Since I was young, I have been driven to help my community. However, it wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I took a leap of faith and committed to championing community improvement. I founded and became the president of my high school’s first Black Student Union. This leadership role was not only a chance to enact changes within my school but also to extend my impact beyond its walls. The student union was able to get out into the community and help the elderly, and young children. Leading this initiative was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It provided me with valuable leadership skills that I continue to apply today. As a college sophomore majoring in strategic communications with a focus on advertising, I am now applying the skills I developed in high school to new leadership roles. My current positions include live streaming basketball games on ESPN+ and coordinating the Royal Court Mister and Miss Howard Pageant. Additionally, I handle graphic design and photography for the School of Communications student council. Each of these roles allows me to thrive creatively while adapting to the ever-evolving media industry. Everyday I learn a new skill or tool that I will be able to use in my career and community. A higher education in advertising will further equip me to give back to the communities that have supported me. My goal is to demonstrate to other students that they can achieve success in their own ways. To this end, I have launched a social media initiative called Project Success, where I share my college journey through short-form content. This initiative aims to inspire and motivate others to define and pursue their own versions of success. By showcasing my experiences and challenges, I hope to encourage others to believe in their potential and pursue their goals with determination. Winning the William Godfrey Scholarship would be a significant step in helping me achieve these goals. It would alleviate the financial burden of my education and allow me to focus more on my studies and community initiatives rather than on how to pay for my education or incurring substantial debt. Like John Lewis, I aspire to make “good trouble” and amplify the voices that do not always get heard in my community. This scholarship would not only support my educational journey but also empower me to continue my work as a changemaker, contributing positively to my community and inspiring others to do the same.

Driven by a deep-seated commitment to serve others, especially within my nurturing community, I have always sought to make a difference. This drive culminated in my junior year of high school when I founded and became the president of our Black Student Union. Leading this group allowed me to effect change not only within my school but also in the broader community. This leadership role was a humbling experience that taught me the essence of being a strong leader and serving others wholeheartedly. Now, as a rising college sophomore at Howard University pursuing a degree in advertising, I continue to channel my passion for excellence and community service. I aspire to become a creative director in the digital media space, aiming to showcase untold stories. The leadership skills I developed have empowered me to make significant contributions in my new home, the District of Columbia. I have actively participated in Howard University's Day of Service program, giving back and serving underprivileged communities, while volunteering at various new student events—all while staying true to my core value of being a helping hand. This further demonstrates my desire to continue serving others within the digital media space. Growing up, I rarely saw people who looked like me or struggled with issues that I was going through in the media. This lack of representation drives my desire to be a transformative figure in the industry, ensuring that no one feels unseen or unrepresented. My pursuit of higher education is not just for personal advancement but to give back to the communities that have shaped me into who I am today. I want to inspire other students to achieve scholarly success on their own terms, showing them that their dreams are attainable. In line with my life’s mission, I founded Project Success, a social media initiative designed to help the next generation of students define success for themselves. Through short-form content, I share my college journey while offering advice and inspiration. This initiative has reached hundreds of students, impacting their lives in ways I never imagined possible. A social issue among the next generation is clear: lack of resources and access to information regarding higher education. With my initiative, I aim to enact change in this area to positively impact students worldwide. My journey has been shaped by a commitment to leadership and service. From my high school days leading the Black Student Union to my current involvement at Howard University and beyond, I have consistently sought to uplift and inspire those around me. By pursuing a career in digital media, I will continue this legacy, ensuring that diverse stories are told and that every individual feels represented. The combination of my educational pursuits and my dedication to community service positions me to make a lasting impact in all areas of my life. The work that I am doing now is centered around the belief that true success is measured by the positive changes we make in the lives of others. Through leadership roles, community service, and my initiative, Project Success, I strive to embody this principle daily. A college degree will not only further my personal and professional growth but also enhance my ability to serve as a catalyst for change, empowering and uplifting my community for years to come.

