The legal issue that changed my perspective on the world was learning about House Bill 0667, which proposed stricter penalties for animal cruelty in Maryland. While at first glance it may seem like a small policy concern, it was personal for me. I lost my dog Keto—barely a year old—to an unlicensed gun shooting while walking with my little brother. In the aftermath, I realized that our legal system often reacts to tragedy rather than preventing it, and that gaps in legislation can leave both humans and animals unprotected. As I researched the bill, reached out to local delegates like Senator Will Smith, and worked to raise awareness, I began to understand the way laws are shaped—not just by facts, but by emotion, advocacy, and persistence. It taught me that policy change doesn’t just happen in courtrooms or Congress—it happens when people come forward and say, “This isn’t right. We need better.” That experience sparked a deeper curiosity in how laws fail or protect those without a voice. I began learning more about property law, particularly how abandoned and neglected land can be reclaimed to serve the community. While volunteering with a nonprofit that used legal pathways to convert unused land into fresh produce gardens, I saw how creative, community-centered law could bring life and hope into forgotten spaces. It showed me that legal work isn’t just about rules—it’s about access, equity, and building structures that help people thrive. One of the most transformative parts of studying these issues has been seeing how law connects to identity—especially for women, children, and people of color who are often overlooked or silenced. Whether I was advocating for animal protection or studying how zoning laws affect food access, I kept running into the same truth: the law reflects who society chooses to protect. And too often, those protections don’t include people like me, or the people I love. That’s why I want to become a policymaker. My goal isn’t just to write laws—it’s to make space for the unheard. I want to create safer communities by reforming the systems that allowed tragedies like Keto’s death to happen. I want to advocate for accessible mental health care for veterans like my uncle, who lives with PTSD. And I want to help build a legal system where survivors of trauma—like myself—don’t have to choose between silence and disbelief. Learning about the law has changed how I see everything. It’s not just a career path—it’s a language of power, and I want to use it to speak on behalf of people and causes that matter. Because when the law is shaped by compassion and community, it becomes more than policy—it becomes justice.

Living with someone who has service-related PTSD has taught me that trauma doesn’t always look like sadness or silence—it can look like anger, isolation, or even violence. My uncle, a veteran, struggles every day with the weight of what he experienced in the military. He often speaks about the things he’s seen, the people he’s lost, and the men he’s killed. These memories have shaped him in ways I can’t fully understand, but they have left a deep mark on how he views the world—and human life itself. Because of his trauma, my uncle is prone to outbursts of anger. He has trouble communicating his feelings, and when emotions run high, his instinct is to shut down or lash out. Conversations can turn tense quickly, and it can be difficult to reach him when he’s in that state. But what I’ve learned through our relationship is that beneath that hardened exterior is someone who is deeply loving, protective, and human. We’ve bonded over small but meaningful things—our shared love for movies, knives, and martial arts. I wrestle competitively, just like he did when he was younger, and it’s something that connects us in a way words sometimes can’t. These shared passions are our bridge. They remind me that people with PTSD aren’t broken—they’re surviving, in the only way they know how. One of the hardest things to accept is how little support is available for veterans like my uncle. Therapy is often inaccessible, stigmatized, or inadequate. Veterans carry so much, and yet they’re often expected to return to civilian life as if nothing happened. But trauma doesn’t work that way. It lingers. It distorts. And when people don’t have the tools or resources to cope, they suffer—and so do the people around them. Through my experience with my uncle, I’ve learned the importance of patience, empathy, and