Obtaining my business degree will impact my life in many important ways. For me, studying business isn’t just about earning a diploma. It represents access, opportunity, and the chance to rewrite what is possible for me and the women who will come after me. I grew up seeing how limited resources, lack of guidance, and financial instability can hold people back. Because of that, earning this degree is personal. It symbolizes breaking barriers that my family didn’t always have the chance to break, and building a foundation that can support my dreams instead of limiting them. A business degree will give me the tools I need to grow as an entrepreneur. I already run my own brand, and I’m building B.A.E. (Bosses and Entrepreneurs), a platform to empower young women pursuing marketing, fashion, media, finance, and other creative industries. I have the passion, the ideas, and the drive. But I also know that passion works best when it’s backed by knowledge and strategy. This degree will teach me how to manage money, develop sustainable business plans, create effective marketing strategies, and understand the legal and financial side of entrepreneurship. Instead of learning everything through trial and error or guessing, I will have a strong foundation that helps me build with confidence. This degree will also give me stability in my career. It will prepare me to step into roles in marketing, advertising, and creative direction fields I am passionate about. Having that stability means I can support myself financially while continuing to grow my businesses, mentor others, and invest back into my community. It gives me options, and options create freedom. Being able to choose my path instead of being forced into one is something I value deeply. But the most important part of earning my business degree is that it isn’t just for me. Getting this degree is my way of opening a door, but also making sure it stays open. I want to be the woman who holds it open for the girls coming behind me. Everything I learn, whether it’s leadership skills, financial planning, branding, or communication, is something I plan to pour back into others. Through B.A.E., internships, mentorship programs, and networking events, I want to create spaces where young women feel seen, supported, and prepared for their own dreams. I believe in lifting as I climb, because success means nothing if I’m climbing alone. My degree will help me become the kind of leader who brings others with her, who uses her knowledge to create opportunities that didn’t exist before, and who shows young women that their goals are not too big, they just need the right support. In the end, obtaining my business degree will give me the education, confidence, and resources to build a life I’m proud of. But more than that, it will allow me to become a mentor, a leader, and a door holder for the next generation of women who deserve to see their dreams come to life, and this is how my business degree will not only impact me but others, too.

I grew up in a family that taught me the meaning of strength, support, and staying grounded. My family dynamic has always been close, even when things were challenging. I learned early on that nothing in life is guaranteed, but with love, determination, and community, you can push through anything. I did not grow up surrounded by wealth, resources, or big opportunities, but I was surrounded by people who believed in me. That support shaped my work ethic and my desire to build something meaningful for myself and others. My family has always pushed me to stay focused on my goals and take advantage of every chance I get. They remind me that the world is bigger than my comfort zone and that I am capable of stepping into new spaces with confidence. Being the first in my family to attend an HBCU is something I take very seriously. It motivates me in everything I do, because I know my education is not just about me. It represents my family’s sacrifices and hopes. Because of that, I try to make choices that will put me in a better position in the future and also give back to the people who helped raise me. Right now, I am a freshman at Delaware State University, majoring in Marketing. Since starting college, I have worked hard to stay active on campus, build connections, and become a voice for my community. I am involved in NCNW and I serve as the Miss COB Marketing manager and VP Intern. These roles allow me to learn leadership, digital strategy, brand management, and how to connect with different audiences. They also give me the space to use my creativity and help uplift other students. School has always been important to me, but college has shown me that learning isn’t just about grades. It’s about discipline and surrounding yourself with people who believe in the same kind of future you do. Delaware State has given me a space to grow socially, academically, and professionally. I have learned how to manage my time, advocate for myself, and step out of my comfort zone to pursue opportunities that will help me long after graduation. My future plans are rooted in my passion for creativity, business, and community. I want to become a creative director and eventually own my own creative marketing agency. I love the idea of helping brands tell their stories in ways that feel true, exciting, and forward-thinking. I want to work with fashion, lifestyle, beauty, entertainment, and women-centered brands. I see myself developing campaigns, curating visuals, and building strategies that connect with real people. Another one of my long-term goals is to continue building B.A.E. (Bosses and Entrepreneurs), my nonprofit idea focused on mentorship, networking, and scholarships for young women. I created B.A.E. because I know what it feels like to dream big but not have access to the right people, resources, or guidance. I want to build something that helps other young women get internships, learn from industry professionals, and receive support when they need it most. B.A.E. will create mentorship circles, host events like brunches and workshops, and offer scholarships through small community donations. My goal is to create a space that represents sisterhood, ambition, and the belief that young Black women deserve opportunities to thrive. Overall, my story is about growth and using my gifts to support others. My family, my education, and my dreams all work together to push me forward. I want to build a life where I can travel, create freely, make an impact, and continue lifting others as I rise.

