As a young black American woman and a first-generation college student, my educational journey has been both a source of hope and a tough challenge. My ancestors, who endured American chattel slavery and grew up in the segregated South, faced systemic barriers that left them with few opportunities for formal education. My mom, though better positioned than her parents, was unable to access college due to financial, societal, and health constraints. My father only did some high school. When I consider all this, pursuing higher education feels like a necessary step forward. It's not merely about me but for my family’s future. From a young age, I’ve taken school, my studies, and extra circulars seriously thanks to my mom. But only recently have I why understood education isn't simply a personal ambition. It is an opportunity to reshape the narrative of what’s possible for my family. I must admit as I’ve navigated ] collegiate institutions, my family and I were how largely unprepared for many of its complexities. From struggles with FAFSA forms written in language unfamiliar to my parents to understanding how to advocate for myself in academic spaces, I’ve had to learn everything on my own. This process sometimes feels lonely and isolating. I feel I’ve had to overcompensate for a lack of guidance or institutional knowledge that many of my peers inherit from their families. My background has also profoundly shaped my goals and approach to education. Coming from a low-income community, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of creativity and storytelling in giving a voice to the underrepresented. Art has been my way of exploring the world, connecting with my identity, and challenging societal norms. However, choosing a degree in the arts as a minority comes with its own challenges. There’s an unspoken pressure to pursue fields deemed more “secure,” but I believe that art and creativity are just as vital in advancing society and offering representation for marginalized communities. Despite these pressures, I remain hopeful. I see myself as a bridge. I can show younger family members and community members that higher education is within reach, even if the journey feels unfamiliar and overwhelming. My goals extend beyond personal success; I aim to inspire systemic change by making arts education more accessible to underprivileged youth. I dream of creating programs and grants that empower underrepresented creatives, ensuring they don’t have to struggle as I did to access resources. Still, fears loom around me. College costs are a constant burden, and I’ve often wondered if the financial strain will outweigh the benefits of my degree. I also worry about succeeding in spaces where I’m one of few people who look or think like me. The “imposter syndrome” that accompanies being an outsider to the system is real and ever-present. Yet, each semester, I remind myself of why I started: to break generational cycles of inequity and leave a legacy that proves education is a powerful equalizer. My experience as a first-generation art student has shaped my resilience and resourcefulness. I’ve learned to navigate unfamiliar systems with determination and use my unique perspective to bring fresh ideas to the table. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden but also allow me to focus more on my creative and educational goals. With support, I can continue to challenge myself, amplify my voice, and uplift my community through art, education, and representation. Thank you for the opportunity to apply!