user profile avatar

Layton odom

805

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

I am Layton Odom 1st gen of my family try to pave a new way for my brother and sisters to take schooling to a father path.

Education

Sumner High School

High School
2025 - 2025

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Psychology, General
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Law Practice

    • Dream career goals:

    • Background data entry

      Craft theory
      2022 – 20242 years

    Sports

    Track & Field

    Varsity
    2023 – 20252 years
    “I Matter” Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am excited to apply for this scholarship as it represents a crucial step in building a strong foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where we often struggled to make ends meet, I have come to deeply appreciate the importance of support from others. This experience has instilled in me a profound understanding of how access to resources can significantly impact one's life, especially for those in need. A major turning point in my life was the first semester of my senior year when I chose to switch from online classes to in-person learning. I realized that this decision would help me graduate with my class, even though it meant sacrificing my free time and the ability to set my own hours. This choice reflects my commitment to pushing myself to be the best version of myself. I believe that this mindset is what makes me unique and is the quality needed to succeed in college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is driven by a desire to build a stronger GPA and to grow farther from home closer to my family, with whom I've recently started to connect more deeply. Family has always been important to me, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I pursue my education. At the same time, I am excited to continue my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my dedication to the sport. I believe that being part of a community that values hard work and excellence will further motivate me to strive for success. My upbringing has shaped my determination; I’ve lived in a shelter, relied on Section 8 housing, and received government assistance for food stamps. These experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I’ve seen many Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, which fuels my desire to work harder and build wealth to change my situation. I want to create a better life for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many. I honestly don’t know what I would do if I didn’t want to go to college and compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed others with similar backgrounds succumb to drug abuse, including my sister's father, who fell into addiction. These experiences have only strengthened my resolve to succeed and make a difference in my community. I want to be a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances, showing them that it’s possible to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow within the college community.
    Kenyada Me'Chon Thomas Legacy Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am excited to apply for this scholarship as it represents a crucial step in building a strong foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where we often struggled to make ends meet, I have come to deeply appreciate the importance of support from others. This experience has instilled in me a profound understanding of how access to resources can significantly impact one's life, especially for those in need. A major turning point in my life was the first semester of my senior year when I chose to switch from online classes to in-person learning. I realized that this decision would help me graduate with my class, even though it meant sacrificing my free time and the ability to set my own hours. This choice reflects my commitment to pushing myself to be the best version of myself. I believe that this mindset is what makes me unique and is the quality needed to succeed in college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is driven by a desire to build a stronger GPA and to grow farther from home closer to my family, with whom I've recently started to connect more deeply. Family has always been important to me, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I pursue my education. At the same time, I am excited to continue my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my dedication to the sport. I believe that being part of a community that values hard work and excellence will further motivate me to strive for success. My upbringing has shaped my determination; I’ve lived in a shelter, relied on Section 8 housing, and received government assistance for food stamps. These experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I’ve seen many Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, which fuels my desire to work harder and build wealth to change my situation. I want to create a better life for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many. I honestly don’t know what I would do if I didn’t want to go to college and compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed others with similar backgrounds succumb to drug abuse, including my sister's father, who fell into addiction. These experiences have only strengthened my resolve to succeed and make a difference in my community. I want to be a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances, showing them that it’s possible to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow within the college community.
    Williams Foundation Trailblazer Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am excited to apply for this scholarship as it represents a crucial step in building a strong foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where we often struggled to make ends meet, I have come to deeply appreciate the importance of support from others. This experience has instilled in me a profound understanding of how access to resources can significantly impact one's life, especially for those in need. A major turning point in my life was the first semester of my senior year when I chose to switch from online classes to in-person learning. I realized that this decision would help me graduate with my class, even though it meant sacrificing my free time and the ability to set my own hours. This choice reflects my commitment to pushing myself to be the best version of myself. I believe that this mindset is what makes me unique and is the quality needed to succeed in college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is driven by a desire to build a stronger GPA and to grow farther from home closer to my family, with whom I've recently started to connect more deeply. Family has always been important to me, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I pursue my education. At the same time, I am excited to continue my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my dedication to the sport. I believe that being part of a community that values hard work and excellence will further motivate me to strive for success. My upbringing has shaped my determination; I’ve lived in a shelter, relied on Section 8 housing, and received government assistance for food stamps. These experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I’ve seen many Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, which fuels my desire to work harder and build wealth to change my situation. I want to create a better life for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many. I honestly don’t know what I would do if I didn’t want to go to college and compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed others with similar backgrounds succumb to drug abuse, including my sister's father, who fell into addiction. These experiences have only strengthened my resolve to succeed and make a difference in my community. I want to be a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances, showing them that it’s possible to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow within the college community.
