Growing up in a single parent, low income household shaped my understanding of perseverance at an early age. Raised on the South Side of Chicago, I learned that people like me were often seen as numbers rather than individuals with potential. Despite limited resources and constant uncertainty, my mother showed me what strength and determination looked like. She carried the weight of our household alone and never allowed hardship to define our future. Watching her persevere taught me to keep going even when progress felt slow or invisible. Living in a low income environment forced me to mature quickly and recognize the importance of education as a tool for change. I saw how talent and intelligence were often overshadowed by lack of access, and that reality motivated me to aim higher than what was expected of me. Challenges did not discourage me. They sharpened my focus and strengthened my work ethic. I plan to use my life experiences to make a positive impact by pursuing a career in law and advocating for communities that are frequently overlooked and underserved. I want to help create pathways to justice and opportunity for people who come from backgrounds like mine. I am actively working toward my goals by maintaining strong academic discipline at Morehouse College, seeking mentorship, and engaging in leadership and community centered conversations. My upbringing did not limit me. It prepared me to lead, serve, and give back with purpose.

My name is Mahlek Antoine, and youth sports have played a defining role in my life, shaping not only who I am but how I give back to my community. My love for basketball began when I was a child playing in a youth league. That experience gave me more than athletic skills. It gave me structure, discipline, and a sense of belonging. Through basketball, I formed lifelong friendships and learned how to work toward a goal alongside others. At a young age, the game kept me focused on positive outlets and away from distractions that could have led me down a different path. Those early experiences showed me the power sports have to guide young people in meaningful ways, and they continue to inspire my commitment to mentorship today. During my last three years of high school, beginning as a sophomore, I took on the responsibility of mentoring and coaching youth basketball teams in Chicago. I volunteered my time and coached for free because I believed access to positive mentorship should not be limited by money. Many of the young players I worked with needed consistency, encouragement, and someone willing to invest in them beyond the court. I made it my goal to serve as a big brother figure, showing them that there are positive ways to build relationships, express emotion, and handle challenges. Practices and games became opportunities to teach lessons about accountability, teamwork, and respect. I wanted the players to understand that basketball could be a tool for growth, not just competition. My approach to coaching emphasized character as much as performance. I worked to create an environment where young athletes felt supported, seen, and held to a high standard. For many of them, the team became a safe space where they could develop confidence and discipline while learning the importance of commitment. Watching these players grow not only as athletes but as young men reinforced my belief that youth sports can be a powerful force for good when paired with intentional mentorship. Now, as a college student, I carry that same passion and responsibility into my campus community. I currently serve as a student coach for my dorm basketball team, using the game as a way to build brotherhood among first-year students adjusting to college life. The transition to college can be overwhelming, and many freshmen arrive searching for connection, structure, and support. Through basketball, I help create a space where young men can bond, encourage one another, and hold each other accountable. The team has become a source of belonging and motivation, helping players build confidence both on and off the court. So far, the impact has been positive, with strong participation and meaningful connections forming among the players. Looking ahead, I plan to continue using youth sports as a vehicle for mentorship and community engagement. I am committed to creating spaces where young people feel supported, guided, and empowered to make positive choices. Basketball gave me focus, friendship, and direction at a critical point in my life, and my goal is to provide that same opportunity to others. Through consistent mentorship and service, I aim to make a lasting, positive impact in my community.

I plan to pursue a career as an attorney dedicated to justice, advocacy, and meaningful representation. My goal is to use the law as a tool to challenge inequality and protect communities that have historically been denied access to legal resources. Whether through criminal or corporate law, I want to be in spaces where decisions are made and ensure that Black communities are not excluded from opportunity or protection. My long term plan includes attending law school, with a strong interest in Howard University School of Law, where I can continue developing the legal expertise necessary to serve with both competence and integrity. Being Black, to me, means carrying history, resilience, and responsibility. It means understanding that my success is not individual, but connected to generations who were denied access to education, power, and justice. It also means recognizing the obligation to uplift others and to leave doors open behind me. My identity shapes how I approach leadership, scholarship, and service, grounding my ambition in purpose rather than status. I chose to attend an HBCU because I wanted to learn in an environment where my Blackness is affirmed, not questioned. At an HBCU, I am surrounded by peers and mentors who understand my experiences and challenge me to think critically about my role in the world. Morehouse provides a space where academic excellence, cultural pride, and social responsibility coexist, allowing me to grow not only as a student but as a Black man committed to impact.

