My journey through education and career has been significantly shaped by the unwavering support and inspirational presence of a remarkable woman in my life—my mother. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and an unyielding belief in the power of education to transform lives. My earliest memories are adorned with the image of my mother, an ambitious woman navigating the intricate dance of parenthood and personal growth. She embarked on her educational journey at the age of 30, armed with a profound sense of purpose and a fierce commitment to providing a better life for both herself and her four-year-old daughter. As a child, I was blissfully unaware of the challenges my mother faced. What I did grasp, however, was the importance she placed on education. Even in our modest home, books were cherished companions, and the pursuit of knowledge was not merely encouraged but celebrated. My mother, through her actions, instilled in me the belief that education was not just a pathway to a career but a key to unlocking one's full potential. Witnessing her late-night study sessions after putting me to bed became a routine. The soft glow of the lamp, the rhythmic turning of pages, and the quiet hum of concentration were the lullabies that accompanied my dreams. Those moments imprinted upon me the value of hard work and the idea that learning is a lifelong journey, irrespective of one's age or circumstances. The defining chapter of my mother's educational odyssey unfolded when she decided to pursue her degree. Balancing the demands of academia with the responsibilities of single parenthood was no small feat, but my mother embraced the challenge with tenacity. She attended classes, juggled deadlines, and, most impressively, managed to create an environment at home that fostered my own love for learning. Her graduation day was a culmination of years of sacrifice and dedication. I vividly recall the pride in her eyes, the radiant smile that mirrored a sense of accomplishment, and the unspoken message that reverberated—no dream is too big, and no goal is out of reach. At that moment, my mother became not just a graduate but a living testament to the transformative power of education and the strength of a woman determined to shape her destiny. As I embarked on my own educational journey, my mother's experiences became a compass guiding my choices. She was not only my source of encouragement but also my anchor during moments of self-doubt. Her mantra, "You can do anything you set your mind to," echoed in my ears as I faced challenges and embraced opportunities. Through her example, my mother taught me that education is not confined to classrooms or textbooks. It's a dynamic force that propels us forward, transcending barriers and empowering us to redefine our narratives. Her legacy isn't just the degree hanging on the wall but the indomitable spirit that continues to shape my aspirations and convictions. In the tapestry of my life, my mother's influence is woven into every thread, creating a narrative of empowerment, resilience, and the boundless possibilities that education opens. Her story is a testament to the strength that lies within every woman, illustrating that age, circumstances, or societal norms should never limit one's pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. Through her, I learned that education is not just a means to an end but a lifelong companion, guiding us towards self-discovery and the realization of our fullest potential.

My leadership experience has been shaped by my involvement in extracurricular activities that align with my interests and goals. These activities not only reflect my dedication to the arts but also demonstrate my ability to balance leadership responsibilities with academic commitments, all while maintaining a strong Grade Point Average (GPA). One significant leadership role I undertook was as the the Student Director position of the Thespian Club at my high school. In this capacity, I spearheaded initiatives to create a vibrant community of budding filmmakers, actors, and wriyters. I organized film screenings, workshops, and collaborative projects that allowed members to hone their skills and share their unique perspectives. As a leader, I facilitated an inclusive environment where creativity flourished, and aspiring creators felt empowered to express themselves. Balancing this leadership role with my academic responsibilities required meticulous time management. I adopted a strategic approach, scheduling regular club meetings, events, and film projects during times that minimally conflicted with my coursework. Additionally, I leveraged technology, mainly Group Me and Discord, to streamline communication and collaboration, ensuring that club members remained engaged and informed outside of scheduled meetings. This experience not only enhanced my leadership skills but also taught me the importance of effective time management in pursuing my passions. Simultaneously, I engaged in other extracurricular activities, such as volunteering for community film festivals and participating in local theater productions. These experiences allowed me to expand my network, gain practical insights into the film industry, and develop a broader perspective on storytelling. While these activities demanded time and effort, I approached them as valuable learning opportunities that complimented my academic journey. Maintaining a high GPA amid these extracurricular commitments required discipline and a proactive approach to academic responsibilities. I developed a personalized study schedule that accounted for my class workload, assignment deadlines, and upcoming film-related events. By prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance, I ensured that neither my academic nor extracurricular pursuits suffered. I sought support from teachers, mentors, and peers. Establishing open lines of communication allowed me to address challenges promptly and seek guidance when needed. Collaboration with fellow students in both academic and extracurricular settings fostered a sense of community, enabling us to share insights, resources, and support one another. In summary, my leadership experience in extracurricular activities, particularly as the president of the Film Club, has been instrumental in shaping my ability to manage time effectively. By creating a balance between my academic responsibilities and passion for film, I have not only maintained a strong GPA but also cultivated valuable skills in leadership, communication, and time management. These experiences have not only enriched my high school years but have also prepared me for the challenges and responsibilities I will encounter in my future endeavors as a film director.

Issa Rae is a talented actress, writer, and producer who has made significant contributions to the representation of African Americans in film and television. Her groundbreaking work has paved the way for other African American creatives to break into the industry and tell their own stories. Rae began her career creating and starring in her own web series, "The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl." The series was a critical and commercial success and led to her being discovered by Hollywood executives. She went on to create and star in the HBO series "Insecure," which has received critical acclaim and numerous awards for its realistic portrayal of the lives of young African Americans. One of the ways in which Rae has influenced the film industry for African Americans is by creating opportunities for other creatives. She has used her platform to produce other shows and films that feature African American talent both in front of and behind the camera. For example, she executive produced the HBO series "A Black Lady Sketch Show," which was created by and stars an all-black, all-female cast. This show provided a platform for up-and-coming African American comedians and writers to showcase their talents. Rae has also been vocal about the need for more diversity in Hollywood. In interviews and speeches, she has emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for people of color in all aspects of the industry, from writers and directors to actors and producers. By speaking out and using her platform to advocate for change, she has helped to raise awareness about the lack of diversity in the industry and encouraged others to take action. Another way in which Rae has influenced the film industry for African Americans is through her authentic portrayal of black characters and experiences. In her shows and films, she presents nuanced and complex characters who are not defined by stereotypes or caricatures. Instead, they are fully realized individuals with their own hopes, dreams, and flaws. This representation is important because it allows African Americans to see themselves reflected on screen in a way that is not often seen in mainstream media. Rae's work has also helped to expand the boundaries of what is considered "black" film and television. She has created shows and films that explore a range of themes and genres, from romance to comedy to drama. This diversity of storytelling is important because it shows that African Americans are not limited to telling stories about race and racism. Instead, they have the ability to tell stories that are universal and relatable to all audiences. In conclusion, Issa Rae has had a significant influence on the film industry for African Americans. Through her work as a writer, producer, and actress, she has created opportunities for other creatives, advocated for more diversity in the industry, and presented authentic and nuanced portrayals of black characters and experiences. Her work has helped to expand the boundaries of what is considered "black" film and television and has paved the way for other African American creatives to break into the industry and tell their own stories.