
Miami, FL
Age
18
Gender
Female
Ethnicity
Black/African
Hobbies and interests
Clinical Psychology
Psychiatry
Psychology
Business And Entrepreneurship
Cooking
Comedy
Food And Eating
Kinesiology
Reading
Young Adult
Humor
Adult Fiction
Psychology
I read books multiple times per month
US CITIZENSHIP
US Citizen
LOW INCOME STUDENT
Yes
FIRST GENERATION STUDENT
Yes
Kaila Styles
1,065
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Kaila Styles
1,065
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
My ultimate goal is to earn a doctorate, become a psychiatrist, and establish my own practice. I am deeply passionate about supporting others in their mental health journeys, as I believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate and effective care. My personal experiences with mental health have shaped my understanding of the challenges individuals face and have instilled in me a strong commitment to making a meaningful difference in this field.
Through my dedication to learning and personal growth, I aim to develop the skills and expertise necessary to provide the highest quality care to my future patients. Establishing my own practice will allow me to create a safe and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, understood, and empowered to achieve mental well-being. I am confident that my determination, empathy, and passion for this work make me an excellent candidate for pursuing this path and fulfilling these goals.
Education
Miami Central Senior High School
High SchoolGPA:
3.8
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Majors of interest:
- Psychology, Other
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
Career
Dream career field:
Mental Health Care
Dream career goals:
Become a a Psychiatrist
Cashier
Footlocker2021 – 20232 years
Sports
Football
Varsity2019 – 20212 years
Awards
- Yes
Track & Field
Varsity2022 – 20231 year
Awards
- Yes
Volleyball
Varsity2021 – 20221 year
Awards
- Yes
Arts
Miami Central Senior High Choir
Music2021 – 2024My Local Dance Team & My Elementary School Dance Team
Dance2013 – 2018
Public services
Volunteering
Miami Central Senior High — Contributor2024 – 2024Volunteering
Tacolcy — Consultant2022 – 2022
Future Interests
Advocacy
Entrepreneurship
Chris Ford Scholarship
Growing up, I’ve always been inspired by the resilience and strength of those around me, particularly my mother, who taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. Her example instilled in me a sense of determination, motivating me to push through challenges and stay focused on my goals. However, it was during the COVID pandemic that I faced my own significant challenge. As the world went into lockdown, I experienced a decline in my mental health, struggling with feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and anxiety.
The sudden change in routine, the lack of social interaction, and the constant stress of living through a global pandemic took a toll on my well-being. This difficult period became a turning point in my life, as I realized how important it is to prioritize mental health. I also became aware of the stigma surrounding mental health struggles and how many people, especially in underserved communities, don’t have access to the resources or support they need.
This experience has shaped my desire to pursue a career in psychiatry. I want to be part of a solution that helps others navigate their own mental health challenges, particularly during times of crisis. The pandemic showed me just how crucial it is to have mental health professionals who are not only skilled but also empathetic and accessible. I am passionate about helping others understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. My goal is to work with individuals who are experiencing similar struggles—whether due to personal circumstances, societal pressures, or a global crisis like the one we’ve all lived through.
In addition to my career aspirations, I am also committed to making a positive impact on my community. Throughout the pandemic, I participated in various volunteer efforts to support those who were isolated or facing financial hardship. Whether it was delivering food to families in need or providing support to classmates struggling with online learning, these experiences reinforced my belief in the power of compassion and service.
As I continue my journey through higher education, I plan to bring these lessons with me—balancing my academic goals with a deep commitment to serving others. I want to advocate for greater access to mental health resources, particularly for individuals who may not have the same opportunities for care. Through my future work as a psychiatrist, I hope to help others heal, grow, and reclaim their sense of hope and well-being.
The lessons I’ve learned through my own mental health struggles during the pandemic have inspired me to create a career centered on empathy, understanding, and support. I believe that by helping individuals address their mental health needs, we can foster stronger, more resilient communities. Through my work, I hope to make a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most.
Mark Green Memorial Scholarship
Growing up, I was fortunate to have a strong, resilient role model in my mother, who taught me the importance of hard work and determination. Watching her overcome challenges with grace instilled in me the belief that perseverance can turn obstacles into opportunities. Her example has motivated me to pursue my dreams, even when faced with challenges of my own. One of those moments came during my freshman year, when I tore my ACL while playing volleyball. The injury was not just physically painful but emotionally difficult, as it temporarily took me away from the sport I love.
