Imagine this: a teenager with boundless ambition, a heart full of dreams, and zero experience decides to take on a challenge so grand it would make even seasoned professionals pause. The goal? To plan a massive event for a cause that could change lives. The stakes were high, but the excitement of making a difference outweighed any doubts. After all, what could go wrong? Okay, let’s get a reality check; for starters, there’s the glaring fact that I’d never done anything like this before. I’d seen my fair share of fundraisers, of course, but being at the helm was a different beast altogether. My creative juices were flowing- elaborate decorations, interactive activities and irresistible entertainment. But as the months for preparation became days, the challenges became profound. Budgets didn’t stretch as far as I imagined, and volunteers weren’t as readily available as I’d hoped. Coordinating a venue, managing a team, securing sponsors—all these things required skills I was only beginning to grasp. I’d envisioned a grand venue with activities that naturally coerced participation and entertainment that would leave guests talking for weeks. But when I started crunching the numbers, it became clear that my grand vision far exceeded my means. My dreams collided with financial reality, and I had to make some tough decisions. Then ,with no experience managing a team, I quickly learned that delegating tasks wasn’t as simple as it seemed. Volunteers were enthusiastic at first but soon started to drop out as their own commitments took priority. Communication broke down, and I found myself scrambling to pick up the pieces. Deadlines were missed, and I spent more time putting out fires than planning the actual event. At times, it felt like the entire project was unravelling before my eyes. The weight of it all began to take its toll, and I often questioned whether I had bitten off more than I could chew. But then, a shift- seeing all those smiling faces on the day off and meeting the overall goal of the event. Despite all the setbacks behind the scenes, the outcome was successful. The event was real, it was impactful, and it was mine. In the end, what could go wrong? A lot, it turns out. But what went right was even more important—I learned, I grew, and I made a difference, however small. Let's fast forward. Going to college miles away from home, with no financial cushion and no safety net. What could go wrong? I entered a completely unfamiliar world, surrounded by people who had access to opportunities I dreamt of. The fear of going down the wrong path, falling behind academically, even mentally, was overwhelming. Would I have to drop out because I couldn't afford my tuition? Would I be able to navigate the complexities of financial aid and scholarships? Would I find a community, or would I be isolated, fighting to survive? There were many nights where I questioned the worth of my dreams; were they too far out of reach. Yet in the midst of it all, I wavered on my resilience. I discovered strengths unbeknownst to me. Many things could go wrong but here’s what could go right: this educational pursuit of mine can unlock access to opportunities I never knew existed. I can discover passions and talents that empower my contribution to a greater cause. The creation of generational wealth—not just financially, but in terms of opportunities, knowledge, and legacy. I can build life changing networks that nurture wellness and growth. And, I can enjoy doing it all. So yes, a plethora of things can go wrong, but everything could go right.The possibilities are limitless when you combine passion, resilience, and a willingness to take risks. Life is full of challenges and setbacks, but it’s also full of opportunities and triumphs. And, that is the REAL reality check.

I like to characterize myself as a global citizen. Born in England, raised in Jamaica, and now residing in the U.S. for college, my educational journey spans across diverse cultures and experiences. From differentiating the spellings of "colour" and "color" to connecting Caribbean history with broader world history, I have developed a unique perspective that enriches my academic pursuits. Hi, my name is Kedija Stevens. I have attained an English, Jamaican and now American education, ready to take on the adventure typically called “LIFE”. My career aspirations range across entrepreneurship, criminology, wealth management, and cosmetology. Thanks to my entrepreneurial journey that began at 12, selling slime, and evolved into a skincare business at 16, I discovered my passion for entrepreneurship. Inspired by Olivia Benson from Law and Order, whose detective skills ignited my interest in criminology, I realized my fascination with understanding human behavior and justice. My exposure to poor money management sparked a determination to learn wealth creation and management. Additionally, experimenting with my mom’s lipstick and nail polish at a tender age blossomed into a personal journey of mastering hair care, skincare routines, and waxing.These fields not only represent my professional interests but also reflect significant memories of my upbringing that shaped my goals for the future and further foster my commitment to exploring diverse avenues where I can make a meaningful impact on both individual lives and broader societal issues. As a non-US citizen my educational journey has been marked by unique challenges and many opportunities for learning and growth. Navigating the complexities of studying in a foreign country as a college student required drive, adaptability and determination. I faced barriers such as limited opportunities for working in my career field as an international student, limited access to resources and overall, limited opportunities that were more readily available to citizens. My initial mindset was one of doubt and demotivation. I thought that my aspirations were completely hindered by my limitations. However, these challenges fostered a strong sense of determination and a proactive approach to seeking out opportunities that support my academic and personal growth. It allowed me to cultivate experiences tailored to my overall success and nurture networks. This funding will have a profound impact on my education and future. It will further enable me towards my aspirations, mitigating the financial barriers and allowing me to take full advantage of the opportunities at Howard University. With aspirations to succeed in wealth management and criminology, this support will be instrumental in continuing my journey of acquiring the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to achieve my goals. Furthermore, it will remain a symbol of empowerment to me; to give back to my community and contribute positively to society, following the values instilled in me by my mother's unwavering dedication and support.

