Lauren Curry-Wilburn 05/24/25 For me, the arts are not just a career path, they are a powerful tool for expression, connection, and empowerment. My journey with photography began as a personal escape, a way to navigate insecurities and discover my own worth. Growing up in a predominantly white environment, I often felt unseen and misunderstood. It wasn’t until I embraced photography that I found a medium through which I could reclaim my identity, tell my story, and help others do the same. What began as a personal passion has grown into a calling: to use the arts to amplify underrepresented voices and transform how people see themselves and their communities. Through my photography business, I have served over 300 clients, capturing a diverse range of moments, from maternity and graduation sessions to dynamic portraits, self-portraiture and business campaigns. But beyond the technical skills, what drives me is the impact that my work has on others. Many of my clients have expressed how transformative it feels to see themselves through my lens, how it has boosted their confidence, celebrated their beauty, and given them a sense of visibility and worth. This is what art is about; creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered. At North Carolina A&T, I’m pursuing my Marketing degree with the intention of minoring in Mass Media Production as we don’t have a major on photography. As an aspiring editorial photographer and media journalist, I aim to use my creative talents to tell powerful stories that resonate deeply, especially within marginalized communities. I plan to document the beauty, strength, and resilience that often go unnoticed, challenging harmful stereotypes and offering new, affirming narratives. My vision is to build a body of work that doesn’t just showcase technical excellence, but also sparks dialogue, inspires confidence, and fosters a sense of belonging. The arts are also a gateway to cultural literacy. Through photography, I’ve learned that images have the power to communicate across language and cultural barriers, to connect people from different backgrounds, and to preserve history. I want to use this universal language to uplift Black culture, celebrate diversity, and honor the stories that have been silenced for too long. My goal is to create exhibitions, publications, and digital platforms that highlight the creativity and resilience of underrepresented communities, ensuring that their stories are told authentically and with dignity. In addition to my own creative work, I’m passionate about using the arts to mentor and empower others. I plan to offer workshops and free or discounted photography sessions to students and young entrepreneurs who might not have access to professional creative services. By sharing my knowledge and skills, I hope to equip others with the tools they need to tell their own stories, build their brands, and embrace their creative potential. I also dream of creating a scholarship fund specifically for HBCU students pursuing the arts, to help alleviate the financial barriers that too often limit opportunities for talented young creatives. My passion for the arts is deeply intertwined with my commitment to community. I believe that creativity is not just for personal fulfillment, it’s a means of making a lasting impact. Through my photography, I plan to uplift, empower, and inspire others, while contributing to a richer, more inclusive cultural landscape. The arts have given me a voice, a purpose, and a vision and I am determined to use them to make a difference in my community and beyond.

Lauren Curry-Wilburn 05/24/25 Service has been a cornerstone of my life, whether it’s through supporting my family, helping my community, or uplifting my teammates. Each aspect has shaped who I am and has created a deep sense of purpose and responsibility. My father’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease has profoundly impacted my family and I. As his condition progressed, I had to step into a role of support not only emotionally but also financially. My father was once the primary provider for our family, but his early retirement due to his health left a gap. I took on responsibilities far beyond what I ever imagined, from helping with his medical appointments and managing his care to contributing financially through my business. Balancing these duties while pursuing my education and athletic commitments as a first-generation student at North Carolina A&T has been challenging, but it has taught me the true meaning of resilience and sacrifice. My father’s unwavering dedication to our family, even in the face of illness, has inspired me to show up for others just as he has always shown up for me. Beyond my family, I have dedicated myself to serving my community. As a Division I student-athlete and an entrepreneur, I’ve built a thriving photography business that has served over 300 clients in just a year and a half. However, this business is about more than just photography, it’s a platform for service. I offer free or discounted sessions to students and small business owners who may not otherwise have access to professional photography. Through these experiences, I help others build their brands, tell their stories, and boost their confidence. My work isn’t just about capturing images, it’s about empowering people to see their own beauty and potential. At North Carolina A&T, I also serve my fellow student-athletes through my involvement with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). Through SAAC, I’ve volunteered at local elementary schools, provided mentorship to young children during their lunch breaks and recess, and participated in essential charity drives. We’ve collected feminine products for high school girls, organized clothing and supply drives for local shelters, and worked to provide meals for homeless individuals. These experiences have opened my eyes to the power of collective action and the importance of creating programs that meet the needs of our community. What’s more, I see service as a responsibility, not just a choice. I know what it feels like to be in need, whether it’s financial support, mentorship, or simply a listening ear. That’s why I’m committed to giving back in every space I’m part of. My photography business allows me to uplift others, while my role with SAAC helps me lead initiatives that create tangible change. I’m also passionate about expanding these efforts, from offering creative workshops for students to creating scholarships for those balancing school, sports, business, and family like I am. My service reflects my core belief that we all have a role to play in making our communities stronger and more supportive. Whether through family, business, or athletics, I’m committed to using my experiences and talents to lift others up and leave a lasting impact.