    Abran Arreola-Hernandez Latino Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am excited to apply for this scholarship as it represents a crucial step in building a strong foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where we often struggled to make ends meet, I have come to deeply appreciate the importance of support from others. This experience has instilled in me a profound understanding of how access to resources can significantly impact one's life, especially for those in need. A major turning point in my life was the first semester of my senior year when I chose to switch from online classes to in-person learning. I realized that this decision would help me graduate with my class, even though it meant sacrificing my free time and the ability to set my own hours. This choice reflects my commitment to pushing myself to be the best version of myself. I believe that this mindset is what makes me unique and is the quality needed to succeed in college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is driven by a desire to build a stronger GPA and to grow farther from home closer to my family, with whom I've recently started to connect more deeply. Family has always been important to me, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I pursue my education. At the same time, I am excited to continue my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my dedication to the sport. I believe that being part of a community that values hard work and excellence will further motivate me to strive for success. My upbringing has shaped my determination; I’ve lived in a shelter, relied on Section 8 housing, and received government assistance for food stamps. These experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I’ve seen many Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, which fuels my desire to work harder and build wealth to change my situation. I want to create a better life for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many. I honestly don’t know what I would do if I didn’t want to go to college and compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed others with similar backgrounds succumb to drug abuse, including my sister's father, who fell into addiction. These experiences have only strengthened my resolve to succeed and make a difference in my community. I want to be a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances, showing them that it’s possible to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow within the college community.
    Willie Mae Rawls Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am writing with genuine enthusiasm to apply for this scholarship, which I see as a pivotal opportunity to establish a solid foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where financial stability was a constant concern, I have developed a profound appreciation for the support of others and the transformative power of accessible resources. This experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of how such assistance can significantly impact the lives of those striving to overcome adversity. A defining moment in my life occurred during the first semester of my senior year when I made the conscious decision to transition from online classes back to in-person learning. I recognized that this choice, while demanding, was essential to ensure I graduated alongside my classmates. This decision meant sacrificing the flexibility of setting my own hours and managing my time as freely, but it underscored my unwavering commitment to pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and striving to become the best version of myself. I firmly believe that this proactive mindset, this dedication to self-improvement, is what sets me apart and equips me with the qualities necessary to thrive in the challenging environment of college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is multifaceted. I am driven by a desire to strengthen my academic record, build a more competitive GPA, and, perhaps most importantly, to foster deeper connections with my family. I am eager to relocate closer to them, as we have recently begun to cultivate stronger bonds. Family has always held a central place in my heart, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I embark on this significant chapter in my life. Simultaneously, I am excited to continue pursuing my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my unwavering dedication to the sport. I believe that being an integral part of a community that values hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence will further motivate me to strive for success, both on and off the track. My upbringing has been instrumental in shaping my unwavering determination and resilience. I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges of living in a shelter, relying on Section 8 housing, and receiving government assistance through food stamps. These experiences, while difficult, have instilled in me an unshakeable sense of perseverance and a deep understanding of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. I have witnessed countless Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, achieving remarkable success despite the odds stacked against them. Their stories serve as a constant source of inspiration, fueling my own desire to work harder, to build wealth, and to ultimately change my circumstances for the better. I am committed to creating a brighter future for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many generations. To be candid, I cannot imagine my life without the prospect of attending college and continuing to compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I have witnessed individuals with similar backgrounds succumb to the destructive forces of drug abuse, including my sister's father, who tragically fell victim to addiction. These experiences have only served to strengthen my resolve to succeed, to make a positive impact on my community, and to serve as a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances. I want to demonstrate that it is indeed possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and achieve greatness, regardless of one's background. Thank you sincerely for considering my application.
