Throughout my life, I have been driven by a desire to uplift those around me. Whether supporting my family, friends, or community, I find fulfillment in serving others. As I pursue a degree in Business Management, my goal is to leverage my education and skills to create opportunities, foster economic growth, and inspire others to reach their full potential. Business management is more than just overseeing operations; it is about leadership, innovation, and problem-solving. I am particularly interested in entrepreneurship and corporate leadership, where I can implement strategies that drive success while also making a meaningful impact. My long-term vision is to build or manage businesses that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that underrepresented individuals have access to resources and opportunities to thrive. By fostering strong teams, ethical business practices, and community-driven initiatives, I hope to be a leader who creates lasting change. My journey toward this goal has not been without its challenges. Like many, I have faced adversity that tested my resilience and determination. One of the biggest obstacles I have had to overcome is financial hardship. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices my family made to ensure that I had access to education and opportunities. These experiences instilled in me a strong work ethic and the understanding that success requires perseverance and adaptability. To overcome financial obstacles, I have sought out scholarships, taken on leadership roles, and remained committed to academic excellence. Additionally, I have learned the value of networking and mentorship, understanding that building strong relationships can open doors to new opportunities. Through hard work and strategic planning, I have been able to navigate these challenges and remain focused on my aspirations. Another challenge I have faced is self-doubt. Pursuing business management means stepping into a competitive field where confidence and decisiveness are crucial. At times, I have questioned whether I have what it takes to be a successful leader. However, I have learned to overcome these doubts by reminding myself of my accomplishments, setting clear goals, and continuously seeking personal and professional growth. Surrounding myself with supportive mentors and peers has also been instrumental in building my confidence and reinforcing my belief that I have the skills and determination to succeed. Looking ahead, I plan to make a positive impact by using my business knowledge to create opportunities for others. Whether through entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, or community initiatives, I want to contribute to economic empowerment and social progress. I am particularly passionate about supporting minority-owned businesses, fostering leadership development, and advocating for policies that promote economic inclusion. Ultimately, my goal is not just to achieve personal success but to lift others along the way. Business has the power to transform lives, and I want to be a leader who uses my platform to inspire, mentor, and create pathways for others to succeed. By staying committed to my values, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, and continuously striving to make a difference, I am confident that I will leave a lasting impact on the world.

Throughout my life, I have been driven by a desire to uplift those around me. Whether supporting my family, friends, or community, I find fulfillment in serving others. As I pursue a degree in Business Management, my goal is to leverage my education and skills to create opportunities, foster economic growth, and inspire others to reach their full potential. Business management is more than just overseeing operations; it is about leadership, innovation, and problem-solving. I am particularly interested in entrepreneurship and corporate leadership, where I can implement strategies that drive success while also making a meaningful impact. My long-term vision is to build or manage businesses that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that underrepresented individuals have access to resources and opportunities to thrive. By fostering strong teams, ethical business practices, and community-driven initiatives, I hope to be a leader who creates lasting change. My journey toward this goal has not been without its challenges. Like many, I have faced adversity that tested my resilience and determination. One of the biggest obstacles I have had to overcome is financial hardship. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices my family made to ensure that I had access to education and opportunities. These experiences instilled in me a strong work ethic and the understanding that success requires perseverance and adaptability. To overcome financial obstacles, I have sought out scholarships, taken on leadership roles, and remained committed to academic excellence. Additionally, I have learned the value of networking and mentorship, understanding that building strong relationships can open doors to new opportunities. Through hard work and strategic planning, I have been able to navigate these challenges and remain focused on my aspirations. Another challenge I have faced is self-doubt. Pursuing business management means stepping into a competitive field where confidence and decisiveness are crucial. At times, I have questioned whether I have what it takes to be a successful leader. However, I have learned to overcome these doubts by reminding myself of my accomplishments, setting clear goals, and continuously seeking personal and professional growth. Surrounding myself with supportive mentors and peers has also been instrumental in building my confidence and reinforcing my belief that I have the skills and determination to succeed. Looking ahead, I plan to make a positive impact by using my business knowledge to create opportunities for others. Whether through entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, or community initiatives, I want to contribute to economic empowerment and social progress. I am particularly passionate about supporting minority-owned businesses, fostering leadership development, and advocating for policies that promote economic inclusion. Ultimately, my goal is not just to achieve personal success but to lift others along the way. Business has the power to transform lives, and I want to be a leader who uses my platform to inspire, mentor, and create pathways for others to succeed. By staying committed to my values, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, and continuously striving to make a difference, I am confident that I will leave a lasting impact on the world.

