Growing up in Atlanta, I learned early that access to quality healthcare is not equal for everyone. Many communities, particularly communities of color, face barriers to healthcare, health education, and opportunities in STEM fields. These experiences inspired me to pursue a STEM degree and dedicate my career to improving the lives of others through healthcare, research, and mentorship. My passion for science became personal when my younger sister was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at only two years old. Before her diagnosis, my family watched her become increasingly ill without understanding what was happening. Seeing how quickly a medical condition can impact a child and an entire family opened my awareness of the importance of health professionals, scientific knowledge, and medical innovation. It was one of the experiences that motivated me to pursue a career where I could directly help patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. I am currently pursuing a degree in biology and plan to continue my education by attending an Anesthesiologist Assistant program. What attracts me to healthcare is the combination of science, critical thinking, and compassionate patient care. I enjoy learning how the human body functions, but I am equally passionate about using that knowledge to make people feel safe, informed, and supported. My long-term goal is to work as an Anesthesiologist Assistant while contributing to medical research addressing health disparities affecting underserved populations. As an African American student in STEM, I value the importance of representation. When young Black students see professionals who look like them succeeding in science and medicine, it helps them believe they can achieve those goals as well. I hope to serve as that example. Throughout my career, I plan to mentor students interested in healthcare, volunteer in community health initiatives, and advocate for greater access to STEM education within underserved communities. I also intend to contribute to research that improves clinical results and expands our understanding of healthcare challenges. Recently, I began investigating opportunities to conduct and publish research as an undergraduate student. Research allows us to identify problems, develop solutions, and produce lasting change that goes far beyond individual patient interactions. By combining clinical practice with scientific research, I hope to make an impact both inside and outside the healthcare setting. Receiving this scholarship would help relieve the financial burden of pursuing a STEM education and allow me to focus more fully on my collegiate and professional goals. More importantly, it would support my mission of using science and healthcare to support others. I believe STEM is not only about advancement and exploration but also about service. Through my education, career, and devotion to my community, I hope to help develop a future in which more young people of color see themselves represented in STEM and have access to the opportunities they deserve.

As a student-athlete at Pennsylvania State University, I have come to understand the importance of perseverance, discipline, and determination in every aspect of life. Balancing the demands of rigorous academics with the commitments of athletics has pushed me to grow as someone who thrives under pressure, embraces challenges, and relentlessly pursues my goals. However, the driving force behind my ambition and resilience is the unwavering support and motivation I receive from my fiancé, T.A. Cunningham, a fellow student-athlete. T.A.’s journey as a football player has had a profound impact on my perspective and approach to life. Once ranked as the number one defensive lineman in the nation, he faced a potentially career-ending injury that tested his resolve. Watching him navigate the difficulties of physical rehabilitation, maintain his focus, and rise above this setback has been nothing short of inspiring. He refused to let his injury define him or limit his potential, instead using the experience as a catalyst for growth—both as an athlete and as an individual. His story serves as a constant reminder to me that setbacks are not defeats but opportunities to come back stronger. In my own journey as a student-athlete, I strive to embody T.A.’s resilience and determination. Whether I’m training to improve my performance or preparing for a demanding academic exam, his example motivates me to give my all in everything I do. His dedication reminds me that excellence is achieved not through talent alone, but through consistency, effort, and heart. At Penn State, I take pride in maintaining excellent academic standing, which reflects my commitment to success both in the classroom and on the field. My experiences as a student-athlete have taught me how to manage my time effectively, prioritize my goals, and remain disciplined in my pursuits. I’ve also developed a deep appreciation for teamwork, leadership, and perseverance—skills that extend beyond sports and prepare me for challenges in every area of life. Beyond my personal aspirations, I am passionate about encouraging and uplifting others. Just as T.A. inspires me, I strive to be a source of motivation for my teammates and peers—whether it’s by cheering them on during practice or offering support through academic challenges. The camaraderie and sense of community I’ve found as a student-athlete have reinforced my belief that success is not just about individual achievements but also about how we support and empower those around us. The story of Stephan Laurence Wolley, in whose honor this scholarship is named, resonates deeply with me. His values of family, faith, and competition align closely with the principles I hold dear. Like Stephan, I am committed to making a positive impact on my community and using my platform as a student-athlete to inspire and uplift others. Receiving this scholarship would enable me to continue pursuing my academic and athletic dreams while honoring the legacy of someone who embodied resilience and determination. It would also serve as a recognition of the hard work, perseverance, and support system that have guided me to this point. As I look to the future, I am determined to continue excelling academically, contributing to my team, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around me. With the lessons I’ve gained from my experiences and the unwavering support of people like T.A., I am confident in my ability to meet challenges head-on and achieve my goals. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting student-athletes who strive to uphold the values this scholarship represents.