A woman! No. EVERY woman holds the keys to her financial future, making informed decisions that empower not just herself but her entire community. Can you just imagine that? This is the vision that drives my commitment, I want to turn this into a reality through my education and passion. Women now, more than ever, need empowerment- empowerment for the self and empowerment for their financial freedom. As I embark on my journey into the world of wealth management, I am determined to become a catalyst for change in the financial services industry, using my education to empower women in my community and beyond. Financial literacy is a cornerstone of empowerment. When women understand how to manage their finances, they gain the confidence to make decisions that positively impact their lives and the lives of those around them. Growing up, I saw my mom struggle with her financial decisions which led to financial strain and ultimately I saw her spirit gradually break due to stress and depression. Her poor financial decisions stemmed from her lack of financial literacy, a gap I am passionate about closing for other women. As I continue to learn about finance, my goal is to educate and empower women to take control of their financial destinies. I envision creating programs and resources that provide women with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the complex world of finance. By fostering a community of informed and confident women, we can break the cycle of financial dependency and build a future where women thrive both economically and personally. In addition to education and empowerment, I aim to advocate for intentions that promote financial equality and support women-owned businesses and initiatives. Having started my entrepreneurial journey at the tender age of 16, I realized the financial strain and struggle that accompanied a woman in business: from the obstacle of accessing and managing funding to the confidence gap that hinders execution. By leveraging my experiences and garnered knowledge, I hope to influence the financial services industry to be more inclusive and supportive of women’s financial needs and aspirations. Through these efforts, I aspire to honor my mother’s struggles and ensure that no woman feels powerless due to a lack of financial knowledge. My commitment to empowering women through financial literacy and wealth management is driven by a deep personal connection and a vision for a brighter future. I know that I can aid in the contribution of building a society where women feel empowered with confidence in shaping their own financial destinies.

During my first semester of my freshman year, I faced a setback most daunting to a college student; failing a required course. I wasn't fond of the course and as a result my time management and resource utilisation towards it was minimal. The disappointment I felt knowing that I didn't prepare for my final examinations was incomparable to the disappointment felt after seeing my transcript. My mind raced with worries: Will this affect my scholarship? How will this affect my future progress? In the midst of my overthinking, I knew that the attitude I assumed during the course was not a true reflection of me; of my determination for success. Thus, I had to not only retake the course, but develop a strategy to prevent a repeat offence. I started with the basics. I managed my time better through time schedules set for practising the course and improved on my resource utilisation by engaging more in office hours, participating in group discussions and turning to my friends and peers for assistance. Most importantly, I shifted my mindset. I began to view the course as an opportunity to learn and grow rather than an obstacle. This mental shift proved to be the most powerful part of my strategy as it catalysed a motivation for my discipline and ultimate success. By approaching the subject with renewed vigour and positivity, I was able to pass the course, turning what initially seemed like a setback into a stepping stone for growth. This experience taught me the immense power of mindset in defining our successes and reinforced the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness. It also highlighted the value of seeking help and utilising available resources, lessons that have shaped my character and approach to challenges ever since. A challenge I very recently faced was navigating an unsatisfactory dormitory space; however, using my lesson on the power of one’s mindset, I now not only have mitigated mine and my roomates’ emotional dissatisfaction but I have also found ways in which to effectively manage the space in a way that stills suits our aesthetic. My resilience in overcoming my academic setback and even other minute ones has influenced my continuance at my HBCU. Attending Howard University, in particular, though an unexpected decision, has encouraged my continued resilience, growth and drive towards excellence. Their commitment to producing leaders and change-makers aligns perfectly with my goals. Moreover, I am passionate about giving back to my community and empowering others. My experiences have taught me the importance of mentorship, and I am eager to contribute to the HBCU community by supporting and guiding fellow students, just as I was supported during my challenging times. In essence, my journey of overcoming academic failure has instilled in me a deep sense of resilience and determination. These qualities have not only shaped my character but also fueled my desire to attend my HBCU, where I can continue to grow, give back, and contribute to a legacy of excellence.