My name is Madison Loren Clark, and I am a first-year student at Delaware State University pursuing a degree in Marketing. My focus is digital marketing and creative direction, and my dream is to use these skills to build a career that not only uplifts brands but also creates opportunities for underrepresented voices to be heard. Like Brandon, I believe in the power of ambition and creativity to change the world, and I intend to carry that belief with me throughout my education and career. I chose marketing because I have always been inspired by the way stories, images, and ideas can connect with people. From social media campaigns to creative design, marketing has the ability to shape culture, highlight important issues, and give visibility to voices that are often overlooked. As a young Black woman, I know how rare it is to see people who look like me in positions of influence within the creative and digital marketing world. That lack of representation fuels my determination to succeed and to make space for others. My long-term goal is to become a creative director and eventually own my own marketing agency. I want my agency to specialize in telling authentic stories for businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs, particularly those led by women and people of color. Representation matters, and I believe marketing has the power to not only sell products but also to reshape narratives and create lasting impact. I am already taking steps toward these goals through my own ventures. I founded a brand called Blueprint Society, which celebrates diversity and encourages people to embrace their unique differences. I am also launching a mentorship and networking initiative called B.A.E. (Bosses and Entrepreneurs), which focuses on empowering young women in business, fashion, marketing, and creative industries. Both projects are giving me hands-on experience in branding, social media, and community building, while also keeping me grounded in the values of service and empowerment. To pursue my goals, I am committed to learning as much as I can both inside and outside of the classroom. At Delaware State, I am immersing myself in business courses, leadership opportunities, and mentorship networks. I am also building my portfolio through internships and projects with organizations in marketing, social media, and creative branding. Each opportunity brings me closer to becoming the professional I aspire to be, and it allows me to give back by mentoring others along the way. Receiving this scholarship would not only relieve financial stress but also affirm my belief that my dreams are valid and achievable. Brandon’s story inspires me to keep pushing forward with boldness and ambition. Like him, I want to live a life that motivates others to believe that if you put your mind to it, anything is possible. My area of focus in digital marketing is more than just a career choice—it is my way of creating change, building community, and leaving a legacy that others can follow.

My name is Madison Loren Clark, and I am a first-year student at Delaware State University, majoring in Marketing in the College of Business. I am the first in my family to attend an HBCU, and this moment is bigger than me—it represents breaking barriers and creating opportunities for those who come after me. Growing up in the Bronx, I saw firsthand how systemic inequities, financial struggles, and limited access to resources hold back talented young people, especially BIPOC students, from pursuing higher education. These experiences are what drive me to succeed, because I know that my success is not just for myself—it is a pathway for others. I chose marketing because I have always been fascinated by the power of storytelling, branding, and strategy. Businesses shape culture, influence decisions, and create opportunities. Yet, too often, Black and brown voices are left out of those boardrooms and decision-making tables. I want to change that. My dream is to become a creative director and eventually own my own marketing agency—an agency that not only creates campaigns, but also uplifts diverse voices and tells authentic stories that resonate with underrepresented communities. Representation matters. For example, only about 8% of U.S. marketing managers are Black, and even fewer are Black women. That statistic pushes me to go harder because I know that every barrier I break is a door opened for someone else. My education in marketing is not just about learning strategies—it’s about learning how to reshape narratives, promote equity, and give my community the visibility it deserves. Beyond my degree, I am already working to create impact through my business idea, B.A.E. (Bosses and Entrepreneurs). This initiative focuses on mentorship, career development, and networking for young women of color in business, marketing, fashion, and related fields. Through B.A.E., I hope to create a pipeline of young leaders who not only achieve success but also return to uplift their communities. Similarly, through my clothing brand, Blueprint Society, I celebrate diversity and encourage people to embrace what makes them different. These projects are more than passion—they are practice for the future impact I plan to make. To inspire the next generation, I believe in visibility and accessibility. It’s not enough to succeed quietly—I want to share my story, mentor other students, and show that it is possible to overcome barriers. By being present in spaces where young BIPOC students can see someone who looks like them thriving, I can encourage them to take chances and push forward. Programs like “Cookies & Conversation” that I organize at DSU show me the importance of creating spaces where students feel supported, understood, and motivated. My ambition and drive come from knowing how underrepresented my community is in business and marketing. By earning my degree and pursuing leadership, I will not only carve out space for myself, but also widen the path for others. This scholarship would help me continue that journey and remind me that I am not doing this work alone—there is a community invested in building up the next generation of leaders. I am determined to use my education and career to create lasting change. My hope is that one day, when a young Black girl looks into the marketing world, she will not see a field where she is just 8%—she will see herself reflected everywhere. And she will know that the odds are changing, because people like me chose to push forward and pave the way.