Growing up, my life revolved around my younger sister, a bright and vibrant little girl who taught me the true meaning of resilience. At just two years old, she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes—a diagnosis that would forever change our lives. I was too young at the time to understand the complexities of her condition, but I vividly remember the day she almost passed away due to undiagnosed diabetic ketoacidosis. It was the first time I encountered the fragility of life and the life-saving power of medicine. The experience of seeing my sister battle diabetes sparked my passion for healthcare, particularly endocrinology. I watched as her life depended on countless blood sugar checks, insulin injections, and emergency hospital visits. However, beyond the science, I witnessed how compassionate healthcare providers became a source of comfort and hope for our family. They not only stabilized her health but also educated us on managing her condition and empowered us to face each day with confidence. As I grew older, my curiosity deepened. I wanted to understand the intricate systems in the human body that govern health and disease. I read everything I could about diabetes, hormones, and metabolism, often trying to decode her medical appointments afterward. While my sister’s diagnosis brought challenges, it also shaped me into someone who is empathetic, determined, and eager to make a difference in the lives of others. My decision to pursue an education in healthcare is rooted in a desire to combine my passion for science with my commitment to service. Endocrinology, in particular, has captured my heart because it offers the opportunity to improve the quality of life for patients with chronic conditions like diabetes. I want to be the kind of healthcare provider who not only treats physical ailments but also uplifts patients and their families by addressing their emotional and educational needs. My academic journey is the foundation for achieving these aspirations. I am committed to excelling in my coursework, participating in hands-on experiences, and seeking mentorship from professionals in the field. I also plan to engage in research focused on improving the management of diabetes and other endocrine disorders. My long-term goal is to become a board-certified endocrinologist, specializing in pediatric care. I want to work in underserved communities, where access to quality healthcare is often limited, and ensure that no child or family feels powerless in the face of a diagnosis like my sister’s. In addition to practicing medicine, I hope to become an advocate for preventative care and public health education. By raising awareness about conditions like diabetes and promoting healthier lifestyles, I believe we can reduce the prevalence of preventable complications and improve outcomes for countless individuals. My sister’s diagnosis was a turning point in my life—one that set me on a path of discovery, purpose, and passion. It gave me a reason to dream big and a clear vision of how I can contribute to the world. Pursuing a career in healthcare is more than a professional aspiration for me; it is a deeply personal mission to honor the challenges my family has faced and to ensure that other families receive the care and compassion they deserve. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals. By investing in my education, you would not only be supporting my academic pursuits but also helping me fulfill my dream of making a lasting impact in the field of healthcare. Thank you for considering my application and for helping students like me turn their aspirations into reality.

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When lack Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to Y go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When lack Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to Y go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When lack Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to Y go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When lack Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to Y go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When lack Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When lack Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

It's obvious that obstacles come with life it may be an obstacle that deals with money, family, or fear. Although I have not been in the world for as long as others so far my greatest obstacle has been myself. In my earlier years, there are two things that I have worked so hard to overcome. The first is dealing with what negative things others say about me and then dealing with negative things I have said about myself. I'm aware that it's very common for someone to talk about how negative things said by others affect them but it's a very serious problem but what is also very common is for someone to say "Oh you'll be fine" or "It's OK, just ignore them" but in reality, it's not okay and you can't ignore them. When someone is repeatedly telling you something negative it affects your ego, your mind, and self-esteem and then you think maybe he or she was right about me and that right there is how you become your own obstacle when you start convincing yourself that everything that was said about you is right. This is one reason why you have to believe in yourself when you realize how powerful you are in creating the life that you are seeking anything is possible and you will realize you don't have to change for anyone but just learn to accept who you are and make the best of it. A more current obstacle I'm dealing with is finding myself as a person. Struggling with identity, underlying family issues, and what I like has been a lot to handle. This summer I made a realization with myself about my sexuality I'm not sure exactly what to identify as but I know for a fact it's not straight. I tried to open up to my father about this but it did not work out so well so I began to think that maybe I was wrong or maybe it is something wrong with me but I came to a realization that I'm perfectly fine and I'm better than okay and that I don't have to explain the way I am to anyone else. Clairo has also made me realize it's okay to be different and I don't have to change for anyone. The song "Pretty Girl" also made me realize I don't have to be the standard cookie-cutter girl and that it's okay to be different. She made it okay for me to know that I don't have to have the prettiest hair, perfect skin, or the most trending clothes to be likable and that you'll be accepted if you would only be the most genuine version of yourself you would be more than enough. Sometimes you don't know your full capabilities and tendencies and some challenges in life can rip you apart whether its a direct or indirect challenge but no matter what you have to remember that you come first and you can't change yourself no matter what anyone says about you because that can ultimately bring on more obstacles on top of the ones you're already facing.