seeing people for who they are beyond their pain. I’ve learned that healing isn’t linear, and that love sometimes means holding space for someone even when they don’t know how to ask for it. I’ve also learned how to stay grounded in tough moments, how to de-escalate, and how to listen without judgment. In the future, I want to use these lessons to help other veterans suffering from PTSD. Whether through advocacy, policymaking, or community outreach, I want to raise awareness about the mental health crisis among veterans and push for better access to trauma-informed care. Veterans need more than just praise—they need sustained support, culturally competent therapy, and spaces where they can be vulnerable without fear of being seen as weak or dangerous. People like my uncle have given so much of themselves in service to this country. They deserve to come home to a system that takes their healing seriously. I want to be part of that change—not just for my uncle, but for every veteran still carrying invisible wounds. Because PTSD doesn’t just affect those who live with it—it affects their families, their relationships, and their communities. And if we want to truly honor our veterans, we have to do

It’s one of the hardest truths I’ve ever had to face: that someone I trusted enough to call family-my own stepbrother-could also be the source of deep, lasting harm. As a child, I didn’t have the language or the safety to process the abuse. I just knew something had shattered—not just around me, but inside me. That betrayal planted seeds of fear, silence, and self-protection that shaped how I moved through the world, especially in male-dominated spaces. For years, I carried the weight quietly. I became emotionally guarded and hyper-independent, learning to associate vulnerability with danger. While others my age were figuring out how to connect, I was learning how to stay small, stay safe, and stay silent. I didn’t know how to talk about what happened—or whether anyone would believe me. But healing doesn’t happen through silence. It happens when we begin to reclaim our power. Through therapy and a strong support system, l have started to rebuild the parts of myself that were broken. I’ve learned how to advocate for myself, set boundaries without guilt, and use my voice not as a weapon-but as protection, strength, and truth. This experience didn’t just shape me personally-it shaped my purpose. I’m pursuing a degree in Political Science and International Affairs at Marymount University, with a minor in Sustainability, as part of a 3+3 program with Catholic University’s Columbus School of Law. My long-term goal is to work in policy and advocacy, creating systems that protect and empower survivors-especially Black women and girls who are too often overlooked. I want to challenge the structures that allow abuse to hide behind silence. I want to craft laws that prioritize trauma-informed care, improve access to resources, and ensure that no survivor has to suffer alone or in shame. My personal story fuels my professional vision: to create a world where safety is a right, not a privilege, and where women can live free of fear-emotionally, physically, and politically. Applying for the Linda Hicks Memorial Scholarship is deeply meaningful to me. Ms. Hicks’s life reflects a legacy of resilience, service, and advocacy for African American women navigating trauma and silence within complex family dynamics. Her story inspires me to keep pushing forward-not just for myself, but for every girl who feels voiceless. With this scholarship, I will continue my education and use my legal training to uplift survivors and communities. I want to help reform outdated laws, build culturally competent support systems, and increase communication across professionals who serve marginalized populations. Whether it’s through community-centered policy work, legislative advocacy, or legal reform, I am committed to making space for women like me to feel heard and safe. I believe our stories are powerful. And I believe that by sharing mine, I can help others see that healing is possible-and that peace is not something we wait for. It’s something we build. Every step I take, every goal I pursue, is guided by the promise that my pain will not be wasted. I will use it to fuel justice, protection, and change. This is the legacy I want to create —in honor of women like Linda Hicks, and for every survivor still finding her way home to herself.

