Turning Pain Into Purpose: How Education Can Help End Intimate Partner Violence Growing up, some of the most powerful lessons I learned did not come from textbooks or classrooms. They came from listening to my mother, Hope, share her stories as a Victim Advocate for the United States Army. Hearing about survivors of intimate partner violence, about the struggles they faced behind closed doors and the strength it took to rebuild their lives, shaped how I see the world. It taught me early that violence does not always leave visible scars and that true healing requires more than physical safety. It demands compassion, understanding, and real change. Education plays a critical role in reducing intimate partner violence. When people have access to knowledge, they have power. Power to recognize the early signs of abuse. Power to understand their rights and know that love should never hurt. Power to break generational cycles of silence and fear. Education builds awareness, but more importantly, it builds the confidence people need to advocate for themselves and for others. It challenges the old narratives that excuse or hide abuse and replaces them with messages of respect, equality, and safety. As a Social Work student at Fayetteville State University, I believe education is one of the most important tools we have for prevention. It is not enough to respond to violence after it happens. We must create communities where healthy relationships are taught, valued, and expected from a young age. Through education, we can help young people understand what boundaries look like, what respect feels like, and how to seek help without shame. My personal experiences have deepened this belief. Growing up hearing my mother's stories, I realized how often survivors are isolated, misunderstood, or judged. I learned that many survivors stay silent because they fear no one will believe them or because they have been taught to believe they are at fault. I also saw how powerful it can be when someone has an advocate standing by their side, reminding them that they are not alone and that their life matters. I plan to use both my degree and my personal experiences to create positive change. My goal is to work directly with survivors of intimate partner violence, especially in marginalized communities where support is often harder to find. I want to be part of programs that not only offer crisis support but also provide education about healthy relationships, financial independence, mental health, and long-term empowerment. I want to help build environments where survivors are not just surviving, but thriving. Beyond direct support, I also hope to work on the prevention side. Whether it is leading workshops in schools, creating outreach programs, or advocating for policy changes, I want to be part of changing the conversation around intimate partner violence. It should not be a hidden topic or a taboo discussion. It should be something we talk about openly, honestly, and often, because lives depend on it. My education is not just about earning a degree. It is about preparing myself to carry forward the lessons my mother passed down to me. It is about using knowledge, empathy, and advocacy to make sure that survivors everywhere know they are not alone—and that the cycle of violence can, and will, be broken.

My journey with mental health began long before I ever stepped onto a college campus. Sitting in a counselor’s office in seventh grade taught me early that mental health is not something you can ignore. It touches every part of your life, including your relationships, your confidence, and your ability to focus, grow, and succeed. Now, as a Social Work student at Fayetteville State University, I see even more clearly how much my mental health affects both my academic performance and my personal life. When my mental health is steady, I feel focused, motivated, and excited about my classes. I can manage deadlines, participate in discussions, and fully engage with the work that will one day allow me to help others as a counselor. But when stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion builds up, everything becomes harder. It feels like my mind slows down, assignments seem overwhelming, and self-doubt creeps in, making me question if I am doing enough. Outside of school, my mental health also shapes how I show up for the people around me. If I am struggling inside, it is much harder to be the friend, daughter, and leader I want to be. Recognizing these patterns has taught me to treat my mental health as a daily priority instead of something I only think about when things go wrong. I know that if I want to succeed in school and in life, I have to take care of myself on purpose. One of the most important steps I take is sticking to a routine that makes time for both work and rest. I break larger assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks and celebrate the small victories instead of only focusing on the bigger picture. These habits help me stay grounded and prevent me from feeling overwhelmed. I also stay connected to people who support me. Whether it is reaching out to family, checking in with friends, or asking my professors for guidance, I understand that isolation makes things harder. Building a support system reminds me that I do not have to carry everything alone, even when life gets busy or stressful. Another important step I take is protecting my peace. I pay attention to the spaces I enter, the conversations I have, and the energy I keep around me. When I feel myself getting overwhelmed, I give myself permission to step away, go outside for fresh air, write in my journal, or take a quiet moment to breathe. Even a few minutes of mindfulness each day helps me stay connected to myself and manage the pressure of college life. Above all, I have learned to let go of the idea that I need to be perfect. Taking care of my mental health means accepting that not every day will be easy. It means allowing myself to feel my emotions without guilt and reaching out for help when I need it. I have learned that asking for support and giving myself time to heal are signs of strength, not signs of failure. My mental health journey is not separate from my academic and personal goals. It is woven into every part of my story. By caring for my mind and heart each day, I am not just surviving college. I am building the habits that will help me live a full and meaningful life. As I continue my education and prepare to become a social worker, I know that the work I do today to protect my own mental health will help me guide others toward their healing tomorrow.

