Adversity for was struggle, that came from my experiences in sports. From middle school through high school, I often felt overlooked despite my hard work, dedication, and positive attitude. While I had talented teammates, coaches frequently favored others, even when their behavior disrupted team chemistry or their performance fell short. I stayed committed, always giving my best effort in practice and games, showing great sportsmanship, and out-hustling others, but it often felt like my contributions went unrecognized. One of the toughest challenges was dealing with a difficult coach throughout high school, from freshman to senior year. This coach would repeatedly choose players who didn’t respect the team, made constant turnovers, and sometimes even talked back to her. It was frustrating, but I managed to stay focused by refusing to let these distractions derail me. I sought support from a therapist, which helped me get in the right mindset to keep pushing forward. Through it all, I focused on being the best version of myself, staying determined to outwork others and prove myself right. These experiences shaped me into someone who perseveres despite setbacks. My advice to anyone facing similar circumstances is to stay true to your work ethic, seek support when needed, and never let external negativity define your worth. Because your effort will pay off, even if it takes time. What I found most challenging about these situations was how personal they felt. In sports, progress and success are often measured through tangible results—winning games, improving stats, earning playing time, and gaining recognition from coaches and peers. When you put in the effort and don’t see those results, it can be incredibly discouraging. It’s easy to start questioning yourself and wondering if your hard work is really worth it, especially when others seem to be rewarded for behavior or performance that doesn’t align with the values of teamwork and discipline. For a long time, I struggled with this. I felt as if my worth as a player and a teammate was tied to how others viewed me, particularly the coaches. But over time, I realized that external validation wasn’t something I could control. What I could control was my effort, attitude, and commitment. Once I shifted my focus to these things, I began to see the situation in a new light. It wasn’t about whether the coach noticed my hard work or whether I got the playing time I felt I deserved—it was about whether I was proud of the way I carried myself and the effort I put in every day. Therapy played a huge role in helping me make this shift. Talking to someone who could offer an outside perspective allowed me to step back from the frustration and resentment I felt. My therapist helped me focus on the process rather than the outcome. We worked on strategies to manage my emotions, stay positive, and maintain confidence in my abilities, even when things weren’t going the way I wanted them to. This process wasn’t always easy, but it helped me build resilience that I continue to draw on today. If I could give advice to someone facing similar circumstances, it would be this: Focus on what you can control. Your effort, attitude, and how you respond to challenges are always within your control, even when the situation around you isn’t. Don’t let someone else’s perception of you dictate how you feel about yourself. Instead, set your own standards for success, and measure yourself by how well you meet those standards. Keep pushing, trust the process, and believe that your hard work will pay off in the end.

Hi, my name is Lyriq Reyes. I am honored to apply for the Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship, confident in my belief that I am a deserving candidate due to my advocacy, strong work ethic, and resilience. “Sometimes life is about risking everything for a dream no one can see but you.” – Unknown Pursuing one's true passion often requires significant sacrifices and is fraught with struggles and challenges essential for personal growth. Throughout my life, I have encountered numerous obstacles that have tested my resolve and determination, especially during my junior year, which marked the lowest point in my basketball career. Entering the season with high hopes and the desire to help my team succeed, I faced multiple adversities, including injuries and limited opportunities to showcase my talents. These setbacks severely impacted my confidence and led me to question my abilities. However, with the unwavering support and encouragement from my mother, I learned to view these challenges not as failures but as steppingstones towards growth and future success. This perspective shift allowed me to maintain my passion and focus, propelling me forward on my journey. My mother has been a constant source of strength and inspiration in my life. Despite her medical issues, she has tirelessly supported me in every endeavor, from taekwondo to basketball. Her perseverance and dedication have instilled in me the same determination and resilience. She is my greatest role model and my number one fan, and her unwavering belief in me has been a cornerstone of my journey. The Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship would significantly aid me in continuing to pursue my dreams. My ultimate goal is to play professional basketball or work for the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). I aspire to advocate for equal rights and meaningful changes in the working conditions of women's sports. By securing a platform, I hope to encourage other organizations to invest in the advancement of women's sports, leading to significant improvements. Moreover, I am passionate about giving back to my community, particularly supporting young girls and women. I aim to establish a charity focused on enhancing educational resources, health and wellness, safety, and overall well-being in the community. The Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship will also support my academic pursuits in Sports Management and Business Management at Regent University. These fields align with my passion for sports, and the scholarship will assist with educational expenses, including supplies, books, and program-related fees. This financial support will be instrumental in achieving my future goals and enabling me to help others. I am confident that my time at Regent University will be pivotal in making my aspirations a reality. After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a Master's degree in Sports Medicine, furthering my knowledge and expertise in the field. In conclusion, my experiences have taught me the importance of embracing pain and struggle to achieve greatness. I have faced doubt and exclusion in the sport I love, but I remain steadfast in my belief in myself and my journey. This long journey has a purpose, and I am just getting started. The marathon has begun, and I am committed to seeing it through to the end. Thank you for considering my application for the Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship. Your support will not only help me achieve my dreams but also enable me to make a positive impact on others.