Going to college, you are exposed to new people, new places, and experiences that will develop your character and alter your perception of the world. However, with these new experiences comes a whole new ensemble of challenges that you have to overcome in a foreign environment while learning how to operate within the absence of your parents. For me, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned since entering college is the value of prioritizing my mental health—especially when everything around me feels like it’s moving at a hundred miles per hour. One way I’ve committed to taking care of myself has been by regularly attending yoga classes, even if that meant saying no to spontaneous social outings with friends. At first, it wasn’t easy. The fear of missing out is real, especially in the beginning when everyone is trying to make new connections. But I quickly realized that staying grounded—mentally and emotionally—was more important to me than being at every party or group dinner. Yoga became my sanctuary. It wasn’t just about movement; it was about mindfulness, breathing, and reconnecting with myself after long days of classes, deadlines, and overstimulation. The benefits I noticed were immediate and powerful: reduced anxiety, improved sleep, better focus, and a growing sense of inner calm. Yoga helped me slow down in a world that constantly tells us to go faster. That said, I didn’t cut off my social life entirely. I just became more intentional about how I spent my time and energy. I found joy in simpler, quieter moments with people who respected my need for balance. One of my favorite routines became taking late-night walks and sharing a warm cup of tea with a close friend I made in college. These moments, though less flashy than a night out, were deeply fulfilling. They allowed me to connect on a more meaningful level, while still prioritizing the well-being of my mind and body. What made this shift easier was surrounding myself with a community that supported my decisions. In college, it’s easy to feel pressured to conform, but finding people who encourage you to do what’s best for your mental health is vital. Whether it was a friend who respected my yoga schedule or someone who joined me on a peaceful walk instead of a loud gathering, I learned that real friendships honor your boundaries. Ultimately, I’ve come to see that maintaining a balanced lifestyle is crucial. College life doesn’t have to be chaotic to be meaningful. By integrating practices like yoga, cultivating supportive friendships, and being honest about my needs, I’ve been able to thrive both academically and emotionally. Taking care of my mental health is no longer a luxury or an afterthought—it’s a daily priority that empowers me to be the best version of myself, inside and outside the classroom.

While I did not always know the exact occupational field I desired for go into, what I did know is that I wanted what I did to have a lasting positive impact on the world. As I begin my academic journey at Marymount University, where I am majoring in Political Science and International Affairs with a minor in Sustainability, I am committed to using my knowledge and experiences to make a meaningful impact, particularly in environmental sustainability and social justice. One of the most transformative experiences in my life has been my involvement in agriculture and farming. Growing up around communities where access to fresh, healthy food was limited, I became aware of the challenges many people face in securing basic necessities. This realization motivated me to volunteer with a nonprofit organization that reclaims urban spaces and converts them into community gardens. Through this work, I have seen firsthand the power of agriculture to nourish both bodies and communities. Working in these gardens has taught me the value of hard work, patience, and resilience. There is something profoundly humbling about nurturing a seedling and watching it grow into something that can sustain life. But beyond that, I have learned that agriculture is a powerful tool for social change. By transforming vacant lots into spaces where fresh produce is grown, we are not only addressing food insecurity but also fostering community pride and ownership. These gardens have become gathering places where people come together, share knowledge, and support one another. This experience has also deepened my understanding of the importance of sustainability. As I worked in the gardens, I became more aware of the environmental impact of conventional farming practices and the need for more sustainable approaches to food production. This realization influenced my academic pursuits, leading me to minor in Sustainability. I am determined to explore innovative solutions to the environmental challenges we face, particularly in agriculture and food systems. Looking ahead, I plan to use my education to advocate for policies that promote environmental sustainability and social justice. By combining my knowledge of political science with my passion for agriculture, I hope to help shape policies that support sustainable farming practices, protect natural resources, and ensure that all people have access to healthy, nutritious food. My goal is to work at the intersection of law, policy, and community development, using my skills to drive positive change at both the local and global levels. My experiences in agriculture have also reinforced my commitment to community service. I have seen the impact that a single garden can have on a neighborhood, and I am committed to continuing this work in the future. I plan to establish similar initiatives in other communities, particularly in underserved areas, to address food insecurity and promote environmental stewardship. Additionally, I hope to mentor young people, teaching them the importance of healthy eating and empowering them to take an active role in their communities. My involvement in agriculture has profoundly impacted my life, shaping my values, aspirations, and sense of purpose. It has taught me that real change starts at the grassroots level, with individuals and communities coming together to address the challenges they face. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I am committed to using the lessons I have learned through farming and agriculture to make a positive impact on the world. I am excited about the future and the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable, just, and equitable world.

