly, they’ve helped me shape the kind of impact I want to have on the world. One of my all-time favorite books is *The Hate U Give* by Angie Thomas. It’s such a powerful story about standing up for what’s right, even when it feels like the world is against you. Starr’s journey helped me understand the importance of using my voice, not just for myself but for those who might not have the platform to speak up. Her courage to confront racial injustice and fight for her community showed me that silence isn’t an option when you see something wrong. I want to create a world where everyone—regardless of their race or background—feels seen, heard, and valued. This book made me realize that even one voice can spark a movement, and I hope to use my own voice to bring people together and advocate for fairness. Another book I love is *It Ends with Us* by Colleen Hoover. While it’s primarily a romance, it dives deeply into the struggles of breaking cycles of abuse and finding inner strength. It taught me that it’s okay to walk away from things or people that hurt you, even if it’s hard. Lily’s story showed me how important self-respect and mental health are, and how choosing yourself can be the hardest but most necessary thing to do. This book reminded me that sometimes making an impact starts with healing yourself first, and I want to help others, especially young people, find their own strength to do the same. The third book that’s really stuck with me is *Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry* by Joya Goffney. This book was such a fun yet deeply relatable book about embracing vulnerability and learning to let go of fear. Quinn’s journey taught me that it’s okay to not have everything figured out and that facing your fears often leads to the most growth. As someone who sometimes struggles with stepping outside my comfort zone, this story inspired me to be more authentic and unapologetic about who I am. It made me realize how important it is to help others—especially teens like me—feel safe and supported as they figure out who they are. From these books, I’ve learned the importance of empathy, courage, and authenticity in making a difference. They’ve shown me that change starts with understanding others, standing up for what’s right, and staying true to yourself. Whether it’s fighting for justice, encouraging self-respect, or helping people embrace their own stories, I want to create a world where compassion and inclusion are the norm. Books may be fictional, but their lessons are real. They’ve inspired me to not just dream of a better world but to actively work toward creating one. Reading has shown me that every story matters, and I hope to help others see the beauty and power of their own stories too.

My name is Jaydence Joyner, and I am a high school senior who has been passionate about dance and community involvement for as long as I can remember. For the past seven years, I’ve been a competitive majorette dancer, which has taught me dedication, resilience, and the power of self-expression. Dance is more than a hobby for me—it’s a part of who I am and a way I connect with the world around me. Beyond dance, I’m deeply committed to academics and leadership. I am a proud member of the National Beta Club and have consistently earned a place on the President’s Honor Roll. These achievements reflect my commitment to excellence and the value I place on education. I’m also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where I’m developing skills I hope to carry into my future career. One of my favorite roles is serving as president of the African American Awareness Club, where I help create spaces for meaningful discussions and cultural appreciation. I’m also an active member of Delta GEMS, a program focused on empowering young women through leadership, service, and education. Through Delta GEMS, I’ve participated in community service projects that have shown me the importance of giving back and using my talents to make a difference. These experiences have been invaluable, shaping my perspective and igniting my passion for helping others. After high school, I plan to attend an HBCU and major in Business—a dream I’ve had since elementary school. I believe HBCUs offer a unique environment where I can grow academically, culturally, and personally. My goal is to combine my love for leadership, creativity, and community service into a meaningful career that allows me to inspire others. Through the love of dance, I was introduced to the HBCU culture, and ever since, I knew it was the direction I saw my life going. If I could create my own charity, it would be centered on providing opportunities through dance for underprivileged youth. Dance has brought so much joy and growth into my life, and I want to share that with others who might not otherwise have access. My vision is to establish a dance company that offers free lessons, mentorship, and performance opportunities for boys and girls with a passion for dance. Volunteers would help teach classes, organize events, and mentor young dancers, creating a supportive environment where kids can thrive. I believe that everyone deserves the chance to follow their dreams, no matter their circumstances. Through this charity, I’d aim to help young people discover their potential, build confidence, and find joy in movement and creativity. My hope is to give back to my community by inspiring the next generation of dancers and leaders.