Lauren Curry-Wilburn 05/24/25 One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my life was watching my father’s health decline due to Alzheimer’s disease. My father is my bestfriend, growing up I was a daddy’s girl and he was the strongest man I knew. He worked hard every day to put a smile on each of my siblings face. His dedication and work ethic were unmatched, and I always admired his ability to stay strong no matter what obstacles he faced. We started off going to the hospital because of a back injury from his job, but while examining, they found that his heart valve was leaking. After surgery, the hard mediciation he was given after we believe was the start. It started off small, forgetting to pick me up from practice, forgetting the routes he took everyday, forgetting the important details of my days, forgetting the things he needed for work, and more. He could no longer provide for us the way he used to, and that responsibility fell heavily on my shoulders. At the same time, I was balancing my role as a student-athlete transitioning to my first year at North Carolina A&T, managing a growing photography business, and trying to keep up with my academics. There were moments when the weight of everything felt unbearable. I remember times when I had to push through exhaustion just to make it to class after spending late nights editing photos for clients. There were days where I had to take him to his numerous appointments when my mother couldn’t, leaving school early or missing practice. I was constantly juggling deadlines for assignments, training schedules, and family responsibilities. The financial strain, the emotional exhaustion, and the overwhelming pressure felt like an incoming burnout. But through this experience, I learned one of the most valuable lessons of my life: resilience. I realized that I couldn’t control what was happening with my father’s health, but I could control how I responded to the situation. I learned to be resourceful, to manage my time more effectively, and to lean into my creative passions as both an outlet and a means of support. Photography, for me, became more than just a business, it became a way to tell stories, to uplift others, and to remind myself that beauty and strength exist even in the midst of struggle. I also learned the importance asking for help. As much as I wanted to do everything on my own, I had to learn to trust others, to rely on friends, teammates, and mentors for guidance and support. It taught me that there is no shame in seeking help, and that often the strongest people are the ones who are willing to be vulnerable and lean on others. I learned to accept that while I might be strong, I didn’t have to carry every burden alone. Most importantly, I learned that setbacks don’t define me, they refine me. Every obstacle I’ve faced, from my father’s illness to the financial challenges of paying for college to balancing academics, athletics, and entrepreneurship, has only made me stronger, more determined, and more focused on my goals. I’ve learned to keep pushing forward, to adapt, and to turn challenges into stepping stones toward my dreams. This experience has shaped not only who I am today but also the person I strive to be in the future. It’s given me the confidence to face any challenge head-on, the resilience to overcome setbacks, and the compassion to help others who are walking through their own struggles.

Lauren Curry-Wilburn 05/24/25 Creating a legacy is about more than just personal success, it’s about building something that can inspire and uplift others. For me, that legacy is grounded in the values of resilience, creativity, service, and a deep commitment to representing those who feel overlooked. Growing up as a first-generation African American woman in predominantly white spaces, I’ve witnessed firsthand how vital it is to have someone who believes in you, supports you, and shows you what’s possible. My legacy starts with the work I’m already doing. I’ve grown my clientele as a freelance photographer before my first year as a student-athlete at North Carolina A&T, I’ve balanced the intense demands of sports, academics, and entrepreneurship while also managing personal responsibilities like supporting my family through my dad’s battle with Alzheimer’s. Despite the challenges, I’ve been able to build a thriving photography business, servicing over 300 clients in only a year & a half, providing top tier work that is unusual for my age & expertise level. My work is very versatile, I’ve captured everything from sports photography and dynamic self-portraits to major events, maternity sessions, headshots, business promotions, graduation sessions, lifestyle shoots and powerful campaigns (for my school’s Student Government Association). Through these diverse projects, I’ve learned how to tell stories that resonate deeply, highlight beauty in every form, and make people feel seen and valued. But my goals don’t stop here. I plan to take my business to the next level by obtaining my LLC, giving me the foundation to expand my brand and elevate my impact. I want to create a business that not only showcases my creative vision but also serves as a platform to empower young creatives, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Whether it’s through mentorship programs, offering workshops, or something that I do now, which is providing free or discounted photography sessions to students and small business owners, I aim to use my skills and resources to help others achieve their dreams. In addition to expanding my business, I’m also planning to deepen my involvement with my university by becoming an intern for the sports department and working closely with faculty. This opportunity will allow me to strengthen my professional skills, build meaningful connections, and demonstrate what it means to balance multiple roles with integrity and excellence. I want to show others that it’s possible to pursue athletics, academics, business, and service simultaneously, and that resilience and determination can turn obstacles into opportunities. I shine my light by showing up fully as myself and leading with empathy and purpose. When I pick up my camera, I’m not just taking photos, I’m capturing moments that empower others to see their beauty, strength, and potential. My clients have told me how transformative it feels to see themselves through my lens, and that’s a testament to the impact I strive to make. I know there are people who might be silently watching my journey, feeling inspired by my determination to push through adversity and create something meaningful. My light shines in how I use my story to motivate others, in how I approach my work with passion and excellence, and in how I dedicate myself to helping others feel seen and valued. In the next few years, I will continue building a legacy rooted in creativity, resilience, and service. I will expand my business, invest in young talent, and use my platform to create spaces where people feel empowered to pursue their passions. This is how I plan to make my mark on the world, by shining a light that helps others discover their own.