In my life, I have faced experiences that have tested not only my strength but also my sense of identity. Like Ella, I know what it means to fight through pain while still holding onto hope for the future. My mental health journey has been filled with challenges, but it has also shaped me into the resilient, determined woman I am today. My struggles began when I was younger, surrounded by environments where stress, instability, and high expectations were constant. I experienced depression and anxiety, feelings that often left me questioning my worth and whether I was capable of reaching the dreams I carried in my heart. At times, it felt easier to shut down, to put on a brave face for others while silently carrying a heavy burden inside. These emotions grew stronger during my teenage years, when academic pressure, family responsibilities, and personal loss combined into what felt like an unshakable weight. The turning point for me came in 2023 when I witnessed the death of my youngest brother. He was born but passed away shortly after due to Georgia’s abortion laws preventing my stepmother from receiving the care she needed. That trauma sent me spiraling into a darker place. I struggled to process what had happened, and for a while, I felt broken and powerless. Grief, sadness, and guilt consumed me, and I began coping in unhealthy ways. It was one of the lowest points of my life. But as painful as that experience was, it also became a wake-up call. I realized I could not allow my pain to destroy me. Instead, I needed to transform it into something meaningful. Slowly, I began to prioritize my mental health—seeking out therapy, finding healthier coping strategies, and leaning on supportive mentors and friends. It was not an overnight transformation, but step by step, I began to rebuild myself. Through this process, I discovered how strong I truly am. I learned that resilience is not about avoiding hardship, but about choosing to rise again after being knocked down. My struggles with depression and grief helped me develop empathy for others who are fighting silent battles. I realized that vulnerability is not weakness—it is courage. This growth has inspired me to dedicate myself to uplifting others, whether through mentorship, advocacy, or simply by being open about my journey. Academically, my challenges could have derailed me, but instead, they motivated me to push forward with even greater determination. I graduated high school and am now pursuing a degree in marketing at Delaware State University. Education, for me, is more than a personal achievement—it is the foundation for the impact I want to make in the world. I envision building a career as a creative director and entrepreneur, using my skills in branding and storytelling to create platforms that highlight important social issues, from mental health awareness to community empowerment. My business idea, B.A.E. (Bosses and Entrepreneurs), reflects this mission by providing mentorship and resources to young women who want to pursue careers in business and creative industries. To continue managing my recovery, I have built a personal routine that prioritizes my mental health. I check in with myself daily, practice journaling, and create boundaries that protect my peace. I also stay connected to my community and mentors, understanding that isolation only deepens struggles. Most importantly, I remind myself that recovery is not a destination but an ongoing journey. Some days are harder than others, but I remain committed to moving forward, no matter how small the steps. Like Ella, I carry a fighting spirit. My experiences with depression, grief, and personal struggle have not negatively defined me; they have shaped me into someone stronger, more compassionate, and more determined to succeed. I want to honor her memory by continuing to grow, by achieving my educational goals, and by using my story to inspire others who may feel like giving up. I believe that my resilience, my commitment to growth, and my passion for education align with the purpose of this scholarship. With this support, I will continue to pursue my degree, strengthen my recovery, and transform my challenges into opportunities to empower others.