Wrestling has been more than just a sport for me; it has been a life-changing journey that has shaped my character, instilled discipline, and taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and perseverance. As a young woman navigating the challenges of adolescence, wrestling became my anchor, providing a sense of purpose, empowerment, and a community where I felt truly valued. When I first stepped onto the wrestling mat, I was overwhelmed by the intensity of the sport. The physical demands were immense, and I quickly realized that wrestling required more than just physical strength—it demanded mental toughness, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to self-improvement. Every practice was a test of my limits, pushing me to go beyond what I thought was possible. But with each challenge, I grew stronger, not just physically, but mentally as well. Wrestling taught me the value of discipline. Early morning practices, grueling conditioning sessions, and hours of drilling moves honed my ability to focus and stay dedicated to my goals. The discipline I developed on the mat has carried over into every aspect of my life, from my academic pursuits to my personal relationships. I’ve learned that success is not just about talent but about the willingness to put in the work, day in and day out. One of the most significant lessons wrestling has taught me is the importance of resilience. There have been countless times when I was knocked down, both literally and figuratively. Losses in matches, injuries, and the frustration of not mastering a move could have easily discouraged me. However, wrestling ingrained in me the mindset that failure is not the end but an opportunity to learn and improve. Every time I got up after a tough match, I became more resilient, more determined to succeed. Wrestling has also taught me to respect my opponents. In a sport where competition is fierce, it’s easy to view the person across from you as an enemy. However, wrestling has shown me that my opponents are not just obstacles to overcome but individuals who push me to be my best. The mutual respect that develops between competitors is one of the most rewarding aspects of the sport. It’s a reminder that while we strive to win, we are also part of a larger community that values hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship. As a woman in wrestling, I have also witnessed the transformative power of the sport in breaking down barriers. Wrestling has traditionally been male-dominated, but the rise of women’s wrestling is changing that narrative. Being part of this movement has been incredibly empowering. It has given me the confidence to stand up for myself, to challenge stereotypes, and to inspire other young women to pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations. Wrestling has inspired me to give back to my community. I have volunteered as a mentor for younger girls interested in wrestling, sharing my experiences and encouraging them to take up the sport. It’s important to me that they see wrestling as not just a physical activity but as a vehicle for personal growth and empowerment. Wrestling has been a cornerstone of my life, shaping who I am today and who I aspire to be. The discipline, resilience, and respect I’ve gained through the sport have been invaluable. Wrestling has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams, both on and off the mat. As I continue my journey, I am committed to carrying forward the lessons I’ve learned and to using my experiences to inspire and uplift others and I intent to continue to do so during my venture into collegiate wrestling.

The path to practicing law is not simply a career choice for me; it is a deeply rooted calling shaped by personal experiences and a profound sense of duty to advocate for justice and equity in society. My passion for law stems from a combination of formative experiences that have shaped my worldview, including my volunteer work with a nonprofit organization focused on property law and sustainable community initiatives, and a personal tragedy that underscored the urgent need for effective legal advocacy and reform. From a young age, I was drawn to the idea of making a tangible difference in the world. This inclination led me to volunteer with a nonprofit organization that uses property law to reclaim underutilized spaces for growing fresh fruit and produce in underserved communities. My involvement in this work opened my eyes to the powerful role that law plays in shaping our environments and access to essential resources. I witnessed firsthand how legal frameworks could either empower or hinder community efforts to create sustainable, healthy living conditions. This experience ignited my interest in the intersection of law, sustainability, and social justice. I realized that by understanding and leveraging the law, I could be a catalyst for positive change in communities that need it most. However, it was a personal tragedy that solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in law. I lost my one-year-old dog, Keto, to an unlicensed gun shooting while walking with my little brother. The pain and injustice of this senseless act left an indelible mark on me, and it sparked a deep desire to ensure that others would not have to endure similar experiences without recourse. This event highlighted the gaps in our legal system, particularly in areas of animal rights and gun control, and it propelled me into advocacy and political outreach. In response to this tragedy, I became actively involved in legislative efforts to address animal injustices. I worked on a project related to House Bill 0667, which sought to strengthen animal protection laws. I reached out to local delegates, including Senator Will Smith, to raise awareness about the need for stronger legal protections for animals. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the legislative process but also reinforced my belief that law is a powerful tool for advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. My decision to pursue a law degree is also driven by a desire to contribute to broader societal change. I am particularly interested in the 3+3 program at my school and The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law, which will allow me to combine my undergraduate studies in political science and international affairs with a legal education. This program will equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary

My desired career path lies within policy and environmental advocacy, particularly in the allocation of more green spaces and community gardens with fresh produce. I aim to become an attorney specializing in public interest law, focusing on property rights and land use. My ultimate goal is to advocate for marginalized communities, ensuring they have access to legal resources to protect their rights and improve their living conditions. My passion for public interest law was ignited during my volunteer work with Plantation Park Heights, an African American-led nonprofit organization. Speaking with farmers Chippy and Tiera and learning about herbs and their medicinal benefits, I realized the importance of access to fresh produce and community gardens for improving health and well-being. This experience clarified my career path. Witnessing the transformation of underutilized spaces into vibrant community resources highlighted the impact of legal advocacy in addressing social inequalities related to land use and community development. To achieve my career goals, I have chosen to major in political science and international affairs at Marymount University, with a minor in sustainability. This combination aligns with my passion for social justice and environmental stewardship, providing a comprehensive understanding of the legal, political, and environmental frameworks shaping public policy and land use. My minor in sustainability directly connects my studies to my volunteer work, where I saw how sustainable urban agriculture practices can revitalize communities and promote equity. My coursework will deepen my knowledge of environmental justice and prepare me to advocate for policies ensuring equitable access to resources and healthy living environments. To align my academic pursuits with my career goals, I plan to participate in the 3+3 program at Marymount University in partnership with The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law. This program will allow me to complete my undergraduate studies in three years and transition directly to law school for the final three years. This accelerated path will enable me to focus on public interest law early in my career while gaining knowledge and experience in property rights and land use. This will provide practical skills and insights into the legal system. Beyond academics, I am committed to honing my advocacy skills through active involvement in student organizations and community service initiatives. At Marymount, I plan to join the Pre-Law Society and the Model United Nations team to refine my legal reasoning and public speaking abilities. I also intend to continue volunteering with organizations focused on land use and community development, as staying connected to the issues that matter to me will keep my passion for advocacy alive. Looking ahead, I envision my role in the legal field as one that upholds justice and fairness while actively reshaping systems that perpetuate inequality. I see myself collaborating with community leaders, policymakers, and fellow advocates to create sustainable solutions for issues like affordable housing, urban agriculture, and equitable land use. Through my legal practice, I hope to empower individuals and communities to claim their rights and participate fully in neighborhood development. In conclusion, my career path is driven by a deep commitment to social justice and community empowerment. The steps I have taken, along with my future plans, reflect a clear alignment between my experiences, skills, and interests, and my chosen profession. With the education and training I will receive at Marymount University and The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law, I am confident I will be well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in public interest law, advocating for those who need it.

In any young person's life, it is imperative to have a strong adult role model and a support system to get through the turmoils and growing pains of growing up. For me, this role model was my mother. After being with my father for four years and having me and my brother, my mother realized that it would be in our best interest to separate from him. She took it upon herself to not only provide us with the things we needed but also to give us quality of life and experiences that would shape our interests and careers. My mom has been my greatest supporter in reaching my educational goals. From my earliest memories, she has been a constant source of encouragement and guidance, always pushing me to strive for my best even when circumstances were challenging and I felt that I wasn’t up to the task. When I was in elementary school, she would sit with me every night to help with my homework. She didn't just give me the answers; instead, she taught me how to find them on my own. This taught me the value of perseverance and problem-solving. As I moved into middle school and faced more challenging subjects, my mom was there to help me stay organized. She always encourages me to go above and beyond to do more than just attend school, but to enjoy learning as a whole and do extracurricular activities. I joined my school band and did an array of sports and my mother was always at the sideline to cheer me on even after long days of work and even longer hours of commute. She not only was there for me emotionally but financially, she was the one to buy me my flute so that I could practice over the summer and go to a band camp and she was the one to buy me new shoes when the soles of my running shoes would wear down. High school brought even more demanding coursework and the stress of college applications. My mom's support never wavered. She would stay up late with me, proofreading essays and preparing for exams. She also helped me navigate the college application process, researching potential schools, and ensuring I met all the deadlines. She has always said that she wanted to give me the tools her parents didn’t have to give ti her when she was going through the college application process. Her emotional support during this time was just as crucial; she was always there to calm my nerves and boost my confidence. Moreover, my mom dedicated significant time and effort to my success by driving me to school from Catonsville to Essex which was a minimum of three hours each day. This daily commute was a considerable commitment, as it required her to take valuable time out of her day to ensure I attended a school that provided the best opportunities for my education. The long drive emphasized her dedication and the lengths she was willing to go to support my aspirations. Throughout my educational journey, my mom has been a role model of dedication and hard work. She has shown me that with determination and the right support, I can achieve my goals. Her unwavering belief in me has been the foundation of my success, and I know I wouldn't be where I am today without her.