I see you. Not your tortured thoughts that corrupt your actions or your fractured spirit that seems to repel hope. But I see YOU. Beneath the hurt and beyond the pain, I honor your journey through a lens of compassion to provide you solace. I aim to see people. Having traversed neglected mental health struggles, I am driven to offer a compassionate embrace to the misunderstood. My drive began in high school; I became a student mentor where I provided a listening ear and guidance to students facing emotional and academic stress. I facilitated discussions on mental health, and empowerment, creating a safe space to share their experiences and support. I then expanded to an online platform. I posted original poems that resonated with troubled hearts, and daily vlogs that served as a beacon of hope and advice that I yearned for during my times of trouble. I continually progressed, making donations to my community’s women's center, hosting presentations on self-care, and attending symposiums and conferences that catalyzed my passion for learning about the state of mind and its power. Over the years, I’ve recognized the importance of assessing and nurturing one’s mental health and have ever since become an advocate for such. Regarding this, I now position my studies at Howard University towards being impactful and seeing people. My goal as a Finance major is to combine my knowledge in wealth management with a strong focus on emotional well-being, and understanding that financial stability and mental health are deeply interconnected. Financial stress is a significant contributor to mental health issues, and by offering comprehensive financial literacy programs, I aim to alleviate some of this burden. These programs will not only educate individuals and communities about managing their finances but also include components on stress management, self-care, and building resilience. I also plan to continue my involvement in mentorship and community outreach. By sharing my journey and the strategies that have helped me navigate my challenges, I hope to inspire others to seek help and prioritize their mental health. Creating support networks and fostering open conversations about mental health can break down the stigma and encourage more people to access the resources they need. Through my studies and future career, with my experiences, passion, and drive, I aim to see people. I aim to see YOU.

I come from a vibrant urban area, in a country where reggae resides and the love for food never dies. My home, “out of many one people”, Manchester, Jamaica. I was raised, an only child, by my mom who proved to me that love comes with sacrifices. Her unwavering support has enabled me to be resilient, driven, and passionate in my every undertaking. From ranking high in the Caribbean for my examination grades to planning an event that raised money for a school bus, my ambitiousness was always met with a stable support system and encouragement of my independence and individuality. It was these few factors that inspired my pursuit of education in the United States. I desired to break barriers and create opportunities not just for myself but for my community. Growing up in Manchester, I often felt the weight of limited resources and opportunities, but my ambitions were always boundless. Watching my mother work tirelessly as a single parent, overcoming countless obstacles, instilled in me the importance of resilience and the power of education. I envisioned myself in a place where I could access world-class education and, in turn, bring back invaluable knowledge and opportunities to uplift my community. This journey is not just about my academic, professional, and self-growth; it's a calling to honor my mother's sacrifices and inspire others to dream beyond their circumstances. During the first semester of my freshman year of college, I faced a significant setback; failing a required course. It was a subject I didn't particularly like, and my negative mindset towards it hindered my performance. As a result, I retook the course, however, this time there was a positive mental shift; I viewed the course as an opportunity rather than an obstacle and I passed. I learned an invaluable lesson about the power of the mind in defining our successes. When I think of inspiration, my mind instantly gravitates towards my mother. She has navigated the turbulent waters of single parenting with a grace that often makes it look effortless. Yet, behind this facade of ease lies a story of immense struggle, perseverance, and love that has shaped the person I am today. My memories are filled with echoes of her character. She endured not just financial hardships but also the emotional scars of abuse, carrying these wounds with a quiet fortitude that both pained and inspired me. Yet, she never faltered; She never allowed these adversities to define our lives. Our relationship has not been without its conflicts and disappointments. We have had our share of arguments, and there were times when her well-intentioned nagging was met with my teenage eye rolls and frustration. But even in those moments, I understood that her persistence was born from love and a desire to see me succeed. It is her testament that drives me to continue to pursue greatness at Howard University and make a meaningful impact built on the foundation of compassion, strength, and hard work. Post-graduation, I intend to embark on my career in wealth management. I aim to address the financial disparities for underrepresented individuals and communities by providing tailored financial advice and creating accessible resources that demystify wealth-building strategies. I seek to create lasting change that uplifts and supports the aspirations of those often overlooked by the traditional financial system. In essence, my upbringing and experiences have profoundly contributed to my ambitions and continue to mold my mindset and drive for my future endeavors. I continue to look beyond the scope of my hometown, as I believe that opportunities aren’t limited to circumstances.