The path to a better future for Black people in business begins with unity and collaboration. Throughout history, Black communities have often struggled with internal competition and a lack of cohesive support, which has hindered collective progress. In contrast, other communities, such as Jewish communities, have demonstrated remarkable success by working together, pooling resources, and making strategic business decisions. As the world changes, we see progress within Black communities, with individuals and organizations taking steps towards unity and mutual support. My education and commitment to this cause will be pivotal in fostering this transformation. I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and fragmentation within Black communities. Too often, we compete with each other rather than work together towards common goals. This internal competition can dilute our collective power and impede our ability to build thriving businesses and strong economic foundations. However, by observing other thriving communities, such as the Jewish community, we can learn valuable lessons about the importance of unity and strategic collaboration. Jewish communities have long been recognized for their strong sense of unity and support for one another. They work together, share resources, and make informed decisions that benefit the community. This approach has enabled them to establish significant economic influence in New York City and New Jersey. By adopting a similar mindset, Black communities can build a more robust and interconnected business network that uplifts everyone involved. My higher education in business and economics will equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary to help facilitate this transformation. One of my primary goals is to promote collaborative initiatives within Black communities. We can dismantle the barriers that historically held us back by fostering a culture of mutual support and shared success. This involves organizing community forums, networking events, and business development workshops encouraging Black entrepreneurs to collaborate, share their experiences, and support each other’s ventures. Furthermore, education is crucial in empowering Black individuals to make informed business decisions. By providing access to quality education and mentorship programs, we can equip the next generation of Black entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. This includes offering training in financial literacy, business management, and strategic planning. With a solid educational foundation, Black entrepreneurs can navigate the complexities of the business world and make choices that will benefit their businesses and communities. Another critical aspect of building a better path for Black people in the business world is fostering a sense of pride and ownership within our communities. By celebrating our successes and highlighting role models who have achieved significant milestones, we can inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. This can be achieved through media campaigns, community awards, and public recognition of Black business leaders who have positively impacted. As the world changes, we see signs of progress within Black communities. More and more, Black entrepreneurs are coming together to support each other and build businesses that benefit the community. These baby steps indicate that we are moving in the right direction. By promoting unity, collaboration, and education, we can accelerate this progress and create a thriving network of Black-owned businesses that rival those of other successful communities. Ultimately, I aim to leverage my education to help build a better path for Black people in the business world. By fostering a culture of collaboration, providing access to quality education, and celebrating our successes, we can create a solid and interconnected network of Black businesses that uplift everyone involved. Together, we can overcome the challenges that historically held us back and build a brighter future for Black communities worldwide.