The recovery process was a long and humbling journey, filled with physical therapy sessions, missed games, and moments of doubt. However, it also became a turning point for me. I learned the value of patience and resilience, and I discovered the importance of maintaining a positive mindset in the face of adversity. That experience shaped who I am today and fueled my desire to help others navigate their own challenges.
Now, as a high school senior, I aspire to make a meaningful impact in the field of mental health. My experience recovering from my injury sparked an interest in understanding the connection between physical and mental well-being. I plan to pursue a career in psychiatry, where I can provide care and support for individuals who are struggling. Mental health is often overlooked, and I want to be a voice for those who feel unseen or unheard. Whether it’s helping people heal after a traumatic experience or guiding them through everyday struggles, I want to make a difference by offering hope and understanding.
Outside of academics and sports, I am passionate about giving back to my community. I have participated in volunteer work, including mentoring younger students and assisting with local events. These experiences have taught me the importance of kindness and service, and they have fueled my desire to uplift those around me. I believe that even small acts of compassion can create ripples of positive change.
This scholarship would be an invaluable step toward achieving my goals. It would allow me to focus on my education and prepare for the path ahead while also easing the financial burden on my family. More importantly, it would bring me closer to realizing my dream of making a lasting impact on the lives of others.
I am committed to using my experiences, skills, and compassion to create a brighter future—not just for myself, but for my community and beyond. With this opportunity, I hope to turn my challenges into a source of strength and inspiration for others.
Anthony Bruder Memorial Scholarship
As a high school senior, being a student-athlete has been one of the most defining aspects of my life. Volleyball has taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of hard work—qualities that have not only helped me succeed on the court but also shaped my future career goals. During my freshman year, I tore my ACL while playing volleyball, which was a pivotal moment in my journey. While the injury sidelined me for months, it also taught me the importance of perseverance and staying positive through setbacks.
Through this experience, I became fascinated by the physical and mental challenges athletes face, which has inspired my interest in pursuing a career in psychiatry. I want to support people dealing with the mental health challenges that can arise from injuries, pressure, or everyday struggles. As a psychiatrist, I aim to help individuals strengthen their mental well-being just as physical therapy helped me recover and return to the court. My time as a student-athlete has shown me how crucial mental health is in achieving success, whether in sports or life, and I want to make a difference in this area.
Outside of sports, I have many interests that keep me grounded and balanced. I enjoy creative pursuits like writing and art, which allow me to express myself in ways that are different from athletics. Writing has been a way for me to process my thoughts and emotions, particularly during challenging times, such as recovering from my injury. Art, on the other hand, provides a calming outlet that helps me stay focused and inspired.
I also enjoy volunteering in my community. Giving back has always been important to me, as it aligns with my desire to make a positive impact on others. Whether it’s helping at local events or mentoring younger students, I value opportunities to connect with others and contribute to meaningful causes.
Finally, I am passionate about learning. I have a deep interest in science, particularly psychology and biology, as they help me better understand the human body and mind. This curiosity fuels my academic goals and supports my aspirations to become a psychiatrist.
Overall, being a student-athlete has taught me that resilience, teamwork, and time management are essential for success. These lessons have shaped both my career goals and the person I strive to be. Combined with my interests outside of sports, I believe I am well-prepared to face challenges, continue learning, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This balance between sports, academics, and personal passions has not only defined my high school experience but also laid the foundation for the person I hope to become in the future.
Nickels Student Athlete Scholarship
Participating in sports throughout high school brings both incredible rewards and significant challenges. The demands of being a student-athlete are rigorous, requiring a careful balance between academics, practices, games, and personal commitments. For many athletes, injuries and setbacks also play a major role in shaping their experience. My journey as a student-athlete has been no different.
During my freshman year, I tore my ACL while playing volleyball. The injury was devastating. Volleyball had always been a significant part of my life, and suddenly, I couldn’t play the sport I loved. The recovery process was long and grueling, involving surgery, physical therapy, and countless hours of rest. Watching from the sidelines while my teammates continued to compete was emotionally challenging. I felt frustration and disappointment, but I also realized the importance of perseverance and maintaining a positive mindset.