If given the opportunity, I would dedicate myself to improving my community by expanding and deepening the outreach programs through SAAC, the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, where I am actively involved as a student athlete at my college. Through SAAC, I have had the privilege of volunteering at local elementary schools, spending time with children during their lunch breaks and recess, and helping facilitate important charity drives. These drives have supported homeless individuals, provided feminine products to high school girls in need, and supplied essentials to local shelters. These experiences have opened my eyes to the power of service and how even small acts of kindness can ripple through a community, creating hope and healing. The mission of SAAC to enhance the student athlete experience by promoting opportunity, protecting welfare, and fostering a positive student athlete image is something I deeply believe in. Student athletes are in a unique position; we have platforms not just in sports but also in the wider community. We can use our voices to bring attention to real issues, to bridge gaps between the administration and students, and to lead by example in making a positive impact. I want to build on this mission by working to expand the scope of SAAC’s outreach initiatives, increasing the number of charity drives, and creating more programs that support youth development, empowerment, and basic needs in our local community. Improving my community is incredibly important to me because I know what it means to feel unseen or unsupported. Growing up as a first generation African American woman in a predominantly white high school, I often struggled to find spaces where my voice was heard and my experiences reflected. I took initiative by creating the first Black Student Union at my high school and serving as President of the DREAM Club, which focused on diversity, racial equity, and inclusion. These leadership roles taught me the importance of representing and advocating for those who are underrepresented, and I intend to carry that spirit forward in my college community and beyond. Now, as a Division 1 student athlete and entrepreneur, balancing academics, athletics, and running a business, I see how important it is to build support networks that empower young people, especially those who face financial or social challenges. Through SAAC and my own initiatives, I want to help youth build confidence and ambition, whether through mentorship, workshops, or providing resources like free photography sessions to help them tell their stories and build their own brands. Giving back is not just about charity—it’s about creating opportunities for growth and change that can last a lifetime. I believe community improvement is a collective effort that starts with empathy, responsibility, and action. The lessons I’ve learned from my father’s battle with Alzheimer’s about resilience, selflessness, and showing up for others even when times are tough drive me to be a purposeful and compassionate leader. If given the chance, I will work tirelessly to create programs that address critical needs, uplift marginalized voices, and build a more inclusive, supportive community. My goal is to create a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. This means expanding SAAC’s reach, strengthening partnerships between athletes and administration, and launching initiatives that address real world problems. Because when we lift each other up, we don’t just improve individual lives—we strengthen the whole community. That is why this work is so important to me, and why I am committed to making a lasting positive impact.