    Ben Bonner Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am writing with genuine enthusiasm to apply for this scholarship, which I see as a pivotal opportunity to establish a solid foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where financial stability was a constant concern, I have developed a profound appreciation for the support of others and the transformative power of accessible resources. This experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of how such assistance can significantly impact the lives of those striving to overcome adversity. A defining moment in my life occurred during the first semester of my senior year when I made the conscious decision to transition from online classes back to in-person learning. I recognized that this choice, while demanding, was essential to ensure I graduated alongside my classmates. This decision meant sacrificing the flexibility of setting my own hours and managing my time as freely, but it underscored my unwavering commitment to pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and striving to become the best version of myself. I firmly believe that this proactive mindset, this dedication to self-improvement, is what sets me apart and equips me with the qualities necessary to thrive in the challenging environment of college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is multifaceted. I am driven by a desire to strengthen my academic record, build a more competitive GPA, and, perhaps most importantly, to foster deeper connections with my family. I am eager to relocate closer to them, as we have recently begun to cultivate stronger bonds. Family has always held a central place in my heart, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I embark on this significant chapter in my life. Simultaneously, I am excited to continue pursuing my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my unwavering dedication to the sport. I believe that being an integral part of a community that values hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence will further motivate me to strive for success, both on and off the track. My upbringing has been instrumental in shaping my unwavering determination and resilience. I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges of living in a shelter, relying on Section 8 housing, and receiving government assistance through food stamps. These experiences, while difficult, have instilled in me an unshakeable sense of perseverance and a deep understanding of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. I have witnessed countless Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, achieving remarkable success despite the odds stacked against them. Their stories serve as a constant source of inspiration, fueling my own desire to work harder, to build wealth, and to ultimately change my circumstances for the better. I am committed to creating a brighter future for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many generations. To be candid, I cannot imagine my life without the prospect of attending college and continuing to compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I have witnessed individuals with similar backgrounds succumb to the destructive forces of drug abuse, including my sister's father, who tragically fell victim to addiction. These experiences have only served to strengthen my resolve to succeed, to make a positive impact on my community, and to serve as a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances. I want to demonstrate that it is indeed possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and achieve greatness, regardless of one's background. Thank you sincerely for considering my application.
    Marie J. Lamerique Scholarship for Aspiring Scholars
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am writing with genuine enthusiasm to apply for this scholarship, which I see as a pivotal opportunity to establish a solid foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where financial stability was a constant concern, I have developed a profound appreciation for the support of others and the transformative power of accessible resources. This experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of how such assistance can significantly impact the lives of those striving to overcome adversity. A defining moment in my life occurred during the first semester of my senior year when I made the conscious decision to transition from online classes back to in-person learning. I recognized that this choice, while demanding, was essential to ensure I graduated alongside my classmates. This decision meant sacrificing the flexibility of setting my own hours and managing my time as freely, but it underscored my unwavering commitment to pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and striving to become the best version of myself. I firmly believe that this proactive mindset, this dedication to self-improvement, is what sets me apart and equips me with the qualities necessary to thrive in the challenging environment of college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is multifaceted. I am driven by a desire to strengthen my academic record, build a more competitive GPA, and, perhaps most importantly, to foster deeper connections with my family. I am eager to relocate closer to them, as we have recently begun to cultivate stronger bonds. Family has always held a central place in my heart, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I embark on this significant chapter in my life. Simultaneously, I am excited to continue pursuing my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my unwavering dedication to the sport. I believe that being an integral part of a community that values hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence will further motivate me to strive for success, both on and off the track. My upbringing has been instrumental in shaping my unwavering determination and resilience. I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges of living in a shelter, relying on Section 8 housing, and receiving government assistance through food stamps. These experiences, while difficult, have instilled in me an unshakeable sense of perseverance and a deep understanding of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. I have witnessed countless Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, achieving remarkable success despite the odds stacked against them. Their stories serve as a constant source of inspiration, fueling my own desire to work harder, to build wealth, and to ultimately change my circumstances for the better. I am committed to creating a brighter future for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many generations. To be candid, I cannot imagine my life without the prospect of attending college and continuing to compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I have witnessed individuals with similar backgrounds succumb to the destructive forces of drug abuse, including my sister's father, who tragically fell victim to addiction. These experiences have only served to strengthen my resolve to succeed, to make a positive impact on my community, and to serve as a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances. I want to demonstrate that it is indeed possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and achieve greatness, regardless of one's background. Thank you sincerely for considering my application. I am genuinely excited about the prospect of contributing to and growing within the vibrant college community. I am confident that I possess the drive, determination, and resilience to make a meaningful contribution, and I am eager to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