This injury taught me one of the most valuable lessons of my life: setbacks are inevitable, but resilience is what defines you. There were moments during my recovery when progress felt slow, but I kept reminding myself that healing was a process. By staying committed to physical therapy and focusing on small victories along the way, I was able to come back stronger.
Beyond physical challenges, being a student-athlete also requires mastering time management. Balancing practice schedules, game days, and academic responsibilities isn’t easy. Late nights studying after games and early mornings training before school became a regular part of my routine. Learning to prioritize and stay organized has been essential, and it’s a skill that will continue to serve me throughout my life.
Another lesson I’ve learned from sports is the value of teamwork. Volleyball, like many sports, relies on collaboration and trust. Success on the court isn’t just about individual skills—it’s about working together, communicating effectively, and supporting one another. This has taught me how to rely on others while also doing my part to contribute to the team’s success. These lessons extend far beyond sports; they’ve helped me build stronger relationships and thrive in group settings, whether it’s for school projects or extracurricular activities.
Sports have also instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and goal-setting. Whether it’s perfecting a specific skill during practice or striving for good grades in the classroom, I’ve learned how to set clear objectives and work consistently toward achieving them. The drive and determination I’ve developed as a student-athlete have prepared me for challenges not just in athletics but in all aspects of life.
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that being a student-athlete has shaped who I am today. My ACL injury during freshman year, while difficult, taught me resilience and the importance of pushing through adversity. The lessons I’ve gained from balancing academics and athletics—discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—have prepared me to take on whatever challenges come next. While high school sports have come with their share of obstacles, they’ve also provided me with lifelong skills and memories that I will carry into my future.
Atwood Leadership and Service Scholarship
A time I demonstrated leadership in my school was when I ran for and won the position of Student Government Association (SGA) President. This role allowed me to lead my peers in advocating for their needs and creating meaningful change in our school community. During my tenure, I organized initiatives that brought students together, improved communication between the student body and administration, and encouraged greater participation in school activities. One of my proudest accomplishments was organizing a mental health awareness campaign that provided resources and support to students who were struggling.
This experience taught me that leadership is about service and empowerment. As SGA President, I recognized the importance of listening to the voices of others and making decisions that reflected their needs. For example, many students expressed concerns about feeling overwhelmed with academic and personal challenges. In response, I worked with my peers and faculty to host stress-relief workshops and provide information on local mental health resources. Seeing the positive impact this had on students reaffirmed my belief that leadership is most effective when it is focused on serving others.
Beyond SGA, I also demonstrated leadership as a member of my volleyball and track teams, where I supported my teammates by encouraging them and fostering a sense of camaraderie. As an athletic trainer, I took on the responsibility of ensuring my peers’ well-being during practices and games. These roles reinforced the value of teamwork and the importance of lifting others up to achieve shared goals.
I plan to bring these leadership skills to my university community in several ways. I aim to get involved in student organizations and initiatives that align with my passion for mental health advocacy. Whether by joining or leading a mental health club, organizing events that promote emotional well-being, or mentoring younger students, I want to be a positive force on campus. My goal is to create an inclusive environment where students feel supported and empowered to succeed.
Service will remain at the core of my leadership approach. At its heart, leadership is not about authority but about being a catalyst for positive change. By actively listening to others, understanding their challenges, and working collaboratively to find solutions, I can make a meaningful impact on my university community. For example, I would like to spearhead initiatives that provide resources for managing stress and balancing academics with personal growth—issues I know many students face during college.
In addition to contributing to my university, I see leadership as essential to my personal and professional goals. I aspire to pursue a career in psychology, focusing on mental health advocacy for youth. The skills I’ve developed—effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork—will be invaluable as I work to create programs and spaces where young people can thrive emotionally and mentally.
Leadership is not just about achieving personal success but about leaving a legacy of service and empowerment. By bringing my experiences and values to my university and future career, I am committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Let Your Light Shine Scholarship
Creating a legacy is about leaving a meaningful impact on others and inspiring positive change. In my future, I hope to build a legacy rooted in compassion, empowerment, and advocacy. I aspire to create opportunities for others to grow, thrive, and overcome challenges. My passion for mental health drives this vision, as I believe addressing mental well-being is essential for individuals to reach their full potential. Through my work, I aim to champion the importance of mental health, break down stigmas, and create environments where people feel supported and understood.