It's you and your significant other versus the problem, not you versus your significant other. Now, before you think that I may be writing the wrong essay, let me show you how this mindset was pivotal in my journey as an international student navigating college life for the first time. Navigating college life,thousands of miles away from home seemed easier to do from the comfort of my imagination. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of home and stepping into a new environment was both exhilarating and daunting. Many challenges presented themselves to test my resilience; The struggle to adapt to a new culture, manage academic expectations, and establish a support system was overwhelming at times. However, through mentorship, building my relationship with God, and developing a stronger sense of self, I was able to overcome these adversities and grow in ways I never imagined. In my first semester of freshman year, the cultural shock was humbling. The academic system was different and I often felt confused and isolated. My Jamaican accent added another layer of frustration, acting as a barrier to my connecting with peers. Additionally, from my mannerisms to my perspectives I differed from those around me. However, I was fortunate to have been paired with a mentor who had once been in my shoes. Her guidance was invaluable, offering me practical advice on navigating academic life and understanding the cultural nuances. Not only did my mentorship provide me with a sense of direction and the confidence to tackle my challenges head-on, but in it, I found an older sister that I could turn to for support. Building my relationship with God also played a crucial role in my journey. In moments of doubt and loneliness, prayer and faith became my anchor. I went through a period of home-sickness, distractions by excessive freedom and ultimately, health declination. I found myself vulnerable and fearful. However, it was in my determination to not relive this experience that I found a local church and began fostering that spiritual connection. This comforted my soul with the reinforcement that with faith and perseverance, I can overcome anything. Equally important was the process of building my relationship with myself. College life demanded a new level of independence and self-reliance. I began to embrace self-reflection, setting aside time to understand my strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. This period of introspection helped me develop a deeper understanding of my purpose and solidified my individuality. I learned to be my own advocate, making decisions that aligned with my values and goals. Overcoming these adversities has equipped me for the coming years in college. I am now more confident in my ability to face challenges and adapt to new situations. My experiences have also enabled me to confidently offer others around me the guidance and support that I once needed. To anyone facing similar circumstances, my advice is to be graceful with yourself. Understand that adjusting to a new environment takes time, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed. Find mediums that help you cope—whether it's seeking mentorship, engaging in spiritual practices, or dedicating time to self-care and reflection. Embrace the process and view each challenge as an opportunity for growth. Hence, I go back to my original point, it's you and your significant other versus the problem, not you versus your significant other. In this context though, your significant other can be your inner self, faith, or support system. Approach each problem by teaming up with your strengths and weaknesses. By doing so, not only will navigating college life be easier but navigating the world will seem less daunting.