I was twelve years old when I first sat in a counseling office, unsure how to explain the heaviness I was carrying. Thankfully, I was matched with a culturally competent counselor who understood my story beyond words. That experience did not just help me survive—it shaped the way I see myself, my relationships, and the world around me. Mental health has taught me that asking for help is a powerful act of courage. Growing up, mental health struggles were not talked about in my family. Pain showed up in silence and long days where emotions stayed hidden. Counseling taught me that healing begins when someone is willing to listen without judgment. Today, as a Social Work student at Fayetteville State University, I am determined to become the kind of counselor who creates that safe space for others, especially for communities that have often been overlooked. My experiences changed the way I build relationships. I listen with more patience. I do not rush to fix or judge. I have learned that people do not always need answers. They need someone willing to sit with them in their pain and remind them they are not alone. That is the kind of friend, daughter, and future social worker I work to be every day. My view of the world has also shifted. I understand now that many struggles are invisible. Someone can seem strong and successful on the outside while battling private storms. This awareness makes me approach people with more kindness and compassion. Mental health is deeply personal to me, but it is also a calling. I want to help break the stigma that surrounds mental health in communities of color. I want young people to know that reaching for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. And I want to help create a world where healing is not just possible—it is expected and supported. My experiences with mental health did not break me. They built me. And they gave me a purpose I am proud to carry forward.

I was twelve years old the first time I sat in a counselor’s office. The chairs were too big, the clock was too loud, and the silence between questions felt heavier than anything a seventh grader should have to carry. But my counselor, who was warm, patient, and most importantly, culturally competent, saw through my silence. She made space for me to feel seen, not just heard. That experience did more than help me survive middle school. It planted the seed for who I am today. I am currently a Social Work student at Fayetteville State University, but my journey started long before college applications and textbooks. It started when life felt unfair and the people who were supposed to protect and guide me sometimes could not because they were fighting battles of their own. It started when I realized that asking for help is not a weakness. It is one of the bravest things you can do. Growing up, I watched family members struggle with mental health issues without the words or resources to fully explain what was happening. We did not use terms like "therapy" or "mental wellness" at the kitchen table. Instead, pain showed up in arguments, in silence, and in nights filled with confusion and loneliness. Attending counseling in seventh grade broke that cycle for me. It showed me that acknowledging pain does not make you fragile. It makes you powerful. It made me determined to become the kind of person who opens the door for someone else’s healing. My counselor did not just listen. She truly understood me. As a Black girl in a world that often mistakes our strength for invincibility, she knew how important it was that I felt seen in all my complexity. Her cultural competence was not just helpful. It was the bridge that made healing possible. That experience taught me something I have never forgotten: true mental health support must be built on understanding, empathy, and respect for who a person is. It is a lesson I carry with me into every classroom, every conversation, and every dream I have for the future. Mental health has deeply shaped my beliefs. I believe that being vulnerable shows strength. I believe that resilience is not about pretending everything is fine. It is about trusting yourself enough to ask for help when it is not. I believe that representation in mental health fields is not just important. It can be life-saving. These beliefs have shaped my relationships too. Because of my own journey, I approach others with more patience and compassion. When friends or family members open up about their struggles, I do not rush to give advice or move past their pain. I honor the bravery it takes to share what is hidden. In a world that often tells us to be tough or hide our emotions, I try to be the person who says, "You do not have to go through this alone." Majoring in Social Work felt natural. It felt right. I do not just want to work in mental health someday. I want to transform it. I want to become a counselor who focuses on Black and brown communities, where trust in the system has been broken for too long. I want to be the person who tells young girls, just like seventh grade me, that their feelings are valid, that their experiences matter, and that healing is not only possible, it belongs to them. Every lecture I attend, every paper I write, and every practicum hour I complete is fueled by these experiences. When I sit across from a future client, I will not just bring my degree. I will bring understanding. I will bring lived experience. I will bring a presence that says, "You are safe here. You are seen." My journey with mental health did not just influence me. It made me who I am. It taught me that our wounds do not have to be the end of our story. Sometimes, they are the beginning. And as I keep walking this path toward becoming a counselor, I carry those early moments with me. The too-big chair, the ticking clock, and the voice that told me, "You are not alone." Those memories are not my baggage. They are my blueprint. They are why I believe in healing. They are why I believe in hope. And they are why I believe that one conversation, rooted in compassion and understanding, can change a life. Including mine.

