I have chosen to pursue art out of a deep reverence, necessity, and curisoity I have for creativity. Art is a special lifeline, a language, and a form of survival. As an African American young woman studying general art in college, I’ve found in art both a mirror and a map. My practice subtely reflects back to me who I am, helps me process things, learn about others, and discover what matters to me. My choice to pursue a degree in art is rooted in my desire to improve my stroytelling skills and connect with others through creative expression, while continuing to build my practice as a photographer and emerging artist. Growing up, I found refuge in many third spaces that had art. Places like libraries, art classes, museums, and public murals in parks are welcomed my presence. Each space gave me something different. In libraries, I discovered artists and movements I had never heard of before and taught myself how to "read" images as carefully as I read books. In art classes, I found a sense of community and confidence, learning not just technique, but how to see the world in new ways. And in museums and murals, I saw the power of visual storytelling and curation. I was fascinated by how color, shape, and texture can speak across time and culture. College has only deepened this journey while increasing my skillsets as well as critical thinking capabilties. Studying art and minoring in sustainability has pushed me to explore different mediums, sharpened my scientific skills, and stretched my creative boundaries. It’s helped me think more critically about storytelling, lighting, symbolism, and how my work fits into larger artistic traditions. My photography has evolved from simple snapshots into more thoughtful, narrative-driven pieces. I now see each photo as part of a broader ecosystem. This ecosystem is one that includes influences from the history of visual culture, the communities I come from, and the future I want to help shape. What inspires me most are the stories that don’t always make it into the spotlight. I am drawn to Black life in its everyday beauty, the strength of the Earth, and the complexities that lie in between. My work sits at the intersection of identity, community, culture, and ecology. I’m especially influenced by artists like Gordon Parks and Carrie Mae Weems, whose work centers Black identity with pride, clarity, and grace. Their influence shows up in my own work, where I strive to create images that honor people’s experiences, hold emotional weight, and speak honestly. Receiving the Mcristle Ross Scholarship would it would be a powerful affirmation of the path I’m on and critical financial support as I work to raise funds for my final year in school. Like Ms. Ross, I believe in the vital role of art in our lives: not just as decoration, but as documentation, resistance, and hope. I want to carry forward her legacy by continuing to create work that uplifts others and adds beauty, truth, and perspective to the world. Thank you for considering my application and for honoring the spirit of someone who understood the deep importance of supporting black artists and the arts.

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!