Greetings I am Makayla Pittman, a rising Senior Business Administration scholar at Florida A&M University from Detroit, Michigan, and throughout my college experience, I have challenged myself to grow as a student, leader, professional, and member of my community. Attending an HBCU has taught me that success is not only about what I accomplish for myself, but also about how I use my opportunities to impact the people around me. At FAMU, I have become involved in organizations that have strengthened my leadership and communication skills, including serving as President of the FAMU Michigan Club and taking on leadership within the Campus Activities Board. Outside of campus, my internship experiences have allowed me to gain exposure to the corporate world and explore different areas of business. These opportunities have helped me recognize that I am especially interested in the intersection of marketing, strategy, data, and management. After graduating, I hope to build a career in marketing or production management where I can combine my creativity with my ability to analyze information, solve problems, and lead others. Eventually, I also hope to pursue an MBA and move into leadership positions where I can help shape business decisions and create opportunities for others. While college has opened doors for me, financing my education remains an important concern. Tuition is only one part of the cost of being a student. Books, housing, transportation, food, professional attire, organization expenses, and other necessities quickly add up. Receiving this scholarship would relieve some of that financial responsibility and allow me to put more of my attention toward finishing my degree, preparing for my career, and taking advantage of opportunities that will make me a stronger candidate after graduation. As I approach my final year of college and prepare to graduate in May 2027, financial support would be especially meaningful as I transition from being a student into my professional career. Service has also remained an important part of my life. At my local church, I have helped prepare meals and serve food to members during events. That experience showed me that helping your community does not always require a huge initiative; sometimes it begins with recognizing a need and doing what you can to meet it. I have carried that lesson with me to college by participating in plate giveaways for fellow students. College students do not always have extra money for meals, so being able to cook and provide someone with a free plate is a simple way I can make another student's day a little easier. I have also volunteered through organizations and community initiatives that have allowed me to serve individuals beyond my immediate campus community. My ultimate goal is to build a career that provides stability for myself while putting me in a position to create opportunities for others. I want younger students from communities like mine to see that they can attend college, enter corporate spaces, become leaders, and still remain connected to the communities that supported them. This scholarship would not simply help fund my education; it would be an investment in the person, professional, and community leader I am continuing to become.

Growing up in Detroit and now attending Florida A&M University, I have been surrounded by ambitious Black students who have the talent to succeed but do not always have equal access to the connections, information, and opportunities that can help turn that talent into a career. My education in Business Administration has strengthened my belief that one of the most important investments we can make in a community is giving people the tools to create economic opportunity for themselves and others. Through my career, I plan to use business, marketing, and leadership to help close the gap between education and professional opportunity for Black students and young adults. Internships and professional experiences have shown me how valuable exposure can be. Learning how to communicate in a corporate environment, build a professional network, use business technology, and understand different areas of an organization has given me knowledge that cannot always be gained inside a classroom. However, not every student has access to those experiences or someone who can guide them toward them. One disparity I want to reduce is this gap in career access and professional preparedness. I envision developing a community-based career readiness and mentorship program that connects high school and college students with Black professionals, businesses, alumni, and organizations. Rather than offering only occasional workshops, students would participate in a structured program that includes resume and interview preparation, financial literacy, mentorship, job shadowing, internship connections, and training in practical skills such as Excel, data analysis, digital marketing, and professional communication. My perspective is informed by both history and my own experiences. Education has long been an important pathway toward economic mobility in Black communities, but earning a degree alone does not guarantee equal access to opportunity. Professional networks, work experience, mentorship, and financial knowledge can influence what happens after graduation. I have personally benefited from opportunities that allowed me to learn from professionals and gain hands-on experience, which is why I believe those resources should become more accessible rather than dependent on who a student happens to know. The program's impact would be measured by tracking internship and job placements, program completion, professional certifications earned, participants' growth in financial and career knowledge, and employment outcomes after graduation. Long-term success could also be measured by how many former participants return as mentors, hire other participants, start businesses, or reinvest resources into their communities. To me, “Investing in the Black” means creating a cycle rather than a temporary solution. When one student gains an opportunity, succeeds, and then creates opportunities for others, the original investment continues producing value. My goal is not simply to build a successful career for myself. I want my education and career to place me in a position where I can open doors, share resources, and help create sustainable economic opportunities for the communities that helped shape me.

