The impact I want to make is to help create communities where a person’s background does not determine the opportunities available to them. Growing up in a community of color, I saw how economic hardship, limited resources, and unequal access to opportunity could affect individuals and families. Those experiences shaped my understanding of service and gave me a strong desire to become someone who could help others overcome barriers that I had seen firsthand. From an early age, I knew I wanted to become a lawyer, but as I grew older, I began to understand that the law could give me the tools to do more than build a career. It could give me the ability to advocate for people, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for future generations. My commitment to service has been demonstrated through my experiences in both my community and at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. As Youth Liaison for the West Perrine Community Builders Association, I worked alongside community leaders to address issues affecting residents and encourage young people to become more involved in their community. I also participated in food drives, clothing drives, book drives, back-to-school giveaways, community beautification projects, and mentoring initiatives. These experiences taught me that meaningful change does not always begin with a major institution or government program. Sometimes it begins with people who are willing to recognize a need and take action. My education at FAMU further strengthened my desire to serve others. As a Political Science major, History minor, and member of the Honors Program, I studied the relationship between government, law, history, and social change. Graduating Summa Cum Laude showed me what is possible when education is combined with discipline and determination. However, I do not view my education simply as a personal accomplishment. I view it as a responsibility to use what I have learned to create opportunities for people who may not have had the same resources or support. This belief is why I decided to attend the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University College of Law, where I plan to focus on civil rights, constitutional, ad public interest law. The people who inspire me are those who have used their education and positions of influence to serve others. I have been particularly inspired by civil rights leaders and attorneys who demonstrated that the law can be used to challenge injustice and expand opportunity. Their examples have shown me that becoming an attorney should not be solely about professional success; it should also be about understanding who needs an advocate and being willing to become that advocate. I want to follow that example by representing individuals who cannot afford legal assistance, protecting constitutional rights, and helping underserved communities navigate systems that can often feel inaccessible. I also hope to support Black entrepreneurs and businesses because economic empowerment is an important part of creating stronger communities. Ultimately, I want my education to become a bridge between opportunity and those who have historically been denied it. As an attorney, I hope to combine legal advocacy, community service, and eventually public leadership to address issues involving civil rights, economic opportunity, political representation, and access to justice. Beyond representing individual clients, I want to mentor young people and encourage them to pursue education, leadership, and service. My long-term goal is to continue growing as a lawyer and eventually serve in public office, where I can help shape policies that improve the communities I represent. The future I envision is one where success is measured not only by what I accomplish for myself, but by how many people I help bring with me.

My interest in legislative and policy-related work comes from a desire to understand not only how laws affect communities, but also how those laws can be changed to create greater opportunity and justice. Growing up in a community of color, I witnessed how economic inequality, limited access to resources, and unequal political representation can affect individuals and families. Those experiences motivated me to study Political Science at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, where I developed a deeper understanding of government, public policy, and the relationship between political institutions and the communities they serve. My community service experiences further showed me that effective policy must be informed by the people it affects. Ultimately, I want to combine my legal education with public service to become an advocate who helps create policies that strengthen underserved communities. My government aspirations begin at the local level because I believe meaningful change often starts closest to the people. I hope to eventually return to my community and serve in local government, where I can address issues such as economic development, education, public safety, and access to legal and social resources. After gaining experience at the local level, I aspire to serve at the state level and eventually at the federal level. My long-term goal is to use each level of government to expand opportunities for communities that have historically been overlooked. I believe that serving in government requires understanding the everyday experiences of constituents and translating those experiences into effective policy. One current policy issue I care deeply about is voting rights and fair political representation, particularly the impact of partisan gerrymandering on communities of color. As the United States approaches the 2026 midterm elections, questions surrounding redistricting, representation, and access to the political process demonstrate the continuing importance of ensuring that every community has a meaningful voice in government. My education in Political Science and my future legal education have strengthened my interest in the constitutional and legal principles surrounding voting and representation. I hope to use my career to advocate for policies that promote fair elections, protect voting rights, and ensure that communities have an equitable voice in the democratic process. Civil discourse is essential to achieving these goals because effective policymaking requires people with different perspectives to be willing to listen, communicate, and find common ground. I believe disagreement is not inherently harmful to democracy; refusing to engage respectfully with opposing viewpoints is what makes productive policymaking difficult. As a future attorney and public servant, I want to approach disagreements with respect while remaining firm in my principles. My experiences in leadership, community service, and academic study have taught me that listening to others can reveal solutions that may not be apparent from a single perspective. I believe civil discourse allows policymakers and citizens to move beyond political division and focus on practical solutions that improve people's lives. This fall, I began my legal education at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University College of Law, where I plan to focus on civil rights and constitutional law. My legal education will prepare me to understand how legislation is developed, challenged, interpreted, and implemented. I intend to use that knowledge to advocate for underserved communities, participate in policy development, and eventually serve in elected office. Whether working as an attorney, policymaker, or public official, I want my career to be defined by service, thoughtful leadership, and a commitment to creating a more equitable society. My ultimate goal is to use both the law and government as tools to ensure that every community has the representation, opportunity, and voice necessary to shape its own future.

The legal profession is founded on public trust, and that trust depends upon attorneys who are committed not only to advocating for their clients but also to upholding the integrity of the justice system. The ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct recognize that a lawyer's responsibilities extend beyond winning cases; they include honesty, fairness, competence, and respect for the rule of law. As I begin law school, I view these principles as the cornerstone of the attorney I aspire to become. My goal is to build a career dedicated to civil rights, constitutional law, and public service, and I believe that ethical leadership is essential to creating lasting change within both the legal profession and society. My commitment to ethical advocacy has been shaped by my academic journey and my experiences serving my community. As a Political Science graduate, I studied the relationship between law, government, and social justice, while also participating in community service projects that reinforced the importance of serving others with humility and accountability. Whether volunteering through food drives, mentoring young students, or participating in community improvement initiatives, I learned that leadership is measured not by personal recognition but by the positive impact made on the lives of others. These experiences taught me that integrity is not simply a professional obligation but a daily practice that requires consistency, honesty, and respect for every individual. Zealous advocacy is one of the defining responsibilities of an attorney, but it must never come at the expense of truth or fairness. An attorney crosses the ethical line when the pursuit of victory encourages deception, misrepresentation, or conduct that undermines confidence in the legal system. Even when such actions may appear to benefit a client in the short term, they ultimately weaken public trust in the profession and diminish the credibility of the justice system itself. Throughout my legal career, I intend to navigate this boundary by remaining faithful to the ABA Model Rules, seeking guidance from experienced mentors, and remembering that my reputation for integrity will be one of my most valuable professional assets. I want clients to know that I will advocate passionately on their behalf without compromising the ethical standards that define our profession. My commitment to ethical leadership is closely connected to my dedication to diversity and inclusion within the legal field. As a Black student who has witnessed the barriers that many underrepresented communities continue to face, I understand the importance of ensuring that the legal profession reflects the diversity of the people it serves. Throughout college, I devoted hundreds of hours to community service, participated in mentoring opportunities, and worked to support initiatives that benefited underserved neighborhoods. As an attorney, I plan to continue this work by mentoring aspiring lawyers from historically underrepresented backgrounds, expanding access to legal education, and providing meaningful legal advocacy for communities that have too often lacked adequate representation. By combining ethical advocacy with a lifelong commitment to service, I hope to strengthen public confidence in the legal profession while helping build a justice system that is more inclusive, equitable, and worthy of the trust placed in it.

The legal profession is founded on public trust, and that trust depends upon attorneys who are committed not only to advocating for their clients but also to upholding the integrity of the justice system. The ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct recognize that a lawyer's responsibilities extend beyond winning cases; they include honesty, fairness, competence, and respect for the rule of law. As I begin law school, I view these principles as the cornerstone of the attorney I aspire to become. My goal is to build a career dedicated to civil rights, constitutional law, and public service, and I believe that ethical leadership is essential to creating lasting change within both the legal profession and society. My commitment to ethical advocacy has been shaped by my academic journey and my experiences serving my community. As a Political Science graduate, I studied the relationship between law, government, and social justice, while also participating in community service projects that reinforced the importance of serving others with humility and accountability. Whether volunteering through food drives, mentoring young students, or participating in community improvement initiatives, I learned that leadership is measured not by personal recognition but by the positive impact made on the lives of others. These experiences taught me that integrity is not simply a professional obligation but a daily practice that requires consistency, honesty, and respect for every individual. Zealous advocacy is one of the defining responsibilities of an attorney, but it must never come at the expense of truth or fairness. An attorney crosses the ethical line when the pursuit of victory encourages deception, misrepresentation, or conduct that undermines confidence in the legal system. Even when such actions may appear to benefit a client in the short term, they ultimately weaken public trust in the profession and diminish the credibility of the justice system itself. Throughout my legal career, I intend to navigate this boundary by remaining faithful to the ABA Model Rules, seeking guidance from experienced mentors, and remembering that my reputation for integrity will be one of my most valuable professional assets. I want clients to know that I will advocate passionately on their behalf without compromising the ethical standards that define our profession. My commitment to ethical leadership is closely connected to my dedication to diversity and inclusion within the legal field. As a Black student who has witnessed the barriers that many underrepresented communities continue to face, I understand the importance of ensuring that the legal profession reflects the diversity of the people it serves. Throughout college, I devoted hundreds of hours to community service, participated in mentoring opportunities, and worked to support initiatives that benefited underserved neighborhoods. As an attorney, I plan to continue this work by mentoring aspiring lawyers from historically underrepresented backgrounds, expanding access to legal education, and providing meaningful legal advocacy for communities that have too often lacked adequate representation. By combining ethical advocacy with a lifelong commitment to service, I hope to strengthen public confidence in the legal profession while helping build a justice system that is more inclusive, equitable, and worthy of the trust placed in it.

