My favorite Met Gala theme is "Camp: Notes on Fashion," which took place in 2019. The theme celebrated the concept of camp, as defined by Susan Sontag's essay "Notes on 'Camp,'" which explores exaggerated and theatrical elements in fashion and culture. Zendaya's look at the 2019 Met Gala resonated with me because it beautifully paid homage to her career and evolution as a performer, particularly her iconic role as a Disney princess. By choosing to reinterpret Cinderella for the event, Zendaya not only celebrated her past but also showcased her growth and versatility as an actress and fashion icon. As a Disney princess, Cinderella holds a special place in the hearts of many, symbolizing hope, transformation, and the power of dreams. Zendaya's decision to channel this character for the Met Gala allowed her to connect with her fans on a deeply nostalgic level while also showcasing her own journey of transformation and reinvention. Furthermore, by choosing a modern and glamorous interpretation of Cinderella's ballgown, complete with innovative lighting effects, Zendaya demonstrated her willingness to push boundaries and embrace innovation in both her fashion choices and her career as a whole. Ultimately, Zendaya's Met Gala look stood out to me because it not only celebrated her past successes but also hinted at the exciting possibilities and new horizons ahead in her career. It was a powerful statement of self-expression, creativity, and growth, making it a favorite for those who admire her talent and admire her ability to continually evolve and captivate audiences. Choosing the best and worst outfits at events like the Met Gala is indeed subjective, as fashion is deeply personal and open to interpretation. What one person may consider a stunning and innovative ensemble, another may see as overly avant-garde or lacking in sophistication. Fashion is an art form, and like any art, it elicits diverse reactions and opinions based on individual tastes, cultural backgrounds, and personal preferences. At the Met Gala, attendees are encouraged to embrace the theme of the event and express their creativity through their fashion choices. This often results in a diverse array of outfits, ranging from the elegantly classic to the boldly experimental. What one person may perceive as a triumph of design and style, another may view as a misstep or a missed opportunity to fully engage with the theme. Moreover, fashion is inherently contextual, influenced by factors such as cultural norms, societal trends, and the specific objectives of the wearer. What may be considered a fashion risk in one setting could be celebrated as groundbreaking in another. Additionally, the impact of an outfit can be enhanced or diminished by factors such as styling, presentation, and the confidence with which it is worn. Ultimately, the beauty of fashion lies in its ability to inspire dialogue, spark debate, and evoke emotion. While some outfits may resonate more strongly with certain individuals, it's important to recognize and celebrate the diversity of perspectives and interpretations that make the world of fashion so rich and dynamic.

Growing up in the melting pot of Brooklyn, nestled within the vibrant tapestry of the Caribbean community, has not only shaped my identity but has also deeply influenced my trajectory in pursuing a degree in marketing. Each bustling street corner, filled with the aromas of jerk chicken and the rhythms of reggae, tells a story of resilience, heritage, and unity that I carry with me into every marketing strategy I craft. From the lively street festivals celebrating Caribbean music, dance, and cuisine to the bustling markets where the aromas of jerk chicken, roti, and fresh fruits mingle in the air, every corner of Brooklyn's Caribbean enclave pulses with energy and life. Growing up amidst this cultural abundance, I've not only developed a deep sense of pride in my Caribbean heritage but also a keen understanding of the unique needs and aspirations of our community. My journey through academia has been intertwined with my lived experiences in Brooklyn, enriching my understanding of marketing beyond textbooks and lectures. It's taught me that marketing isn't just about selling products or services—it's about weaving narratives that resonate deeply with people, building bridges between cultures, and creating value that transcends transactions. As I delve into the world of marketing, I'm acutely aware of the power it holds to effect positive change, particularly within marginalized communities like the one I call home. Armed with the knowledge and skills I've acquired, I'm committed to using marketing as a force for empowerment, advocacy, and community development. In the bustling streets of Brooklyn, I see endless opportunities to apply my marketing expertise to uplift and support local businesses and entrepreneurs. From developing comprehensive branding strategies that authentically capture the essence of Caribbean culture to leveraging digital platforms to expand market reach and visibility, my goal is to ensure that the voices and contributions of our community are heard and celebrated. Moreover, I recognize the importance of addressing systemic barriers and disparities within the marketing industry itself. By advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion, both in the workforce and in marketing campaigns, I strive to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and create pathways for underrepresented voices to thrive. Beyond the realm of commerce, I believe marketing can be a catalyst for social change and collective action. By promoting cultural events, supporting grassroots initiatives, and fostering partnerships within the community, I aim to harness the power of marketing to strengthen social cohesion, foster civic engagement, and drive positive transformation. In essence, my vision is to use marketing as a tool for building a more inclusive, equitable, and vibrant community in Brooklyn. By embracing our cultural heritage, amplifying marginalized voices, and mobilizing collective action, I am confident that we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to flourish and contribute to the rich tapestry of our community.

Growing up as the child of an immigrant from Trinidad who achieved higher education and built a successful career in business profoundly shaped my aspirations and values. My father's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education. He faced numerous challenges, from adapting to a new culture to overcoming financial constraints, yet he pursued his academic and professional goals with unwavering commitment. His success in the business world, despite starting with limited resources, served as a powerful role model for me, instilling a belief in the value of hard work and perseverance. In our household, education was highly valued. My father often shared stories of his academic journey and the opportunities it opened for him. He demonstrated that education is not just a means to personal advancement but a tool for creating broader economic and social impacts. This perspective motivated me to excel academically and seek knowledge that could drive meaningful change. Observing my father's meticulous financial planning and strategic decision-making, I developed a deep appreciation for financial literacy and the importance of sound financial management. Inspired by my father's example, I chose to pursue a career in business and finance. I recognized that these fields offer the tools and platforms to build and create value, not only for oneself but also for others. The desire to follow in my father's footsteps and contribute positively to my community has been a guiding force in my educational and professional journey. I am driven by the aspiration to leverage my skills to foster economic empowerment and support others in overcoming challenges similar to those my family faced. Post-graduation, I am committed to making a positive impact on my community by leveraging my skills and experiences in several key areas. First, I plan to establish and participate in mentorship programs aimed at guiding young people from immigrant and underprivileged backgrounds. By sharing my experiences and providing practical advice, I hope to inspire and support the next generation of leaders. Mentorship can be a powerful tool in helping young people navigate their educational and career paths, offering them the guidance and encouragement needed to achieve their goals. Recognizing the critical importance of financial literacy, I intend to organize workshops and seminars to educate community members about budgeting, investing, and managing finances effectively. Financial literacy is essential for economic empowerment, enabling individuals to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability. Through these initiatives, I aim to equip people with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their finances and plan for their futures. Additionally, I plan to support small businesses, particularly in immigrant neighborhoods, by offering consultancy services. Small businesses are the backbone of many communities, providing jobs and fostering economic growth. By helping small business owners develop sustainable business models, secure funding, and navigate market complexities, I hope to contribute to the vitality and resilience of local economies. Furthermore, I envision collaborating with local organizations to launch community investment initiatives. These could include microfinance programs and community development funds aimed at supporting entrepreneurial ventures and infrastructural projects in underserved areas. By investing in community-driven projects, we can create opportunities for economic growth and social development, benefiting individuals and the broader community. Through these efforts, I aspire to make a meaningful and lasting impact on my community, ensuring that others have the opportunity to thrive and succeed, much like my father did for our family. His journey has taught me that with education, determination, and strategic planning, we can overcome challenges and create a better future for ourselves and those around us.