Throughout my life, my family has been my foundation, guiding me through challenges and shaping the person I am today. Growing up in a single-parent home, I have relied heavily on the strength and wisdom of my extended family—my grandmother, grandfather, and great-grandmother—who have played an instrumental role in my journey. They have been my support system, my role models, and my inspiration. Their battles with cancer have deeply affected me, teaching me the values of resilience, hope, and perseverance. My grandmother is a breast cancer survivor, my grandfather has overcome prostate cancer, and my great-grandmother, a woman who has been one of the greatest influences in my life, was recently diagnosed with lung cancer at the age of 91. Witnessing their battles has been both heartbreaking and enlightening. I have seen the physical toll that cancer takes, the emotional strain it causes, and the moments of fear and uncertainty. However, I have also witnessed incredible strength, the power of faith, and the importance of a supportive community. Cancer has changed my perspective on life in both positive and negative ways. On the one hand, it has been painful to see my loved ones suffer, and there have been moments when I felt helpless. Seeing my great-grandmother face her diagnosis with courage has been particularly difficult, yet she continues to inspire me with her unwavering faith and positivity. On the other hand, these experiences have shaped my resilience and given me a deep appreciation for life and the people in it. They have taught me the value of cherishing every moment, of never taking time for granted, and of always showing love and gratitude to those who matter most. My experiences with cancer in my family have also influenced my aspirations for the future. I have always had a passion for helping others, and my ultimate goal is to become a family therapist. I want to provide a safe space for kids and families dealing with unspoken issues, helping them navigate challenges and find strength in one another. Seeing my family face adversity has reinforced my desire to support others in their struggles, whether they are dealing with illness, personal hardships, or emotional trauma. Attending college is a crucial step toward achieving my dreams. Through my education, I hope to gain the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to make a meaningful impact in my community. I want to learn how to effectively counsel and support families, ensuring that they feel heard, understood, and empowered. College will not only provide me with the academic foundation I need but will also expose me to diverse perspectives, helping me grow both personally and professionally. Beyond my career aspirations, college represents an opportunity for me to continue evolving as a person. I am excited to develop lifelong friendships, engage in meaningful discussions, and explore new ideas. My journey has been shaped by the love and sacrifices of my family, and I want to honor them by making the most of every opportunity I am given. Ultimately, my experiences with cancer and my family’s unwavering support have fueled my determination to succeed. I want to be a source of strength for others, just as my family has been for me. By attending college, I hope to build a future where I can uplift and empower those in need, carrying forward the lessons of resilience, love, and perseverance that my family has instilled in me.

From the moment I picked up a basketball at six years old, I knew the sport was for me. Like many kids, I once dreamed of playing in the NBA. I tried other sports—pee wee football, soccer, and baseball—but nothing compared to basketball. I fell in love with the game and never looked back. However, as I progressed through high school, I quickly learned that being a student-athlete came with challenges that tested my resilience, discipline, and determination. One of the biggest challenges of playing sports in high school is balancing academics and athletics. My mother instilled in me the importance of maintaining good grades because, without passing grades, I couldn’t play. There were times when practices ran late, games were exhausting, and I had little energy left for studying. Yet, I had to push through, developing time management skills that allowed me to excel both on and off the court. This balance made me not only a better athlete but also a disciplined student. Another major challenge was dealing with setbacks and criticism. In middle school, I thrived on my team, feeling unstoppable. However, high school was different. I faced coaches who tore me down, making me question my skills and self-worth. The mental strain of doubt and disappointment was tough, and at times, I wondered if I was truly as talented as I believed. I had to learn how to overcome negativity, push through adversity, and find motivation within myself. When my high school experience didn’t go as planned, I took a step back to focus on AAU basketball, using the opportunity to sharpen my skills and regain confidence. Despite these challenges, being a student-athlete taught me invaluable lessons that will stay with me for life. First, I learned perseverance. There will always be obstacles, whether in sports or life, but pushing through them makes success even more rewarding. Second, I learned self-discipline—balancing sports and academics forced me to stay organized and responsible. Lastly, I discovered the importance of self-belief. Not everyone will recognize my talent or support my journey, but as long as I remain confident in my abilities, I will always find a path forward. My high school basketball career may not have ended the way I envisioned, but it shaped me into the person I am today. Now, as I prepare for college, I plan to carry these lessons with me. I will continue working hard, seizing every opportunity to grow, and proving that setbacks are just setups for comebacks. With my eyes set on playing at the collegiate level, I know that my journey is far from over—it is just beginning.