The First Amendment serves as one of the most important safeguards of American democracy. It protects freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and the right to petition the government for redress of grievances. For me, these freedoms are not merely constitutional principles; they are essential tools that allow individuals and communities to advocate for justice, challenge inequality, and participate fully in civic life. My interest in free expression stems from experiences growing up in a community of color and from academic and service work focused on political representation, civil rights, and access to justice and opportunity. As a Political Science graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, I spent much of my undergraduate career studying the relationship between law, government, and social change. Through coursework, research, and community engagement, I became increasingly interested in how constitutional protections, particularly those guaranteed by the First Amendment, have enabled marginalized communities to advance their rights throughout American history. From the Civil Rights Movement to modern advocacy efforts surrounding voting rights and criminal justice reform, free expression has consistently served as a catalyst for progress. The ability to organize, protest, speak openly, and advocate for policy changes remains fundamental to today. My commitment to free expression has also been shaped by community involvement. As Youth Liaison for the West Perrine Community Builders Association, I worked alongside community leaders to address issues affecting local residents and encourage civic engagement among young people. Through this experience, I witnessed the importance of ensuring that all individuals have opportunities to make their voices heard in public discussions that affect their communities. I also learned that barriers to participation and public discourse often disproportionately impact underserved populations. Protecting free expression therefore requires not only defending constitutional rights in theory but ensuring meaningful access in practice daily. In recent years, debates surrounding voting rights, political representation, partisan gerrymandering, and access to the ballot box have further strengthened my interest in the intersection of free expression, civil rights, and constitutional law. I believe that the right to express political viewpoints, advocate for change, and participate in democratic processes is essential to preserving an inclusive and representative society. When communities are unable to effectively advocate for their interests, democratic institutions become less responsive and less equitable. As someone who has witnessed the effects of unequal representation on communities of color, I am committed to defending constitutional freedoms and ensuring accountability. This fall, I will begin my legal education at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University College of Law, where I intend to focus my studies on civil rights and constitutional law. My long-term goal is to become an attorney who advocates for underserved communities while protecting the constitutional freedoms that make advocacy possible. The Jeffrey J. Douglas First Amendment Scholarship would support my legal education and help me pursue a career dedicated to defending individual rights and expanding access to justice. I hope to ensure the freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment remain protected for all Americans.

Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy of service, sacrifice, and bravery embodies values that have profoundly influenced my personal journey and aspirations. As someone who grew up in a community of color and has dedicated much of my academic and community involvement to public service, I have come to understand that meaningful change requires a willingness to serve others, make sacrifices for the greater good, and confront difficult challenges with courage. These principles have guided my educational pursuits, my leadership experiences, and my long-term goal of becoming a criminal and civil rights attorney committed to advancing justice for underserved communities. Service has been a central part of my development. Throughout my time as a student at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, I actively participated in community outreach initiatives that allowed me to engage directly with individuals facing economic and social challenges. Additionally, my role as Youth Liaison for the West Perrine Community Builders Association provided me with opportunities to work alongside community leaders to address local concerns and advocate for positive change. These experiences reinforced my belief that leadership is not measured by personal achievement alone, but by one’s willingness to uplift others and contribute to the well-being of the community. The value of sacrifice has also shaped my journey. Pursuing higher education while balancing leadership responsibilities, academic excellence, and community involvement required discipline and perseverance. There were times when achieving my goals demanded long hours of study, personal sacrifices, and a commitment to responsibilities beyond my own interests. However, these experiences taught me that lasting progress often requires individuals to invest their time and energy into causes larger than themselves. This lesson mirrors the sacrifices made by leaders throughout history who fought to expand civil rights and opportunities for future generations. Bravery, in my view, is demonstrated through the willingness to challenge injustice even when doing so is difficult. This principle inspires my vision for addressing many of the challenges currently facing the African diaspora in the United States. Despite significant progress, disparities continue to exist in areas such as criminal justice, political representation, educational opportunity, economic mobility, and access to legal resources. One of the most pressing challenges is ensuring that all communities have equal access to justice and meaningful political representation. Recent debates surrounding voting rights, electoral district boundaries, and barriers to civic participation demonstrate that the struggle for equal representation remains an ongoing issue. To address these challenges, I believe several policy and community reforms are critical. First, expanding access to affordable legal representation would help ensure that individuals are able to protect their rights regardless of income. Second, strengthening protections against discriminatory voting practices and partisan gerrymandering would promote fairer political representation and increase public trust in democratic institutions. Third, investing in educational opportunities, mentorship programs, and workforce development initiatives would help address long-standing economic disparities that disproportionately affect many communities within the African diaspora. Achieving meaningful reform will require collaboration among a diverse group of stakeholders. Government officials at the local, state, and federal levels must work to enact policies that promote fairness and accountability. Educational institutions, particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities, should continue preparing future leaders and advocates. Community organizations, faith-based groups, legal professionals, and grassroots activists must also play an active role in identifying community needs and advocating for solutions. Most importantly, residents themselves must remain engaged in the democratic process and empowered to participate in decisions that affect their communities. Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy reminds us that progress is achieved through service, sacrifice, and bravery. These values continue to shape my personal journey and inspire my commitment to pursuing a legal career dedicated to advancing justice and opportunity. By working collaboratively to address systemic inequities, I hope to contribute to a future where all communities have greater access to representation, opportunity, and justice.

High school is often described as a time when students grow, discover their identity, and learn how to navigate new challenges. For many, it is also a period filled with pressure balancing academic expectations, social environments, and personal development. While these challenges are common, my experience in high school presented a unique set of obstacles that required perseverance, discipline, and most importantly, faith. During this period of my life, my faith became a guiding force that helped me remain focused and resilient while navigating an unusually demanding academic path. Unlike many students who attend a traditional high school, I had the opportunity to attend the School for Advanced Studies, a nontraditional program that allowed students to complete both high school and college coursework simultaneously. While this opportunity was incredibly valuable, it also came with significant challenges. From the beginning, I had to adjust to learning in a college environment while still being a high school student. Many of my classes were held alongside adult college students who were often years older than I was. At first, the situation felt intimidating. I questioned whether I truly belonged in that environment and whether I could meet the expectations of college-level academics at such a young age. During moments of doubt, I often turned to my faith for reassurance. My faith reminded me that challenges are not placed before us without purpose. Through prayer and reflection, I found the strength to approach my education with confidence and determination rather than fear. Over time, what initially felt intimidating became normal. I learned to focus less on the differences between myself and the other students and more on the opportunity I had been given to grow academically and personally. The greatest challenge, however, came from managing the workload required to succeed in the program. At the School for Advanced Studies, students are responsible for completing both high school and college assignments. This meant that each day I was effectively handling the responsibilities of two different academic programs at once. The workload was intense and often overwhelming. There were times when the pressure of balancing essays, exams, and projects made it difficult to stay motivated. In those moments, my faith played a crucial role in helping me persist. Faith reminded me to remain patient and trust the process. Instead of becoming discouraged, I relied on the belief that perseverance and dedication would lead to success. My faith also encouraged me to seek support when needed whether that meant reaching out to teachers, using academic resources, or simply taking time to reflect and refocus. By grounding myself spiritually and maintaining a strong sense of purpose, I was able to overcome the stress and remain committed to my goals. Through determination, discipline, and faith, I ultimately succeeded in completing the program. I graduated not only with my high school diploma but also with my Associate of Arts degree. This accomplishment represented more than just academic success; it was proof that perseverance, supported by faith, can help overcome even the most demanding challenges. Today, that experience continues to shape my goals and ambitions. I am currently completing my Bachelor of Science in Political Science and preparing to attend law school in the fall of 2026. The lessons I learned during high school especially the importance of relying on faith during difficult times continue to guide me as I pursue a career in law. I know that future challenges will arise, but I am confident that the same faith and perseverance that helped me succeed before will continue to lead me forward.

For most students' high school is a time filled with new challenges. It is a time to grow and find out who you are. In today’s age sometimes high school can be a defining period in a person’s life that can make or break them. The pressures of striving for academic excellence while taking on the stress of the social atmosphere that surrounds high school are extremely difficult high school aged children have to endure. This has led to many obstacles and mental health problems that students have had to deal with. While a good number of students deal with these common obstacles, others like myself have had more unique challenges to overcome. My time in school, especially high school, was different from most. I had was able to take part in a unique experience of being able to dually complete high school and college. At this nontraditional high school, the School for Advanced Studies, I was faced with many obstacles that most high school students would have to face and others that they wouldn’t have even imagined. With the high school being housed inside of a college the first obstacle was navigating being a high school age student inside classrooms with adult college students. This, however, wasn’t difficult to overcome as all it took was some getting used to. As for the most part close interactions were very limited to class-based activities and projects. Another great hurdle was taking on completing both high school classwork and homework as well as college classwork and homework. This meant that every day I was taking on double the workload. There are many ways that I was able to overcome this challenge. I stayed determined, kept to my goal, and sought help when needed from all of the resources that were available to me. After all of this I was able to become not just a successful student but become both a high school graduate and a college graduate, a milestone. This scholarship will help me in my pursuit of going to law school and obtaining my juris doctorate as I am currently in the process of applying to law school and attending one in the Fall of 2026. I have already been able to achieve many accomplishments including obtaining my AA degree and now being able to obtain my B.S. in Political Science. As I try to continue this tradition of academic accomplishments this scholarship will help me tremendously in my law school endeavors. Additionally, I have been able to enjoy collecting stamps and other collectable items such as coins. This habit of mine has greatly influenced my life as it has allowed me to gain a greater appreciation for history and different cultures and communities.