I was born weighing just 1 lb 8.2 oz—and I survived because of the kindness of others. My family was overwhelmed when I arrived 15 weeks early, but the support we received—from donations to encouraging words—helped carry us through. That experience, though I was too young to remember, shaped how I see the world. Charity saved my life. Now, as a 19-year-old Social Work major at Fayetteville State University, giving back is part of who I am. I serve as Ms. Hood Hall, representing my dorm and helping students feel heard and supported. I’ve organized events focused on mental wellness and volunteered through public service initiatives that connect people to real resources. In the future, I plan to become a licensed clinical social worker and open a wellness center focused on trauma-informed care for underserved families. I want to give others the same sense of hope and support that once gave me a fighting chance. For me, charity isn’t just about giving—it’s about showing up, being present, and helping someone believe in tomorrow.

“I don’t always have the answers, but I know how to listen.” That’s what I told a close friend during her first panic attack. We were both sitting in my dorm hallway, overwhelmed and unsure, but in that moment, I realized the power of simply being present. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to show up emotionally for others, even if all I can offer is compassion, consistency, and a calm voice in the storm. As a Social Work major at Fayetteville State University and the student representative for Ms. Hood Hall, I’ve had the opportunity to lead with empathy and advocacy. In this role, I serve as a liaison between residents and university staff, ensuring that the emotional and social needs of students are not overlooked. From coordinating wellness events to hosting dorm-wide check-ins during high-stress times like midterms, I’ve created space for students to feel seen, supported, and connected. In addition to my dorm leadership, I also volunteer in public service initiatives, often helping organize events that promote mental wellness and access to resources for students across campus. These experiences have taught me how to build community from the inside out—especially among students who may be away from home, struggling in silence, or managing the weight of family and financial pressures. Growing up in a household with two disabled veteran parents, I saw firsthand how mental health struggles affect daily life. Those personal experiences, combined with my volunteer work, fuel my commitment to become a licensed clinical social worker who provides trauma-informed, culturally competent care. I want to work with youth and families who’ve been marginalized or underserved—offering the kind of emotional support that’s proactive, healing, and accessible. Mental health should never feel out of reach. Whether through my role as Ms. Hood Hall or my future in social work, I am committed to making emotional support a reality for those who need it most.