I am a second-year student at Morehouse College deeply committed to leadership, community service, and personal growth. Growing up in Chicago with my single mother, I learned early on the value of hard work and discipline. Watching her work extra shifts and make sacrifices to keep me in a good school shaped my understanding of responsibility and determination. She actively guided me by sharing books and resources that helped me develop maturity and self-discipline. This foundation has driven me to pursue my goals with focus and purpose and to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. One of my greatest passions is mentoring young people, particularly boys in low-income neighborhoods who face challenges similar to those I experienced. I currently coach and mentor fourth and fifth graders, providing a positive male role model and helping them navigate the obstacles they encounter daily. This role is deeply rewarding because I see the impact I have when they reach out for advice before making important decisions. I have even volunteered my time without pay because I believe in the importance of consistent support for these young men. I have also organized summits that address critical social issues. One summit focused on mental health among teens in Chicago, giving them a platform to express how the city’s conditions affect their well-being and to suggest improvements. Another summit at Morehouse College explored social problems in the Black community, where participants discussed stereotypes and ways to better support and uplift each other. These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my commitment to fostering open dialogue and community-driven solutions that lead to tangible change. Through my degree in Political Science on the Pre-Law track at Morehouse College, I am preparing to become a criminal justice lawyer. In this career, I plan to make a positive impact in three key ways. First, I want to advocate for criminal justice reform that addresses racial disparities and ensures fairness in the legal system. It is vital to rebuild trust between law enforcement and communities and to guarantee equal protection under the law. Second, I aim to defend individuals who are unfairly treated or marginalized by the system, using my legal skills to provide access to justice for those who need it most. Third, I plan to continue mentoring youth and developing community programs that offer guidance and alternatives to young people at risk of entering the justice system, helping to break cycles of incarceration. Currently, my work as a mentor and community organizer allows me to impact social issues directly. Supporting youth in my community and organizing summits on mental health and social problems demonstrate my commitment to addressing root causes of inequality and promoting positive change. These experiences, combined with my academic focus and career goals, give me a clear path toward making a meaningful difference through the law. My background, values, and experiences drive my dedication to serve my community and advance justice. I am committed to using my education and future legal career to uplift others and work toward a more equitable and just society where everyone has access to fair representation and opportunity.

One legal case that profoundly changed my perspective on the world is Brown v. Board of Education (1954). Prior to learning about this case in depth, I understood segregation was unjust, but studying Brown revealed how deeply entrenched systemic racism was in American society and its legal framework. This landmark Supreme Court decision demonstrated how the law could be a powerful mechanism for challenging injustice and reshaping society’s values. Brown v. Board of Education declared that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. Before this ruling, the doctrine of “separate but equal” was used to justify segregated schools, which in reality were far from equal. Black children were often relegated to poorly funded, under-resourced schools, creating significant barriers to education and opportunity. The Brown decision was a pivotal moment in American history because it overturned legal segregation and challenged the status quo of racial inequality. It made clear that the law could be a force to promote equity and civil rights. Studying Brown helped me recognize the responsibility and power that come with legal authority. Change is neither simple nor immediate. It requires courage, careful strategy, and unwavering commitment. This case also revealed how laws can either protect or deny rights, depending on how they are written and enforced. It highlighted the critical role that lawyers, judges, and lawmakers play in shaping society. This is why I am passionate about pursuing a career in law and public service. I want to be part of a system that promotes fairness and justice for all. Furthermore, Brown prompted me to reflect on the continuing challenges in my own community in Chicago. Although the case ended legal segregation, de facto segregation and inequality in education persist today. Many schools remain divided by race and economic status, limiting access to quality education and resources. Understanding this ongoing struggle motivates me to advocate for policies that address these disparities and work toward true equality. The case also underscored the importance of leadership and activism in driving social change. The plaintiffs in Brown and the lawyers who argued before the Supreme Court were willing to confront a deeply unjust system. Their persistence and bravery paved the way for the civil rights movement and future progress. This inspires me to be a leader who is not afraid to challenge injustice, especially in communities that continue to face systemic barriers. In conclusion, Brown v. Board of Education changed how I view the law and its potential to transform society. It taught me that laws are not static; they can reflect the worst of society or the best, depending on how they are applied. It also reinforced my commitment to studying law and using it as a tool to promote equity and justice. I want to honor the legacy of those who fought for equality in Brown by working to create a fairer world where everyone has access to opportunity and dignity.