Community service and activism are near and dear to me as I was raised with the values of putting God, Family, and Community first. I have always felt the need to make a change in my community, which is one of the major reasons that I am going to college to major in Political Science. Throughout the last couple of years, I have become extremely active in my local community, being able to put in more than three hundred recorded community service hours and many more that went unrecorded and while in college I have continued doing this. After graduating from college, I plan on going back to my hometown of Miami, Florida and using all of the information gathered from my years at FAMU to launch my political career and make change in the world, starting in my local community, then for my state of Florida, and then throughout the nation as the President of the United States of America. I have decided that I want to dedicate my career to that of public service and making a difference in the lives of people. My ultimate goal is to become the President of the United States of America and while the road to accomplish this goal is going to be a long one, I have preplanned many of the stages along this journey. This is vital for a person who wants to become a politician like myself. After graduating from college, I have divided my career goals into both short term and long-term aspirations. In the short term I will be pursuing a career in civil and criminal law as an attorney representing underrepresented communities especially the African American community, working to make sure that they feel the equality of the law and are fairly treated in a system that has a history of being used against them for the detriment of Black individuals and the community as a whole. I also seek to establish my own law firm where I can give opportunities to the next generation of young Black men and women who aspire to become a lawyer. I not only seek to give them the opportunity but also to give them a role model so that this career field which is currently only about five percent Black can become more open, as they can see someone in their own community and believe that they too can become a lawyer. In the long term I will be pursuing my political career and fulfilling my purpose of creating a better society for all but especially for Black people. As mayor, I plan to launch youth mentorship programs and fun initiatives that will help inspire young members of the Black and other minority communities and allow them to have the future they desire. As governor and then president my aim will be to help those that the government of my state and this nation tend to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is. This is why I want to be a politician as it is my main belief that the use of politics is for looking out for those who are usually forgotten about, those who make up the backbone of the United States, and those we owe so much to who deserve our help in any way that we can give it.

As a Black male from a low-income neighborhood and a single parent household, I was one of the lucky one’s who had the importance of education installed in myself from a young age. I am now able to go to college and make something of myself. I have always dreamed of becoming the President of the United States and in trying to reach this milestone I knew that I would have to come a long way. In the Black community, especially in low-income neighborhoods among young peers, it is often looked down upon to show signs of intellectualness and an affinity for school. Growing up, I was constantly faced with this obstacle through various forms of bullying that at times made me question whether my pursuit of academia was the right thing. However, in having a solid support system which included members of family and various teachers along the way I was able to stay on the right track and continue to pursue my dreams. Now as a senior at the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, I am preparing to attend law school and pursue my career as an attorney practicing criminal law. As I want to change my community and others like it for the better and make sure that the law especially the criminal justice system is fair and equal for all people.

When I think about an institution that has always been at the forefront of improving the Black community, one of the first things that comes to mind is Historically Black Colleges and Universities. HBCUs have continuously been responsible for enriching the Black community and adding depth to the African American experience for many Black Americans. As a young Black intellectual looking for the perfect environment that would allow me to continue thriving in academics the only place that I could even consider attending was the university that sits on the highest of seven hills, the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. I decided to attend an HBCU in particular, the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, in Tallahassee, Florida because of the long rich heritage and tradition the university is soaked in and that it emanates in all of its alumni. After graduating with my bachelor's degree in political science, I plan on attending law school. I hope to continue my education at Howard University’s School of Law and continue to shine as an example of HBCU excellence. I plan on pursuing a career in law with a focus on criminal law. My aim as a criminal attorney will be to help right the many wrongs that exist in the justice system, that have disproportionately affected members of the Black community. I then plan to focus on achieving my goal of becoming a politician with my ultimate goal being to become the President of the United States of America.

I have decided to dedicate my career to public service and to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. My ultimate goal is to become President of the United States, and while this is a long journey, I have carefully planned the stages required to reach it. As a student at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, I am committed to learning as much as possible about politics while excelling in my undergraduate studies in preparation for law school. After graduating, I have identified both short-term and long-term career goals. In the short term, I plan to pursue a career in civil and criminal law, representing underrepresented communities, particularly African Americans. Through this work, I aim to promote fairness and equality within a legal system that has historically marginalized Black communities. I also plan to establish my own law firm to create opportunities for aspiring Black attorneys, offering mentorship and representation in a profession where African Americans remain significantly underrepresented. By serving as both an employer and a role model, I hope to inspire future generations to pursue careers in law and public service. In the long term, I intend to transition fully into politics to help create a more just and inclusive society. I plan to return to Miami to run for county mayor, with the goal of becoming the first Black mayor of Miami-Dade County. From there, I aspire to become the first Black governor of Florida and ultimately President of the United States. In these roles, my focus will be on serving those often overlooked by government, including the poor, elderly, homeless, and marginalized communities. I believe politics should prioritize public service and equity, and I am committed to using government as a tool to uplift and protect all Americans.

As I begin to look at what I want to become of my adult life I have found the need to organize and plan out both my short term and long-term goals. When looking at my imminent educational goals and plans I will be starting my Bachelor's degree at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University this fall where I will be majoring in Political Science. After completing my Bachelor's degree and graduating from undergraduate school, I plan on going to graduate school to pursue a doctorate in political science. I am determined to go to graduate school abroad as it would give me an opportunity to explore the world. I believe this will positively impact my mindset as a politician as it will give me a greater understanding of different countries, cultures, and people. This will help me understand the world at large, which is essential as a politician. I then plan on going to law school. This too I believe will benefit me as a politician as politics and law share so many common areas that it is essential for politicians to understand both subjects. Also, I plan to have several internships while in college with organizations such as the National Urban League and the governor’s office. My career goals have always been to become a lawyer and then a politician. So, in the long-term I plan on establishing my own private law practice. I plan to focus on civil cases but also a few criminal cases. After I am done practicing law, I plan to run for public office. I will start with running for and winning a local mayorship, then state governorship, and eventually the Presidency of the United States of America. The benefit of receiving this scholarship is something that I can’t even express, however, I will try my best to explain why I believe that I should win this scholarship and what I will do with the funds if I were to win it. My ultimate goal is to become the President of the United States of America. As you can image this is going to be a very difficult journey especially as a young Black man coming from a low-income family that lives in a low-income neighborhood. The one certain thing that I know will help me in this journey is an amazing quality college education. I do believe that this education will come from not only the Historical Black College or University of my choice but the Historical Black College or University of my dream, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. And while I am now able to live out this dream as I am now enrolled at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University the only way that I will be able to pay to attend this university is with the help of scholarships. The difference that receiving $600 from this scholarship will make for me is unimaginable and will not only help to launch my college endeavor but also my future goals.

If given the opportunity to improve my community, I would focus on increasing political involvement and addressing the economic instability that continues to affect African Americans. In many parts of the United States, Black communities still lack consistent representation at the decision-making tables that shape public policy. This absence has real consequences: policies are often created without consideration of the unique challenges facing African Americans, and opportunities for advancement become harder to attain. As an aspiring politician and current political science scholar at a Historically Black University, I have gained a deeper understanding of these systemic issues. My education has strengthened my belief that political engagement, combined with targeted legislation and community-centered activism, can transform lives for the better. Growing up, I looked to history to find leaders who embodied courage and dedication. Figures like Shirley Chisholm, Medgar Evers, and Barbara Jordan showed me what it means to serve with purpose. Yet today, there is a noticeable shortage of political and economic role models who can inspire and mentor the next generation of Black leaders. Many young African Americans do not see people who look like them holding the positions of power that shape our society, and that absence creates a barrier not just of opportunity, but of imagination. Improving my community is important to me because I want to help close that gap. I want younger generations to feel that leadership is not something reserved for others—it is something they can claim for themselves. My long-term plan is to return to Miami and run for county mayor, where I hope to become the first Black mayor of Miami-Dade County. In that role, I would work to implement youth mentorship programs, civic engagement workshops, and economic empowerment initiatives tailored to Black and minority communities. These programs would provide early exposure to political processes, financial literacy, and leadership development—skills that are essential for building a stronger and more self-sufficient community. After serving as mayor, I plan to pursue higher office as governor of Florida and eventually President of the United States. At every stage, my goal would remain consistent: to champion the needs of those whom government often neglects—the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, and the marginalized. This mission is important to me because I believe the true responsibility of politics is service. Government should not overlook those who built this nation, who keep it functioning, and who deserve a fair chance at a better life. Improving my community means advocating for justice, equity, and opportunity, and I am committed to dedicating my career to that purpose.

My involvement in my local church has been the foundation of my dedication to community service and personal growth. The lessons and values I learned within my church community—compassion, humility, and servant leadership—have shaped the way I view helping others. From an early age, I was taught that service is an expression of faith, a way to live out God’s purpose through action. My church instilled in me the belief that helping those in need is not simply an act of charity, but an act of love that builds stronger communities. Through sermons, youth programs, and volunteer events, I learned that serving others reflects God’s grace and sets an example of moral strength. These teachings gave me the motivation to actively seek opportunities to help people beyond the walls of the church and to apply my faith in real-world situations where compassion and leadership are needed most. In the last three years, I have completed at least three hundred and twenty community service hours through a variety of projects, including food drives, clothes drives, book drives, back-to-school giveaways, and community beautification efforts. Many of these initiatives were inspired by my church’s outreach programs, which emphasized generosity and community upliftment. The church showed me that small acts of service can create lasting change, and that unity and faith can bring people together to achieve a common goal. My experiences also led me to become a member of several community-based organizations, where I could expand the church’s message of hope and service. I served on a community leadership board as the Youth Liaison, where I was responsible for youth outreach and increasing youth participation in community projects. The leadership and communication skills I gained from church—such as organizing volunteers, speaking to groups, and motivating others—helped me succeed in this position. I worked to encourage young people to see service as something empowering and spiritually fulfilling, just as my church had taught me. Through my church involvement and community service, I have learned that true leadership begins with selflessness and a genuine desire to make a difference. My church has guided me to understand that serving others is not just about meeting physical needs but also about restoring faith, hope, and dignity. It has shown me that leadership is not defined by titles or recognition, but by the positive impact one leaves on others. Each drive, project, and outreach event I’ve participated in has reminded me that faith and service are deeply connected. The compassion and perseverance I developed through church have made me more empathetic, patient, and driven to continue giving back. Ultimately, my church has not only strengthened my faith but also molded me into a servant leader—someone who believes that lasting change happens when we lift others up and serve with love, purpose, and conviction.

