In the future, I hope to pursue a profession in sports medicine and physical therapy that is devoted to advancing fairness, wellness, and health in marginalized populations. I am setting the groundwork to achieve this objective by majoring in Kinesiology and Exercise Science at North Carolina A&T State University and acquiring the information, expertise, and experience required to have a significant influence. I see myself collaborating closely with people of various ages, skills, and backgrounds to enhance their general well-being and standard of living via physical activity, recovery, and preventive care. Whether it's creating exercise regimens for neighborhood residents, offering rehabilitation services to wounded athletes, or fighting for fair access to healthcare resources, I am committed to using my career to address disparities and empower others to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. For me, being black is a source of resiliency, strength, and cultural pride. It entails paying tribute to my family' rich history and contributions while working to remove structural obstacles and build a society that is just and equal. My intention to engage with and support my community was the driving force behind my conscious choice to attend an HBCU like North Carolina A&T State University. HBCUs are centers of learning, opportunity, and empowerment that offer a safe haven for black students to flourish intellectually, socially, and culturally. I am celebrating my heritage, embracing my identity, and adding to a legacy of greatness and accomplishment that spans generations by attending an HBCU in addition to furthering my education.

I'm Makalah Smalls McCray, and I'm a determined, enthusiastic person who is devoted to changing the world for the better. I am excited to pursue my academic and professional goals as a freshman at North Carolina A&T State University, where I am majoring in Kinesiology and Exercise Science. I also want to give back to my community and beyond. My upbringing in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—specifically, in the Hill District—shaped my outlook and inspired me to change the world. I became determined to solve socioeconomic gaps and restricted access to healthcare resources in my community, which gave me a sense of purpose. I have been active in community service projects since I was a small child, helping at nearby shelters, planning fundraisers for good organizations, and taking part in neighborhood cleanups. My strong sense of social duty and desire to use my education and skills to empower and uplift those in need have been instilled in me by these experiences. I'm pursuing careers in physical therapy, athletic training, and sports medicine to achieve my aim. My goal in majoring in Kinesiology and Exercise Science is to equip myself with the knowledge and skills needed to encourage physical activity, wellness, and health in marginalized populations. To meet the unique needs and interests of the people living in the Hill District and beyond, I intend to start community-based sports leagues, exercise programs, and wellness initiatives. I aim to enhance the quality of life for people of all ages, lower the risk of chronic diseases, and improve overall health outcomes by offering opportunities for recreation and exercise that are both accessible and cheap. In addition, I'm dedicated to promoting fair access to recreational and medical services for marginalized people. To address the underlying causes of health disparities and advance health equity, I plan to advocate for policies and initiatives through partnerships with regional associations, governmental organizations, and healthcare providers. Whether it's pushing for the construction of new recreational facilities, expanding access to reasonably priced healthcare, or offering educational materials on fitness and nutrition, my goal is to make the community a more lively and healthy place for all of its members. Receiving the Jennifer Hartwig Scholarship would enable me to pursue my advocacy and community service goals in addition to helping me achieve my academic and professional goals. With the help of this scholarship, I would be able to reduce the cost of tuition and other costs and concentrate more on my academics and extracurricular activities. It would also be a testament to my commitment to leadership, community service, and academic achievement, which would inspire me even more to keep changing the world for the better. To sum up, I want to say that I'm dedicated to using my training, abilities, and enthusiasm to improve the world, especially neglected areas like the Hill District. In addition to pushing for positive change, my career aspirations in sports medicine and physical therapy, together with my major in Kinesiology and Exercise Science, aim to promote health, well-being, and equity. With the help of the [Scholarship Name] scholarship, I'm sure I can keep on changing the world and encouraging others to follow in my footsteps.

At North Carolina A&T State University, I faced one of the biggest obstacles of my academic career during my first year. My Kinesiology and Exercise Science major required rigorous schoolwork, so combining it with other obligations wasn't an easy task. It was frequently too much pressure to handle personal obligations, participate in extracurricular activities, and achieve academic excellence. I was committed to overcoming the obstacles and succeeding. I refused to give up in the face of difficulty. Rather, I leaned on my inner fortitude and found strength in the encouragement of my instructors, classmates, and mentors. To fulfill my personal and academic commitments, I learned efficient time management techniques, such as setting priorities for my work and maintaining organization. I also looked for extra tools and networks of support, including study groups and tutoring, to keep my mental health and improve my academic achievement. I never wavered in my conviction that perseverance, hard effort, and dedication will pay off in the end. I conquered my challenges and came out stronger and more resilient than before because of my undying tenacity and pure resolve. I gained priceless knowledge about flexibility, resilience, and the influence of a positive outlook from this event. It strengthened my confidence in my abilities and my resolve to become a doctor, specializing in sports medicine, athletic training, and physical therapy. Growing up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—specifically, in the Hill District—had a significant impact on my professional goals and character. The Hill District is a neighborhood distinguished by resiliency, cohesion, and teamwork, with a rich cultural legacy and dynamic past. It does, however, also confront formidable obstacles, such as socioeconomic inequality and restricted access to medical resources. My motivation to address these issues and have a constructive impact was sparked by my observation of these inequities. I've been able to pursue my academic and professional goals in a nurturing and encouraging environment by attending HBCUs like North Carolina A&T State University. Having discovered a group of people who share my values and goals, I am surrounded by support, motivation, and guidance. The university's emphasis on leadership, service, and quality is exactly in line with my own goals and values, which inspires me even more to pursue greatness and change the world. To sum up, my first year at North Carolina A&T State University was a life-changing event that molded my personality, bolstered my fortitude, and increased my will to become a doctor. I have acquired the abilities, know-how, and mindset required to get beyond challenges and accomplish my objectives thanks to the experiences I had throughout this crucial year. I'm dedicated to addressing healthcare inequities and improving marginalized communities through my studies and work.