Some of my most meaningful lessons about service have come from something as simple as preparing a plate of food. Through my involvement in my local church, I have had the opportunity to help cook meals and serve them to members during church events. At first, I viewed it as simply helping wherever I was needed. Over time, however, I began to understand that preparing and serving food was about much more than the meal itself. It was a way to care for people, bring the community together, and make sure everyone felt welcomed and supported. Serving at my church has taught me that making an impact does not always require a large organization, a lot of money, or an elaborate plan. Sometimes, service is recognizing a need and using what you already have to meet it. Whether I am helping prepare food, making plates, or passing meals out to members, I have seen how something small can brighten someone's day. I have also learned the importance of working alongside others. Church events require people to contribute in different ways, and seeing everyone come together for one purpose has shaped the way I view community service. I have carried that same mindset with me to college at Florida A&M University. As college students, we definitely do not have all the money in the world. Between tuition, books, housing, transportation, and everyday expenses, even something as basic as getting a good meal can become another financial concern. Remembering what I learned through serving at church inspired me to find my own way to give back to my college community. One way I have begun doing this is through plate giveaways for my fellow college students. I enjoy cooking, but I also enjoy knowing that the food I prepare can help someone else. Being able to provide a free plate may seem like a small gesture, but to a student who is hungry, trying to save money, or simply having a difficult week, it can mean much more. These experiences have shown me that service can be incorporated into the things I already enjoy doing. My involvement in my local church helped build the foundation for how I serve today. It taught me to pay attention to the needs of the people around me and to understand that I do not have to wait until I have more money, more resources, or more influence to make a difference. I can start with what I have now. As I continue through college and eventually begin my professional career, I want service to remain part of my life. Whether I am serving meals, helping students, mentoring others, or finding new ways to give back, I hope to continue the lesson my church first taught me: community is strongest when we are willing to take care of one another.

In the future, I want to use my career in marketing and leadership to create impact that extends beyond profit—to tell stories that inspire, empower, and connect communities. I see myself becoming a global marketing manager who uses creativity and strategy to help brands represent authenticity while creating real opportunities for others. More than anything, I want my work to reflect purpose—to show that success means little if it doesn’t uplift someone else. Being Black means carrying a legacy of strength, creativity, and perseverance. It’s about turning obstacles into stepping stones and never forgetting those who sacrificed so I could stand where I am today. To me, being Black is power and pride—it’s community, culture, and the courage to dream boldly even when the odds aren’t in your favor. That’s why I chose to attend a Historically Black College and University—Florida A&M University. FAMU has given me more than an education; it’s given me a family. I love being surrounded by like-minded people who challenge me, encourage me, and build me up every single day. Being here reminds me that excellence is not a goal—it’s an expectation. My peers push me to dream bigger, lead harder, and walk confidently in who I am. Through my career, I hope to carry that same spirit forward—using my platform to celebrate Black excellence, amplify underrepresented voices, and continue the legacy of resilience and impact that defines who we are.

I believe I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because of my unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion for creating a positive impact. Growing up in Detroit, I was exposed to both the challenges and strength of communities facing systemic inequities. This experience shaped my drive to push past obstacles and inspired me to pursue goals that focus on empowering underrepresented groups. Now, as a student at Florida A&M University, I continue to build on that foundation, confident that the determination I developed as a young person has prepared me to achieve great things. Throughout my life, I have faced challenges that have tested my resolve, but they have only strengthened my belief in my own potential. As a business administration major, I have immersed myself in the study of business and marketing, knowing that these fields provide the tools necessary to foster economic empowerment, especially in underserved communities. At Florida A&M University, I serve as a manager for the Social Media Team at Word Around Campus (WAC), a role that has allowed me to amplify student voices, build community, and inspire engagement. This position has helped me develop leadership, marketing, and communication skills, which are crucial as I work toward my dream of creating a consulting firm to support minority-owned businesses. I am worth the dreams I aspire to because I know that success is not just about personal achievement but about lifting others as I rise. My passion for social equity drives me to pursue goals that will empower underrepresented communities, especially Black entrepreneurs. Through my firm, I hope to provide the resources, mentorship, and tools that these entrepreneurs need to thrive in a competitive business environment. I am committed to creating lasting change by building pathways for Black people to succeed in business, just as I am striving to succeed. I also understand the value of resilience in the face of adversity. Growing up in Detroit, I witnessed firsthand the challenges that underserved communities face—economic disinvestment, limited access to resources, and underrepresentation in leadership positions. Yet, I also saw the strength of those communities—how people came together, supported one another, and found creative solutions to problems. This experience has fueled my desire to contribute to a more inclusive business world, where people from all backgrounds have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve. In all that I do, I am guided by the belief that my success must benefit others. I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because I am driven by a deep sense of purpose—to use my education and experiences to uplift others and create lasting change. Whether through entrepreneurship, mentorship, or advocacy for social equity, I am committed to making a positive impact on the world and my community.