A major issue that is facing the criminal justice system today is the school to prison pipeline. The school to prison pipeline is a practice that constantly occurs in the United States especially among minority communities that put into place harsh school policies and disciplinary practices aimed at pushing students especially Black, Latino, and disabled youth out of classrooms and into the criminal justice system. This was carried out by schools increasingly using suspensions, expulsions, and arrests to control behavior, often involving law enforcement officers in situations that previously would have been handled by teachers or counselors. And research shows that Black students are suspended or expelled at three times the rate of white students for similar behavior. Once removed from school, these students are more likely to fall behind academically, become disengaged, and are more likely to face arrest which begins a cycle that can lead to incarceration. While this practice emerged in the 1980s it still remains prevalent in todays society. I believe that one of the easiest ways to solve this problem is through youth mentorship and other community based preemptive measures being taken place at schools. Through the community service that I have been able to complete especially at public schools I have been able to see the effects that mentorship can have on the youth. I know that my experience of volunteering and mentoring at Bond Elementary School had a profound impact on me as I was able to witness first hand the lack of role models in communities of color and the need for role models to set up and take an active role in these communities and neighborhoods. Youth mentorship programs offer a direct and personal way to interrupt the pipeline. Mentorship provides students with positive role models who encourage self-worth, accountability, and resilience. And research shows that mentored youth are more likely to stay in school, develop better behavior, and set long-term goals. Also, with the help of community based intervention such as restorative justice programs, after-school programs, tutoring centers, and youth leadership initiatives stronger schools and safer neighborhoods can be created and the root causes of misbehavior can be addressed rather than having its symptoms punished. As criminal and civil rights attorney I want to play a crucial role in dismantling the school to prison pipeline through community-based interventions. I hope to work closely with local schools, community centers, and advocacy groups, and push for reforms that replace punitive discipline with restorative justice practices. I also will make it a major focus of my career to advocate for policies that increase funding for counselors, social workers, and mentorship programs rather than law enforcement in schools, ensuring students receive support instead of punishment. I want be afraid to challenge discriminatory disciplinary policies, racial profiling, and unlawful arrests within schools, holding districts and police departments accountable for violating students’ rights. And if needed file class-action lawsuits to expose patterns of inequity and push for consent decrees that mandate reforms, such as limits on suspensions, the removal of school resource officers, or the adoption of restorative justice models.

I have always felt the need to make a change in my community, which is one of the major reasons that I am going to college to major in Political Science. Throughout the last couple of years though I have become extremely active in my local community, being able to put in three hundred and twenty recorded community service hours and many more that went unrecorded. I became the Youth Liaison to my local community of West Perrine's very own Community Builders Association, where I was able to outreach to local youth and learn about the major problems that were affecting them and work on finding and enacting solutions in order to help the future generation achieve and strive for greatness in their lives. In particular, I was able to help educate the younger generations about the history of Black people in America and the constant threats that we continue to face in today's age. One of the most significant things that I was able to do was help them become more politically literate. I am also a member of both the national NAACP and my community's local NAACP chapter. And those are just things that I did in my free time, as a member of multiple clubs in high school I was able to be a part of multiple donations drives and environmental clean-ups. Volunteering in urban neighborhoods and with the NAACP can significantly shape my future career as a Black politician by grounding me in the lived experiences of the communities I seek to represent. Serving directly in neighborhoods builds trust, sharpens my understanding of issues like housing, education, and justice, and allows me to advocate with authenticity. Working with the NAACP strengthens my leadership skills, connects me to a legacy of civil rights advocacy, and provides valuable mentorship and networks. These experiences prepare me to craft effective policies, amplify community voices, and pursue public service with credibility and purpose. After college I will become even more involved in politics, preparing myself to run for public office and working my way to the Presidency of the United States of America. This will not only allow me to give back and transform my community but others like it across the nation. As my main goal through politics is looking out for those who are usually forgotten about, those who make up the backbone of the United States, and those we owe so much to and deserve our help in any way that we can give it. And the institution that will be doing this under my mayorship, governorship, and presidency will be the government as it should be focused on fulfilling both civic and public service to the American people.

Hello I'm Justin Williams a proud fourth year political science major and history minor at the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. When examining the person that I am today a larger part of it is because of my upbringing. Growing up in a single parent household led by my mother in the urban areas of Miami, installed in me the optimism that through hard work and determination not only my life but the world could be changed for the better. It was very early on in my childhood that I realized that I wanted to become a politician and change the world. When it comes to my future career goals I have both short term and long term goals. In the short term I plan on pursuing a career in law, specializing in civil and criminal law, and becoming a successful lawyer. I will be prioritizing in handling cases that represent underrepresented communities especially the African American community. My mission as a lawyer will be to make sure that everyone feels the equality of the law and are fairly treated in. It will be to make sure that a system which has a history of being used against minorities especially African Americans for the detriment of them and their community is actively working to improve their well being. I also seek to establish my own law firm where I can give opportunities to the next generation of young Black men and women who aspire to become a lawyer. I not only seek to give them the opportunity but also to give them a role model so that this career field which is currently only about five percent Black can become more open, as they can see someone in their own community and believe that they too can become a lawyer. In the long term I will be pursuing my political career and fulfilling my purpose of creating a better society for all but especially for Black people. My ultimate goal is to become the President of the United States of America as I believe that this will allow for me to make the most positive change to society. I will like to use my political career to focus on creating nation wide youth mentorship programs that will help inspire young members of the Black and other minority communities and allow them to have the future they desire. Another main aim of my political career will be to help those that the government tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is. This is why I want to be a politician as it is my main belief that the use of politics is for looking out for those who are usually forgotten about, those who make up the backbone of the United States, and those we owe so much to who deserve our help in any way that we can give it. I decided to pursue my higher academic studies at FAMU because I believed that it would be the place that would prepare me to accomplish the goals that have just laid out. As it would provide me with the necessary tools needed to go back and improve my community and others like it. HBCU's have a unique heritage of continually producing the next generation of leaders of the Black community and this is a tradition that I hope to continue through my leadership and action in the courtroom and behind the Oval Office.

My story is one that is not uncommon from those that grew up in a similar circumstance and that is a story of struggle, endurance, and achievement. I grow up in a predominantly Black low income neighborhood in a single parent household lead by my mother who tirelessly worked two jobs to make sure that she could take care and provide for me and my sister. And in seeing this hard effort every day and night it instilled in my that in order to succeed in life I would always have to work hard for what I wanted to accomplish. This is why in all things especially when it came to academics I always strived to be the best regardless of how much time and effort it would take to be so. This is why I was able to accomplish major feats like being a dual enrollment student in high school and graduating with both my high school diploma and my A.A degree. Now that I am in my senior year of college at the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University all that I can look forward to is graduating and starting my next chapter as a law student at my dream law school next year. As I previously stated I grew up in a challenging area that very early on opened my eyes to the many problems that still affect people especially Black people today. What really left an impact on me was the various disparities that existed in my neighborhood that didn't exist in neighborhoods where most people who lived there didn't look like me. In particular when it came to certain things such as homelessness, crime, and income. As a child I was perplexed by why it seemed to be some much of these such problems occurring in my neighborhood and not others. However, as I became older and became an avid learner of history I realized why this was and became determined to right the so many wrongs that still exist today in our society. So as I became older and started to not only think about what I wanted to go to college for but also what I wanted to pursue as a profession it was a no brainer to study political science and to pursue a career in law. This was because in both areas I would be able to use different mechanism to make society a more just and equal place. In studying political science I am learning about the different historical and present laws, policies, and political beliefs that keep American society from advancing especially when it pertains to Black Americans and how government when used correctly can help to fix these problems instead of making them worse. And then in my hopes of becoming a lawyer I would like to practice in the areas of both civil and criminal law and emphasize my desire to help represent people of color who are more often to become victims of the justice system. I hope to make the justice system a fairer place for all and to show that in America all are equal under the law. As my ultimate passion is to help to make the world a better place.

I am a firm believer that in the truth that all things are in God's hands. I especially stick to this statement in every part of my life including academics and future goals. There are many things that shape a person throughout their life that can act as a eureka moment for when they discovered what they wanted to be their career. I had this eureka moment very early in my life. Growing up as a child, I was surrounded by my grandparents, especially my grandfather. My grandfather was a veteran of the Second World War, and he would tell me stories from his time fighting during this decisive period in human history. It was during these story times that my love of history developed and from that moment has continued to grow. Soon I would become infatuated with knowing about different leaders from around the world throughout history that have changed it for the better. This would include learning about our American Presidents and how they have helped shaped this nation and its people for the better. Franklin Delano Roosevelt would become my favorite president due to the many policies that he in acted during the Great Depression with his New Deal and because of his leadership during World War Two. This incited in me a flame that will never go out until the desire that sparked it has been fulfilled, and that is to become the President of the United States of America. It is in the field of politics that I have decided would become my career and it is the reason why I will be majoring in political science during my time in university. As I have decided to focus my life's work on helping to improve the lives of not just my fellow Americans but of people from across the globe. As a kid from a low-income household that grew up in a low-income neighborhood, I know the importance that government plays in helping to improve the lives of people. However, sadly I can say that as of recently the government has been letting us down. It is this failure that drives my passion to enter into politics and become the President of the United States in the future. So that I can help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is.