As the fifth of seven children raised by two disabled veterans, I’ve witnessed firsthand how mental health struggles can shape an entire household. My parents, both honorable and brave in their own right, carry invisible wounds from their time in service—wounds that echo in daily life through depression, anxiety, PTSD, and moments of deep emotional fatigue. While love was never absent in our home, support systems were. That gap became my motivation. At just 19 years old, I am a junior majoring in Social Work at Fayetteville State University. I also hold an Associate of Arts in General Studies from Central Carolina Community College, where I laid the foundation for my academic journey. But my education is about more than degrees—it's about purpose. My purpose is to become a mental health professional who uplifts, advocates for, and provides culturally competent care to marginalized communities, especially those often left behind in conversations about healing. Growing up in a household affected by untreated or under-treated mental health conditions gave me a deep understanding of how stigma, limited access, and economic hardship can keep families in cycles of silence and survival. I’ve experienced it all—the long waits for VA appointments, the fear of not being understood by counselors who didn’t reflect our background, and the responsibility that often falls on children in these households to hold things together. These moments didn’t break me. They built me. My personal experience with mental health has transformed me from a silent observer into a vocal advocate. I’ve started community conversations at school about trauma in families and the importance of mental health services that consider culture, race, and socioeconomic barriers. I actively participate in student groups that focus on healing spaces for Black and brown students and have mentored younger students who are also first-generation college attendees from low-income households. Advocacy, for me, isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about action, connection, and changing systems from the inside out. Through my career, I plan to provide direct mental health services to youth and families who are often overlooked. I want to open a community wellness center one day that integrates traditional therapy with financial literacy, job readiness, and creative expression—because healing doesn’t happen in isolation. My focus will be on creating safe, inclusive spaces that recognize the intersecting challenges that marginalized communities face—like poverty, racism, and generational trauma. But before I do that, I know I have to keep learning, growing, and preparing. Scholarships like this one not only ease the financial burden for students like me but also bring me one step closer to serving others without barriers. Your support would allow me to continue my education without pause, to gain the experience I need to bring my vision to life, and to be the kind of counselor I always wished my family had. Mental health is deeply personal to me. It's not just my major—it's my mission. I’m walking this path not only for myself but for every child who sees too much and feels like they have no one to talk to. I want to be that someone. And with your help, I will be.

My name is Kori Coffie, and I am a Chemistry major at Fayetteville State University. As the daughter of a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, I have grown up surrounded by the values of service, scholarship, and sisterhood. India Terrell’s legacy of compassion and service deeply resonates with me, inspiring me to reflect on my own journey and how I can honor her impact. A personal experience that exemplifies the qualities of kindness, compassion, and service took place during my high school years. I volunteered at a local community center to tutor middle school students in science and math. Many of these students came from underserved communities and faced significant academic challenges. I remember working with a young girl named Maya who initially struggled to believe in her own abilities. Through patience and encouragement, I watched her confidence grow as she began to grasp concepts she once found impossible. This experience was transformative for both of us—it reinforced my commitment to using education as a tool for empowerment and change. India’s dedication to eliminating disparities in public health and serving underserved communities mirrors my own aspirations in the field of science. While her focus was in public health, mine lies in chemistry, with a goal of addressing challenges like environmental sustainability and medical innovation. I plan to use my degree to pursue a career in research and education, bridging gaps in access to scientific knowledge and solutions. By developing programs that make STEM education more accessible, I hope to inspire young Black students to pursue careers in science, just as India worked to empower her community through health advocacy. India’s life was a testament to ambition, drive, and impact—qualities I strive to emulate in my own endeavors. Her dream of pursuing a master’s degree while advocating for others has inspired me to not only aim high academically but also to align my goals with service. After earning my degree, I intend to mentor students from underrepresented backgrounds, host STEM workshops in underserved areas, and collaborate with organizations that focus on bridging educational and health disparities. India’s legacy challenges me to think beyond personal success and to focus on creating opportunities for others. By following in her footsteps, I hope to carry forward her spirit of kindness, compassion, and tireless service, ensuring her light continues to shine through my work and the lives I touch. Thank you for considering my application for this scholarship, which would help me take the next steps toward making this vision a reality.

My name is Kori Coffie, and I am a proud Chemistry major at Fayetteville State University. From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by science, especially the way chemistry explains how the world works on a molecular level. My passion for learning and discovery drives my commitment to achieving my degree and pursuing a career where I can make a meaningful difference. My professional goals are twofold: first, I aim to work as a chemist, focusing on research that improves lives. Whether it’s developing more effective medicines, creating sustainable materials, or solving environmental challenges, I want my work to leave a positive impact. Second, I want to become an educator. Sharing the joy of science with others is deeply important to me, as I know firsthand how a great teacher can ignite curiosity and build confidence in students. By teaching, I hope to inspire others to pursue careers in STEM and explore the incredible possibilities science offers. Achieving these goals will profoundly impact my family. Education has always been a priority in my household, and earning my degree will not only fulfill a personal dream but also set an example for my children. It will show them that hard work and perseverance can open doors to opportunities and success. My accomplishments will provide a sense of stability for my family, and the knowledge I gain will allow me to support and encourage their educational journeys. Giving back is a cornerstone of my long-term vision. After earning my degree, I plan to mentor young students, especially those from underrepresented communities, to help them see the potential in STEM careers. I also hope to organize outreach programs that make science accessible and exciting for children who may not otherwise have exposure to these fields. As a teacher or mentor, I want to instill a sense of possibility and confidence in the next generation of scientists. Fayetteville State University has provided me with a strong foundation, and this scholarship would further empower me to achieve my goals. It would allow me to focus more on my education and less on financial challenges, enabling me to pursue research and teaching opportunities that align with my aspirations. Through my work as a chemist and educator, I hope to create a ripple effect of positive change—improving lives through science and inspiring others to do the same. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting my journey toward these goals.