I am filled with excitement, and determination for my future and what is in store for me. I am currently a sophomore at Howard University, pursuing a major in Strategic Communications with a focus on advertising. From a young age, my passion for media has been a driving force in my life, motivating me to immerse myself in digital and social media to amplify voices and share stories that often go unheard. During my freshman year at Howard, I had the invaluable opportunity to intern with the Howard Athletics Department of Media. In this role, I captured live courtside content during basketball games, which I then curated and shared on the official HUBisonSports Instagram account. This experience allowed me to combine my passion for media with my interest in sports, honing my skills in real-time content creation and digital storytelling. In addition to my work in athletic media, I actively participated in campus life by competing in the Mister and Miss Freshman Pageant. As a contestant vying for the title of Miss Freshman, I engaged in campaigning and created materials advocating for positive connections and unity among my peers. This experience not only challenged me to step into a leadership role but also deepened my involvement in the campus community, fostering meaningful relationships and supporting fellow freshmen in their journey as "Bison." Furthermore, I dedicated time to Howard University's Day of Service, where I volunteered at a local middle school in the greater DC area. During this event, I assisted in organizing educational materials, reinforcing my commitment to community service and contributing to the local community's educational initiatives. Looking ahead, my career aspirations are firmly rooted in advertising and digital communications. I am driven by a desire to utilize media as a powerful tool for social change, particularly by highlighting underrepresented voices and promoting positive societal impact through creative campaigns. My goal is to leverage my education and experiences at Howard University to make a meaningful difference in the media industry, advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all forms of communication. Receiving this scholarship is crucial to my academic journey at Howard University. It will alleviate financial pressure on my family, allowing me to fully focus on my studies, extracurricular activities, and professional development opportunities. With this support, I am confident that I can continue to excel academically and contribute positively to both the Howard community and society at large through my future endeavors in media and communications. I know that in order to see change you have to be the change you want to see and I am ready to do so with the help of this generous scholarship.

In 2022, I made a decision that would alter my path in ways I could not imagine. I challenged myself to face my fears head-on. Little did I know, this decision would lead me to prepare intensely for the Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA pageant. Over six months, I dedicated myself tirelessly, striving to master the craft and evolving into a stronger version of myself. The culmination arrived in April during pageant weekend, where I encountered inspiring young women and found myself among the top contenders for advancement. Despite not hearing my name called among the top 16 finalists, I was initially disheartened. However, this setback taught me a valuable lesson—that failure serves as redirection, propelling us toward greater achievements. Determined not to let disappointment define me, I resolved to compete again in 2023 with renewed vigor and an open heart. This time, I sought to make my previous self proud. The result? I returned as a top 16 finalist, affirming my passion for pageantry and reinforcing the notion that success is not solely defined by titles, but by personal growth and resilience. Transitioning from the pageant world to my academic pursuits, I embarked on the journey of college applications during the summer before my senior year. Initially fixated on prestigious institutions renowned for their digital media programs, such as USC and NYU, I overlooked other opportunities. It took a prompting from my mother to consider Howard University, a historically Black institution (HBCU), renowned for its vibrant community and esteemed programs in Strategic Communications. Upon visiting Howard University, I instantly felt a sense of belonging unlike any other campus I had explored. The energy pulsating through the campus resonated with my aspirations in digital media and strategic communications. Despite facing initial setbacks with my top choices, USC and NYU, I found solace and excitement in the prospect of attending Howard University. Today, as a rising sophomore at Howard University, I am immersed in a dynamic environment that nurtures my passions and fosters limitless opportunities. Through roles in the Athletics Department of Media and the Cathy Hughes School of Communications Student Council, as well as a leadership role as the co-coordinator on the Royal Court. I have begun to cultivate essential skills in graphic design, media production, leadership and photography, all essential for my future career. While the relationships forged within this community have enriched my journey, shaping me into a more independent and well-rounded individual. Choosing Howard University has been a transformative decision, one that has empowered me to pursue my ambitions wholeheartedly. Here, I have found not only academic enrichment but also a supportive community that feels like home—a place where I can grow and thrive in pursuit of my dreams in the digital media industry.

Undoubtedly, my mother stands as the most profound influence in my life. From the moment I entered this world, she has exemplified love, kindness, and humility, shaping my values and guiding my path. Her unwavering strength in the face of adversity serves as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating resilience and perseverance in every challenge she encounters. As a mother, she has not only nurtured and provided for her children but has also emerged as a role model, defying societal norms and expectations. During my senior year, amidst the stress of college applications, my mother remained steadfast in her support. Despite her busy schedule, she carved out time to help me navigate the daunting process, offering guidance and reassurance when I felt lost and anxious. When setbacks occurred, she helped me pivot, ultimately leading me to discover the perfect fit: Howard University. Her insight and encouragement were instrumental in shaping the trajectory of my adult life. When I was dealt the blows of not getting into my top 2 choices we pivoted and that’s when we realized that Howard was the choice. She helped me realize more than I knew how good Howard University would be for me. Without the guidance from her in those moments I was unable to see that for myself. That was no doubt the single most important moment/decision in my newly adult life. That decision has set me on the trajectory that I am on today and I cannot thank you enough. While pursuing my degree at Howard University in the Cathy Hughes School of Communications as a Advertising Major. Her resilience mirrors my own aspirations, particularly in my pursuit of a career in a male-dominated industry. In an arena where women are often marginalized, my mother's example has instilled in me the belief that gender should never be a barrier to success. Armed with her teachings, I am determined to carve out my place in the entertainment industry, empowered by the knowledge that anything is achievable through determination and self-belief. The CJM Rampelt Family Legacy Scholarship represents a pivotal opportunity for me to realize my ambitions. With this support, I can further my education at Howard University while simultaneously advancing towards my dream career. While also being able to have real world experiences in college doing things in my major that I can add to my resume. Producing the Basketball Live Streams. Interviewing players on the court. Unlike my mother, I have the advantage of learning from her experiences, equipping me with greater insight and discernment as I navigate my own challenges. With her unwavering support and guidance, I am confident in my ability to achieve my goals and make a meaningful impact in my chosen career path.