The day I witnessed my mom get hurt at the hands of her own drunken blood, was the day that I knew I had to make a change. Growing up, I was privy to my mom’s shameful secret; her own brother, in fits of a drunken rage would put his hands on her. I saw her soul break each time it happened and as her eyes watered and her blood ran, I saw her pain and wished I could take it away. Not only did my uncle’s substance abuse and violence affect my mom but it also traumatized me. It hurt me to see such anger in someone I grew up with, but it hurt me more to see someone I love in pain. And, in that, I had always vowed to be a part of the contribution that puts a stop to this pain. As I pursue my studies at Howard University, my goal is to leverage my education in wealth management and criminology to address and mitigate the impacts of domestic violence and substance abuse, particularly among women. Firstly, as part of wealth management, I intend to develop financial literacy and empowerment programs specifically designed for women affected by domestic violence. I believe that financial independence can be a critical factor in enabling women to leave abusive situations and rebuild their lives. Given my mom's financial stance at the time, it was years of endurance before we could move away from that situation. Secondly, I plan to use my knowledge and personal experiences to educate the community about the signs, risks, and resources related to domestic violence and substance abuse. Creating awareness and providing education can empower individuals to seek help and support earlier. Further, I would hone on the experiences of other individuals who would’ve experienced the same, if not, similar situations as my mom. I truly believe it takes a village. Lastly, my background in criminology will help me understand the criminal justice system and its interaction with social services. I aim to improve the coordination between these entities to ensure that African American women receive holistic and timely support, including legal aid, counseling, and rehabilitation services. Having witnessed the effects derived from such a traumatizing situation, I once again stress that it does take a village. I intend to combine my personal experiences with education and a passion for justice to aid others who like my mom lived fearfully due to substance abuse and violence. I hope to continue to be able to make a meaningful impact, ultimately working towards a safer and more supportive society.

For me, to see the world is to see life. Life as I know it comprises different cultures and perspectives in existence. Life as I know it embraces different environments, and THERE is the embrace of travel. From a young age, my grandma exposed me to the enthralling experience of traveling. She enjoyed traveling and it was through the love of travel that we best bonded. From luxury cruises to long-haul flights, we drew something fresh from each experience. One of the major things was no matter how old I got; I would never give up a window seat on a plane. Not for the typical reason of wanting to rest my head on the wall or see the scenery of the flight, but I liked to be at the window as it made me feel one with the sky. We flew high, and free, we embraced all the emotions, rain, or shine. It represented the liberty in life that many crave. Be it financial, spiritual, emotional freedom, etc. The experience of traveling represents that liberty. Being able to move from place to place, state to state, or country to country is often taken for granted and misconstrued as just a “normal” experience. Traveling can be a gateway to a getaway. Understanding life as we know it in the eyes of another. And in that, gratitude is derived. In essence, traveling can aid us in self-reflection as being away from the familiar provides introspection. It also assists in independently navigating new places which in turn we can perceive as independently navigating life in a new manner. This strengthens self-confidence and self-reliance. Traveling uncovers the diversity that exists in the world and in that revelation, we can garner a better understanding of the world. This exposure helps break down stereotypes and fosters a more inclusive and empathetic worldview. Further, in uncovering diverse aspects of a culture that exists, we embrace the heart of travel which is the culture of language. This embrace not only improves our communication skills, but it contributes to one’s personal development – exposing the mind to the way of life of another, in this there is a wholesome side of humanity. There is appreciation. See, for me, travel has converted my “what if’s” to “when I”. Travel has bonded me with my family. Travel has taught me a sentence or two in another language. Travel has evoked my gratitude for life as we live it. Travel has tailored my independent mindset and made me confident in taking on the life of the world. Travel has heightened my awareness, from observing different sustainable practices to promoting a more informed and engaged worldview through understanding different political systems and historical contexts. For me, to travel is to live a life of many. I believe that ability is a beautiful and powerful catalyst that unites the world and ultimately fulfills it.