“Lose" is an irregular verb, meaning, it does not follow the rules of linguistics for neither its past or present tense. Loss is both something that happens to people as well as a varying series of emotions that runs their many courses. For me the loss of my beloved dog Keto in a senseless act of violence in May of 2021, loss felt like guilt, confusion, denial, and it was not till much after that loss came with a sense of grief and sadness. Overtime, these emotions transformed into a sense of determination, which compel me to focus on what truly matters in my life, my passions, and my goals that I want to fight to achieve. I entered high school with the ambition of pursuing a career in law. During this time, I explored various legal fields, including international law, civil law, federal law, and state law. Despite my interest in these areas, I struggled to find a specific field that resonated deeply with me. It was not until after Keto's death, not finding the justice for him that was fitting, that I began researching animal cruelty laws across different states. This tragic event illuminated my true passion: advocating for the rights of animals. Following Keto's accident, my family and I attended several court hearings to address the circumstances surrounding his death. This experience provided me with firsthand insight into the workings of small claims court and the interactions between the police, the disputing parties, and the court. Witnessing the legal process up close solidified my commitment to pursuing animal cruelty law. Being able to hear an examine the laws in place that allowed my dog to become a victim and not receive a fair hearing allowed me to home in on the changes I wanted to see. In my senior year of high school for my law class each student had to complete a project of a piece of legislation that was not yet passed that would be heard in the upcoming 2024 legislative session. For this project, we would have to reach out to local officials to advocate for our bill as well as research the bill and create a presentation for it. For the topic that I would choose was a no-brainer, the problem was fining a bill in 2024 that concerned animal mistreatment. Because of America's standing progressive views on the treatment of animals it has become increasingly niche for the topic to resurface as it has already been addressed time and time again. After a considerable amount of searching and research I found House Bill 0667, which stated that each crime committed against an animal will be charged separately, effectively raising the punishment for animal abuse related crimes. Through advocating for this bill, I extended my knowledge on animal cruelty and the laws surrounding it as well as being able to gain experience reaching out to elected officials and legislators to advocate for an issue which is a form of lobbying. The loss of my dog Keto taught me the importance of fighting for what I believe in and helped me realize that my passion lies in protecting and advocating for animals. This experience has shaped my career aspirations and strengthened my resolve to make a meaningful difference in the field of animal cruelty law.