My early upbringing in Pittsburgh's Hill District has had a significant impact on my perspectives on community, health, and opportunity. Renowned for its colorful history and rich cultural heritage, the Hill District is a community that values perseverance and friendship highly. It does, however, also face important challenges, such as social inequality, limited access to healthcare, and barriers to both economic and educational progress. Being a proud member of this vibrant community motivates me to use my expertise in Kinesiology and Exercise Science/Sports Management to address these problems and have a positive influence. Through my education in kinesiology and exercise science/sports management, I have developed a unique set of abilities and knowledge that will benefit my community right away. Using my degree, I aim to start projects and programs that help residents of the Hill District meet their health and fitness needs, with a focus on encouraging sports participation, physical exercise, and overall wellbeing. My main objective is to create community-based, reasonably priced, easily accessible, and culturally appropriate sports leagues and fitness programs. My goal is to improve the quality of life for people of all ages, lower the prevalence of chronic illnesses, and advance overall health by offering community-based physical activity and leisure options. Furthermore, I'm committed to fighting for fair access to healthcare and recreational opportunities in underserved communities like the Hill District. I plan to push for laws and initiatives that address the root causes of health inequalities and advance health equity, working with neighborhood associations, governmental groups, and medical experts. This means promoting the construction of more recreational facilities, expanding the pool of affordable medical services, and offering educational materials on preventative care, physical exercise, and a balanced diet. I sincerely believe that by tackling the systemic and structural barriers to health and wellbeing, we can enhance the inclusivity and prosperity of our community for every member. My life was formed and inspired to be dedicated to social responsibility and service by my upbringing in the Hill District. Being raised in a setting that values perseverance, friendship, and teamwork has given me a strong feeling of responsibility to make a difference and bring about change. I'm motivated to use my position and training to empower and uplift those around me because I'm inspired by the tenacity and dedication of the people in my neighborhood. By utilizing my degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science/Sports Management, I aim to respect the Hill District's past, encourage its growth, and create a more optimistic future for the upcoming generations. Through collaboration, advocacy, and a strong commitment to the well-being of the community, I am sure that I can make a significant, long-lasting difference in the Hill District and beyond.

The unexpected death of my freshman-year roommate at North Carolina A&T State University changed my view on life, loss, and the value of community. My roommate, whom I'll call Sam, was a lively presence in our dorm, known for her infectious laughter, kind nature, and constant compassion. We'd had innumerable late-night study sessions, unplanned campus trips, and in-depth discussions about our ambitions and dreams for the future. However, everything changed one fatal evening during the autumn semester, when Sam sadly died of an overdose. The announcement of Sam's death sent shockwaves across our dormitory community and beyond. It was a tragic blow that left us in shock, sorrow, and an overpowering sense of loss. Amid our communal grieving, I was confronted with the devastating impact of addiction and the critical need for help and resources to combat this pandemic. It was a sobering reminder of the difficulties that many people encounter while dealing with substance misuse, as well as the significance of de-stigmatizing mental health disorders. Despite the profound sadness that permeated our dormitory in the aftermath of Sam's passing, I was deeply moved by the outpouring of support and solidarity from our peers, university staff, and members of the wider community. People from all walks of life came together to offer comfort, solace, and a shoulder to lean on during our darkest hour. It was during this time of adversity that I witnessed the true power of community and the strength that emerges when people come together in times of need. Following Sam's death, I experienced a complicated range of emotions, including sadness, grief, rage, and confusion. Despite the chaos, I had moments of tremendous clarity and contemplation. I realized Sam's death had instilled in me a renewed awareness of the value of life and the need to cherish every moment we have. It encouraged me to campaign for increased awareness and resources to help people battling with addiction and mental health issues, as well as to work toward a more compassionate and supportive society for those in need. Furthermore, Sam's death sparked a strong desire in me to make a positive change in the world and remember her memory via acts of love and compassion. In the months that followed, I became actively involved in a variety of school organizations and community service projects aimed at raising addiction awareness and prevention, channeling my grief into meaningful action. Whether it was creating awareness campaigns, hosting support groups, or working at local rehabilitation clinics, I hoped to exemplify Sam's spirit of kindness and generosity. In retrospect, while Sam's death was a tragic loss, it also acted as a catalyst for personal growth, perseverance, and empathy. It taught me the value of empathy, compassion, and assistance when dealing with difficult issues such as addiction and mental health. As I continue on my path, I carry with me memories of Sam and the significant impact she had on my life, which serve as a constant reminder to live each day with purpose, passion, and dedication to making the world a better and more compassionate place.