Domestic violence and substance abuse are critical issues that disproportionately affect African American women. These challenges are compounded by systemic inequities, cultural stigmatization, and barriers to accessing quality healthcare. My higher education journey is driven by a commitment to address these disparities and enhance the care, coordination, and communication that can ultimately change outcomes for African American women impacted by these issues. My mother’s work with the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP) has deeply influenced my perspective and commitment to this cause. Throughout her career, she worked tirelessly to protect children from various racial backgrounds who were affected by substance abuse and domestic violence. Her dedication extended beyond her professional duties; she established meaningful relationships with these children, offering them protection, hope, and support. Witnessing her impact has motivated me to pursue a path where I can make a similar difference. Higher social work and public health education equip me with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to tackle these multifaceted problems. My academic focus allows me to understand the intricate interplay of social determinants of health, cultural factors, and systemic barriers that contribute to the prevalence of domestic violence and substance abuse among African American women. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for developing effective, targeted interventions. One of the primary ways I plan to utilize my education is by enhancing care coordination for African American women affected by these issues. Effective care coordination involves integrating services across healthcare providers, social workers, mental health professionals, and community organizations. By fostering collaboration among these stakeholders, we can create a seamless support network that addresses these women's physical, emotional, and social needs. For instance, multidisciplinary teams in healthcare settings can facilitate timely referrals and shared decision-making, ensuring continuous and holistic care. My education prepares me to design and implement integrated service delivery models, improving African American women's health outcomes and quality of life. Furthermore, I am dedicated to promoting culturally competent care practices. African American women often face discrimination and mistrust in healthcare settings, which can deter them from seeking help. My education in social work and public health includes training in cultural competence, allowing me to advocate for and implement practices that respect and understand the unique experiences of African American women. We can create more welcoming and effective care environments by educating healthcare providers about these women's challenges and cultural nuances. Additionally, involving African American women in their care planning and decision-making processes empowers them and ensures that care is tailored to their needs and preferences. Improving communication within the community is another critical aspect of my plan. Raising awareness and educating the community about domestic violence and substance abuse are essential steps in breaking the silence and reducing stigma. My higher education provides me the tools to develop and lead community-based initiatives, such as workshops, support groups, and public awareness campaigns. I can disseminate vital information about available resources, prevention strategies, and support networks by collaborating with community leaders, faith-based organizations, and local media. These efforts can help normalize seeking help and encourage more African American women to access the needed services.

Hi, my name is Lyriq Reyes. I am honored to apply for the Darius Lee Memorial Scholarship, confident in my belief that I am a deserving candidate due to my advocacy, strong work ethic, and resilience. “Sometimes life is about risking everything for a dream no one can see but you.” – Unknown Pursuing one's true passion often requires significant sacrifices and is fraught with struggles and challenges essential for personal growth. Throughout my life, I have encountered numerous obstacles that have tested my resolve and determination, especially during my junior year, which marked the lowest point in my basketball career. Entering the season with high hopes and the desire to help my team succeed, I faced multiple adversities, including injuries and limited opportunities to showcase my talents. These setbacks severely impacted my confidence and led me to question my abilities. However, with the unwavering support and encouragement from my mother, I learned to view these challenges not as failures but as steppingstones towards growth and future success. This perspective shift allowed me to maintain my passion and focus, propelling me forward on my journey. My mother has been a constant source of strength and inspiration in my life. Despite her medical issues, she has tirelessly supported me in every endeavor, from taekwondo to basketball. Her perseverance and dedication have instilled in me the same determination and resilience. She is my greatest role model and my number one fan, and her unwavering belief in me has been a cornerstone of my journey. The Darius Lee Memorial Scholarship would significantly aid me in continuing to pursue my dreams. My ultimate goal is to play professional basketball or work for the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). I aspire to advocate for equal rights and meaningful changes in the working conditions of women's sports. By securing a platform, I hope to encourage other organizations to invest in the advancement of women's sports, leading to significant improvements. Moreover, I am passionate about giving back to my community, particularly supporting young girls and women. I aim to establish a charity focused on enhancing educational resources, health and wellness, safety, and overall well-being in the community. The Darius Lee Memorial Scholarship will also support my academic pursuits in Sports Management and Business Management at Regent University. These fields align with my passion for sports, and the scholarship will assist with educational expenses, including supplies, books, and program-related fees. This financial support will be instrumental in achieving my future goals and enabling me to help others. I am confident that my time at Regent University will be pivotal in making my aspirations a reality. After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a Master's degree in Sports Medicine, furthering my knowledge and expertise in the field. In conclusion, my experiences have taught me the importance of embracing pain and struggle to achieve greatness. I have faced doubt and exclusion in the sport I love, but I remain steadfast in my belief in myself and my journey. This long journey has a purpose, and I am just getting started. The marathon has begun, and I am committed to seeing it through to the end. Thank you for considering my application for the Darius Lee Memorial Scholarship. Your support will not only help me achieve my dreams but also enable me to make a positive impact on others.