Going to college means so much more to me than just attending classes or earning a degree. As a first-generation African American woman, it represents breaking barriers that have existed in my family for generations. It means creating new opportunities where there weren’t any before. It means showing up for myself and my family in ways that my father and those before him never had the chance to do. College is a symbol of resilience, sacrifice, and hope for a better future. Growing up, I watched my father work tirelessly to support our family. His early retirement because of Alzheimer’s disease shook everything I thought I could rely on financially. Suddenly, the weight of paying for school, housing, and other expenses fell heavily on me. Even though I am a walk-on athlete at North Carolina A&T with no athletic scholarship, and I receive limited financial aid, I have refused to let these challenges stop me. College is the place where I prove to myself every day that I can overcome obstacles, manage a demanding schedule, and keep my dreams alive despite the odds. Being at North Carolina A&T, means more than just attending a school; it means being part of a powerful legacy of Black excellence, pride, and resilience. It is a community that understands me, reflects my culture, and lifts my voice. It’s a place where I don’t have to question if I belong because I know I do. Here, I’m learning how to balance my identity as a student, a Division I athlete, an entrepreneur, and an advocate for social change. What I’m trying to accomplish in college goes far beyond just getting a degree. Yes, I want to succeed academically, but my vision is much bigger. I want to build a career that combines my passion for creativity, entrepreneurship, and justice. Photography has become my way of telling stories and empowering others, especially young people who come from backgrounds like mine. I want to use my skills to help them see their worth, celebrate their beauty, and find their voice. I also want to create opportunities for youth to start their own businesses, especially those who face the same financial struggles and lack of support that I have. Through my photography business, I’ve learned how important it is to have quality branding and strong visuals. I plan to offer mentorship, workshops, and free services that can help young entrepreneurs build their confidence and present themselves professionally. My goal is to be a resource and a role model for others who might feel like their dreams are too big or out of reach. College is the foundation that will allow me to make a meaningful impact in my community and beyond. It is where I am gaining the knowledge, experience, and connections I need to bring my ideas to life. It’s where I am learning to lead with purpose and resilience, just like my father showed me through his strength. Every class I take, every practice I attend, and every client I serve brings me closer to the future I am building, not just for me, but for the people I want to uplift and inspire. Ultimately, college means growth. It means fighting through challenges with determination and heart. It means stepping into spaces that were never designed for people like me and showing up boldly and unapologetically. I am here to accomplish my goals, break cycles, and create a legacy that will last long after I graduate. College is my chance to turn my dreams into reality.

In the next five years, I plan to create a positive impact on both my local and global communities by using photography, technology, and marketing to help young people—especially youth of color—bring their business dreams to life. As a first-generation African American woman, student-athlete, and entrepreneur, I understand how powerful it is to have someone believe in you, to provide you with tools, visibility, and a platform to grow. That’s what I want to give to others. When I started my photography business, I had very little, but I had passion and drive. I built something from the ground up, managing over 100 clients while balancing school, athletics, and personal responsibilities—including supporting myself financially due to my father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and early retirement. I know what it feels like to hustle for a dream, and I also know how much harder it can be when you don’t have the resources or guidance. That’s why I’m committed to helping young people—especially Black youth—who are trying to start something of their own. Through my photography, I want to offer free or low-cost professional branding sessions to youth entrepreneurs who may not be able to afford high-quality content. In a world where your first impression is often online, strong visuals are everything. A well-shot headshot, product photo, or social media campaign can make all the difference in how a business is received. I want to help young creators and business owners show up in the world with confidence and professionalism. I also plan to host workshops and mentorship programs that teach basic branding, photography, and marketing skills—giving youth the tools to take control of their own narratives. These sessions will focus on things like how to build a strong digital presence, how to use social media effectively, and how to tell your brand story visually. I want to equip the next generation with practical skills that they can use immediately—not just in business, but in life. Technology and marketing are powerful when used with purpose. I believe that with the right knowledge and support, young people can launch and grow businesses that not only sustain them financially, but uplift their communities. I want to be someone who helps open that door—who shows them that success isn’t out of reach, and that their dreams are valid. My ultimate goal is to create a creative studio and youth business incubator—specifically designed for young entrepreneurs from underserved communities. A space where they can create, collaborate, get mentorship, and receive professional services to bring their ideas to life. The next five years will be about building that vision—one client, one photo, one story at a time. I want to use the skills I’ve worked so hard to develop not just for myself, but to be a resource for others. Because when we invest in youth, we’re investing in a future full of innovation, leadership, and positive change.

Charity, to me, is about community—about lifting others up when they’re down, just as I’ve needed support during my own hardships. Growing up watching my father work tirelessly to provide for our family, and now watching him battle Alzheimer’s, I’ve come to deeply understand the power of compassion, generosity, and showing up for people in times of need. As someone who has faced financial, emotional, and mental challenges while pursuing my education, athletics, and creative passions, I know how life-changing it can be to receive support—whether it’s a scholarship, a kind word, mentorship, or simply someone believing in you. That’s why giving back isn’t just a goal—it’s a responsibility. I believe the blessings we receive are meant to be shared. In the future, I plan to give back in multiple ways. As a photographer and aspiring media journalist, I hope to use my platform to amplify underrepresented voices—especially young Black creatives who may not always feel seen or supported. I want to offer mentorship, lead workshops, and provide free photo sessions to students and entrepreneurs who deserve to be celebrated and empowered. I also hope to one day create scholarships or grants for students balancing academics, athletics, business, and family, like I have. I know how overwhelming that journey can be. Charity reminds us that we are all connected. The help we give today creates a ripple effect that can inspire someone else tomorrow. One day, I plan to be the one giving—consistently, intentionally, and with love.

