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JUSTIN Thomas

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

My name is Justin Thomas, and I would like to be considered for the Dr. Tujuana Hunter Memorial Scholarship because of my academic achievement and personal group. I played varsity football for four years. I am very competitive, goal driven and well rounded. As a football player, I’ve learned how to balance pressure and defeat. During football, I’ve been part of structure which consisted of early practices, workouts under extremes circumstances, pushing though touch games, and unfortunately an injury. I recovered from injury after weeks of therapy. Unfortunately, two years ago my dad passed away from uncontrollable diabetes. My days were dark, but with my mother we were able to get through the pain and sorrow. Some days are still hard, but I know he’s my angel watching over me. Losing a parent and learning how to navigate through life without a father is touch. There are days I felt defeated, but I kept pushing (words from my mom). I made the decision to choose life, my future and stay focus on continuing my education and support my mother as much as possible. My mother is my rock and safe place. She works extremely to ensure I have everything I need, but I know paying for college is going to extremely rough on her. My goal is to make the best choices academically and personally in my life because I want to be a productive citizen and make my mom proud. I was raised to lead by example. Thank you for this opportunity to show you my heart and I pray I will receive this scholarship to further my education.

Education

C E King High School

High School
2023 - 2026

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Retail

    • Dream career goals:

      My long-term career goal is to become an entrepreneur, build my own business and create opportunities for others. Because of football experience, I feel I’m discipline enough to achieve my goals.

      Sports

      Football

      Varsity
      2022 – 20264 years

      Football

      Varsity
      2022 – 20264 years

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Phenomenal Women — Setup Coordinator, Distributor, and Greeter
        2024 – 2026

      Future Interests

      Volunteering

      Entrepreneurship

      Dr. Tujuana Hunter Memorial Scholarship
      Winner
      One of the most meaningful ways I have served my community has been through my involvement with Phenomenal Women, Nicole Butler Founder, a local organization dedicated to empowering Women. Through this organization, I have volunteered to provide pajamas and socks at the nursing home, back-to-school drives, cancer awareness events, and community outreach programs. At the nursing home, we spent time with elderly residents and provided lunch. My greatest moment was when one of the residents was so appreciative, she took pictures with me on her cell phone, she took my mom’s number so she could keep up with my school progress. She was very kind. Also, she led a few songs in worship for the group. These experiences taught me the importance of valuing my elder, since my grandparents are deceased. I also volunteered at back-to-school events where we distributed backpacks, school supplies, and resources to families in need. During these events, I helped with the distribution for many families with Phenomenal Women and Valo Barber Shop with both organizations Through Phenomenal Women’s various events, I learned that leadership is rooted in service. Whether spending time with seniors or supporting young people, I know firsthand how consistent community involvement builds a stronger community. My family's motto in life is to lead by example and do right by others. I'm very intentional about my relationships with others and helping people. Being part of these initiatives has inspired me to continue serving others in college and beyond and leave the world better than I found it. My parents were married for almost 20 years, until they divorced. Unfortunately, two years ago my dad passed away way from uncontrollable diabetes. This was the hardest day in my life. One thing I knew he loved me and was very proud. Some days are harder than others. I tried to quit the football team, but my coach would not let me. My days were dark, but mom prayed, and we were able to get through the pain. Some days are still hard, but I know he’s my angel watching over me. My goal is to the best choices for my life because and try to make my parents proud. My parents were married for almost 20 years, until they divorced. Unfortunately, two years ago my dad passed away from uncontrollable diabetes. This was the hardest day in my life. One thing I knew he loved me and was very proud. My days were dark, but my mom prayed, and we were able to get through the pain. Some days are still hard, but I know he’s my angel watching over me. My goal is to make the best choices for my life and try to make my parents proud. This scholarship will truly help my mom with all the expenses that comes with college. The person that has most impacted my life is my mom. She has loved me unconditionally and always been there for me. She has made countless sacrifices and never complained. If I am considered for this scholarship, I vow to do my best and represent Dr. Hunter proud. Thank you in advance.