Question 1: I plan on attending law school in the fall of 2026 at Howard University. Question 2: I have decided that I want to dedicate my career to that of public service and making a difference in the lives of people. My ultimate goal is to become the President of the United States of America and while the road to accomplish this goal is going to be a long one, I have preplanned many of the stages along this journey. College is a time to discover who you are and to make lifelong connections that will help you advance in life. This is vital for a person who wants to become a politician like myself. As I envision the pathway to becoming president starting in college, learning all that I can about politics and working my way into law school by putting in hard work in all of my undergraduate studies while currently at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. After graduating from college, I have divided my career goals into both short term and long-term aspirations. In the short term I will be pursuing a career in civil and criminal law as an attorney representing underrepresented communities especially the African American community, working to make sure that they feel the equality of the law and are fairly treated in a system that has a history of being used against them for the detriment of Black individuals and the community as a whole. I also seek to establish my own law firm where I can give opportunities to the next generation of young Black men and women who aspire to become a lawyer. I not only seek to give them the opportunity but also to give them a role model so that this career field which is currently only about five percent Black can become more open, as they can see someone in their own community and believe that they too can become a lawyer. In the long term I will be pursuing my political career and fulfilling my purpose of creating a better society for all but especially for Black people. I plan on going back to Miami and running for county mayor and thus becoming the first Black mayor of Miami Dade County. As mayor, I plan to launch youth mentorship programs and fun initiatives that will help inspire young members of the Black and other minority communities and allow them to have the future they desire. Afterwards, I plan on becoming the first Black governor of the state of Florida and then the President of the United States of America. As governor and then president my aim will be to help those that the government of my state and this nation tend to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is. This is why I want to be a politician as it is my main belief that the use of politics is for looking out for those who are usually forgotten about, those who make up the backbone of the United States, and those we owe so much to who deserve our help in any way that we can give it. And I will make sure that the institution that will be doing this under my mayorship, governorship, and presidency will be the government as it should be focused on fulfilling both civic and public service to the American people.

If and when given the opportunity to improve my community I would like to focus on the problems of political involvement and economic instability that exist in the African American community. Members of the African American community continue to not have a seat at many of the tables that decide public policy throughout the United States. As an aspiring politician who is currently a political science scholar at a Historically Black University I am continually learning about the problems that plague the Black community and how they can be fixed through legislation, activism, and other kinds of political work. Growing up I always looked to history for role models and to study their work to inspire my own action. There is a current lack of political and economic role models in the African American community today who can inspire the next generation of leaders. In the long term I will be pursuing my political career and fulfilling my purpose of creating a better society for all but especially for Black people. I plan on going back to Miami and running for county mayor and thus becoming the first Black mayor of Miami Dade County. As mayor, I plan to launch youth mentorship programs and fun initiatives that will help inspire young members of the Black and other minority communities and allow them to have the future they desire. Afterwards, I plan on becoming the first Black governor of the state of Florida and then the President of the United States of America. As governor and then president my aim will be to help those that the government of my state and this nation tend to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is. This is why I want to be a politician as it is my main belief that the use of politics is for looking out for those who are usually forgotten about, those who make up the backbone of the United States, and those we owe so much to who deserve our help in any way that we can give it. And I will make sure that the institution that will be doing this under my mayorship, governorship, and presidency will be the government as it should be focused on fulfilling both civic and public service to the American people.

"The Walk That Went Too Far" I grabbed the leash, my dog went wild, He barked and spun like a caffeinated child. "Calm down, Buster!" I tried to shout, But he dragged me off like a fireman's route. We strolled through town, a normal day, Till Buster sniffed something and darted away. “Hey! Come back!” I cried in fear, But he had no brakes, and I couldn't steer. He zoomed past fences, mailboxes, ducks, Through Mrs. McGee's yard and two parked trucks. Then into the forest, dark and deep— Where the trees looked angry and the squirrels don't sleep. I tripped on a root, face met a fern, While Buster chased something at every turn. He barked at a log that turned out to snore, A bear gave a grunt—I don’t go there no more. We ran through bushes, over a brook, Got tangled in vines like a library book. I swore I saw gnomes playing chess on a stump, And a deer doing yoga—downward dog, with a hump. A raccoon in shades held a tiny guitar, Singing, “Welcome, kids! You’ve wandered too far!” Buster howled back, in perfect tune, While I prayed we’d get out before the next full moon. “Let’s go!” I begged, but Buster was thrilled, Sniffing mushrooms that probably could kill. We passed an owl who rolled his eyes, Said, “City dogs... what a surprise.” At last, we reached a trail I knew, Past the tree that looked like old Aunt Sue. Buster slowed down, his sniffing done— He only drags me when it's no longer fun. We made it home, both scratched and muddy, But Buster looked proud, like I was his buddy. Mom gasped and asked, “What happened out there?” I said, “Just a walk... with a hint of despair.” Now every time he jingles that leash, I lock the door and fake a sneeze. 'Cause walks with Buster seem normal at first... But the forest waits, with a hunger and thirst.

I have always been committed to making a difference in my community and around the world. As a lover of history and of politics I have studied how people have been able to impact the world and change it for the better. This is why I decided to major in Political Science and minor in History while in college. In pursuing my educational goals, I hope to become equipped with all the tools necessary to know how to improve communities like the one that I came from and to improve society overall. That’s why after graduating from college, I plan on becoming the first Black mayor of Miami Dade County. As mayor, I plan to launch youth mentorship programs and fun initiatives that will help inspire them and allow them to have the future they desire. Afterwards, I plan on becoming the first Black governor of Florida and then the President of the United States of America. As president my aim will be to help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is. This is why I want to be a politician, as my main goal through politics is looking out for those who are usually forgotten about. That’s why after graduating from college, I plan on going back to Miami and running for county mayor and becoming the first Black mayor of Miami Dade County. As mayor, I plan to launch youth mentorship programs and fun initiatives that will help inspire them and allow them to have the future they desire. Afterwards, I plan on becoming the first Black governor of Florida and then the President of the United States of America. As president my aim will be to help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is. This is why I want to be a politician as it is my main goal through politics is looking out for those who are usually forgotten about, those who make up the backbone of the United States, and those we owe so much to and deserve our help in any way that we can give it. And the institution that will be doing this under my mayorship, governorship, and presidency will be the government as it should be focused on fulfilling both civic and public service to the American people. The benefit of receiving this scholarship is something that I can’t even express, however, in this essay I will try to. My ultimate goal is to become the President of the United States of America. As you can image this is going to be a very difficult journey especially as a young Black man coming from a low-income, single parent family that lives in a low-income neighborhood. The one certain thing that I know will help me in this journey is an amazing quality college education. I do believe that this education will come from not only the Historical Black College or University of my choice but the Historical Black College or University of my dream, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. And while I am now able to live out this dream as I am now enrolled at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University the only way that I will be able to pay to attend this university is with the help of scholarships. The difference that receiving the this scholarship will make for me is unimaginable and will not only help to launch my college endeavor but also my future goals.

My grandfather was a veteran of the Second World War, and he would tell me stories from his time serving in the army and protecting freedom and democracy during this decisive period in human history. It was during these story times that my love of history developed and from that moment has continued to grow. Soon I would become infatuated with knowing about different leaders from around the world throughout history that have changed it for the better. In learning about presidents like Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Lydon B. Johnson and how they have helped shaped this nation and its people for the better a spark was lit inside of me. A desire and need to help others through leadership and public service was created inside of me. And in time I realized that the only way to satisfy this desire and to fulfill this need was to become a politician and eventually become the President of the United States of America. So, as I was preparing for what I would study in college it was the field of politics that I decided on, choosing to major in political science at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, and deciding on having a career as a politician once I graduate. As I have decided to focus my life's work on helping to improve the lives of not just my fellow Americans but of people from across the globe. As a kid from a low-income household that grew up in a low-income neighborhood, I know what struggling is like and how enduring certain struggles throughout your life can affect you. I know the importance that government plays in helping to improve the lives of people. However, sadly I can say that as of recently the government has been letting us down. It is this failure that drives my passion to enter into politics and become the President of the United States in the future. So that I can help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, those of minority groups especially African Americans and so many others. As we must be our brothers' keeper and help to make sure that they are able to live out their life dream and ensure to them all that is necessary in order to do so. Because it is when the government works towards the best interests of the people that it works best. As I know that when the system actually works the way it is supposed to these groups can help transform this country into the great place that we all know it can be. This is why I have decided to devote myself to a career of doing public service and good deeds through political work as a politician at the local, state, and national level throughout the various parts that I have planned for in my career’s journey. When given the opportunity to improve my community I would help to improve the housing situation in my community. The ever increasing price of rent and the cost to purchase a home has caused a major housing problem in the Black community. This is especially true in my hometown of Miami, Florida. This has resulted in an increasingly less diverse homeownership rate especially for young African Americans. This should also create a way to begin to solve the problem of homelessness, which is a major issue that matters to me and that I am committed to help solving.

