Giving Back to My Community: A Lifelong Responsibility Giving back to my community has always been a fundamental part of who I am. I believe that true success is not just measured by personal achievements but by the positive impact one leaves on others. My passion for service is deeply rooted in my experiences growing up, where I witnessed the struggles of both aging adults and students with learning disabilities. Seeing these challenges firsthand has motivated me to dedicate my time to making a meaningful difference. One of my most impactful contributions has been helping aging adults navigate technology. Many seniors struggle with digital literacy, making it difficult for them to stay connected with family, access important services, or even manage basic tasks like online banking. Recognizing this need, I started working one-on-one with older adults—especially my grandmother—to teach them essential digital skills. Whether it was setting up email accounts, scheduling online doctor’s appointments, or using social media to connect with loved ones, I saw how technology could restore their independence. Witnessing their confidence grow reinforced my commitment to ensuring that aging adults are not left behind in the digital age. Beyond helping seniors, I have also dedicated time to supporting students with learning disabilities. As someone who has personally struggled with ADHD, I understand the frustration of feeling like the education system isn’t designed for you. My late aunt, who was like a sibling to me, had dyslexia and a comprehension disability, and I saw firsthand the barriers she faced in school. Inspired by our shared struggles, I started mentoring students with learning disabilities, helping them develop study strategies, time management skills, and confidence in their abilities. I have worked to create a safe space where they feel heard, understood, and empowered to learn in ways that suit them best. My commitment to community service doesn’t end with graduation—it is a lifelong responsibility. After college, I plan to expand my work in both of these areas. I hope to launch a technology education initiative that offers free workshops for seniors, teaching them the digital literacy skills they need to navigate the modern world. These programs would be tailored to their needs, ensuring that learning is accessible, engaging, and empowering. Additionally, I want to advocate for better support systems for students with learning disabilities by creating mentorship programs and assistive technology resources. Schools need more inclusive strategies that cater to diverse learning styles, and I plan to work toward making these tools widely available. Whether through policy advocacy or direct mentorship, my goal is to ensure that no student is left behind simply because they learn differently. Community service is not just something I do—it’s a core part of my identity. The skills and knowledge I gain from my education will allow me to continue this work on a larger scale, creating sustainable programs that empower both aging adults and students with disabilities. By staying actively involved in my community, I hope to create lasting change and inspire others to contribute to the well-being of those around them. Giving back is not a task—it’s a lifelong mission. My experiences have shown me that small acts of service can transform lives, and I am committed to making a meaningful impact wherever I go. Through education, advocacy, and direct service, I will continue working to ensure that everyone—regardless of age or ability—has the opportunity to thrive.

Growing up, my aunt was like a sibling to me. We shared a bond built on understanding, as we both faced learning disabilities that made traditional education an uphill battle. I have ADHD, which made focus and time management difficult, while she struggled with dyslexia and a comprehension disability, making reading and processing information more challenging. We both knew what it felt like to be overlooked in the classroom, to need extra time, and to feel like we had to work twice as hard just to keep up. If I could start a business in her honor, it would be SibsTech Connect, a company dedicated to helping students with learning disabilities succeed through innovative technology and personalized support. SibsTech Connect would focus on creating assistive tools tailored for students with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities. We would develop AI-driven reading assistance, voice-to-text software, and interactive educational platforms designed to break down complex concepts in an engaging and accessible way. Digital planners and focus-enhancing tools would help students manage their time effectively and reduce stress, giving them the structure they need to thrive. Beyond technology, we would work to build a strong support system for students. SibsTech Connect would partner with schools to train educators on integrating assistive technology in classrooms and create mentorship programs where students with learning disabilities can connect with peers who understand their struggles. We would also advocate for more inclusive education policies to ensure that students receive the accommodations they deserve. Though my aunt is no longer here, this company would be a tribute to our shared struggles and determination. SibsTech Connect would ensure that no student with a learning disability feels alone or left behind. Instead, they would have the tools, support, and confidence to turn their challenges into opportunities for success.