Life is full of obstacles, but faith has always been my anchor in times of uncertainty and hardship. One of the most challenging moments I faced was during my high school basketball career. What started as an exciting journey quickly turned into a test of resilience, self-belief, and trust in God’s plan. I had always dreamed of excelling in basketball, and I worked tirelessly to improve my skills. I dedicated countless hours to practice, sacrificed social events, and pushed myself beyond my limits. When I made the high school team, I was filled with hope and ambition. However, I soon encountered a challenge that threatened to derail my dreams—I faced criticism and doubt from my coaches, making me question my abilities and self-worth. Their words weighed heavily on me, and for the first time, I considered giving up on something I loved. It was in this moment of uncertainty that I turned to my faith. My mother, a woman of deep faith, reminded me of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I held onto this verse, using it as a source of strength and encouragement. Through prayer, I sought guidance and clarity, asking God to show me the path forward. Instead of dwelling on negativity, I shifted my focus to perseverance and self-improvement. Rather than letting discouragement define me, I took a step back from my high school team and joined an AAU basketball league. This decision, though difficult, allowed me to regain confidence in my abilities and reminded me why I fell in love with the game in the first place. My faith gave me the courage to trust that God had a bigger plan for me, even when my current situation seemed uncertain. I learned that sometimes obstacles are not roadblocks but redirections toward something greater. This experience strengthened my faith and taught me valuable lessons about resilience, patience, and trusting God’s timing. I realized that setbacks are not failures but opportunities for growth. Instead of allowing criticism to define me, I used it as motivation to work harder, improve, and prove to myself that I was capable. Looking ahead, I carry this lesson with me in all aspects of life. Faith has become my foundation, reminding me that no challenge is insurmountable with God by my side. As I embark on my college journey, I know that I will face new trials, but I also know that faith will continue to guide and strengthen me. This experience has solidified my belief that obstacles are merely stepping stones toward greater success, and with faith, I can overcome anything.

From the moment I picked up a basketball at six years old, I knew the sport was for me. Like many kids, I once dreamed of playing in the NBA. I tried other sports—pee wee football, soccer, and baseball—but nothing compared to basketball. I fell in love with the game and never looked back. However, as I progressed through high school, I quickly learned that being a student-athlete came with challenges that tested my resilience, discipline, and determination. One of the biggest challenges of playing sports in high school is balancing academics and athletics. My mother instilled in me the importance of maintaining good grades because, without passing grades, I couldn’t play. There were times when practices ran late, games were exhausting, and I had little energy left for studying. Yet, I had to push through, developing time management skills that allowed me to excel both on and off the court. This balance made me not only a better athlete but also a disciplined student. Another major challenge was dealing with setbacks and criticism. In middle school, I thrived on my team, feeling unstoppable. However, high school was different. I faced coaches who tore me down, making me question my skills and self-worth. The mental strain of doubt and disappointment was tough, and at times, I wondered if I was truly as talented as I believed. I had to learn how to overcome negativity, push through adversity, and find motivation within myself. When my high school experience didn’t go as planned, I took a step back to focus on AAU basketball, using the opportunity to sharpen my skills and regain confidence. Despite these challenges, being a student-athlete taught me invaluable lessons that will stay with me for life. First, I learned perseverance. There will always be obstacles, whether in sports or life, but pushing through them makes success even more rewarding. Second, I learned self-discipline—balancing sports and academics forced me to stay organized and responsible. Lastly, I discovered the importance of self-belief. Not everyone will recognize my talent or support my journey, but as long as I remain confident in my abilities, I will always find a path forward. My high school basketball career may not have ended the way I envisioned, but it shaped me into the person I am today. Now, as I prepare for college, I plan to carry these lessons with me. I will continue working hard, seizing every opportunity to grow, and proving that setbacks are just setups for comebacks. With my eyes set on playing at the collegiate level, I know that my journey is far from over—it is just beginning.