I am currently working towards my dream career in creative production by majoring in Strategic, Legal, and Management Communications with a focus on advertising at Cathy Hughes School of Communications within the illustrious Howard University. By pursuing this major I will be able to push the narrative for the mental health of black women showcased on screen. I will be able to make back characters the main characters and focus instead of black trauma focus these stories on black joy and enthusiasm. I have my whole life attended predominantly white institutions and there were times where I didn’t understand the difference between myself and my classmates. Until something as silly as a hair mishap happened. I thought I could wet my hair like my friends and like I saw iCarly do on TV. Only to come home from school and my mom ask what in the world happened to your hair?! I learned then that representation matters, and from that day on I slowly began to realize that as a young black woman I was oh so powerful. I actually thought that in order for me to get the experience I thought i needed to become a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry that I needed to be in LA or NYC. Until one day in November of my senior year I took a tour of Howard University. The sense of black excellence was palpable and I knew that I found my place.

As a young black girl, I did not see a lot of me or issues that I was dealing with growing up in the media. They never showcased struggles such as mental health in the black community. My favorite TV show growing up was iCarly. Unfortunately, neither of the main characters, Carly or Sam, looked like me. As I got older, I did start seeing more young black girls in the media, but all of their stories were the same, never showing stories revolving around anxiety and depression – which among black women is a real thing. While also being a stigma that the black and brown communities do not like to acknowledge or deal with. Perhaps today’s media is too afraid to show it. Or maybe they just do not want to show it. Either way it’s a huge miss for the black and brown communities. This is why I plan to pursue my academic interests in creative production by majoring in Strategic, Legal, and Management Communications at Cathy Hughes School of Communications within the illustrious Howard University. By pursuing this major I will be able to push the narrative for the mental health of black women showcased on screen. I am a firm believer in the fact that my generation is the voice of the future. We have such big ideas and opinions that deserve to be heard, and with the education that I will receive from Howard University, I will make sure the youth is heard. I will do this through the media that we consume constantly. Media is ever-changing and I want to be a part of this evolution. By adding more diversity on screen so people don’t have to wonder about seeing themselves on screen like I did as a kid. I never want the kids in my community to wonder what they can achieve or who they can become, that’s what pushes me professionally and academically, and I know that furthering my education will get me to where I want to be so I can be that change I always wanted to see. My drive, ambition, and values that I have grown up with over the last 18 years will no doubt be an incredible addition to my future employer, You may just see my name in the credits of your favorite movie one day. Highlighting the mental health struggles that people of color struggle with.

Ever since I was a toddler I loved Barbie! So much that my aunt bought me a Barbie Jam Jeep (power wheel). Once I had that keep I thought I was that girl!! To this day that Barbie Jeep has been passed down to my sister and now my cousins. It’s a family staple that will always stay in the family as long as it works! In addition to my love for Barbie I have always for as long as I can remember wanted to live in California. I love the weather and I love the vibe. My first vacation to California was one of my best yet. We explored LA, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Beverly Hills and more. My Barbie Dream house would have to be located in Santa Monica, there your close enough to LA but also have the beautiful beaches as well. The pier is also something that just ads that extra cherry on top. My Dream House looks like it belongs on the cover of Architectural Digest. It’s a 2 story home that has windows surrounding it from every angle. It’s a modern home with a long driveway, the inside opens to the outside at the back of the home which leads to a fabulous backyard with an infinity pool with lush landscaping and hardscaping. Which then has a walkway to the beach. This home has something for everyone each of the 6 bedrooms is a master suit with sitting rooms and fireplaces. Everyone would have their own oasis with patios and balconies that either lead to the beach/ backyard pool. An immaculate chefs kitchen with all nude colors throughout. The kitchen will have 4 huge walk in fridge and freezers. This home will have a rooftop deck which will provide an additional pool, sauna and 360 views of the beach. Along with a bar/outdoor kitchen. In the basement there will be a 1500 sq ft theatre room. That will replicate your favorite dine in movie theatre with sleeper seats to sit 20 people. There would be a bar/kitchen as well. This home would exude modern comfort with the master suits, kitchen, theatre room and yard. This home would be my Dream Home but be something for everyone!