In gaining a college education in political science I hope to not only change the community that I came from but also the whole world. As previously stated, my ultimate goal is to become the President of the United States of America. College is a time to discover who you are and to make lifelong connections that will help you advance in life. This is vital for a person who wants to become a politician like myself. As I envision the pathway to becoming president starting in college, learning all that I can about politics and working my way into law school by putting in hard work in all of my undergraduate studies while currently at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. I have always valued the importance of education. This was why I attended the School for Advanced Studies, the highest ranked public high school in the nation, where I was able to take dual enrollment and was able to graduate from Miami Dade College with an Associate’s degree before even graduating from high school. This is why I decided to attend the number one ranked public Historically Black College and University in the nation, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. As a Black American I believe that attending an HBCU will allow me to become an inspiration to other young Black boys and girls of the importance of a college education. As a Black male from a low-income neighborhood, I was one of the lucky one’s who had the importance of education installed in myself from a young age. I am now able to go to college and make something of myself. And while I was able to do this by my hard work in academics and the support of individuals in my community. My time in school, especially high school, was different from most. I had was able to take part in a unique experience of being able to dually complete high school and college. At this nontraditional high school, the School for Advanced Studies, I was faced with many obstacles that most high school students would have to face and others that they wouldn’t have even imagined. With the high school being housed inside of a college the first obstacle was navigating being a high school age student inside classrooms with adult college students. This, however, wasn’t difficult to overcome as all it took was some getting used to. As for the most part close interactions were very limited to class-based activities and projects. Another great hurdle was taking on completing both high school classwork and homework as well as college classwork and homework. This meant that every day I was taking on double the workload. There are many ways that I was able to overcome this challenge. I stayed determined, kept to my goal, and sought help when needed from all of the resources that were available to me. After all of this I was able to become not just a successful student but become both a high school graduate and a college graduate, a milestone accomplishment that most high school students can’t say they’ve accomplished.

There are many things that shape a person throughout their life that can act as a eureka moment for when they discovered what they wanted to be their career. I had this eureka moment very early in my life because growing up as a child I was surrounded by my grandparents, especially my grandfather. My grandfather was a veteran of the Second World War, and he would tell me stories from his time serving in the army and protecting freedom and democracy during this decisive period in human history. It was during these story times that my love of history developed and from that moment has continued to grow. Soon I would become infatuated with knowing about different leaders from around the world throughout history that have changed it for the better. In learning about civil right leaders like the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X and how they have helped shaped this nation and its people for the better a spark was lit inside of me. A desire and need to help others through leadership and public service was created inside of me. And in time I realized that the only way to satisfy this desire and to fulfill this need was to become a politician and eventually become the President of the United States of America. So, as I was preparing for what I would study in college it was the field of politics that I decided on, choosing to major in political science at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, and deciding on having a career as a politician once I graduate. As I have decided to focus my life's work on helping to improve the lives of not just my fellow Americans but of people from across the globe. As a kid from a low-income household that grew up in a low-income neighborhood, I know what struggling is like and how enduring certain struggles throughout your life can affect you. I know the importance that government plays in helping to improve the lives of people. However, sadly I can say that as of recently the government has been letting us down. It is this failure that drives my passion to enter into politics and become the President of the United States in the future. So that I can help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, those of minority groups especially African Americans and so many others. As we must be our brothers' keeper and help to make sure that they are able to live out their life dream and ensure to them all that is necessary in order to do so. Because it is when the government works towards the best interests of the people that it works best. As I know that when the system actually works the way it is supposed to these groups can help transform this country into the great place that we all know it can be. This is why I have decided to devote myself to a career of doing public service and good deeds through political work as a politician at the local, state, and national level throughout the various parts that I have planned for in my career’s journey.

I was given an amazing opportunity to attend one of the best high school's in the country, the School for Advanced Studies where I was able to simultaneously attend Miami Dade College and graduate with both my high school diploma and my Associate in Arts degree graduating from high school with a 4.9 GPA and from college with a 3.7 GPA and being on the dean's list. College is a time to discover who you are and to make lifelong connections that will help you advance in life. This is vital for a person who wants to become a politician like myself. As I envision the pathway to becoming president starting in college, learning all that I can about politics and working my way into law school by putting in hard work in all of my undergraduate studies while currently at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. As a Black American I believe that attending an HBCU will allow me to become an inspiration to other young Black boys and girls of the importance of a college education. As a Black male from a low-income neighborhood, I was one of the lucky one’s who had the importance of education installed in myself from a young age. I am now able to go to college and make something of myself. And while I was able to do this by my hard work in academics and the support of individuals in my community, the help of this scholarship is still needed. I have always been committed to making a difference in my community and around the world. That’s why I’ve already completed hundreds of community service hours in high school and plan on completing hundreds. I became the Youth Liaison to my local community of West Perrine's very own Community Builders Association, where I was able to outreach to local youth and learn about the major problems that were affecting them and work on finding and enacting solutions to help the future generation achieve and strive for greatness in their lives. I was able to help educate the younger generations about the history of Black people in America and the constant threats that we continue to face in today's age. One of the most significant things that I was able to do was help them become more politically literate. That’s why after graduating from college, I plan on going back to Miami and running for county mayor and becoming the first Black mayor of Miami Dade County. As mayor, I plan to launch youth mentorship programs and fun initiatives that will help inspire them and allow them to have the future they desire. Afterwards, I plan on becoming the first Black governor of Florida and then the President of the United States of America. As president my aim will be to help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is. This is why I want to be a politician as it is my main goal through politics is looking out for those who are usually forgotten about, those who make up the backbone of the United States, and those we owe so much to and deserve our help in any way that we can give it. And the institution that will be doing this under my mayorship, governorship, and presidency will be the government as it should be focused on fulfilling both civic and public service to the American people.

That’s why after graduating from college, I plan on going back to Miami and running for county mayor and becoming the first Black mayor of Miami Dade County. As mayor, I plan to launch youth mentorship programs and fun initiatives that will help inspire them and allow them to have the future they desire. Afterwards, I plan on becoming the first Black governor of Florida and then the President of the United States of America. As president my aim will be to help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, the minorities and so many other groups of this country that make it the great place that it is. This is why I want to be a politician as it is my main goal through politics is looking out for those who are usually forgotten about, those who make up the backbone of the United States, and those we owe so much to and deserve our help in any way that we can give it. And the institution that will be doing this under my mayorship, governorship, and presidency will be the government as it should be focused on fulfilling both civic and public service to the American people. I have always been committed to making a difference in my community and around the world. That’s why I’ve already completed hundreds of community service hours in high school and plan on completing hundreds. I became the Youth Liaison to my local community of West Perrine's very own Community Builders Association, where I was able to outreach to local youth and learn about the major problems that were affecting them and work on finding and enacting solutions to help the future generation achieve and strive for greatness in their lives. I was able to help educate the younger generations about the history of Black people in America and the constant threats that we continue to face in today's age. One of the most significant things that I was able to do was help them become more politically literate. In gaining a college education in political science I hope to not only change the community that I came from but also the whole world. As previously stated, my ultimate goal is to become the President of the United States of America. College is a time to discover who you are and to make lifelong connections that will help you advance in life. This is vital for a person who wants to become a politician like myself. As I envision the pathway to becoming president starting in college, learning all that I can about politics and working my way into law school by putting in hard work in all of my undergraduate studies while currently at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.

In gaining a college education in political science I hope to not only change the community that I came from but also the whole world. It is my ultimate goal to become the President of the United States of America. College is a time to discover who you are and to make lifelong connections that will help you advance in life. This is vital for a person who wants to become a politician like myself. As I envision the pathway to becoming president starting in college, learning all that I can about politics and working my way into law school by putting in hard work in all of my undergraduate studies while currently at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. I have always valued the importance of education. This was why I attended the School for Advanced Studies, the highest ranked public high school in the nation, where I was able to take dual enrollment and was able to graduate from Miami Dade College with an Associate’s degree before even graduating from high school. This is why I decided to attend the number one ranked public Historically Black College and University in the nation, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. As a Black American I believe that attending an HBCU will allow me to become an inspiration to other young Black boys and girls of the importance of a college education. As a Black male from a low-income neighborhood, I was one of the lucky one’s who had the importance of education installed in myself from a young age. I am now able to go to college and make something of myself. And while I was able to do this by my hard work in academics and the support of individuals in my community, the help of this scholarship is still needed. I have always been committed to making a difference in my community and around the world. That’s why I’ve already completed hundreds of community service hours in high school and plan on completing hundreds. I became the Youth Liaison to my local community of West Perrine's very own Community Builders Association, where I was able to outreach to local youth and learn about the major problems that were affecting them and work on finding and enacting solutions to help the future generation achieve and strive for greatness in their lives. I was able to help educate the younger generations about the history of Black people in America and the constant threats that we continue to face in today's age. One of the most significant things that I was able to do was help them become more politically literate. My main hardship in pursuing a college education has been regarding having the finances to do so. The financial constraint that has been placed on me while trying to attend college has led to me having to make very difficult life changing decisions. These decisions include having to choose a university based off of the cost of attendance and debt that would be accrued and not based off of my pure desire to attend that university. And also, having to be financially cautious while being a college student and young adult has been a challenge while starting college and adult life for the first time.

I choose to study political science because of my desire to make a change and impact in the lives of others. When looking at people who have been the some of the most influential figures in history that have left their footprint on the world and the lives of millions of people they usually tend to be political figures. In pursuing a career in public service I have had previous working to improve my local community by being the youth liaison to the West Perrine Community Builders Association helping to work on exciting new plans and initiatives that would help to improve my local community. I am most passionate in looking to help out community of colors that are usually marginalized.