Science has always been my favorite subject, but chemistry holds a special place in my heart. There’s something magical about uncovering how the tiniest particles shape the world around us. My name is Kori Coffie, and I’m proud to pursue a degree in Chemistry at Fayetteville State University. With this scholarship, I hope to achieve my dream of becoming a chemist—or perhaps a teacher who inspires others to love science as much as I do. I envision myself as a chemist, researching ways to improve lives through advancements in medicine, sustainable materials, or environmental solutions. I also dream of becoming an educator, helping students see that chemistry isn’t just about formulas—it’s a way to understand and change the world. I want to inspire others, just as my own teachers inspired me. Fayetteville State University has given me incredible opportunities to grow through challenging classes, hands-on labs, and supportive professors. This scholarship would help me focus on my education and take advantage of more opportunities like research and teaching experiences. Whether I’m in a lab creating innovative solutions or in a classroom sparking curiosity in future scientists, my goal is to make a meaningful impact. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting students like me who are driven to pursue their dreams

The pursuit of higher education is a pivotal decision in one's life, driven by a multitude of personal, professional, and societal factors. For me, the decision to continue my education beyond high school is grounded in a deep-seated passion for learning, a desire for personal growth, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact on society. In this essay, I will outline the reasons behind my choice to pursue higher education and elucidate how a scholarship would play a crucial role in helping me realize my future goals. Higher education offers an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth and development. It is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about honing critical thinking skills, fostering creativity, and developing a well-rounded perspective. Through my academic journey, I aim to cultivate these qualities, enabling me to navigate life's challenges more effectively and become a lifelong learner. A higher education degree opens doors to a wider range of career opportunities and advancement possibilities. In today's competitive job market, many professions require specialized knowledge and skills that can only be acquired through rigorous academic training. By pursuing higher education, I aim to equip myself with the expertise needed to excel in my chosen field. I believe that education is a powerful tool for positive societal change. By pursuing higher education, I aspire to contribute to my community and society at large. Whether it be through research, innovation, or social engagement, I am committed to leveraging my education for the betterment of others. Pursuing higher education often comes with a significant financial burden. The cost of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses can be overwhelming. A scholarship would provide much-needed financial relief, allowing me to focus on my studies without the constant worry of accumulating student debt. This financial stability would enable me to fully immerse myself in my educational journey. Scholarships open doors to prestigious institutions and programs that might have been otherwise inaccessible. With a scholarship, I would have the opportunity to attend a reputable institution, access top-notch faculty, and benefit from cutting-edge resources. This access to quality education would enhance the depth and breadth of my learning experience. The scholarship would empower me to pursue my academic and career goals with greater vigor. I could invest in research projects, internships, and extracurricular activities that align with my interests and aspirations. This support would not only enhance my education but also prepare me to make a meaningful contribution to my chosen field. Just as higher education can empower individuals, it can also be a catalyst for positive change within communities. With the assistance of a scholarship, I would be in a better position to give back to my community, whether through volunteer work, mentoring, or initiating community projects. This scholarship would enable me to translate my education into tangible benefits for those around me. In conclusion, the pursuit of higher education is a deeply personal and purposeful journey, driven by the desire for growth, knowledge, and societal impact. A scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my educational and career aspirations by providing financial support, access to quality education, and the opportunity to give back to my community. With this scholarship, I am committed to maximizing my potential, making a positive impact on society, and contributing to a brighter future for all.