More than just an academic experience, attending North Carolina A&T State University is a part of a great heritage of excellence, leadership, and volunteerism. Joining A&T as a student entails becoming a part of a vibrant and friendly community that prioritizes empowerment, service, and innovation. A&T, a historically Black university, has a rich history of producing people who have significantly impacted society, from trailblazing researchers to civil rights advocates. I see it as my duty and an honor to preserve and further this legacy as an A&T student. I plan to fully embrace the greatness and service principles of A&T throughout my time here. I plan to get involved in student organizations, volunteer for community service initiatives, and use every opportunity to grow on the academic and personal fronts. The way that A&T emphasizes practical learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world application fits perfectly with my goal of making a good impact in my community. My goal is to become a capable and compassionate leader who advocates for social justice, equality, and opportunity for all by adopting these principles and drawing lessons from my undergraduate education.As I look to the future, my goals are based on my passion for health-related and health-focused projects, youth empowerment, and community involvement. Equipped with the knowledge and abilities acquired during my studies at A&T, my goal is to work in the fields of physical therapy and sports training, helping individuals of all ages and athletes exercise, work, and stay healthy. I will also provide resources on health occupations and professions, mentorship, and educational help to underprivileged youngsters. This will place an emphasis on closing the gap, promoting academic achievement, and helping everyone—especially those from disadvantaged communities—develop their leadership skills. I want to use my A&T education and experiences to create long-term projects and programs that remove systemic obstacles to success and help the next generation realize their full potential. In addition, I want to work with neighborhood organizations and schools to create all-encompassing youth development initiatives that support holistic development and wellbeing. I plan to integrate elements of STEM education, arts and culture, leadership development, and community involvement into these programs, drawing on my interdisciplinary background from A&T. I believe that we can give young people life-changing chances and help to create a more just and inclusive society by utilizing the pooled abilities and resources inside the organization and the greater community. In conclusion, attending North Carolina A&T State University is both an honor and a responsibility, as it upholds the values of excellence, service, and leadership that set our esteemed institution apart. I'm committed to sharing the values and lessons I learned throughout my undergraduate studies with others by actively taking part in volunteer work, advocating for social change, and encouraging people to realize their own potential. My conviction is that my A&T education will enable me to achieve my long-term objectives of positively impacting youth lives and advancing the development of our community at large.

My various experiences in the sports world have broadened my horizons into future career paths that could further help people in society and help me pursue my dreams of helping athletes in the sports industry. Surrounding myself with people with similar career paths has inspired me to want to work with athletes and train with professional athletes who have a passion and motivation in their athletic careers, just as I do. Competing and traveling in various amounts of sports has made me realize that I could potentially use my interests to build a future business involving athletes and non-athletes. Using my education to work with athletes and wanting to study the body of an athlete is very important to me because being in the healthcare field can show and teach me the specific techniques, and importance of the body. Using those skills learned in the classroom can help me in life as I want to make a difference in society, especially in the sports world. Interacting and collaborating with athletes in sports programs over the summer and on weekends during the school year have ensured that one of my true passions is to work with athletes and enhance the athletic world to become and safe space physically, mentally, and emotionally. Interning and participating in sports programs and being around athletes that are like me taught me that for future goals, I want to open a center for multi-athletes and student-athletes of all ages where they can perfect their craft, work on schooling, and share a safe space with people just like them. Finding that sense of belonging and accomplishment through sports and dynamics is symbolic of life and I want others to experience that connection through me. I learned that life requires teamwork, resilience, discipline, respect, and compassion, which all ultimately develop skills that apply not only in sports but in life as well. Sharing my knowledge and using my education will help to make a difference in society through sports and beyond. Allowing athletes and non-athletes to learn the lessons that can be related to life is always helpful and I want to share that impact through my future dream. Helping student-athletes find their interest outside of sports and not just sports is another focus I want to establish. Connecting one’s passions to their future career paths will ultimately help me impact individuals and help others stay connected to their futures.