In 2023, my world shifted in a way I will never forget. My youngest brother was born, but he did not survive. He passed away shortly after birth because my stepmother was denied the medical care she desperately needed. Georgia’s abortion laws restricted her options and blocked doctors from providing the treatment that could have saved his life. I witnessed the entire experience, and it left me traumatized. It was not only the loss of a child in my family—it was the painful realization that laws and politics are not just distant debates, but decisions that can determine life or death for real people. At first, the grief was overwhelming. I replayed the moments in my head, struggling with the thought that my brother’s life was cut short not because of nature, but because of human decisions made in courtrooms and government offices. It opened my eyes to the reality that silence and inaction can carry devastating consequences. That was when I realized how important it is to pay attention to who and what we vote for. This experience taught me that civic engagement is not optional it is survival. The policies we support reflect our values, and they have lasting impacts on families, communities, and generations to come. Losing my brother has shaped me into someone determined to speak up, to lead, and to use my education as a tool for advocacy and change. At Delaware State University, I am already putting this lesson into action. Through my involvement in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community based projects like B.A.E. (Bosses and Entrepreneurs), I am building spaces that uplift others and amplify voices that are too often ignored. My brother’s short life motivates me to create opportunities for others to be seen, supported, and heard. Whether it is through mentoring young women, organizing events, or building platforms for dialogue, I want to turn my pain into purpose. This loss also gave me clarity about my long-term goals. I plan to pursue a career in marketing and creative direction, but not just for personal success. I want to use storytelling, branding, and advocacy to spotlight issues that matter, to drive conversations that push communities forward, and to make sure no one feels powerless in the face of injustice. The pain of 2023 will always be a part of me, but it has also given me strength. My brother’s memory fuels my determination to keep moving forward, to serve my community, and to fight for fairness wherever I go. His short life reminds me every day that change is necessary and that I have a role in creating it.

One of the greatest obstacles I have faced in my pursuit of higher education has been learning how to navigate the unknown. As a first-generation college student, there is no guidebook or family blueprint to follow often have to figure things out for myself. From applying to schools and scholarships to balancing finances and adjusting to college life, I have experienced moments of doubt and uncertainty. There were times when the financial burden felt overwhelming and when the lack of mentorship made me feel like I was walking alone. However, instead of allowing these challenges to hold me back, they have motivated me to create opportunities for myself and to ensure that others do not feel as isolated in their journeys. This determination led me to create B.A.E. (Bosses and Entrepreneurs), a mentorship and networking initiative for young women interested in careers in marketing, business, fashion, and creative industries. I know what it feels like to need guidance, to want a mentor, and to search for resources that are not always easy to access. B.A.E. was born from my vision to provide young women with the very support that I wished I had earlier: mentorship programs, internship opportunities, and career panels where women can learn directly from leaders in their fields. Through my education in marketing and international business, I plan to grow B.A.E. into a sustainable organization that creates lasting impact. My coursework is giving me the skills to build strong branding, develop outreach strategies, and connect with professionals who can pour back into the next generation. In the future, I plan to host annual B.A.E. Brunches, career development workshops, and mentorship pairings that open doors for young women who might otherwise be overlooked. Education for me is more than a personal achievement; it is a responsibility. I believe in using what I learn to empower others, to show young women that they belong in these spaces, and to build a community where success is shared. By turning my obstacles into stepping stones, I am committed to ensuring that my journey not only benefits me but also inspires and uplifts the community around me.