Charity is important to me because it reflects values I have held since high school, where our motto was “Enter to learn, leave to serve.” That message has stayed with me throughout my life, reminding me that education is not just for personal gain but also to prepare us to give back to our communities. Growing up in Chicago, I witnessed how even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference, and that has inspired me to live by service and compassion. Currently, I coach and mentor fourth and fifth-grade boys in a low-income neighborhood, many of whom face challenges similar to my own. Being a positive and consistent role model for them is a responsibility I take seriously. I have also volunteered at homeless shelters and food banks, helping to package and distribute food to families in need. These experiences have deepened my understanding of empathy and the importance of regular, hands-on service. In the future, I plan to develop programs focused on mentorship and leadership opportunities for young Black boys in underserved communities. My goal is to help break cycles of hardship and open doors for the next generation. Charity to me is not about recognition, but about responsibility and making a lasting impact.

If given the opportunity, I would focus on creating programs and safe spaces for young Black boys in underserved communities, particularly in Chicago. Having grown up in a similar environment, I understand firsthand the challenges these young men face. Many of them grow up without consistent positive male role models, limited access to resources, and very few safe outlets to express themselves. I believe that by investing in mentorship programs, mental health support, and educational workshops tailored specifically to their needs, we can create a positive ripple effect that benefits not only individual lives but the entire community. One of my goals is to build a mentorship initiative that pairs young boys with college students and professionals who can guide them academically, socially, and emotionally. I have seen through my own experience as a mentor and coach how meaningful it is for a young person to have someone who listens, supports, and believes in them. Some of the fourth and fifth graders I currently mentor in a low-income neighborhood in Chicago have told me they look up to me as a big brother and often reach out when they need advice or guidance. That type of relationship can change the direction of a young person’s life. I want to expand that opportunity to reach even more boys across the city. In addition to mentorship, I would create community forums and summits similar to the ones I have already organized. In Chicago, I hosted a mental health summit for teens where they were given a platform to openly discuss how the state of the city affects them and what improvements they would like to see. At Morehouse College, I organized a summit on social problems within the Black community, encouraging conversations about stereotypes, internal challenges, and ways to uplift our people. These experiences taught me the value of open dialogue and how creating a space where people can be heard without judgment is the first step toward healing and progress. It is important to me to improve my community because I see my younger self in so many of the young men I work with. I know what it feels like to grow up in an environment where you have to mature quickly, where you are surrounded by obstacles, and where opportunities often feel out of reach. However, I also know what it means to have someone believe in you and push you to rise above those challenges. My mother did that for me, and now I want to do that for others. Investing in our youth is how we break cycles and change the future. By providing young people with resources, mentorship, and platforms to express themselves, we not only strengthen individual lives but empower entire communities. My goal is to be a part of that change and help shape a generation of young men who are disciplined, confident, and equipped to lead.