Public service has always been a calling for me, driven by my deep desire to make a positive difference in my community. Growing up, I witnessed the struggles faced by many people in my neighborhood—lack of access to resources, economic hardships, and limited opportunities. These experiences shaped my passion for public service, as I realized that with the right policies and programs, we can address systemic issues and improve the lives of those who need help the most. My parents, both of whom worked tirelessly to support our community, were my first role models in public service. They showed me that public service is not just a career; it’s a way of life that involves actively working to improve the community and making meaningful contributions to society. Inspired by their dedication to serving others, I’ve always felt a strong pull toward helping people who face barriers to success, especially in underserved communities. This sense of responsibility has motivated me to pursue a career in public service, focusing on issues like affordable housing, healthcare, and education—areas that are essential to ensuring a better quality of life for all. These issues are deeply personal to me, as I have seen firsthand how the lack of access to these resources can limit opportunities and perpetuate cycles of poverty. I believe that through effective public policy and community engagement, we can create systems that provide equal opportunities for everyone. To pursue my passion, I am currently working toward a degree in public policy, with a focus on social justice and community development. This education will equip me with the tools to analyze complex issues, design policies that promote equity, and advocate for underrepresented groups. I am particularly interested in how public service can address systemic issues and how we can develop sustainable solutions that improve the well-being of marginalized populations. I plan to apply the skills I gain from my education by working directly with local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations. My goal is to help implement policies that ensure everyone has access to basic needs, such as affordable housing and quality healthcare. I am also passionate about education and workforce development, as I believe that providing young people with opportunities to succeed in life is one of the most effective ways to create lasting change. One of the challenges I want to address is the disconnection between policymakers and the communities they serve. Many times, local residents—particularly those from marginalized backgrounds—feel that their voices are not heard in the decision-making process. I want to be part of the movement that bridges this gap, ensuring that community members are actively involved in shaping the policies that affect their lives. By listening to their concerns and collaborating with them, I believe we can create more effective, inclusive policies that truly meet the needs of all people. In conclusion, my passion for public service is driven by a strong desire to help others and create meaningful, lasting change. The skills and knowledge I gain through my education will enable me to advocate for those who are underserved, and I am committed to using those skills to improve the lives of people in my community. Through public service, I hope to be part of a movement that builds a more just, equitable society for everyone.

Endless thoughts rush through my mind—impulsive, intrusive, and overwhelming. It’s hard to describe the mental weight of trying to keep up with everything while balancing college, work, and life. The constant noise in my head makes even the simplest tasks feel impossible, and sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever manage it all. But I’ve come to realize that these challenges are not just obstacles; they are part of my journey. My mental health plays a significant role in how I perform academically and navigate my personal life, and over time, I’ve learned how important it is to prioritize my mental wellness to move forward. For as long as I can remember, managing time and staying focused in a high-pressure environment has been difficult for me. College amplified this struggle—classes, assignments, extracurriculars, and a job all piled on top of each other, leaving me feeling like I was constantly stumbling. The more responsibilities I took on, the more my mental health took a hit. The constant internal dialogue became unbearable, with intrusive thoughts clouding my ability to focus. At times, I felt paralyzed by my own mind, unsure of how to manage everything. I knew something had to change. I began therapy to help manage these intrusive thoughts and develop better coping strategies. Therapy has been instrumental in learning how to separate myself from my thoughts instead of letting them control me. It’s not easy, and there are days when it feels like a never-ending battle, but taking small steps to cope—like mindfulness, journaling, and simply acknowledging my struggles—has made a huge difference. Through therapy, I’ve learned that my mental health needs to come first, even when everything around me feels like it’s falling apart. One of the most difficult aspects of college life for me has been time management. Between school, work, and personal commitments, I often felt overwhelmed and scattered. I realized that my inability to stay organized and focused wasn’t just a lack of discipline, but the result of my mental health struggles. I’ve worked hard to implement strategies that help me stay on track—breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, setting clear priorities, and acknowledging when I need to take a step back to recharge. These tools have helped me cope with the challenges of balancing everything, but I know I still have a long way to go. Despite these struggles, I’m committed to my education and my future. I understand that taking care of my mental health is not just necessary for my success in college, but for my overall well-being in life. With therapy and the coping tools I’ve learned, I’m becoming better equipped to navigate the ups and downs of college life. I am more mindful of the boundaries I need to set and the self-care practices I need to incorporate into my routine. This scholarship would provide me with the support I need to continue prioritizing my mental health and manage the pressures of school, work, and life. I am determined to push through the struggles, not just for the sake of my academic achievements but to continue building a healthier and more balanced life. In conclusion, my mental health has significantly impacted my ability to succeed academically and personally, but through therapy and dedication, I’ve learned how to cope with these challenges. I am committed to managing my mental health and using the tools I’ve gained to stay focused, succeed, and ultimately make a positive impact in my community.