A significant loss I faced happened in my first weeks as a college student. My loss was not winning Miss Freshman from the NSO, which takes place in June. After being introduced to this position, I planned for months, dedicating more energy to my campaign than to my move-in for school. After securing 30 signatures, completing my application, and undergoing an interview, I was thrilled to find out that I scored 88 out of 90, making it to the ballot. Eagerly, I spent hundreds of dollars on my campaign, pouring my heart into it. When the announcement came for Miss Freshman of the 2025-2026 academic year and my name wasn't called, I was crushed. I felt as though I was failing before school even began. But in that moment of loss, I realized I gained something far more valuable: community. That profound realization taught me more about acceptance and belonging than any title ever could. Upperclassmen reached out and told me how proud they were of me and how, if they could have voted, they would have voted for me. People I had never interacted with told me how much they loved my campaign and couldn't wait to see what I would do on campus. What I did not expect, however, was how this loss would ultimately serve as a catalyst for my personal growth and self-discovery. I started reflecting on the journey that led me to that moment, realizing how much I had learned about myself in the process. The experience forced me to step outside my comfort zone, allowing me to interact with new people and develop skills in communication, leadership, and organization. Planning and executing a campaign demanded a level of confidence and perseverance I never knew I possessed. Even though I did not win, I grew into a more resilient and adaptable person. Another unexpected benefit was the connections I formed with other candidates. We bonded over shared hopes, nerves, and late-night campaign brainstorming sessions. Some of these individuals have since become close friends and mentors. They remind me that while titles may be temporary, the relationships you build and the lessons you learn endure. I also learned to celebrate others' achievements and to find inspiration in their successes, rather than feeling defeated by my own setbacks. I'm thankful for my loss because I gained resilience. Sometimes we plan and work hard, and things still don't work out, but having the ability to see beyond it and pivot is one of the best qualities to have. Since my loss in August, I've been able to use that quality more than I ever would have expected, so I believe my first loss in my college academic year has truly shaped me in the best way. I am absolutely grateful for it.

Charity is important to me because it’s about community—showing up when there’s a need and offering what you have to give. Since the pandemic, I’ve volunteered with StriveHigher, a nonprofit that promotes literacy through book drives and read-a-longs for children in the Bronx. Supporting my community in this way has brought me so much joy. Reading with kids and helping families build their home libraries reminded me that sometimes small acts—like sharing a story—can have a lasting impact. StriveHigher showed me the power of consistency and care. Week after week, I saw how access to books and positive engagement boosted kids’ confidence and curiosity. It made me realize that giving back doesn’t always require a big platform, just a willing heart and a commitment to keep showing up. As I continue my education at Delaware State University and grow in my career, I’m committed to continuing this work, whether through local service, literacy campaigns, or launching a program that supports young readers. I want to be someone who sees a need and contributes—whether that’s in my neighborhood or across the country. For me, charity means connection. It’s one of the ways I honor where I come from and help build the future I want to see.

When I was eight years old, I helped my mom organize a toy drive at our local community center. I didn’t fully understand what we were doing at the time—I just knew that some kids weren’t going to have presents unless someone showed up for them. That moment stuck with me. It taught me that service isn't about how much you have, but how much you're willing to give. Now, as I prepare to study marketing at Delaware State University, I want to use that same spirit of service—combined with creativity and strategy—to promote wellness in my community. I see marketing not just as a career, but as a tool to inspire change. In the next five years, I plan to lead and support wellness initiatives through campus clubs, social campaigns, and community projects that uplift mental, emotional, and financial health—especially for students of color. In college, I plan to join and help lead campus clubs focused on wellness, student success, and cultural empowerment. I want to create marketing campaigns that normalize asking for help, managing stress, and practicing self-care. Whether that’s through mental health awareness weeks, social media content, or peer-led workshops, I believe marketing has the power to shift culture—and I want to use it for good. Being from the Bronx, I’ve seen how stress, trauma, and lack of resources can affect young people’s ability to thrive. I was raised by a single mom, with a father who was mostly absent and incarcerated. Despite those challenges, I’ve been able to achieve things many wouldn’t expect—like taking AP classes, becoming president of my school’s Black Excellence Union, traveling to South Africa, and even ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange. I know I carry the strength of my community, and I want to make sure others feel just as supported and empowered. Outside of school, I plan to use my marketing skills to create wellness campaigns that reach beyond campus. One goal is to partner with local nonprofits and brands to launch social media or community-based initiatives around financial literacy, emotional resilience, and healthy habits. As someone who has already done community service work—from reading to kids to helping with toy drives—I know how important grassroots outreach is. Marketing can turn ideas into impact when it's rooted in empathy and action. Globally, I hope to continue connecting with communities outside the U.S., like I did in South Africa, where I saw how culture and community are at the heart of wellness. I want to use storytelling and marketing to lift up those voices and build bridges between local action and global awareness. Studying marketing gives me the platform to build movements that matter—and wellness is where I want to begin.