As a business administration scholar at Florida A&M University, I am committed to using my education as a tool to create pathways for Black people in the business world. The lack of representation and systemic barriers in many industries have often left Black professionals at a disadvantage. I believe that with the right education, mentorship, and innovation, we can disrupt these barriers and pave the way for greater inclusion, equity, and success. First, I plan to leverage my knowledge of business principles to foster an entrepreneurial spirit within my community. Entrepreneurship has long been a tool for economic empowerment, and I believe it holds the key to a more inclusive business landscape. By supporting Black-owned businesses, offering them resources such as mentorship, marketing, and access to capital, I aim to create opportunities for long-term success. My future career goal is to establish a consulting firm that focuses on helping Black entrepreneurs scale their businesses through digital marketing, branding, and innovation. With the rise of technology, there’s immense potential for businesses to tap into new markets, and I want to ensure that Black-owned businesses are well-positioned to do so. I also intend to use my education to advocate for a shift in the business world toward more inclusive practices. Too often, diversity and inclusion efforts are seen as an afterthought rather than a core component of business strategy. As I advance in my career, I plan to work within larger corporations to push for structural changes that ensure fair hiring practices, equal pay, and support for Black professionals in all levels of leadership. By incorporating diversity and inclusion into the very fabric of business models, I believe that companies can achieve both economic success and social equity. Another area where I hope to make an impact is through mentorship and education. As a manager for the Social Media Team at Word Around Campus, I already have experience guiding younger students and fostering a sense of community. I plan to continue volunteering my time and expertise to mentor aspiring Black professionals, especially those pursuing business degrees. By creating spaces where students can learn from real-world experiences and develop professional skills, I hope to help them gain confidence and see the value they bring to the business world. Whether through internships, workshops, or speaking engagements, I want to offer guidance that empowers Black youth to pursue their business aspirations without the limitations often placed on them. Lastly, I am committed to broadening the understanding of how Black culture and identity can be integrated into business practices. As we push for representation and diversity, it is essential that Black voices are not only heard but also celebrated. In my future career, I plan to advocate for the inclusion of diverse cultural perspectives in marketing, branding, and corporate decision-making. By highlighting the importance of cultural relevance and sensitivity, I hope to show businesses that honoring Black culture is not just an ethical obligation, but also a smart business strategy. Ultimately, my education in business is not just about securing personal success. It is about using the knowledge, skills, and networks I gain to build a better path for Black people in the business world. Whether through entrepreneurship, advocacy, mentorship, or cultural inclusion, I am committed to creating a future where Black people thrive in business and contribute to shaping industries, policies, and communities.

In the next five years, I plan to create a positive environmental impact on both my local and global communities through the lens of marketing and wellness. As a business administration scholar with a passion for creative problem-solving, I believe that impactful change begins with education, awareness, and accessibility—three pillars that effective marketing can strengthen. By combining digital communication strategies with wellness-driven initiatives, I aim to foster a more sustainable, health-conscious future for the communities I serve. Locally, I’ve already seen the powerful role social media can play in building awareness. As the Social Media Manager for Word Around Campus at Florida A&M University, I’ve led campaigns that reach over 20,000 people monthly, focusing on student engagement, well-being, and campus resources. I plan to expand this platform to promote environmental wellness by launching campaigns around sustainable living practices for students, such as reducing single-use plastics, participating in local cleanups, and choosing eco-friendly products. By meeting students where they are—on Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms—I can help make sustainability an everyday, accessible topic rather than a distant goal. On a broader scale, I aspire to work with brands and organizations that prioritize environmental responsibility. Through internships and future career opportunities in marketing or global merchandising, I will advocate for campaigns that highlight ethical sourcing, waste reduction, and climate-conscious choices. For example, if I work with a retail brand, I will push for transparent messaging around eco-friendly packaging, sustainable supply chains, and carbon offset programs. As a marketer, I believe we have a responsibility not just to sell a product, but to educate consumers on how their choices affect the planet. In tandem with these marketing efforts, I plan to integrate wellness into my impact strategy. Environmental sustainability and personal well-being are deeply connected—clean air, nutritious food, and green spaces all contribute to healthier lives. Hosting community events that blend these themes, such as “Eco-Wellness Days” with yoga, plant-based cooking demos, and sustainability workshops, will empower individuals to make mindful choices for both their health and the planet’s. As an RA, I’ve already begun implementing wellness-focused programming in residence halls, and I will continue to build on that foundation through campus and community partnerships. Globally, my vision extends to collaborating with international nonprofits or sustainable startups to drive impact at scale. Whether it's creating multilingual digital content that raises environmental awareness or developing social campaigns for global wellness initiatives, I want to use marketing as a force for good—connecting people, bridging cultures, and inspiring action. Ultimately, the environment is everyone’s shared responsibility, and I believe that by leveraging marketing and wellness together, we can make sustainability not only necessary but desirable. Through storytelling, design, and strategy, I aim to shift perspectives and promote lasting behavioral change that supports both people and the planet.