Adopting Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle fosters a sustainable future, combating climate change while conserving resources for generations to come. Growing up I was taught the three R's: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and those three principles have never left me since. Reducing focuses on cutting consumption and waste. I limit energy usage by switching to LED lights and unplugging devices when not in use. I also reduce reliance on single-use plastics by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers to not waste food. Reducing is about minimizing waste and energy consumption. I make deliberate choices to cut down on unnecessary items and prioritize sustainability. For example, I avoid single-use plastics by opting for reusable bags, bottles, and containers. Meal planning has become a staple in my household, helping to reduce food waste and saving money. Additionally, I limit my energy usage by switching to energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights when not needed, and unplugging devices to eliminate phantom energy consumption. For transportation, I choose walking, biking, or public transit whenever possible, significantly reducing my reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Reusing focuses on extending the life of items and reducing the need for new resources. Instead of discarding items, I repair and repurpose them. Torn clothes get sewn, broken electronics are fixed, and glass jars find new life as storage containers. I also embrace secondhand shopping for clothing, furniture, and other essentials. This approach reduces the demand for new manufacturing, saving energy and raw materials while preventing items from ending up in landfills. Recycling ensures that waste is managed responsibly. I separate recyclable materials, such as paper, glass, and plastics, and dispose of them properly. Recycling allows these materials to be processed and transformed into new products, reducing the need for virgin resources. I also compost food scraps and yard waste, turning organic material into nutrient-rich soil for gardening. This not only reduces landfill waste but also creates a natural fertilizer that supports local ecosystems. Living by these principles is crucial because climate change and resource depletion are among the most pressing challenges we face today. Reducing my carbon footprint helps slow environmental damage, conserve resources for future generations, and support a sustainable future. While individual actions may seem small, they collectively contribute to a larger, positive impact on the planet. By adopting the three R’s, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, I aim to live more mindfully and inspire others to do the same.

My grandfather was a veteran of the Second World War, and he would tell me stories from his time serving in the army and protecting freedom and democracy during this decisive period in human history. It was during these story times that my love of history developed and from that moment has continued to grow. Soon I would become infatuated with knowing about different leaders from around the world throughout history that have changed it for the better. In learning about presidents like Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Lydon B. Johnson and how they have helped shaped this nation and its people for the better a spark was lit inside of me. A desire and need to help others through leadership and public service was created inside of me. And in time I realized that the only way to satisfy this desire and to fulfill this need was to become a politician and eventually become the President of the United States of America. So, as I was preparing for what I would study in college it was the field of politics that I decided on, choosing to major in political science at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, and deciding on having a career as a politician once I graduate. As I have decided to focus my life's work on helping to improve the lives of not just my fellow Americans but of people from across the globe. As a kid from a low-income household that grew up in a low-income neighborhood, I know what struggling is like and how enduring certain struggles throughout your life can affect you. I know the importance that government plays in helping to improve the lives of people. However, sadly I can say that as of recently the government has been letting us down. It is this failure that drives my passion to enter into politics and become the President of the United States in the future. So that I can help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, those of minority groups especially African Americans and so many others. As we must be our brothers' keeper and help to make sure that they are able to live out their life dream and ensure to them all that is necessary in order to do so. Because it is when the government works towards the best interests of the people that it works best. As I know that when the system actually works the way it is supposed to these groups can help transform this country into the great place that we all know it can be. This is why I have decided to devote myself to a career of doing public service and good deeds through political work as a politician at the local, state, and national level throughout the various parts that I have planned for in my career’s journey. When given the opportunity to improve my community I would help to improve the housing situation in my community. The ever increasing price of rent and the cost to purchase a home has caused a major housing problem in the Black community. This is especially true in my hometown of Miami, Florida. This has resulted in an increasingly less diverse homeownership rate especially for young African Americans. This should also create a way to begin to solve the problem of homelessness, which is a major issue that matters to me and that I am committed to help solving.

I am currently studying Political Science at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and will then continue to further my education once I graduate with my bachelor's degree by going to law school. I will be using my education to pursue a career in politics. I decided to attend a Historically Black College and University because I want to focus a majority of the work that I will be doing as a politician to advocate for policy that will be beneficial to minority groups especially to African Americans. My ultimate goal in being a politician is to become the President of the United States. I would like to use this position to not only give back to my community but others just like. As I want to become an inspiration to young African Americans on the possibilities that are possible as long as you put in a lot of hard work and determination. I would like to help solve the economic inequality gap the exists between the minorities and I would like to help in solving systemic problems that exist for the African American communities that have persisted in one form or another since slavery. There are many reasons that I want to be the President of the United States. It all stems from my childhood when I discovered the need to want to help people and make a large positive impact on the world. This is why I have decided to focus my life's work on helping to improve the lives of not just my fellow Americans but of people from across the globe. As a kid from a low-income household that grew up in a low-income neighborhood, I know what struggling is like and how enduring certain struggles throughout your life can affect you. I know the importance that government plays in helping to improve the lives of people. However, sadly I can say that as of recently the government has been letting us down. It is this failure that drives my passion to enter into politics and become the President of the United States in the future. So that I can help those that the government of this nation tends to overlook such as the poor, the elderly, the homeless, the criminalized, the discriminated, those of minority groups especially African Americans and so many others. As we must be our brothers' keeper and help to make sure that they are able to live out their life dream and ensure to them all that is necessary in order to do so. Because it is when the government works towards the best interests of the people that it works best. As I know that when the system actually works the way it is supposed to these groups can help transform this country into the great place that we all know it can be. This is why I have decided to devote myself to a career of doing public service and good deeds through political work as a politician at the local, state, and national level throughout the various parts that I have planned for in my career’s journey. Being selected as one of the recipients of the Next Chapter Scholarship would help me in achieving my future goals of being a public servant who will use politics to work in the best interest of the people by helping to pay for my college education. The cost of a college education is one of the many hurdles that many young Americans like myself are currently facing and one of the only ways to help mediate this with the help of scholarships.

Adversity is something that we all face. In my life I have faced many adversities that when looking back at them have all helped me get to this point in my life. Through the hardships, the trails, and tribulations I have been able to better understand who I am and the person that I have become. For most students' high school is a time filled with new challenges. It is a time to grow and find out who you are. In today’s age sometimes high school can be a defining period in a person’s life that can make or break them. The pressures of striving for academic excellence while taking on the stress of the social atmosphere that surrounds high school are extremely difficult high school aged children have to endure. This has led to many obstacles and mental health problems that students have had to deal with. While a good number of students deal with these common obstacles, others like myself have had more unique challenges to overcome. My time in school, especially high school, was different from most. I had was able to take part in a unique experience of being able to dually complete high school and college. At this nontraditional high school, the School for Advanced Studies, I was faced with many obstacles that most high school students would have to face and others that they wouldn’t have even imagined. With the high school being housed inside of a college the first obstacle was navigating being a high school age student inside classrooms with adult college students. This, however, wasn’t difficult to overcome as all it took was some getting used to. As for the most part close interactions were very limited to class-based activities and projects. Another great hurdle was taking on completing both high school classwork and homework as well as college classwork and homework. This meant that every day I was taking on double the workload. There are many ways that I was able to overcome this challenge. I stayed determined, kept to my goal, and sought help when needed from all of the resources that were available to me. After all of this I was able to become not just a successful student but become both a high school graduate and a college graduate, a milestone accomplishment that most high school students can’t say they’ve accomplished. High school is often a period filled with challenges and obstacles, but it's also a time for growth and self-discovery. Overcoming obstacles in high school requires resilience, determination, and a positive mindset. These hurdles can range from academic pressures to social dynamics, each presenting unique opportunities for personal development. Ultimately, the key to overcoming obstacles in high school lies in resilience and perseverance. Every challenge presents an opportunity to learn and grow. This is why it was important to learn from other experiences, seek the help of others when I needed it, and to keep a positive mindset in order to overcome the challenges that high school had thrown my way. And as a recent high school graduate, I think that it is safe to say that we all, no matter how big the age gap is between us, can all say that we faced and overcame some kind of obstacle or multiple obstacles during our time in high school.

In my life I have faced many obstacles, some that broke me to my core and others that allowed me to better myself. All of these obstacles that I have faced in my life have taught me many different valuable lessons and have all helped shaped the person that I've become. I would like to take this time to tell you about my most recent obstacle that I've overcome, my journey through high school. High school for me as it is for others was a time of academic and social challenges. However, unlike for most my high school experience had a major difference as I attended high school inside of a college. This meant that not only was I taking on the academic challenge of high school coursework and homework but also that of college coursework and homework at the same time. I also had to deal with something else that was new to me, being surrounded by adults in an adult environment. Of course, as with many things in life this took some getting use to and that was something which wasn't an easy task to do at first. However, in building friendships and connections with teachers and professors I was able to navigate this tremendous opportunity and experience. I was able to make the most out of it, building lifelong connections, and graduating this spring with both my high school diploma and an Associates in Arts degree. I have always had a commitment to and love for my community. In trying to make my community a better place for all those who live in it I joined the community council, the West Perrine Community Builders Association, and became their Youth Liaison. In this role I took on the task of seeing how to increase local youth participation in the community and helping them become an active and productive member of the community. Also, during this time I was able to participate in several community service activities and projects across the county that I live in. And in doing so I was able to accomplish three hundred and twenty community service hours. I hope to continue to embody Agape love and community service and activism as a recipient of this scholarship. It has always been a goal of mine to become the President of United States and in this role help those who are usually forgotten about and to help transform this world into a better place for all who live on it. It is an important part of the human spirit to help others and to look after our fellowman. The funds from this scholarship will be helping to pay for my college education in political science at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, so that one day I can be able to not just help others on the local level but also on the national and international level.

I'm Justin Williams and I recently just graduated from both high school and community college. As I enter university at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University I will be majoring in political science. I have chosen political science because I plan on having a career as a politician. In addition to this I would like to go to law school and then pursue a career in government. This decision was driven by my love and passion for politics, history, and making a change in society. As a believer that different events and people help shape who you are today, I believe that my personality is most shaped by my love for history. The importance of my passion for history has been a defining part of my life and who I am. My grandfather, a veteran of the Second World War, instilled this in me during my formulative years of growth. As I was captivated with his stories from the war, especially his involvement in the Normandy Ladings on D-Day. This sparked a flame in me that hasn’t and will never burn out. Whether it is reading a book (autobiography or biography) or watching a documentary if it's anything historical, it captivates my attention. As a student, a scholar, and high academic achiever whose intelligence was noticed from an early age, I can confidently say that this was mostly because of my knowledge of history. Through my knowledge of history, I was able to form the ability to recount the past as if I had lived through it. The subject of history is where I have been able to shine. It is because of this and my love for history that grew into a love of politics which started from the epic story times that my grandfather would tell me about during his time as a solider during World War Two that I became the person who I am. My love for the past and of history and now politics all stems from this. I have to thank the military for the impact that serving in the army had on my grandfather and the impact that he was able to have on me through his experience. This why as a politician I find it important to focus on the military, active duty personnel and veteran affairs. That's why it is important for me to win this scholarship as it will help to fund my education, an education that will help to launch my political career, and help me to make a positive difference in the lives of those that currently serve or have served in the military.