As kids as well as young adults, your world is so small and you never truly realize until you step out of your own backyard. In 2024 agricultural commodity shortages are one of the most high supply chain risks with record levels of food insecurity. After my first year of high school that summer, I looked into different opportunities to volunteer and contribute to my community. my mother’s job hosted a trip to a Baltimore based Urban Farm. This farm was located in Park Heights Baltimore Maryland no more than 10 minutes away from my house, yet I had never heard of the initiative until that trip. Going into this trip, I had heard in passing the mention of food desserts in places like Baltimore city and other densely populated areas of minorities but of course being removed I was not aware of the true gravity of the situation. On this trip we learned the importance of agricultural literacy and how most of society has been separated from the process of cultivating and harvesting fresh produce causing a disconnect between communities and healthy eating practices such as a diverse and inclusive diet. This leads to an increased prevalence of health issues relating to a lacking of nutrients in diets. As a part of the tour we walked around the community surrounding the farm in search of stores where the residents would be able to purchase fresh fruits or vegetables. What we discovered was that in walking distance there were a multitude of convenience and corner stores which sold junk food and sugary beverages but no produce. Closing up the tour the farmer on sight told us that they work to make greasy fruits and vegetables more accessible to marginalized communities and they travel the world to find supporters of their initiative and to help communities not only locally but globally. On this trip not only was I allowed to see outside of my own walk of life but I also found my passion for helping not only my community but all marginalized communities get access to resources such as fresh food and agricultural education. For the rest of that summer as well as the remainder of my high school career I worked with this initiative to grow and distribute fresh produce to the community for free as well as spreading awareness about food deserts and the importance of fresh produce in diets. Through this process not only was I able to have the satisfaction of the genuine appreciation from those who we helped but I got to meet so many influential individuals like college deans and delegates of members of our legal system who told me their stories and interests in aiding out initiative. I gained a wealth of information about our legal system and how it impacts agricultural initiatives such as ours that made me better fit to serve my community and to help the initiative develop and grow in the future. I ended up brining my closest friend to also volunteer and this space not only became a place where I could go to help my community but a place where I found tranquility and peace of mind. Now today, as I head into my freshman year of college I know what I want to do in my career thanks to this experience. It is my goal to become an environmental lawyer with a focus in land conservation and agriculture to get more funding to initiatives like the one I worked with and to ensure that communities can have access to basic needs regarding the environment.

Navigating the labyrinthine corridors of my sophomore year in high school, emerging from the virtual confines of the pandemic, I found my enthusiasm for my education now lack luster and my drive for academic success diminished. The pandemic's disruptive forces severed the ties that bound me to the vibrant tapestry of school life, leaving me adrift from the clubs and sports that once defined my sense of belonging. Witnessing a stark decline in my academic performance and a precipitous plummet in self-assurance, I grappled with an existential question: how could I, a struggling sophomore, envisage a pathway to collegiate success? These thoughts of self doubt became my constant companions, casting a suffocating pall over each passing school day, rendering even the most mundane assignments and readings as Sisyphean tasks. Yet, amid this tempest of doubt, a beacon of unwavering faith shone forth in the form of my 10th-grade language arts mentor, Ms. Reid-Brooks. While I perceived myself as a weary tattered ghost of who I once was each morning, she discerned a diligent student, radiating vitality and insight within her classroom. Ms. Reid-Brooks possessed an astute eye for recognizing my fervor for injecting creativity into our group projects, often awarding extra points for imaginative embellishments. Moreover, she observed my liking towards engaging in lively discourse, consistently advocating for alternative viewpoints in both written essays and classroom discussions. Sensing my subdued demeanor, she would offer words of encouragement, affirming,“I see you, and you are going to go on to do great things. Keep your outgoing disposition and always be the best in whatever you choose to do, whatever that may be, and do it to the best of your ability”, her resonant English accent imbuing her words with an aura of conviction. Beyond her role as an educator, Ms. Reid-Brooks regaled our class with anecdotes from her literary endeavors, weaving personal narratives into our lessons on character tropes in the second quarter as we read Oedipus. Amidst the tumult of my struggles, I found solace in becoming one of the students whose life she profoundly impacted, reshaping my perception of self-worth. Her tutelage instilled within me the belief that adversity does not render one’s efforts futile; rather, perseverance breeds resilience, eventually fostering a flourishing spirit. As I embarked on my senior year, I embraced the challenges ahead, buoyed by Ms. Reid-Brooks’s unwavering support and guidance. In my final academic pursuit, AP African American Studies, I endeavored to honor her legacy, recognizing the debt of gratitude owed for her steadfast belief in my potential. As the chapters of my high school journey draws to a close, I remained tethered to Ms. Reid-Brooks, our bond transcending the confines of the classroom. With each visit to her familiar haven, we exchanged anecdotes and aspirations, her enduring encouragement serving as a beacon of inspiration. In this culmination of my academic odyssey, I found myself indebted to the indelible imprint left by Ms. Reid-Brooks to continue on aiming for greatness. For it is through her unwavering mentorship and unyielding belief in my capabilities that I stand poised to embark on the next chapter of my journey, fortified by her enduring legacy.