In the crisp autumn air of my freshman year at Howard University, my parents uttered words that sent a chill down my spine and ignited a storm of uncertainty in my college journey: 'We can't afford to continue paying for your attendance.' Panic surged through me—would my dreams unravel before they even began? Tears fell freely, each one a testament to the weight of my ambitions and the stark reality of financial strain. But, as the tears dried on my cheeks that tumultuous day, I realized that my path forward would require resilience, determination, and, most crucially, financial support. Flourishing in wealth management isn't just about numbers and investments; it's about understanding how financial decisions impact lives. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the stress and strain that financial instability can impose on families. My passion for wealth management stems from a desire to empower others with financial literacy and security, to ensure that no family faces the same anxieties mine did. Equally compelling is my aspiration to serve in criminology. My interest in this field was sparked by a deep-seated belief in justice and accountability. I was further convinced after growing up on 25 seasons of Law & Order: SVU. I envision a future where I can contribute to creating safer, more equitable communities through understanding and addressing the root causes of crime. Moreover, my journey is not solely about personal success; it's about creating opportunities for others like me—individuals with big dreams but limited means. I see my potential to not only continue my education but also to establish initiatives that foster mentorship and provide financial aid to aspiring students facing similar financial hurdles. Through mentorship, I aim to guide others with big aspirations, just as mentors have guided me, offering insights, encouragement, and the resources needed to pursue their dreams. By creating a ripple effect of empowerment and support, I hope to build a community where every individual—regardless of background or circumstance—has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society. In essence, this scholarship is not merely financial aid—it is an investment in a future where barriers are overcome, dreams are realized, and opportunities for growth and service abound. It represents a pivotal opportunity to achieve my goals and make a meaningful impact. With its support, I can fully dedicate myself to my studies, gaining the expertise and experience necessary to excel in both wealth management and criminology. And as I stand at this pivotal juncture in my academic journey, I am reminded of the resilience and determination that have brought me this far. I am confident that I can not only overcome the financial obstacles before me but also fulfill my dreams of flourishing in wealth management and serving society through criminology.

Money doesn't grow on trees, but sometimes I wish it did. My name is Kedija “the jack of all trades” Stevens. Why the jack of all trades? Because to others, I was skilled at everything I undertook. But to me, I was merely finding any means possible to help my mom and I thrive, especially financially. It’s a simple tale that many understand. My mom was a single parent, who had just moved to another country with her baby girl, who saw the world as her own personal fairytale. Only, in her fairytale, she lived it, wrote it, narrated it and acted out the parts for most if not all of the characters. In essence, I was always very imaginative and with that struck my high ambitions. Though my mom always supported the mountainous creations that lived in my head, she knew that financially they weren't feasible. Eventually, I knew. I like to believe that this is where the roots of my nickname began. Without the emotional digression of my upbringing, simply put, I experienced my mom's financial and eventually emotional struggle. And, even when her hugs and kisses assured me, her eyes wished me a better life and her heart regretted the preceding decisions. Not only did this inspire me to work hard but it also pushed me towards my greater purpose. Being a woman of business! I found myself tutoring, selling artwork, selling slime, offering counseling services and then matriculating to selling beauty products and services. In my senior year of high school, I took a course that broadened my understanding of financial services. This class introduced me to financial concepts that quickly became areas of keen interest, such as wealth management. With this newfound knowledge, I applied it to my many entrepreneurial undertakings. Eventually, I was reaping the rewards and soothing my mom’s concerns not only about her finances but my survival. I saw the change that came with my pursuits, which only further fueled my desire to continue studying Business and Finance. To date, I am a rising sophomore attending Howard University, majoring in Finance with a minor in Criminology. I enjoy dissecting the financial sector and unraveling the intricacies of social justice. For the rest of my college career and beyond, I aim to not only use my experiences and knowledge to fuel the imaginative engines of others but to also encourage the other “jacks of all trades” to pursue their fairy tales. I intend to establish my career in wealth management to guide those, who similar to my mom, feel helpless in their financial standing. It is with knowledge of how to create better habits, especially financial ones, that we can improve on our ultimate decisions and results. Furthermore, I strive to stand for the voiceless and yearn to contribute to a deeper understanding of crime and ways to address it for the safety of society at large. Even though I sometimes wished that money grew on trees, its absence made me acutely aware of my financial situation and drove me to achieve beyond my own fairytale dreams—and even beyond my mom’s hopes for me. It made me Kedija “the jack of all trades” Stevens.