To me, being a student at North Carolina A&T State University means being a part of a legacy of Black excellence, resilience, and pride. It’s about more than just receiving an education—it’s about being immersed in a culture that empowers me to thrive, both personally and professionally. As a Division I student-athlete, business owner, and creative, I’ve found that A&T offers a unique space where I can push myself to grow, even through hardship. Navigating my father’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease has been one of the most difficult challenges of my life. He was my main source of financial support, and with his early retirement, I’ve had to step up and find ways to support myself. Even though I’m a walk-on athlete receiving no financial aid for my talents, and despite receiving limited assistance for my tuition at the nation’s #1 public HBCU, I continue to push forward. I've taken over 100 clients during demanding academic semesters to help pay for school—sacrificing sleep and free time just to stay on track. But it’s in these struggles that I’ve learned the true meaning of perseverance. Being at an HBCU like A&T doesn’t mean we perform at a lesser level—if anything, it means we fight harder to be seen. We are the underdogs, but we perform with excellence, determination, and pride. The track program here is a perfect example—competitive, committed, and consistently proving that we belong on any stage. The culture and aesthetic of A&T have also helped my business flourish. Being surrounded by students who reflect my background, creativity, and ambition has inspired me to embrace my identity fully. As someone who once struggled with self-worth and confidence, especially growing up in a predominantly white environment where I felt alienated, A&T has given me the community and representation I needed to grow into the woman I am today. Now, as a photographer and aspiring editorial creative, I use my lens to empower others—to show them their beauty and worth the same way I had to learn to see mine. My dream is to become a media journalist or editorial photographer, telling powerful stories that resonate with underrepresented communities. This scholarship would not only ease the burden of paying for textbooks and housing, but also give me the chance to stay focused on that dream. At A&T, I’m not just learning from textbooks, I’m learning how to survive, how to build, and how to inspire. These lessons will follow me long after graduation. I plan to carry the strength, creativity, and ambition I’ve cultivated here into every part of my career. Because no matter where I go, I’ll always carry the spirit of an Aggie—resilient, bold, and driven to make a difference. Aggies Do!!!

Growing up, I hated being in front of a camera. Every time someone pulled out a camera, I would cry, feeling awkward and uncomfortable. As a child, I never understood why I felt that way. But moving into my pre-teen years and attending a predominantly white school, the bullying I endured only deepened my insecurities. I don’t know if it was because I was perceived as “ugly” or if it stemmed from a place of pure hatred and racism, but I did know that it left a mark on me. I struggled to understand why I felt different, why I didn’t fit in. It wasn’t until later, when I surrounded myself with people who looked more like me, that I began to discover my own beauty. I realized that the traits I once viewed as flaws were what made me unique, and through that understanding, I began to see my worth. It was a turning point in my life. All of a sudden, I loved being in front of the camera, taking photos of myself, of my surroundings, and anything that I found beautiful. I found joy in capturing moments, and that passion for photography grew as I started to embrace the beauty in every photograph. As I progressed in my studies, I realized that my love for photography wasn’t just a hobby, but a potential career path. My dream is to become an editorial photographer or a media journalist—using my camera to tell stories, document life, and empower people to embrace their own beauty. I feel incredibly passionate about portrait photography because I believe it’s an opportunity to show others how amazing they are. The process of capturing someone’s image and making them feel seen is truly powerful. However, pursuing my dream has not come without its challenges. As a college student, I am constantly juggling my academics and my business. My father, who has Alzheimer’s disease, was once my main source of financial support, but his condition has made it increasingly difficult for him to work resulting in early retirement . As a result, I’ve had to take on the responsibility of supporting myself through college. Being a Division 1 student-athlete and owning my own business, I’ve had to manage a busy schedule, taking on more than 100 clients to help cover tuition and other expenses. It’s incredibly difficult balancing late nights working with clients while maintaining my academic responsibilities. But I push through because I know how important my education is, and I refuse to let my dreams slip away. Despite the hardships, I remain motivated by the belief that my father would never want me to give up. He has always supported me, and I know he would want me to keep striving for the future I’ve worked so hard for. This scholarship would provide me with the financial relief I need to focus more on my studies and less on how to cover basic expenses, such as textbooks and housing. It would allow me to continue pursuing my passion for photography, bringing me one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming an editorial photographer or media journalist. Photography is not just a career for me; it’s a way to express myself, connect with others, and empower people to embrace their true selves. This scholarship would not only ease my financial burdens but also enable me to continue my journey toward using photography as a platform for positive change.