I’ve always had a passion for dance, and that love has shaped not only who I am but also the path I want to take in the future. As a senior in high school, I’m excited to pursue a degree in Business in college with the ultimate goal of opening my own dance studio. From a young age, dance has been my escape, my form of expression, and the way I connect with others. It has given me confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging, and now I want to pass that gift on to other young girls in my community. This scholarship would make a huge difference for me as I take my first steps toward achieving my dreams. College is a big financial investment, and being able to receive this support would allow me to focus on my education without constantly worrying about how to cover tuition and other expenses. With this scholarship, I can dedicate myself fully to my studies and take full advantage of any internships or extracurricular opportunities that will help me grow in my field. I plan to earn my Bachelor's degree and continue on to pursue my Master's in Business Administration, which will give me the knowledge and skills to successfully run my own business. Ultimately, my long-term goal is to own a dance studio where I can provide a safe and inspiring space for young girls to grow, not just in their dance abilities, but also in their self-confidence and leadership skills. Dance has always been more than just a physical activity to me—it’s been a way to build character, resilience, and strength. I want to be a role model to other girls, showing them that no dream is too big to achieve with hard work and determination. I also want to give back to my community by offering opportunities to young dancers who may not otherwise have access to dance classes or performance experiences. I’ve faced emotional challenges in the past, especially when balancing school, dance, and personal life. There was a time when I felt overwhelmed by the pressure of keeping up with everything and doubted my ability to succeed. But I overcame that by reminding myself of my goals and breaking things down into manageable steps. I leaned on my family, friends, and teachers for support, and slowly, I started to rebuild my confidence. This experience taught me the importance of resilience and self-care, and it solidified my determination to keep pushing forward, no matter how tough things get. I know that owning a dance studio will come with its own set of challenges, but I’m ready to take them on. I’m motivated by the idea of inspiring young girls to follow their dreams, just as I’ve done. This scholarship would help me reach that goal by supporting my education and helping me take the next steps toward becoming the business owner I aspire to be.

My future plans are centered around pursuing a degree in Business, with the ultimate goal of starting my own company. I want to build a business that creates meaningful change, empowers others, and provides opportunities for growth and financial independence, especially for underrepresented communities. As I work toward this goal, I aim to combine my passion for leadership with my desire to make a positive impact, both in my career and in the communities I serve. One of the key qualities I have developed in my life is leadership, and I have worked hard to demonstrate excellence in this area through my academic, extracurricular, and community involvement. As the oldest of four siblings, including a younger sister with special needs, I have often taken on a leadership role in my family. I help guide my siblings through their academic challenges, manage household responsibilities, and assist my mom in ensuring that our home runs smoothly. Through these responsibilities, I have learned how to manage time effectively, make decisions under pressure, and lead by example. Beyond my family, I have had numerous opportunities to develop leadership skills through my involvement in school and community organizations. As President of the African American Club at my high school, I have had the privilege of organizing events that celebrate our culture and raise awareness about social issues. One of the most impactful projects I led was a canned food drive to support local families in need. Not only did I organize and promote the event, but I also worked with a team of students to set goals, delegate tasks, and ensure that the drive ran smoothly. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration, communication, and maintaining a clear vision, all while keeping the needs of the community at the forefront. In addition to my role as President, I have also demonstrated leadership as a mentor through the Delta GEMS program, where I assist younger students in developing leadership skills and navigating their academic journeys. This has been an incredibly rewarding experience, as I’ve seen firsthand the impact of positive mentorship on students' confidence and achievements. By helping others realize their potential, I’ve learned that leadership is not just about leading others, but about empowering them to lead themselves. As I continue to pursue my business degree and work toward my goal of entrepreneurship, I will build on these experiences to further develop my leadership skills. I believe that true leadership is about more than just taking charge—it’s about inspiring others, making decisions with integrity, and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. I’m committed to demonstrating excellence in leadership, both in my personal and professional life, and I look forward to using these skills to make a difference in my community and beyond.