A book holds a thousand words, but you'll never know the knowledge if you never seek it. This thought resonates deeply with me. I believe knowledge is not a privilege; it is a responsibility, one that drives me every day to seek opportunities to learn and grow. Chidubè’s legacy of academic excellence, personal growth, and community service inspires me to embrace the values of lifelong learning, leadership, and service. Through these principles, I aim to make a lasting impact on my community and the world at large. I began my educational journey at community college, where I spent three years navigating the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the obstacles, I stayed committed to my studies and worked diligently to adapt to the new learning environment. This year, I am transitioning to pursue my bachelor’s degree, with plans to graduate in December 2025. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am currently working on obtaining Google and CompTIA+ certifications in IT support. These certifications are an important step in my career goals, equipping me with hands-on technical skills while also demonstrating my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. Balancing work, school, and certification studies has been challenging, but it has taught me valuable lessons in time management and resilience. Inspired by Chidubè’s dedication to uplifting others, I am also working toward starting a for-profit company aimed at improving the experience of aging adults in the digital world. As technology becomes more essential, many older adults face barriers in adapting to new tools and systems. My goal is to create solutions that help aging adults navigate technology with ease, improving their independence and quality of life. This venture will combine my passion for technology with my desire to make a positive impact, empowering a generation that deserves to stay connected and engaged. Chidubè also emphasized the importance of personal and spiritual growth. I believe that true success is not just about academic achievement but also about nurturing resilience, compassion, and empathy. Throughout my life, I’ve committed myself to developing these qualities through practices such as mindfulness and volunteering. These experiences help me stay grounded and focused on my purpose: using my knowledge and skills to serve and support others. In the face of financial challenges and the demands of balancing work and study, I have developed a deep understanding of perseverance and the importance of seizing opportunities. Like Chidubè, I see these challenges as stepping stones to greater success. The lessons I’ve learned from overcoming obstacles have only strengthened my resolve to continue my education and make a difference in my community. In conclusion, by embodying Chidubè’s values of academic excellence, personal growth, and service to others, I am committed to making a meaningful impact in the world. Through my education, certifications, and future business endeavors, I plan to honor his legacy and contribute to the betterment of society, particularly by helping aging adults embrace the digital age with confidence and ease.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, it can be easy to overlook the needs of aging adults, especially when it comes to technology. Many older adults are often left behind in a world that is increasingly driven by digital tools. However, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing my grandmother, Ellen, break through these barriers. She is not just an example of someone embracing change but also a living testament to the idea that aging adults should not only have a say in the world today but also the tools to be active, empowered participants in it. Ellen is a woman who has always been independent, strong, and resourceful. However, as technology advanced, she found herself feeling disconnected from her family, her community, and the world around her. At first, she was hesitant to dive into the digital world. Many older adults face similar fears—whether it’s the fear of technology, the fear of change, or the fear of being left behind. But I encouraged her to learn, and over time, we began exploring her laptop together. I introduced her to basic computer skills, from sending emails to browsing the internet, and, most importantly, learning how to stay connected with her loved ones through video calls and social media. As we worked through these lessons, I noticed her confidence growing. One day, I suggested, “Why not look into getting a job in today’s world? The digital skills you’re learning could open up new opportunities for you.” To my surprise, she took this suggestion seriously and began looking for ways she could contribute her skills, even with her age. Ellen’s desire to learn and to remain engaged with the workforce wasn’t about financial necessity; it was about staying relevant and feeling that she still had something meaningful to offer. She wanted to prove that age is not a limitation but a testament to the wealth of experience and wisdom she could bring. Ellen has shown me that the idea of aging adults being sidelined in today’s world is an outdated notion. With the right support and encouragement, older adults can continue to thrive, contribute, and lead fulfilling lives. She now uses her technological skills to engage in online learning, volunteer work, and even part-time jobs that match her interests. More importantly, she now feels empowered, not only because she can navigate the digital world, but because she’s proven to herself that she’s never too old to learn, adapt, or succeed. Through this experience with my grandmother, I have become passionate about helping other aging adults embrace technology and achieve greater independence. I believe that in today’s world, older adults deserve to have a voice, and they should be given every opportunity to remain engaged, employed, and connected. My commitment to aging studies and technology stems from my desire to help older generations gain the skills they need to live fulfilling lives, regardless of their age. The lessons I’ve learned from my grandmother, Ellen, have inspired me to pursue a career in technology where I can develop tools and resources to help aging adults navigate the digital world and stay independent. The world may be changing rapidly, but one thing will always remain the same: the value of experience. Ellen is proof that no matter how old you are, learning never stops, and the right tools can unlock new possibilities. I am committed to making sure that older adults, like my grandmother, are given the opportunity to thrive, learn, and contribute to the world around them.