Growing up in a single-parent household has had a profound impact on my character, values, and ambitions. Raised by my mother in Chicago, I learned early on what it truly means to work hard, stay disciplined, and never take opportunities for granted. While some people credit a father figure for shaping them into the person they are, for me, it was a strong, hardworking, and determined mother who stepped into every role I needed. My mother has always been my greatest influence, not only keeping me safe but also guiding my maturity and sense of discipline. She recognized my potential before I fully saw it in myself and refused to let me settle for anything less than my best. I remember her giving me books like Make Your Bed and sending me articles on self-improvement and personal discipline. She taught me the mindset of a responsible, intelligent man who understands that nothing meaningful comes without effort. She never allowed me to prioritize temporary pleasure over long-term responsibility and made it clear through her own example that she would not either. In high school, I watched her pick up extra shifts on weekends, not because she wanted to, but because she knew it was necessary to keep me in a good school and position me for a better future. Witnessing that kind of sacrifice shaped my work ethic in ways that still guide me today. It is partly because of her example that when other students are calling it a night, I am still up working, determined to finish what I started and go the extra mile. Her sacrifices taught me that success requires discipline, resilience, and the ability to push past comfort for the sake of a bigger goal. I do not take where I am for granted because I know exactly what it took for me to get here. Growing up without a father figure also influenced the kind of mentor and leader I strive to be. I currently coach and mentor a group of fourth and fifth-grade boys in a low-income neighborhood in Chicago, many of whom are growing up in situations similar to mine. Although the pay for this role is modest, and at times I have even worked for free, I am driven by the knowledge that I am giving these young men something I did not have: a consistent, positive male role model. I want to show them that different paths exist and that with discipline and the right guidance, they can overcome their circumstances. I have seen the impact this mentorship has had. Several of these boys now see me as a big brother figure and reach out for advice before making decisions that could affect their future. Being a part of their lives in this way reminds me of the importance of lifting as you climb and creating opportunities for others to find their voice, confidence, and purpose. Growing up in a single-parent household shaped not only my goals and values but my sense of responsibility to my community. It taught me to lead with integrity, work hard without excuse, and never forget those who are coming behind me. That is the legacy my mother gave me, and it is one I intend to pass on.

Question 1: I plan to begin law school in Fall 2028 after graduating from Morehouse College. In the time leading up to that, I intend to gain experience through internships, mentorship, and community-focused projects that expose me to the legal field and advocacy work. I believe it’s important to enter law school prepared both academically and personally, with firsthand knowledge of the profession and a strong foundation in leadership. My goal is to apply to law schools with a résumé that reflects not only academic achievement but also meaningful work within the communities I care about. Question 2: My short-term career goals involve gaining practical experience in the legal field through internships while continuing to stay active in my community. I want to be involved in outreach programs, mentorship efforts, and leadership opportunities on and off campus. These experiences will help build the skills and connections I need while keeping me connected to the causes and people that motivate me. Long term, I hope to attend a respected law school and build a career as an attorney focused on advocacy, justice, and community empowerment. I want to use my education and resources to help individuals and families in underserved communities gain fair access to legal services. Whether working with a small firm or eventually creating my own practice, my focus will be on supporting those who are often overlooked within the legal system. I believe the law should work for everyone, and my career will reflect that commitment. Question 3: Outside of the classroom, I actively seek out opportunities to learn and grow by putting myself in real-life situations that challenge me. I believe some of the best lessons come from conversations and experiences with people who have already walked the path I hope to follow. That is why I regularly meet with mentors, interview attorneys, and intentionally build relationships with individuals who offer valuable advice and honest perspectives on life and the legal profession. One of the most meaningful moments came from a personal interview with a respected attorney from my hometown, who shared not just what it takes to succeed in law, but also how to navigate the emotional responsibility that comes with advocating for people who feel ignored. Lessons like these have shaped my legal aspirations by reminding me that law is about more than knowledge. It is about using your skills to advocate for justice in both personal and professional spaces. Question 4: A moment when I stood up for what was right, despite knowing there could be consequences, was when I participated in a protest against racism and police brutality in my city. I made the decision to speak at the event, even though I was fully aware of the risks that come with publicly taking a stand in a tense environment. The protest was peaceful and legal, but as a young Black man, I knew the reality of how situations like that could escalate. Despite that fear, I understood the importance of using my voice. That experience taught me what it means to lead with courage and reminded me of the power that comes from speaking up, even when it is uncomfortable. I walked away from that experience understanding that leadership is about doing what is necessary, not just what is easy. It also strengthened my resolve to become a lawyer so that I can advocate for people facing situations where their voices are silenced. Question 5: If I had the resources to create a philanthropic initiative, I would focus on two causes that have directly impacted my community and shaped my perspective: food insecurity and legal aid for underrepresented people. Growing up in Chicago, I saw firsthand how difficult it can be for families to consistently access healthy, affordable food. Beyond hunger, food insecurity affects a person’s health, their ability to focus in school or work, and their overall quality of life. At the same time, I witnessed how a lack of affordable, trustworthy legal representation left too many people vulnerable within a complicated legal system. My initiative would offer both reliable food distribution programs and free or low-cost legal services within underserved neighborhoods. I believe you cannot talk about justice without addressing basic human needs, and this program would create a space where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to take control of their futures.