When I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. I was always fascinated by the idea of helping others learn, guiding them through new ideas, and watching them grow in their knowledge and confidence. I loved school, and I admired my teachers for their ability to make complex subjects engaging and accessible. I would often pretend to be a teacher at home, setting up a little classroom with my younger siblings and even my stuffed animals, leading them through lessons I had learned that day. The idea of making a difference in someone’s life by helping them learn and discover new things inspired me deeply. As I grew older, my passion for teaching remained, but I started to notice other interests beginning to take shape. I became increasingly fascinated by how businesses operate, how products are created and marketed, and how an idea can evolve into something that impacts people's daily lives. I realized that while teaching was something I still deeply valued, my interests were broadening to include the world of business and entrepreneurship. I started thinking about how I could help others, not just in a classroom setting, but by creating opportunities, solving problems, and leading teams in a business environment. The more I explored business, the more I realized that leadership and education are central to it. As a business owner, I would still have the chance to teach—whether it's mentoring employees, sharing knowledge with my customers, or creating a company culture that encourages growth and learning. In this sense, my childhood dream of being a teacher hasn’t gone away; it’s simply evolved. I now want to lead a business that empowers others, just as I once dreamed of empowering students. Though my career path is now focused on business, the desire to help others and make a positive impact is still at the core of what drives me. I’ve learned that teaching isn’t limited to the classroom; it’s about sharing knowledge, inspiring others, and creating an environment where people can thrive. Whether I’m leading a team, mentoring future entrepreneurs, or providing opportunities for growth within my company, I still aim to teach and guide others in meaningful ways. Ultimately, the foundation of my childhood dream—to make a difference in the lives of others—remains unchanged. Now, however, I believe I can achieve that through business. By combining my passion for teaching with my entrepreneurial ambitions, I can create a career that not only fulfills my personal dreams but also has a lasting, positive impact on my community.

Excellence, to me, isn’t just about achieving high grades or receiving accolades; it’s about consistently striving to do my best in every aspect of my life. Whether it’s in academics, my personal relationships, or my contributions to the community, I believe excellence is rooted in effort, responsibility, and a commitment to growth. I aim to live this out daily, continuously working to be the best version of myself, no matter the challenges I face. In my academic journey, I maintain a strong work ethic and push myself to excel in every subject—not just the ones I find easiest. I’ve learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and I set personal goals to improve in areas where I’m not yet confident. For example, last year I volunteered to tutor my peers in economics. This wasn’t just about helping others; it was an opportunity for me to deepen my understanding of the subject while also practicing patience and communication. I realized that teaching others is one of the most effective ways to solidify my own knowledge. Tutoring helped me develop not only my academic abilities but also my leadership and interpersonal skills, which are just as important in the business world. Beyond academics, I always strive to demonstrate excellence in how I manage my time and responsibilities. As the oldest of four siblings, including a younger sister with special needs, I’ve taken on a leadership role at home, balancing my studies with helping care for my family. My sister is on the Autism spectrum, and while this presents its challenges, it has also taught me valuable lessons in empathy, patience, and resilience. I assist her with her homework, help my mom with household tasks, and ensure that my younger siblings stay on track with their schoolwork and personal development. It’s not always easy to juggle everything, but I take pride in being a positive role model for my siblings and showing them the value of hard work and compassion. This experience has also shaped my character and strengthened my resolve to pursue my goals, no matter how tough life gets. In addition to my family responsibilities, I also strive to give back to my community. I believe that true excellence comes from serving others and making a positive impact on the world around us. I’ve participated in food drives, volunteered at local shelters, and helped organize community events. One of the most meaningful ways I’ve contributed is by helping to organize a canned food drive through the African American Club at my school, where I currently serve as President. This project taught me how to rally my peers, collaborate with local organizations, and make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Being part of the Delta GEMS community also provided opportunities for me to grow as a leader and mentor, while further instilling in me the importance of community service. By balancing academic excellence, family responsibilities, and community service, I aim to demonstrate that excellence is not limited to academic achievements or personal success alone. It is about how we show up for ourselves, our families, and the world around us every day. Excellence is a mindset that fuels growth and progress, and I believe it is my responsibility to embrace that mindset in everything I do. Whether in my studies, my role at home, or my service to others, I am committed to consistently giving my best and striving to make a positive difference wherever I can.