Growing up as a mixed-culture athlete in a society that often emphasizes conformity, I grappled with reconciling my identity with societal expectations. Balancing cultural norms, religious teachings, and personal authenticity was a complex endeavor, often fraught with self-doubt and fear of rejection. It took immense courage to embrace my truth and stand firm in my identity, especially in the face of familial disapproval. I feel as though that my experiences can help other young girls or boys that’s dealing with their sexuality in these times. Navigating the intersection of my sexual orientation with my religious upbringing proved particularly challenging. The clash between my innate feelings and the teachings of my faith community created internal turmoil and strained relationships with loved ones. However, through introspection and self-acceptance, I've learned to reconcile my spirituality with my identity, finding strength in my convictions and personal journey. In terms of higher education, my aspirations extend beyond academic achievement. I envision pursuing studies in fields such as sociology, psychology, or human rights, where I can explore the complexities of identity, discrimination, and social justice. By equipping myself with a deeper understanding of societal dynamics and advocacy strategies, I aim to effect meaningful change in the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized communities. My ultimate goal is to become a catalyst for positive social transformation, leveraging my education and lived experiences to challenge systemic inequalities and promote inclusivity. Whether through research, activism, or community engagement, I am committed to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering empathy and understanding across diverse communities. Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in realizing my aspirations for higher education and advocacy. Not only would it alleviate financial burdens, but it would also provide validation and support for my goals and aspirations. With this scholarship, I would have the opportunity to fully immerse myself in my studies and extracurricular pursuits, honing my skills as a future leader and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice. In conclusion, my journey as an LGBTQ+ individual has been marked by challenges, but it has also fueled my determination to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Through higher education and advocacy, I aspire to empower marginalized communities, challenge systemic injustices, and foster a world where everyone can live authentically and without fear of discrimination. I hope that I would be able to help younger women or men that’s going through hard times dealing with their sexuality.

Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me pursue my future career goals in the field of basketball coaching and sports administration. Whether it's coaching at the AAU level, working for the NBA/WNBA headquarters, or exploring other career paths within the sports industry, this scholarship would provide invaluable support and opportunities for growth. First and foremost, this scholarship would alleviate the financial burden associated with pursuing higher education or specialized training programs related to coaching and sports administration. As someone passionate about basketball and dedicated to honing my coaching skills, I recognize the importance of continuous learning and professional development in this competitive field. With the financial support provided by this scholarship, I would have the flexibility to enroll in coaching clinics, and certification courses, or pursue a degree in sports management, all of which are essential steps toward achieving my career aspirations. Moreover, this scholarship would not only provide financial assistance but also open doors to networking opportunities and mentorship within the basketball community. Building relationships with experienced coaches, industry professionals, and alums can provide valuable insights, guidance, and potential career connections. Whether through internships, mentorship programs, or attending industry events, I am eager to immerse myself in the basketball world and learn from those who have paved the way before me. Additionally, receiving this scholarship would enable me to gain hands-on experience and leadership skills through coaching opportunities at the AAU level. Coaching youth basketball not only allows me to share my passion for the game but also provides a platform to develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills – all of which are essential for success in any career, including sports administration. Furthermore, with aspirations of working for the NBA/WNBA headquarters or other organizations within the sports industry, this scholarship would help me stand out as a competitive candidate. By investing in my education and professional development, I would acquire the knowledge, skills, and credentials necessary to pursue career opportunities in sports management, event planning, marketing, or player development, among other roles. Beyond coaching and sports administration, this scholarship would also empower me to explore other career paths within the sports industry. Whether it's sports journalism, sports psychology, sports medicine, or sports entrepreneurship, the skills and experiences gained through coaching and sports administration are transferable to many professions. By diversifying my skill set and exploring different avenues within the sports industry, I can adapt to evolving trends and opportunities in the job market. In conclusion, receiving this scholarship would not only provide financial support but also catalyze achieving my future career goals in basketball coaching, sports administration, and beyond. With a combination of education, hands-on experience, and networking opportunities, I am confident that this scholarship would propel me towards a successful and fulfilling career in the sports industry.