If given the opportunity, I would dedicate myself to creating accessible platforms and programs focused on youth empowerment through creative expression, career development, and mental wellness. My goal is to improve my community by equipping young people with the tools they need to thrive in all areas of life—personally, professionally, and emotionally. As someone who grew up in Detroit, I’ve seen the brilliance and potential that exists in underserved communities. I’ve also seen how systemic barriers, limited resources, and a lack of mentorship can prevent young people from realizing that potential. That’s why I’m passionate about not just advancing in my own career, but also using my platform and experience to open doors for others. Throughout my time in college, I’ve sought out opportunities that allow me to uplift and connect with my peers. As the Social Media Manager for Word Around Campus, I lead a team that creates engaging content to promote student involvement and build community. We’ve reached over 20,000 accounts monthly and generated up to 13,000 views per video. I’ve seen how impactful it can be when students see themselves represented and celebrated online—it fosters pride, participation, and a stronger sense of belonging. I would love to scale this concept into a mentorship-based platform that helps students in my hometown learn how to tell their stories, promote their ideas, and build their futures using digital tools. Additionally, in my role as a Resident Assistant, I’ve learned the importance of mental wellness and intentional community care. I recently hosted a “Mindful March” event focused on yoga, stretching, and breathing exercises to help students manage stress and recharge. In the future, I would like to expand these types of initiatives by organizing mental health workshops and wellness pop-ups in local schools and youth centers. These events would encourage open dialogue around self-care and provide coping strategies for dealing with the pressures young people often face. What makes this work so important to me is that it’s rooted in my own journey. I’ve had mentors and opportunities that helped shape my path, and I feel a responsibility to pay that forward. Improving my community means investing in its people—especially those who may not see their own brilliance yet. Whether through mentorship, media, or mindfulness, I want to help young people feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving their dreams. Ultimately, my vision is to create a space where creativity, confidence, and community intersect. If given the opportunity, I will use my experiences, education, and passion to ensure that the next generation of leaders doesn’t just survive, but thrives.

My primary goal is to graduate with a degree in Business Administration and eventually pursue a Master's degree. As the first in my family to attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), I am determined to achieve academic and professional success not only for myself but also to relieve my parents of the financial burden they face, given that they have three more children to support through college in the future. This scholarship will play a pivotal role in helping me achieve these aspirations. Graduating with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration is the first major milestone in my academic journey. Following that, I aim to continue my education by obtaining a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA). This advanced education will equip me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in my field and open doors to more significant career opportunities. I aspire to find my way to a successful career in business, where I can contribute meaningfully to my profession and society. My long-term vision includes becoming a leader in my field, continuously learning, and engaging in entrepreneurship or corporate leadership to drive innovation and growth. I am particularly passionate about using my business acumen to support and uplift underserved communities. Beyond my personal and professional growth, one of my most heartfelt goals is to alleviate my parents' financial burdens. With three younger siblings who will also need support through college, I must succeed and provide financial stability for my family. By doing so, I hope to ensure that my siblings have the same opportunities to pursue their educational and career goals without the added pressure of financial constraints. This scholarship will be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals. Firstly, it will ease the financial strain of tuition fees, textbooks, and other educational expenses. This financial support will allow me to concentrate fully on my studies and excel academically without the constant worry of how to pay for my education. Moreover, the scholarship will enable me to pursue internship opportunities, attend relevant workshops and conferences, and participate in extracurricular activities that are crucial for my professional development. These experiences will provide me with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in my career. Additionally, the financial relief provided by this scholarship will help reduce the burden on my parents, allowing them to allocate resources for my siblings' education. This support will not only benefit me but also contribute to the overall well-being and future success of my family. In conclusion, my goals of graduating, obtaining a Master's degree, securing a successful career in business administration, and relieving my parents' financial burdens are deeply interconnected. Being the first in my family to attend an HBCU is a significant step toward these aspirations. This scholarship will provide the necessary financial support to help me achieve these goals. By alleviating some of the financial pressures, I will be able to focus on my studies, gain valuable experiences, and ultimately succeed in my career while supporting my family's educational needs.