As a young black woman in a predominantly white city, I often see the need for more representation in and around my community – specifically in my high school. During the 2021-2022 school year, I founded the first Black Student Union to provide a safe place for students who identify with the black community to converse with other students about struggles and issues to learn and educate themselves. This idea of a Black Student Union is something that can be expanded on a larger scale throughout communities. Having a day, week, and or month where allies and disadvantaged members can come together and discuss major social issues. I believe that what I created can expand beyond a high school club. To generate a more invigorating discussion among our group, I launched the “Icon of the Month” – a campaign where all club members come together and choose one iconic person to pull focus toward. With this person, we do an informational slideshow with a trivia game to follow. We showcase this person on our BSU bulletin board that was displayed at our high school. This monthly activity allowed for engaging conversations among group members, faculty members, and other students. With an expansion into the community, this campaign could continue and local leaders and people alike could also participate. I took this idea of the Black Student Union and realized that I wanted to do more to ensure that the youth had their voices heard. For the 2nd year, I competed in the Miss Pennslyvania Teen USA pageant and I decided that my platform would be youth activism. Taking this club I started and going bigger to encourage the youth to speak out for any injustices that they see. I want my peers and me to be the change that we want to see. So while you see I am a "beauty Queen" I am also brilliant, and my heart beats and bleeds for the kids of my generation. Because I know how strong, resilient, and outspoken they are. I know that we can change the world! This thinking would create a snowball effect that would then circulate throughout many different communities. All races and ethnicities being able to talk about and show what is special and important to them is something that is important for everyone. With the proper funding and resources, the teachings about the history of other races and ethnicities can be taught year-round, through various events, speaking engagements, and fun events for kids.

As a young black woman in a predominantly white city, I often see the need for more representation in and around my community – specifically in my high school. During the 2021-2022 school year, I founded the first Black Student Union to provide a safe place for students who identify with the black community to converse with other students about struggles and issues to learn and educate themselves. This idea of a Black Student Union is something that can be expanded on a larger scale throughout communities. Having a day, week, and or month where allies and disadvantaged members can come together and discuss major social issues. I believe that what I created can expand beyond a high school club. To generate a more invigorating discussion among our group, I launched the “Icon of the Month” – a campaign where all club members come together and choose one iconic person to pull focus toward. With this person, we do an informational slideshow with a trivia game to follow. We showcase this person on our BSU bulletin board that was displayed at our high school. This monthly activity allowed for engaging conversations among group members, faculty members, and other students. With an expansion into the community, this campaign could continue and local leaders and people alike could also participate. Activities like I described are ways that show people no matter the color of your skin or ethnic background we all have things in common. Although we are different we share similar, experiences, privileges, advantages, and challenges. If I had the resources and money this is something that I would like to expand on nationwide. I truly believe that if people take the opportunity to talk to each other they would see just how much similarities we share, and would not feel as though they were at odds with each other over trivial differences. This thinking would create a snowball effect that would then circulate throughout many different communities. All races and ethnicities being able to talk about and show what is special and important to them is something that is important for everyone. Black History month and Hispanic Heritage month are tips of the iceberg to what can be so much more. With the proper funding and resources the teachings about the history of other races and ethnicities can be taught year round, through various events, speaking engagements, and fun events for kids.

As a young black girl, I did not see a lot of me or issues that I was dealing with growing up in the media. They never showcased struggles such as mental health in the black community. My favorite TV show growing up was iCarly. Unfortunately, neither of the main characters, Carly or Sam, looked like me. As I got older, I did start seeing more young black girls in the media, but all of their stories were the same, never showing stories revolving around anxiety and depression – which among black women is a real thing. Perhaps today’s media is too afraid to show it. This is why I plan to pursue my academic interests in creative production by majoring in Communications with media management. I will be able to push the narrative for the mental health of black women showcased on screen. This major will allow me to combine management and leadership skills, in arts and media. I plan on choosing to pursue a media management concentration within the major. Within my course selection I will learn how to be a valuable asset in the industry. I know that Howard University gives its students immense opportunities to step firsthand into their industry of choice. Attending an HBCU has been a dream of mine, and this one in particular has a plethora of opportunities. With the unique programs, and Howard being in the center of DC, I know that I will be exposed to numerous opportunities. Having the opportunity to intern at Amazon Prime video in California is another opportunity that I would not be exposed to at any other school. There are avenues where I can be of service in and around the community in Washington DC. It will not be easy and I know that time management is key. I am no stranger to that since I am a consistent straight-A student and will be graduating Magna Cum Laude. Constantly on the honor roll, and a member of 5 different national honor societies. While also holding the title of social media coordinator for my school's student government, among other extracurricular activities. If I am awarded this scholarship it will help me continue to drive forward with my goals of attending Howard University where I know that my academic stamina will be pushed tremendously. Howard will make sure I am equipped to thrive and be an amazing asset to the entertainment industry, just like I know I will be for the university and my community.