In the next 5-10 years, I anticipate the field of strength and conditioning to undergo significant evolution driven by advancements in technology, sports science research, and shifting fitness trends. One notable trend is the increasing emphasis on personalized training programs tailored to individual needs, abilities, and goals. With the rise of wearable technology, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, coaches and trainers can access more comprehensive and real-time data about athletes' performance, recovery, and injury risk. This will enable them to design more precise and effective training protocols, optimize workload management, and minimize the risk of injuries. Furthermore, there is a growing recognition of the importance of holistic approaches to training that encompass not only physical but also mental and emotional aspects of performance. Cognitive skills training, mindfulness practices, and psychological support will become integral components of strength and conditioning programs to enhance athletes' resilience, focus, and overall well-being. Additionally, as the fitness industry becomes more inclusive and diverse, there will be a greater emphasis on promoting accessibility and equity in sports and exercise. This includes designing inclusive training environments, adapting programs for individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities, and addressing systemic barriers to participation in sports and fitness activities. Regarding my contribution to this evolution, I am committed to staying abreast of the latest research and advancements in strength and conditioning. I plan to continuously expand my knowledge and skills through ongoing education, professional development opportunities, and collaboration with experts in related fields. Moreover, I aim to integrate innovative technologies and evidence-based practices into my coaching approach to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of training programs. By leveraging data-driven insights and personalized assessments, I will tailor training interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each athlete, optimizing their performance and minimizing the risk of injuries. Furthermore, I am passionate about promoting diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in sports and fitness. I plan to advocate for equitable practices and create inclusive training environments where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcome and supported to pursue their fitness goals. Lastly, I recognize the importance of fostering strong relationships with athletes, coaches, and other stakeholders in the sports community. By prioritizing open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect, I aim to create a supportive and empowering coaching environment where athletes can thrive and reach their full potential. Overall, I am excited about the future of strength and conditioning and the opportunities it presents for innovation, growth, and positive impact. Through continuous learning, embracing technology, promoting inclusivity, and fostering meaningful connections, I am committed to contributing to the ongoing evolution of the field and helping athletes achieve peak performance sustainably and holistically.

As an individual committed to positively impacting the world, I believe in the power of small actions to create meaningful change. One of the social issues that deeply resonates with me is environmental sustainability. In a world facing pressing ecological challenges such as climate change, deforestation, and pollution, I recognize the urgent need for collective action to preserve our planet for future generations. In my personal and professional life, I strive to incorporate sustainable practices and advocate for environmental conservation. I firmly believe that every decision we make, no matter how small, can contribute to the greater good of the planet. From reducing my carbon footprint by cycling or using public transportation to investing in reusable products and minimizing waste, I constantly seek ways to lessen my environmental impact. Moreover, I actively engage in initiatives and campaigns aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainable lifestyles. Whether through volunteering with local environmental organizations, participating in community clean-up events, or sharing informative content on social media, I seek to inspire others to join the movement toward a greener and more sustainable future. In addition to individual actions, I recognize the importance of advocating for systemic change to address the root causes of environmental degradation. This involves supporting policies and initiatives that prioritize renewable energy, protect natural habitats, and promote sustainable agriculture and consumption practices. By participating in advocacy efforts, contacting policymakers, and voting for environmentally conscious candidates, I contribute to shaping a more sustainable and resilient society. Furthermore, I am passionate about education as a tool for empowering individuals and communities to address environmental challenges. Through workshops, presentations, and educational outreach programs, I strive to share knowledge and inspire action on environmental issues. By fostering ecological literacy and encouraging critical thinking, I aim to equip people with the skills and awareness needed to become stewards of the environment. In my professional career, I seek opportunities to integrate sustainability into my work and collaborate with like-minded colleagues and organizations. Whether through implementing green initiatives in the workplace, researching sustainable technologies, or advising businesses on eco-friendly practices, I leverage my skills and expertise to advance environmental sustainability across different sectors. Moreover, I recognize the interconnectedness of social and environmental issues and advocate for approaches that promote equity, justice, and inclusivity. By addressing environmental challenges through an intersectional lens, I strive to amplify the voices of marginalized communities disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and advocate for solutions that prioritize environmental and social justice. In conclusion, my journey toward positively impacting the world through addressing environmental sustainability is an ongoing process rooted in a deep sense of responsibility and commitment. Through individual actions, advocacy, education, and collaboration, I strive to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world for present and future generations. While the road ahead may be challenging, I am inspired by the collective efforts of individuals and communities working together towards a common goal of preserving our planet and building a brighter future for all.