One day, I hope to start my own business—a mental health organization dedicated to serving youth. My goal is to create a space that provides resources, counseling, and mentorship for young people navigating the pressures of school, relationships, and personal development. This business would blend my passion for psychology with my commitment to helping others, offering accessible and innovative mental health programs. I want it to be more than just a counseling center; it would be a hub for community outreach, peer support groups, and workshops that teach self-care and coping skills.
The organization would also focus on mental health education, partnering with schools and community groups to provide training for teachers, parents, and students. By fostering understanding and equipping young people with tools for resilience, my business would strive to empower the next generation to prioritize their mental well-being and support one another. I envision this organization becoming a cornerstone of mental health advocacy in my community, creating a ripple effect of positive change for years to come.
In everything I do, I aim to shine my light by bringing positivity, empathy, and determination to the table. I shine my light when I support others, whether it’s through mentorship, leadership, or simply being a source of encouragement. As SGA President in high school, I worked to uplift the voices of my peers and advocate for initiatives that made a difference in their lives. Whether it was organizing events, addressing concerns, or leading by example, I strived to create an inclusive and supportive environment.
I also shine my light through my passion for athletics and teamwork. As a volleyball player, shot put athlete, and athletic trainer, I learned the value of perseverance and collaboration. These experiences taught me to lead with kindness, inspire others, and work toward common goals. My dedication to my team and peers is a reflection of my desire to uplift those around me.
Looking to the future, my legacy will be defined by the lives I touch and the barriers I help to break. I want to be remembered as someone who empowered others to prioritize their mental health and believe in their own potential. Whether through my future business, leadership roles, or everyday actions, I will continue to shine my light by creating spaces where people feel valued, understood, and capable of achieving their dreams.
Aserina Hill Memorial Scholarship
I am a dedicated and ambitious individual with a strong passion for leadership, athletics, and community involvement. Throughout high school, I have immersed myself in various roles and activities that reflect my diverse interests and commitment to personal growth. I played volleyball, threw shot put on the track and field team, and worked as an athletic trainer, all of which taught me the value of teamwork, perseverance, and discipline. Sports have always been an integral part of my life, providing not only physical challenges but also lessons in leadership and camaraderie.
In addition to my athletic pursuits, I successfully campaigned for and served as Student Government Association (SGA) President. This role pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace leadership opportunities. Serving as SGA President was a transformative experience that helped me develop confidence in public speaking, organization, and collaboration. I presided over meetings, represented the student body in discussions with faculty and administration, and worked to implement initiatives that addressed student concerns. Through this journey, I learned the importance of advocating for others, understanding different perspectives, and creating positive change within a community. These qualities continue to guide me in my academic and extracurricular pursuits.
Beyond my school activities, I have always been passionate about giving back to my community. Whether through mentoring younger students, organizing events, or helping my peers achieve their goals, I take pride in being a source of support and encouragement for others. My experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, resilience, and hard work—qualities I strive to bring to every aspect of my life.
After high school, I plan to pursue a college education that aligns with my passion for mental health and helping others. My goal is to study psychology or a related field, as I believe mental health is a critical but often overlooked aspect of overall well-being. I am particularly passionate about addressing the mental health challenges faced by young people and improving access to resources for those who need them. I aspire to work as a psychologist or mental health advocate, creating programs and initiatives that empower youth to thrive emotionally and mentally.
If I had the opportunity to start my own charity, its mission would center on supporting the mental health of young people. Mental health is an essential part of overall wellness, yet many youths lack access to the resources and guidance they need to navigate their struggles. My charity would create safe spaces where young people can seek counseling, connect with mentors, and participate in workshops focused on mental health awareness and self-care.
Additionally, the charity would work to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health through community outreach programs. By partnering with schools, community centers, and local organizations, we would host events to promote awareness, teach coping strategies, and foster open conversations about mental health. Volunteers would play a crucial role by mentoring youth, organizing events, and leading peer support groups to create a sense of connection and understanding.