My name is Lordess Phillips I am a high school sophomore from Atlanta, Georgia and I plan to pursue my education in the medical field and obtaining my degree preferably at an HBCU. Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. This is why I plan to be a respectable doctor and make everyone 100% comfortable when dealing with medical issues and providers. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When black Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When black Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When black Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Studies also show that white men are more likely to hold more superior positions in the medical field than black men and white women are more likely to hold more superior positions than black women. Studies suggest diversity in healthcare leadership can enhance the quality of care, quality of life in the workplace, community relations, and the ability to affect community health status. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating, exploiting, and abusing black Americans and having no regard for their rights is a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination and black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major issues that need to be addressed and is what I plan to do once I get into the medical field. However, to improve the situation right now everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

A mother's love is truly unmatched especially when it's one of the purest love you will ever receive. Now that I am growing and heading out of high school I'm now realizing everything my mother did was to prepare me for the future and the bumps in the road ahead. Even if I wasn't always on my best behavior my mother was always there to support me no matter what. My mom always knew I had dreams for college I have probably brought up a million different career choices that I was interested in but we both knew I really have my heart set on going into college as a pre-med student. Despite my mother's unconditional support, my father on the other hand is not so fond of me going to school out of state and supporting my dreams. Since he doesn't like the idea of me doing this he would tell me things like I will be here when you fail or I don't know what I'm doing. Growing up I always experienced verbally abusive disputes between my mom and dad. He would also cause issues between my other family member on both my maternal and paternal sides. Having to experience these events often made me feel down about myself but my mom was always there to reassure me and tell me how great I will become. Not only is it admiring for a parent to watch you grow but it's even more touching when you watch the person you look up to continue their path to greatness. My mother and my other four siblings used to live in a two bedroom apartment and use air mattresses that was until my mother bought her first house and became a homeowner for the first time back in November 2020. Seeing my mom strive is extremely inspiring and reminds me I can do anything if I put my mind to it. If I were to describe my relationship with my mom it would definitely be the two best friends at the restaurant who are having so much fun. Our relationship is definitely unmatched I can truly tell her anything without fears of being judged. She has paved the way to have currently two college graduates while being a single mother she always tells me to "Fail big and to dream big but dreams without goals are just dreams". “I will look after you and I will look after anybody you say needs to be looked after, any way you say. I am here. I brought my whole self to you. I am your mother.” -Maya Angelou

Growing up and looking for up to par doctors is hard especially being a black American. So many black people are extremely skeptical about doctors and it's mainly because of trust. Research has shown black Americans do not trust their healthcare providers and it leads to a less likelihood of being cared for. When black Americans have the same type of sickness as their white peers, blacks are much more likely to die sooner. For example, blacks are three times more likely to die of asthma than white Americans, blacks have a 25 percent higher cancer death rate than whites, and black women are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. All of these issues are connected to the United States medical history of discriminating against and exploiting black Americans a memory that is still embedded into the consciousness of the black community. Historically black bodies were used for medical advancement without approval. Black American's were also forced to participate in dissection or a medical examination. Black corpses were taken from their graves and were continuously being used for surgical experiments. Nevertheless, my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for black patients this is why I plan to go to the Xavier University of Louisana which is the first historically black catholic university it is also the #1 University producing African American doctors. To sum it all up I plan to do my part to change the healthcare system and make it more comforting to black Americans and stop racial discrimination in the healthcare system towards them.

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.“ - Maya Angelou This quote is something I live by everyday it helps to remind me that life is not always about focusing on everyone else or being up to date on the latest trends but to simply enjoy life and fill it with love, laughter, and smiles . I feel like everyone is so worried about being better than the other person or trying to be someone they’re not just to please others they forget what we were put on Earth to do which is to simply love others.

It's very common for mental health concerns to go unnoticed and taken very lightly in the black community. The origin of mental health stigma can date all the way back to slavery that included the traumas of racism, dehumanization, oppression, and violence against the black community that is a definite factor in developing a mental illness. In those times it was commonly perceived that slaves were not civilized enough to have depression, schizophrenia, or other mental health illnesses. From that time it became a habit to ignore mental illness and pass it on as stress or just needing some extra sleep at night. Ignoring mental illnesses became adopted in the black community and has been passed on to generation after generation and it led to misconstruing the effects and impacts of mental illnesses. Adults in black communities are 20% more likely to experience mental health problems. Due to lack of trust in the healthcare system because of historical abuse deemed towards black people, financial burdens, and past discrimination in the mental health system factor into low utilization of mental healthcare in the black community. Common negative stereotypes about mental health such as being considered weak or a "threat to society" can also make it harder to know when or where to find help. Mental health issues can also be more common in poverty-stricken areas because of low government funding and lesser knowledge of one's health How can mental health barriers in the black community be broken? Black people experience direct trauma stressors such as being overly policed or verbal and/or physical abuse. Indirect stressors such as viewing the video of the death of George Floyd or living through racism and inequality are challenges faced and factored into mental illness in the black community but are still less likely to seek help. Constantly having to worry about injustice and racist encounters among black people in their day-to-day activities such as grocery shopping, work, or just simply pumping gas can cause paranoia and lead to anxiety, schizophrenia, epilepsy, and more. Unequal access to healthcare and African Americans feeling ignored are all major contributions to this issue. However to improve the situation everyone can work to become aware of their attitudes towards the black community to reduce bias and negative opinions, educate family, friends, colleagues, and peers about the challenges the black community faces regarding mental illnesses. We live in a very diverse world and come into contact with people of all kinds of different backgrounds every day. The more people start to understand others that makes them different the more people will understand it is no shame in mental illness. The black community has a long history of social change and making mental health a top priority is not a sign of unworthiness but a sign of power.