    Dr. Fletcher L. Gamble Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am writing with genuine enthusiasm to apply for this scholarship, which I see as a pivotal opportunity to establish a solid foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where financial stability was a constant concern, I have developed a profound appreciation for the support of others and the transformative power of accessible resources. This experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of how such assistance can significantly impact the lives of those striving to overcome adversity. A defining moment in my life occurred during the first semester of my senior year when I made the conscious decision to transition from online classes back to in-person learning. I recognized that this choice, while demanding, was essential to ensure I graduated alongside my classmates. This decision meant sacrificing the flexibility of setting my own hours and managing my time as freely, but it underscored my unwavering commitment to pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and striving to become the best version of myself. I firmly believe that this proactive mindset, this dedication to self-improvement, is what sets me apart and equips me with the qualities necessary to thrive in the challenging environment of college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is multifaceted. I am driven by a desire to strengthen my academic record, build a more competitive GPA, and, perhaps most importantly, to foster deeper connections with my family. I am eager to relocate closer to them, as we have recently begun to cultivate stronger bonds. Family has always held a central place in my heart, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I embark on this significant chapter in my life. Simultaneously, I am excited to continue pursuing my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my unwavering dedication to the sport. I believe that being an integral part of a community that values hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence will further motivate me to strive for success, both on and off the track. My upbringing has been instrumental in shaping my unwavering determination and resilience. I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges of living in a shelter, relying on Section 8 housing, and receiving government assistance through food stamps. These experiences, while difficult, have instilled in me an unshakeable sense of perseverance and a deep understanding of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. I have witnessed countless Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, achieving remarkable success despite the odds stacked against them. Their stories serve as a constant source of inspiration, fueling my own desire to work harder, to build wealth, and to ultimately change my circumstances for the better. I am committed to creating a brighter future for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many generations. To be candid, I cannot imagine my life without the prospect of attending college and continuing to compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I have witnessed individuals with similar backgrounds succumb to the destructive forces of drug abuse, including my sister's father, who tragically fell victim to addiction. These experiences have only served to strengthen my resolve to succeed, to make a positive impact on my community, and to serve as a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances. I want to demonstrate that it is indeed possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and achieve greatness, regardless of one's background. Thank you sincerely for considering my application.
    Michael Pride, Jr/ProjectEX Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am writing with genuine enthusiasm to apply for this scholarship, which I see as a pivotal opportunity to establish a solid foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where financial stability was a constant concern, I have developed a profound appreciation for the support of others and the transformative power of accessible resources. This experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of how such assistance can significantly impact the lives of those striving to overcome adversity. A defining moment in my life occurred during the first semester of my senior year when I made the conscious decision to transition from online classes back to in-person learning. I recognized that this choice, while demanding, was essential to ensure I graduated alongside my classmates. This decision meant sacrificing the flexibility of setting my own hours and managing my time as freely, but it underscored my unwavering commitment to pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and striving to become the best version of myself. I firmly believe that this proactive mindset, this dedication to self-improvement, is what sets me apart and equips me with the qualities necessary to thrive in the challenging environment of college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is multifaceted. I am driven by a desire to strengthen my academic record, build a more competitive GPA, and, perhaps most importantly, to foster deeper connections with my family. I am eager to relocate closer to them, as we have recently begun to cultivate stronger bonds. Family has always held a central place in my heart, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I embark on this significant chapter in my life. Simultaneously, I am excited to continue pursuing my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my unwavering dedication to the sport. I believe that being an integral part of a community that values hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence will further motivate me to strive for success, both on and off the track. My upbringing has been instrumental in shaping my unwavering determination and resilience. I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges of living in a shelter, relying on Section 8 housing, and receiving government assistance through food stamps. These experiences, while difficult, have instilled in me an unshakeable sense of perseverance and a deep understanding of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. I have witnessed countless Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, achieving remarkable success despite the odds stacked against them. Their stories serve as a constant source of inspiration, fueling my own desire to work harder, to build wealth, and to ultimately change my circumstances for the better. I am committed to creating a brighter future for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many generations. To be candid, I cannot imagine my life without the prospect of attending college and continuing to compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I have witnessed individuals with similar backgrounds succumb to the destructive forces of drug abuse, including my sister's father, who tragically fell victim to addiction. These experiences have only served to strengthen my resolve to succeed, to make a positive impact on my community, and to serve as a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances. I want to demonstrate that it is indeed possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and achieve greatness, regardless of one's background. Thank you sincerely for considering my application.