Being part of my church, First Baptist of Glenarden, has provided me with impactful avenues to stay connected with and serve my community and enabled me to serve in meaningful ways, embodying the Christian principles of love, service, and community engagement. Through programs at my church like STARS, which focuses on promoting female leadership and community outreach, I’ve been able to make a significant impact, especially among the youth. Our initiatives such as community clean-ups and gatherings have provided children with spiritually enriching environments and encouraged openness and understanding toward different faiths. This involvement inspired me to extend my service to the local elementary school, Edmonson Heights, known for being understaffed and underserved. Recognizing the importance of nurturing children's interests both inside and outside the classroom, I volunteered to assist with after-school clubs, specifically in math and art—areas close to my heart but which I had limited opportunities to explore growing up due to my own family's constraints. Starting with minimal participation and resources, my efforts, alongside the teachers', gradually transformed these clubs into thriving spaces for student engagement and learning. The support I provided allowed for the teachers to deligate club responsibilities to me making time for focusing of the kids needs individually as well as accumulating resources. This not only supported the children’s growth in subjects they were passionate about but also bolstered the community’s resources to support such endeavors. My experience within my church offered profound opportunities that grew my interpersonal skills enabling me to move into the volunteering I did at Edmonson Heights which underscored the profound impact community service can have. It taught me valuable skills and showed me the importance of creating and supporting spaces that foster children's academic and social development, highlighting the role community members can play in enriching each other's lives.

There are many ways somone can step up to the plate and take a leadership role in their school, household, or their community. With taking this position you accept a level of responsibility and power to use your leadership to improve spaces that you enter. A part of this responsibility is learning how to lead either before or in some cases while becoming a leader yourself. In my community I have taken initiative by joining an urban gardening organization providing fresh produce to the community and exposure to agriculture and nutritional information. Knowing the influence this organization has and it’s ability to help others I was determined to not only put my best effort into aiding in their goal of providing access to nutritional education and fresh produce but to also help gain additional help and attention. For this purpose I brought friends with me when I volunteered as well as advocating on social media platforms for funding and recognition. Through serving my community and following the lead of the people I work with in this organization I have learned how to lead others and bring more people to this cause. As the great Athenian poet and law maker Solon said, “he who learned how to obey will know how to command”, meaning that in order to become a strong leader you must first learn how to submit under a leadership yourself. For me this leadership along side the farmers, legislators, and brilliant members who have made this program possible and they have taught me many of the qualities; such as persistence, the importance of hard work, and integrity. Leadership means consistency. Being dedicated to being present physically and mentally. During the school year I do an array of sports but for wrestling I was selected to be a team captain as a recognition of my effort and presence among the team. In order to maintain my involvement and support my team I took the initiative to collect the numbers of teammates and get to know who I am in charge of leading. I know that my position as a leader does not end when the season is over, I use my access and influence to check on and increase the moral of the team in order to create a good environment. When I joined the team I was the only girl and one of few African American athletes which can cause feelings of alienation. My captain before me made sure to make me feel included and taught me much of what I know now. When I lead the team I emulate those who came before me who inspired me to continue when it was hard and enjoy the beauty of the struggle. My affect on the team has been not only that the number of female athletes has not only greatly increased but the relationship between teammates has not diminished from when the team was much smaller. I have become an exceptional leader through my unique experiences and interactions with amazing leaders learning from their successes and failures. Every day I strive to become a better person myself in order to better lead those who I influence and raise up the next generation of leaders as those before me have done. This is how I exemplify leadership every day.