I am passionate about creating a future where mental health is prioritized and every young person has the tools they need to succeed. Whether through my education, career, or charitable efforts, I am committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Rev. Frank W. Steward Memorial Scholarship
I am a compassionate and driven individual with a deep passion for psychology and understanding the complexities of the human mind. My goal is to use my education and career to make a positive impact on the world by promoting mental health awareness and providing meaningful support to individuals facing emotional and psychological challenges. I believe that understanding how people think, feel, and behave is essential to creating a more empathetic, supportive, and connected society.
Through my future career, I aspire to work as a psychologist, therapist, or mental health advocate, offering resources and guidance to those in need. My ultimate aim is to help people navigate their mental health journeys, overcome obstacles, and achieve personal growth. Whether through one-on-one therapy, community outreach programs, or research into innovative treatment methods, I am committed to making a difference in the lives of others. I want to contribute to a world where mental health is prioritized, and stigma is replaced with understanding, compassion, and access to care for everyone.
I understand that my path will not be without its challenges, especially during my college education. I anticipate obstacles such as managing a rigorous academic workload, adjusting to the demands of higher education, and balancing my studies with personal responsibilities. However, I am determined to overcome these challenges by remaining focused, organized, and proactive. I plan to use tools such as detailed scheduling and time management to stay on top of my responsibilities. Additionally, I will seek support from professors, advisors, and peers, knowing that building a strong support system will be vital to my success. I also recognize the importance of self-care and balance, and I will prioritize maintaining my own mental and emotional health as I work toward my goals.
My passion for psychology stems from a lifelong curiosity about human behavior and a desire to help others thrive. I have always been fascinated by what drives people’s thoughts and actions, and I am deeply motivated by the idea of helping individuals overcome challenges, improve their relationships, and lead fulfilling lives. This passion extends beyond academics—I love exploring psychological concepts through reading, participating in discussions, and observing how these theories apply in real-world situations. For me, psychology is not just a subject of study but also a way to connect with people and better understand the world.
Outside of my academic pursuits, I enjoy activities that enrich my understanding of people and their experiences. I find inspiration in meaningful conversations, community involvement, and creative expression. These activities remind me why I am passionate about psychology and fuel my desire to make a difference in others’ lives.
I am excited about the opportunities that college will provide to grow personally, academically, and professionally. I am confident that with hard work, resilience, and a commitment to my passion, I will achieve my goals and contribute positively to the world through my career in psychology.
El Jefe Entrepreneurial Scholarship
As a young Black girl who has grown up in diverse environments surrounded by people of various races and cultures, I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of inclusivity, representation, and community. My experiences have shaped my perspective and made me keenly aware of the unique challenges that individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often face, particularly in accessing equitable and culturally competent mental health care.
These experiences have fueled my passion for creating meaningful change, and I intend to make a positive impact by starting my own psychiatric practice. My goal is to establish a practice that not only provides high-quality mental health care but also prioritizes inclusivity, accessibility, and understanding for people from all walks of life, especially those from marginalized communities. I want to build a space where patients feel safe, respected, and heard, knowing that their mental health concerns will be addressed with empathy and cultural sensitivity.
Entrepreneurship, to me, is about identifying gaps in current systems and creating solutions that bring about lasting change. I have seen firsthand how systemic barriers, stigma, and lack of resources can prevent individuals—particularly children, adolescents, and people of color—from accessing the mental health support they need. My practice will aim to break down these barriers by offering services such as affordable care options, community outreach programs, and culturally informed therapeutic approaches.
One of my core principles will be incorporating education and prevention into my practice. Mental health challenges often go unaddressed due to a lack of awareness or misunderstanding about their symptoms and effects. By hosting workshops, collaborating with schools, and providing families with resources, I aim to normalize conversations about mental health and equip communities with the knowledge they need to support one another. This proactive approach will help address issues early and reduce the stigma surrounding seeking care.
In addition to addressing mental health disparities, I want to use my platform as an entrepreneur to inspire and mentor other young women of color. Representation matters, and I believe that showing what’s possible through my own journey can encourage others to pursue their dreams, even in fields where they are underrepresented. My practice will also emphasize collaboration with schools, families, and community organizations to create a network of support that extends beyond the clinical setting.