    Treye Knorr Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am writing with genuine enthusiasm to apply for this scholarship, which I see as a pivotal opportunity to establish a solid foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where financial stability was a constant concern, I have developed a profound appreciation for the support of others and the transformative power of accessible resources. This experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of how such assistance can significantly impact the lives of those striving to overcome adversity. A defining moment in my life occurred during the first semester of my senior year when I made the conscious decision to transition from online classes back to in-person learning. I recognized that this choice, while demanding, was essential to ensure I graduated alongside my classmates. This decision meant sacrificing the flexibility of setting my own hours and managing my time as freely, but it underscored my unwavering commitment to pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and striving to become the best version of myself. I firmly believe that this proactive mindset, this dedication to self-improvement, is what sets me apart and equips me with the qualities necessary to thrive in the challenging environment of college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is multifaceted. I am driven by a desire to strengthen my academic record, build a more competitive GPA, and, perhaps most importantly, to foster deeper connections with my family. I am eager to relocate closer to them, as we have recently begun to cultivate stronger bonds. Family has always held a central place in my heart, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I embark on this significant chapter in my life. Simultaneously, I am excited to continue pursuing my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my unwavering dedication to the sport. I believe that being an integral part of a community that values hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence will further motivate me to strive for success, both on and off the track. My upbringing has been instrumental in shaping my unwavering determination and resilience. I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges of living in a shelter, relying on Section 8 housing, and receiving government assistance through food stamps. These experiences, while difficult, have instilled in me an unshakeable sense of perseverance and a deep understanding of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. I have witnessed countless Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, achieving remarkable success despite the odds stacked against them. Their stories serve as a constant source of inspiration, fueling my own desire to work harder, to build wealth, and to ultimately change my circumstances for the better. I am committed to creating a brighter future for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many generations. To be candid, I cannot imagine my life without the prospect of attending college and continuing to compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I have witnessed individuals with similar backgrounds succumb to the destructive forces of drug abuse, including my sister's father, who tragically fell victim to addiction. These experiences have only served to strengthen my resolve to succeed, to make a positive impact on my community, and to serve as a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances. I want to demonstrate that it is indeed possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and achieve greatness, regardless of one's background. Thank you sincerely for considering my application. I am genuinely excited about the prospect of contributing to and growing within the vibrant college community. I am confident that I possess the drive, determination, and resilience to make a meaningful contribution, and I am eager to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
    Cooper Congress Scholarship
    My name is Layton Odom, and I am excited to apply for this scholarship as it represents a crucial step in building a strong foundation for my college journey. Growing up in a household where we often struggled to make ends meet, I have come to deeply appreciate the importance of support from others. This experience has instilled in me a profound understanding of how access to resources can significantly impact one's life, especially for those in need. A major turning point in my life was the first semester of my senior year when I chose to switch from online classes to in-person learning. I realized that this decision would help me graduate with my class, even though it meant sacrificing my free time and the ability to set my own hours. This choice reflects my commitment to pushing myself to be the best version of myself. I believe that this mindset is what makes me unique and is the quality needed to succeed in college. My inspiration to pursue higher education is driven by a desire to build a stronger GPA and to grow farther from home closer to my family, with whom I've recently started to connect more deeply. Family has always been important to me, and I cherish the moments we share, especially as I pursue my education. At the same time, I am excited to continue my passion for track and field, competing alongside talented athletes and peers who share my dedication to the sport. I believe that being part of a community that values hard work and excellence will further motivate me to strive for success. My upbringing has shaped my determination; I’ve lived in a shelter, relied on Section 8 housing, and received government assistance for food stamps. These experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I’ve seen many Black men and women rise above similar circumstances, which fuels my desire to work harder and build wealth to change my situation. I want to create a better life for myself and my future family, breaking the cycle of hardship that has affected so many. I honestly don’t know what I would do if I didn’t want to go to college and compete in track and field. Unfortunately, I’ve witnessed others with similar backgrounds succumb to drug abuse, including my sister's father, who fell into addiction. These experiences have only strengthened my resolve to succeed and make a difference in my community. I want to be a role model for others who may feel trapped by their circumstances, showing them that it’s possible to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow within the college community.
    Layton odom Student Profile | Bold.org