Ever since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by the world of business—how companies are formed, how products are marketed, and how an idea can grow into something that impacts people’s daily lives. My interest in business, however, was solidified during a personal experience that taught me the importance of entrepreneurship and the power of financial independence. When I was 14, my family faced significant financial challenges. My mother, a single parent, worked tirelessly to support me and my three younger siblings, but despite her hard work, we were still often struggling to make ends meet. One summer, I noticed how my mom worked long hours, yet there never seemed to be enough money to cover all our expenses. This frustration inspired me to find a way to help, even at my young age. I decided to start a small business selling homemade bracelets and accessories. At first, it was just a way to make a little extra money, but as I began learning about the costs of production, pricing, and marketing, I realized that I had tapped into something far greater. I was no longer just making jewelry; I was learning the fundamentals of business. I researched how to market my products through social media, calculated my expenses, and even had to negotiate prices with potential customers. The experience taught me valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, financial management, and the importance of hard work and resilience. Although my small business wasn’t a major success, the experience ignited a deep passion for business and entrepreneurship. It showed me that anyone, regardless of background or resources, could create something meaningful if they were willing to work hard, take risks, and think strategically. It also made me realize how much I wanted to be in a position where I could help others, like my mom, by creating opportunities for financial stability and independence. Since then, my interest in business has only grown. I’ve continued to study how businesses operate, whether through school projects, internships, or by reading books and articles on entrepreneurship. I’m particularly drawn to the idea of using business to make a positive impact, whether it’s by supporting communities, creating jobs, or offering innovative solutions to problems. This journey has inspired me to pursue a degree in Business with the goal of eventually starting my own company. I want to build a business that not only helps my family but also empowers others to achieve financial independence and create meaningful change in their communities. The experience of starting my own small venture gave me the confidence to pursue this path, and I’m more determined than ever to turn my passion for business into a career that makes a difference.

Ever since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by the world of business—how companies are formed, how products are marketed, and how an idea can grow into something that impacts people’s daily lives. My interest in business, however, was solidified during a personal experience that taught me the importance of entrepreneurship and the power of financial independence. When I was 14, my family faced significant financial challenges. My mother, a single parent, worked tirelessly to support me and my three younger siblings, but despite her hard work, we were still often struggling to make ends meet. One summer, I noticed how my mom worked long hours, yet there never seemed to be enough money to cover all our expenses. This frustration inspired me to find a way to help, even at my young age. I decided to start a small business selling homemade bracelets and accessories. At first, it was just a way to make a little extra money, but as I began learning about the costs of production, pricing, and marketing, I realized that I had tapped into something far greater. I was no longer just making jewelry; I was learning the fundamentals of business. I researched how to market my products through social media, calculated my expenses, and even had to negotiate prices with potential customers. The experience taught me valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, financial management, and the importance of hard work and resilience. Although my small business wasn’t a major success, the experience ignited a deep passion for business and entrepreneurship. It showed me that anyone, regardless of background or resources, could create something meaningful if they were willing to work hard, take risks, and think strategically. It also made me realize how much I wanted to be in a position where I could help others, like my mom, by creating opportunities for financial stability and independence. Since then, my interest in business has only grown. I’ve continued to study how businesses operate, whether through school projects, internships, or by reading books and articles on entrepreneurship. I’m particularly drawn to the idea of using business to make a positive impact, whether it’s by supporting communities, creating jobs, or offering innovative solutions to problems. This journey has inspired me to pursue a degree in Business with the goal of eventually starting my own company. I want to build a business that not only helps my family but also empowers others to achieve financial independence and create meaningful change in their communities. The experience of starting my own small venture gave me the confidence to pursue this path, and I’m more determined than ever to turn my passion for business into a career that makes a difference.