Ultimately, my goal is to create a psychiatric practice that is not just a business but a force for positive change. By combining my lived experiences with my professional aspirations, I plan to challenge the status quo, address inequities, and provide a space where mental health care is accessible, compassionate, and empowering for all. Through this work, I hope to leave a lasting impact on both individuals and the broader community.
Ryan Yebba Memorial Mental Health Scholarship
Advocating for progress and social change regarding bullying and harassment in K-12 settings is essential to fostering safe, inclusive learning environments. I have worked to raise awareness, promote empathy, and implement proactive strategies to combat bullying. For example, I’ve facilitated workshops teaching students and educators about the impacts of bullying and the importance of bystander intervention. Additionally, I’ve supported initiatives focused on social-emotional learning (SEL), helping students develop resilience, empathy, and conflict-resolution skills. These efforts aim to empower children to navigate social challenges constructively and foster a culture of respect.
Looking ahead, I plan to advocate for restorative anti-bullying policies that go beyond punishment. This includes implementing peer mediation programs, increasing access to school-based mental health resources, and providing safe, anonymous channels for students to report harassment. By creating a school culture that prioritizes open communication and restorative practices, we can help students build stronger connections and address conflicts in a healthy, constructive way.
An often-overlooked aspect of combating bullying is supporting students who exhibit bullying behaviors. Many of these individuals face challenges such as unmet emotional needs, low self-esteem, or adverse experiences at home. By addressing the root causes of their behavior through counseling, mentorship, and SEL programs, we can break the cycle of harm and promote healthier interpersonal relationships. It’s crucial to approach the issue holistically, focusing not only on victims but also on helping those responsible for bullying grow and change.
Another important component of advocacy is empowering teachers and staff with the tools and training to handle bullying effectively. Many educators feel unprepared to intervene in conflicts or recognize signs of mental distress among students. By implementing professional development programs that focus on trauma-informed practices and conflict resolution, we can equip educators to create safer, more supportive classrooms. This systemic approach ensures that prevention and intervention are embedded in the daily operations of schools.
My passion for pursuing a career in mental health stems from my belief in the transformative power of early intervention. Growing up, I witnessed peers struggling with mental health challenges exacerbated by bullying, often without access to adequate support. These experiences fueled my commitment to addressing the unmet mental health needs of children and adolescents. I want to ensure that no child feels isolated or uncertain about where to seek help during difficult times.
To streamline the often complex process of obtaining appropriate treatment, I plan to focus on three key areas: accessibility, coordination, and education. First, I aim to expand access to mental health services through telehealth, school-based clinics, and community partnerships, ensuring that care is readily available. Second, I will work to improve coordination between schools, families, and healthcare providers, creating a seamless continuum of care tailored to each child’s needs. Finally, I intend to educate parents, teachers, and students on recognizing mental health challenges and navigating resources effectively.
By addressing systemic barriers and promoting awareness, I hope to make mental health care more accessible and less intimidating for families. My ultimate goal is to integrate mental health services with anti-bullying initiatives, creating a holistic framework that supports children’s emotional, social, and academic well-being. Through proactive advocacy and collaboration, I aim to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Women in Healthcare Scholarship
My name is Kaila Styles, and I am a high school senior with a strong interest in pursuing a degree in healthcare. Ever since I was young, I have been fascinated by how the human body works and how people can heal and recover from injuries and illnesses. This curiosity has driven my interest in psychology and kinesiology, and I am eager to explore these fields further in college. I am applying to universities like Penn State, University of Louisville, Florida State University, Howard University, and the University of Miami, where I hope to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to make a difference in healthcare.
Choosing to pursue a degree in healthcare feels like a natural extension of my interests and values. I have always been drawn to helping others and making a positive impact in my community. Healthcare is a field where I can combine my passion for science with my desire to support and care for others. I am particularly interested in psychology and physical therapy because they both focus on improving people's quality of life. Understanding the mind and body connection is crucial, and I believe that by studying these areas, I can help others lead healthier and happier lives.
As a woman in healthcare, I hope to bring a unique perspective and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive environment. Representation matters, and I want to be part of a generation of women who are breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a healthcare professional. By being a role model for other young women, especially those who share my background, I hope to inspire them to pursue careers in healthcare and other STEM fields.