I have been able to showcase my leadership skills while also helping to teach members how to successfully convey an argument and learn different rules, procedures, and tactics when having a debate. In this great nation of such remarkable accomplishments and wealth there lies a great problem in the distribution of wealth. In the same cities full of millionaires and even billionaires there lie communities of low-income and homelessness. It is in this world to which I was born and have lived the entirety of my life. Being from one of the ghettos of Miami, a city known for its opulence and luxury, I have instead been faced with poverty and adversity. The struggles of being a Black male in this country is one that is a persistent obstacle in achieving my ultimate goal of becoming the President of the United States. Nevertheless, I have still found ways to achieve a high level of success in academics through hard work and determination. I am already on track to earn my Associate in Arts degree at the same time as my high school graduation. As I have taken on the tumultuous task of taking dual enrollment classes as a student at a full-time collegiate high school. In college, I plan on pursuing a major in political science and going to law school. And I will use my education to further my career in the fields of politics and law. As I find it an absolute necessity to use my skills and influence in these professions to help with the improvement of the Black community. Helping to right wrongs when comes to the problems over policing and imprisonment of people of color. I will be advocating for and making sure that there is legislation is passed to protect the rights and history and heritage of African Americans. As we witness an ever-increasing movement to destroy diversity and inclusion in American society. As with the use of book bans and banning of the teachings of African American Studies and History. In giving back to my community I will be able to help my fellow brothers and sisters educate and themselves, enrich themselves, and break the shackles of the present conditions that enslave them and place them at the bottom of American society. In my experience, it is impossible to not help others in our everyday lives. As a student, you constantly learn from helping each other and asking questions. Some of the best childhood friendships started from two needing help inside of school. When we take away our pride and humble ourselves we are able to learn new things and gain new experiences after helping or being helped by others. If we learn from our youngest ages that we must work together in the name of teamwork then obviously it is important to help each other. As people, we must work together and put aside our differences to accomplish things that will benefit all of humanity. If we could work cohesively in cooperation throughout the world there wouldn't be all the problems that we face today such as war, disease, and famine. If wealthy countries helped out poor countries in the same way that a wealthy man should help the less fortunate that he comes across who are homeless and hungry, then the people of those poor countries would have a fighting chance at a happy life. This is because when we help others who are less fortunate than ourselves we give them an opportunity to experience life as it should be.

My love of God and religion is my source of inspiration. The greater purpose of existing, not just to live out life but to make a difference that will help others is what drives me. A staple of the Black community, church has always served a source of strength and guidence to Black people. As an active member of my church I have learned hat leadership really is. In church and in the community I am a youth advisor. There are many reasons why I have decided to become a political science major and eventually go to law school. The most important reason that I want to become a lawyer and later a politician is to help make change for the Black community as well as for the rest of humanity. I also want to use the law, the American legal system, that has throughout its entirety been used to the disadvantage of the Black community, to help benefit the Black community and help elevate us in society. In doing so I want to help right the many wrongs that we, Black people have suffered from. As a person who lives in a majority Black community considered a ghetto or hood, I have developed a strong love for the uniqueness of my community and an appreciation of its history. My community may not be the nicest nor the richest, however it is my community, the place that I have called home from the day I was born and in writing about it I take great pleasure and pride. As one of the few towns founded by Black people in the early twentieth century Jim Crow segregated Miami, Florida, many of the families that are a part of this community including mine have grown up together for decades since its founding. From this I able to learn about the history of where I come from and the resilience and perseverance that it took in making this community a safe haven for Blacks to raise their families, start businesses, and live out their piece of the American dream. I have also been able to experience a unique brotherly love that can only come from my neighbors. In growing up with children whose parents have grown up with your parents and whose grandparents have grown up with your grandparents a bond is created. When times get tough whether it is because of a hurricane, blackout, death, or even something like Covid we are able to pull together, put aside our difference, and unite to ensure that we all know that there is a support system that will be there to help us. It is because of this relentless spirit that each one of us has that we have been able to make sure that the continuance of our community’s culture and traditions has been able to survive for so many years. This is what I want to be able to provide to my future college community. An atmosphere where everyone knows each other, is welcoming and friendly to one another, and are able to depend on each other in the direst situations. A place where any and everyone can be comfortable in their own skin and know that the people they see every day, go to class with, hangout with, and live next to are not strangers but are their brothers and sisters who will be there for them in good times and bad times while they attend college together and beyond that point in the future.

In this great nation of such remarkable accomplishments and wealth there lies a great problem in the distribution of wealth. In the same cities full of millionaires and even billionaires there lie communities of low-income and homelessness. It is in this world to which I was born and have lived the entirety of my life. Being from one of the ghettos of Miami, a city known for its opulence and luxury, I have instead been faced with poverty and adversity. The struggles of being a Black male in this country is one that is a persistent obstacle in achieving my ultimate goal of becoming the President of the United States. Nevertheless, I have still found ways to achieve a high level of success in academics through hard work and determination. I am already on track to earn my Associate in Arts degree at the same time as my high school graduation. As I have taken on the tumultuous task of taking dual enrollment classes as a student at a full-time collegiate high school. In college, I plan on pursuing a major in political science and going to law school. And I will use my education to further my career in the fields of politics and law. As I find it an absolute necessity to use my skills and influence in these professions to help with the improvement of the Black community. Helping to right wrongs when comes to the problems over policing and imprisonment of people of color. I will be advocating for and making sure that there is legislation is passed to protect the rights and history and heritage of African Americans. As we witness an ever-increasing movement to destroy diversity and inclusion in American society. As with the use of book bans and banning of the teachings of African American Studies and History. In giving back to my community I will be able to help my fellow brothers and sisters educate and themselves, enrich themselves, and break the shackles of the present conditions that enslave them and place them at the bottom of American society.

The legendary Booker T. Washington once said “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.” Is it not human nature to give out a helping hand when you see your fellow brother and sister down? There are so many reasons why we should help others besides it being the right thing to do. By helping others, you are able to build connections and lifelong friendships that can be helpful in the future. We are able to turn strangers into friends and showcase our innocent pure human nature. When helping others we are doing community service in trying to make the world a better place. Also, when you help others, you are in a way giving back and paying forward to those who will follow you and help others. In my experience, it is impossible to not help others in our everyday lives. As a student, you constantly learn from helping each other and asking questions. Some of the best childhood friendships started from two needing help inside of school. When we take away our pride and humble ourselves we are able to learn new things and gain new experiences after helping or being helped by others. If we learn from our youngest ages that we must work together in the name of teamwork then obviously it is important to help each other. As people, we must work together and put aside our differences to accomplish things that will benefit all of humanity. If we could work cohesively in cooperation throughout the world there wouldn't be all the problems that we face today such as war, disease, and famine. If wealthy countries helped out poor countries in the same way that a wealthy man should help the less fortunate that he comes across who are homeless and hungry, then the people of those poor countries would have a fighting chance at a happy life. This is because when we help others who are less fortunate than ourselves we give them an opportunity to experience life as it should be. So, I would like to conclude by stating that we all can do better as people in helping each other. To enlighten our souls and add joy and meaning to our lives. Because it is our job to be our brother's keeper and so if you see your fellow brother down and refuse to help them, then that says a lot about yourself. When we help others we also help ourselves become better people.

There are many reasons why I have decided to become a political science major and eventually go to law school. The most important reason that I want to become a lawyer and later a politician is to help make change for the Black community as well as for the rest of humanity. I also want to use the law, the American legal system, that has throughout its entirety been used to the disadvantage of the Black community, to help benefit the Black community and help elevate us in society. In doing so I want to help right the many wrongs that we, Black people have suffered from. As a person who lives in a majority Black community considered a ghetto or hood, I have developed a strong love for the uniqueness of my community and an appreciation of its history. From an early age, I have always had a love for history. Because of this, I was inspired early on by the life and activism of civil rights leaders such as the Reverand Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. My personal ideological approach to ways to solve social and political problems was shaped by the way that they put their lives on the line to advocate for the equality and improvement of the Black race. I was also inspired by the works and leadership of Presidents Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Lyndon Baines Johnson. In regard to FDR, through his creation and implementation of the New Deal, he was able to revive the United States from one of its deepest darkest hours which was filled with massive unemployment, hunger, and homelessness. Despite these challenges, he was able to revitalize the economy helping to turn the United States into the superpower that helped win World War Two and shape the post-war global order. In regard to LBJ, his advocation and cooperation in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 helped pave numerous paths that have benefited Black Americans since. Also, through his declaration of the War on Poverty and his implementation of the Great Society, he was able to help improve the living standards of the poorest Americans who were living in the wealthiest nation. From these two great figures, I was able to develop a belief that government should work to help benefit its citizens. As a politician, I will focus on advocating for the improvement of the lives of those who are usually forgotten about and whose problems are mostly ignored. These include the poor, the elderly, and minorities especially, African Americans. As I have discovered more information about and witnessed the numerous problems that these groups continue to face which prevent them from striving in today's world, I become even more motivated to become involved in politics, and law, and pursue my career as both a lawyer and later a politician. This is because I want to be able to change policies and use the law in a justice and fair manner that will benefit everyone, not just the privileged few who get to enjoy the splendors of the world.