The physical or mental challenges we encounter often lead us onto a path of self-reflection, creativity, and growth. Earlier in my life, a particular question prompted a frozen response. “Kedija, are you growing a beard?”. It forced me to confront my biggest insecurity. My detrimental inheritance. Polycystic. Ovarian. Syndrome. I saw this as an act of vengeance by my genes. Why would any young lady want to contend with uncontrollable features of masculinity while embracing her femininity? Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which the female body has an overproduction of a male hormone thus resulting in prolonged or inconsistent menstrual cycles, hirsutism and infertility. For myself, PCOS has encouraged longer and excruciating menstrual cycles but persistently hirsutism - a condition in women promoting excessive growth of dark or rough hair, following a male-like pattern. The effects of my diagnosis led to me feeling self- conscious, as I tried every way of concealing what I considered to be my ‘defects. It intensified my struggle with depression, compelling me to question my sense of normalcy. It not only fostered self-disgust but also made me feel targeted and isolated. Others perceived me as different, even going so far as to question my gender, labeling me a freak and highlighting my perceived imperfections. Little did I know then, that my experience would eventually lead to me accepting my uniqueness. My mind dictated a wardrobe of turtlenecks, scarves, and even masks, providing a perfect camouflage for my insecurities. This self-imposed dress code became a refuge, allowing my anxiety to hide comfortably behind it. However, my problem still persisted. I tried different ways to remove my facial hair, from razors to waxing. Shaving left me with razor bumps and dark spots, which only made me feel more self-conscious. Though it was costly, waxing became my go-to method as it helped with my confidence. But eventually, I couldn't keep up with the upkeep and my hair growth cycle went back to normal. I then discovered FoodTok, the feed on TikTok designated to food preparations and tutorials. It assisted me in uncovering healthy dieting and its significance concerning my condition. I advanced from washing the parts of hormone-free chicken to marinating with herbs, and then eventually to be able to prepare full meals for myself and my mother. Thus, I discovered a passion for experimental cookery. My passion for experimental cookery has inspired my goal of opening a café, where I can cater to diverse palates and provide a soothing escape for the mind. Nevertheless, I still suffered from the effects of my condition. Ironically, I found myself comforting strangers with their insecurities. I remember one specific encounter in which I made a lingering remark: “It’s your own thoughts and perceptions of your insecurity that fuel it”. It was a simple remark, but it made a big difference in her life. In my life. This encounter ignited a passion for service and shaped my ultimate goal of giving back to society, especially through my intended career in wealth management. It inspired me to engage in mentorship, which not only benefited others but also provided valuable insights that nourished my mental health. That day marked a turning point for me, a period of reflection and acceptance. I realized that my own perceptions of my polycystic ovarian syndrome had fueled my feelings of insecurity. Adversity can be tough, especially on the mind, but it can also be a powerful force for good. Through my journey with mental health, I’ve learned to embrace my challenges, using them as opportunities for growth and resilience. This shift in perspective has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. Accepting my struggles has deepened my empathy and strengthened my commitment to service. I now aim to support others facing similar challenges, offering guidance and creating safe spaces for them to feel understood and valued. By confronting and embracing what I once wanted to hide, I’ve transformed my experience into a source of strength and a catalyst for positive change.

As I look toward my future career, I am driven to make meaningful contributions in both wealth management and criminology. I aspire to empower individuals and communities, by helping them build and sustain wealth, breaking cycles of poverty and creating generational financial health. Simultaneously, I am passionate about criminology and addressing systemic injustices within the criminal justice system. My vision is to work towards a more just society where all individuals are given fair opportunities to succeed. Choosing an HBCU for my education was an unexpected decision that has enlightened me, instilled pride, and bolstered my drive for excellence. Growing up in Jamaica, I was familiar with predominantly Black spaces, yet the power within Blackness was often overlooked. I wasn't as exposed to certain adversities faced by Black communities overseas, which shaped a different perspective on my identity. However, attending an HBCU transformed my understanding and appreciation of Blackness. My HBCU experience revealed the resilience embedded in our heritage, showing me the profound beauty that resonates deeply within our skin. It was here that I truly embraced the pride of my identity, inspiring me to pursue excellence and make a meaningful impact. The exposure to rigorous yet empowering academic standards, combined with a commitment to nurturing the talents of Black students, has made me love my HBCU. This environment not only challenges me academically but also supports my growth as a person of color, fostering a unique sense of community and belonging.