Philanthropy, at its core, is about serving others and making a lasting impact on the world. For as long as I can remember, I have been passionate about helping people, particularly those who feel unheard and unsupported. Growing up, I witnessed the struggles that families, including my own, faced when dealing with unspoken issues. These experiences ignited a fire within me to dedicate my life to creating safe spaces where people can find healing and hope. This passion has shaped my life goals, leading me to pursue a career as a family therapist. I have always believed that giving back is not just an option but a responsibility. Whether through small acts of kindness, volunteering, or advocating for those in need, I have made it my mission to contribute positively to the well-being of others. My family and friends have always been my greatest support system, and their well-being is my top priority. I want to extend that same care and dedication to others, particularly children and families struggling with emotional and psychological challenges. I see philanthropy as the bridge that connects those in need with the resources, guidance, and love necessary for growth and healing. As a future family therapist, I plan to make a meaningful impact by creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals dealing with trauma, mental health struggles, and familial conflicts. My goal is to ensure that children and families have access to the help they need without feeling stigmatized or alone. Through counseling, community outreach programs, and advocacy work, I aim to be a guiding force for those searching for hope and stability. My passion for philanthropy will drive my efforts to ensure that mental health resources are more accessible and that conversations around emotional well-being become more normalized in society. Beyond my professional aspirations, I also plan to engage in philanthropic work by partnering with organizations dedicated to supporting underprivileged families and mental health awareness. I hope to establish programs that provide free or low-cost counseling services to those who cannot afford them, ensuring that financial limitations do not hinder anyone from receiving the care they need. Additionally, I aspire to mentor young individuals who, like me, are passionate about making a difference in their communities. By empowering the next generation of changemakers, I believe we can create a ripple effect of positive impact. Philanthropy is not just about financial donations or large-scale projects- it is about genuine care, compassion, and a willingness to uplift others. My journey has been shaped by the kindness and support I have received, and I am committed to paying it forward in every way possible. Whether through my career, volunteer work, or daily interactions, I will continue striving to make the world a better place, one person at a time. In conclusion, my passion for philanthropy stems from my deep desire to serve and support others. I believe that every person deserves to be heard, understood, and helped, and I am committed to dedicating my life to making that a reality. Through my career as a family therapist and my continued philanthropic efforts, I hope to be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change in the lives of those who need it most.

One of the most profound experiences where I put Jesus first, others second, and myself third was during a community outreach program at my church. We organized a food drive for families struggling with financial hardships. Instead of spending my weekend on personal activities, I dedicated my time to serving, praying with families, and sharing the message of Christ’s love. I leaned on Matthew 25:40: "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." This verse resonated with me as I realized that by helping others, I was actively living out my faith. The experience impacted me deeply. Seeing the gratitude in the eyes of those we helped reminded me that true fulfillment comes not from serving myself, but from serving God and others. It strengthened my faith, teaching me that prioritizing Jesus and selflessness brings joy and purpose. It also gave me a greater sense of responsibility to use my time and resources for the benefit of others rather than focusing solely on my own needs. During the outreach, I met a mother of three who had recently lost her job and was struggling to provide food for her children. As I helped her carry groceries to her car, she shared her story with me, expressing how much this small act of kindness meant to her. I felt humbled, realizing that the simple decision to serve others could have a profound effect on someone's life. That moment reaffirmed my commitment to always putting Jesus first and being a vessel of His love and compassion. Moving forward, I am committed to living by these principles in my daily life. Whether through mentorship, volunteering, or simply showing kindness, I will continue to serve others as an act of faith. In college, I plan to seek opportunities through campus ministries and service organizations where I can continue to make a difference. I also intend to incorporate these values into my career, ensuring that my work benefits those in need rather than just personal gain. Staying rooted in prayer and scripture will help guide me in this journey, keeping Jesus at the center of everything I do. Living with a "J.O.Y." mindset has transformed my perspective on life. It has helped me develop a deeper faith, a more compassionate heart, and a strong commitment to serving others. By maintaining this approach, I know I will continue to grow spiritually and positively impact those around me. My ultimate goal is to live a life that reflects Christ’s love, always putting His will before my own and trusting that He will lead me on the right path.