In terms of impact, I am particularly interested in addressing health disparities that affect underserved communities. As a Black woman, I am aware of the challenges that these communities face in accessing quality healthcare. I want to use my education and skills to advocate for better healthcare policies and practices that ensure everyone has access to the care they need. Whether it is through research, direct patient care, or community outreach, I am committed to making a difference.
I also hope to contribute to the growing field of mental health awareness. Mental health is often overlooked, but it is just as important as physical health. By studying psychology, I aim to help destigmatize mental health issues and provide support to those who need it. I believe that by promoting mental wellness, we can create healthier communities overall.
In conclusion, my decision to pursue a degree in healthcare is driven by my passion for helping others and my interest in understanding the human body and mind. As a woman in healthcare, I hope to make a positive impact by advocating for health equity, inspiring future generations, and promoting mental health awareness. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am committed to making a meaningful contribution to the field.
Julius Quentin Jackson Scholarship
Growing up, I have faced numerous challenges that have shaped my character and determination. My father has been in and out of my life, creating a sense of instability that has been difficult to navigate. His inconsistent presence left me longing for guidance and support, which I’ve had to find within myself. Meanwhile, my mother has not held a job in years, which has placed immense financial pressure on our family. This has often made it difficult to afford basic necessities, let alone additional resources for my education.
These circumstances have required me to mature quickly and take on responsibilities beyond my age. I’ve often had to find ways to support my family, whether by helping to manage our household or working part-time jobs while staying focused on school. At times, I’ve had to make difficult decisions, such as prioritizing my education over social activities or finding creative ways to pursue opportunities with limited resources.
Financial struggles have been a constant in my life, but they’ve taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the value of perseverance. Despite these obstacles, I’ve remained committed to excelling academically and building a better future for myself. Education is my way out of these circumstances, and I am determined to break the cycle of hardship for myself and my family.
This scholarship would be a tremendous help in alleviating the financial strain on my family. It would allow me to focus more fully on my studies without the constant worry of how to cover tuition, textbooks, or other school-related expenses. It would also enable me to dedicate more time to my academic and personal growth, rather than juggling work and school.
Through these challenges, I’ve learned the importance of hard work, compassion, and perseverance. They’ve shaped me into a determined individual who refuses to give up, no matter the circumstances. I plan to use my education to create a better future, not only for myself but also to give back to others who face similar struggles. This scholarship would be the foundation for turning my aspirations into reality.
Marques D. Rodriguez Memorial Scholarship
About Myself & Passion
Ever since I can remember, I’ve been passionate about creative expression, whether through singing, music, or art. These outlets give me a way to communicate what words alone can’t always express. Singing, in particular, holds a special place in my heart because it allows me to connect deeply with emotions—not just my own, but those of others as well. There’s something powerful about how a song can tell a story, evoke a memory, or bring comfort. I love experimenting with different vocal styles and challenging myself to improve my skills. Singing also gives me confidence, as it lets me share a part of myself with others in a way that feels authentic.
My Future and What I Have Planned
Music, as a whole, is something I find magical. It’s like a universal language that transcends barriers, bringing people together. I enjoy not just singing, but also learning about how music is created and how different instruments and sounds come together to form something beautiful. Art, on the other hand, allows me to visually express my ideas and creativity. I love exploring new mediums and techniques, whether it’s sketching, painting, or digital design. Creating something from scratch and watching it come to life is incredibly rewarding. To me, art and music are ways to process the world around me and inspire others to see things in a new light. Looking ahead, I have big dreams for the future. After high school, I plan to continue developing my creative skills and exploring where they can take me. I’m considering pursuing a degree in music production as I want to deepen my understanding of these areas and gain the tools to take my creativity to the next level. College or specialized training would also provide opportunities to connect with other like-minded people who share my passion for music and art.
Conclusion
Ultimately, I want to use my creativity to make a positive impact. One of my dreams is to create projects that combine my love for music and art, such as producing original songs or designing album artwork. I’d also love to explore ways to give back to the community, whether through teaching art or music to younger generations or organizing events that bring people together through creativity. No matter what path I take, my goal is to stay true to my passions and inspire others to embrace their own.